There are many other beautiful places in the Philippines outside its capital, but these 5 destinations will let you enjoy weekend trips with great ease.

Have you noticed how suddenly everyone’s talking about pickleball? It’s the sport that seems to have popped out of nowhere, but now everyone from your tita who power walks at UP to your officemates in BGC is obsessed with it.
Pickleball has taken over Metro Manila. It’s a mix of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, but way easier to pick up. You just need a paddle, a plastic ball with holes, and a few friends. No intimidating rackets, no fancy gear. You can even play in sneakers and gym shorts.
What makes it so addictive? It’s beginner-friendly, fun, and social. It’s also less about brute strength and more about smart moves and timing, perfect for those who want to stay active without breaking their knees.
And get this: there are now over 600 pickleball courts across the Philippines. It’s no longer just a trend. It’s officially a thing!
Where to play pickleball

image credit: Bounce at PARQAL
If you’re ready to hop on the trend, here are some of the best spots around the city to get your game on:
1. Ortigas Street Pickleball (Pasig)
Emerald Ave., right beside Jollibee Tower
Free weekend street games. Casual, friendly, and open to everyone.
2. The Zone Sports Center (Makati)
7224 Malugay St. corner Buendia
Indoor courts with flexible rates, about P300 to P350 per hour plus a small fee per person. Also home to the Makati Pickleball Club.
3. The 3rd Shot (Makati)
1238 Gen. Jacinto St.
A dedicated pickleball facility with professional coaches. Around P500 per hour if you’re serious about levelling up.
4. Conquest Sports (Caloocan)
187 F. Roxas St., Grace Park
One high-quality court for P250 per hour. Book early because it fills up fast.
5. SM Active Hub Courts
SM North EDSA, SM Southmall, SM Grand Central
Open to the public, often free or low-cost. Perfect if you’re already out shopping and want to play a quick match.
6. Bounce at Parqal Mall (Parañaque)
Diosdado Macapagal Blvd, Tambo
Modern, air-conditioned courts that you can book online. Great for weekend warriors in the south.
7. Kerry Sports Manila (BGC)
Level 4, Shangri-La at the Fort
A bit upscale but ideal for those who want premium courts and coaching.
8. UP Pickleball Club (Quezon City)
Cristy Hernandez Activity Center, UP College of Engineering
Free indoor games, just call to schedule. The vibe here is very “everyone’s welcome.”
9. Hemady Sports Plaza (Quezon City)
9 Doña Hemady St., Valencia
Eight courts and a growing community of players. Membership required but the crowd is worth joining.
10. Veterans Memorial Medical Center Courts (Quezon City)
Diliman area
Well-maintained outdoor courts that host friendly tournaments.
Also read: Where To Go Wall Climbing in Metro Manila
Why everyone’s hooked

image credit: lalinalena | Instagram
Pickleball isn’t just a fad. It’s a sport that brings people together, from students to families to seniors. It’s social, competitive, and surprisingly cardio-packed once you get into a rally.
You can start small, rent gear, and play in malls or even open parking lots. Some groups play on streets and school gyms. It’s the kind of sport that doesn’t need much, just good energy and a few paddles.
Is pickleball worth trying?

image credit: Bounce at PARQAL
Absolutely. Whether you’re in it for fitness, fun, or a new barkada activity, pickleball checks all the boxes. With the growing number of courts and players nationwide, it’s only getting easier and cheaper to play.
Pickleball in the Philippines is here to stay. With dozens of clubs, community games, and courts across Metro Manila, it’s never been easier for Filipinos to join the fun. Grab a paddle, tag your friends, and hit the court. You might just find your next favourite sport.
Featured image credit: ___christychoi____ | Instagram
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