There is a certain breed of tennis player who cannot be stopped by the weather, and the debate over winter tennis in Florida vs. summer tennis in New England resorts is one they live rather than argue.
From the prominent Coachella Valley to the breezy coastlines of San Diego and Santa Barbara, this guide covers seven standout properties that have made California one of the most celebrated tennis destinations in the world.
There is a certain breed of tennis player who cannot be stopped by the weather, and the debate over winter tennis in Florida vs. summer tennis in New England resorts is one they live rather than argue.
From the prominent Coachella Valley to the breezy coastlines of San Diego and Santa Barbara, this guide covers seven standout properties that have made California one of the most celebrated tennis destinations in the world.
This guide covers six padel resorts in Italy, from a family-friendly all-inclusive village on the Calabrian coast to a five-star lakeside retreat in Veneto.
Ordinarily, the number of courts a resort has is a key to its passion for tennis. More is obviously better. But Hidden Dunes, a 27-acre beachfront enclave of condos and cottages in the Florida Panhandle, proves that every rule has its exceptions. Tucked away amid some trees near the front of the property is a complex of five clay and three pickleball courts. Guests who opt for Hidden Dunes seem to regard tennis as almost as essential amenity as the white-sand beach.
When you walk into the pro shop you will get a warm reception and an offer to find a way to get you on the court. Game matching is one of their strongest services because the staff draws not only on owners and guests but also on a stable of local players. Players are encouraged to call and let them know they are coming to town.
Director of Racquets Rhett Russell oversees the complex. He is a graduate of the University of Alabama and grew up in Gulf Shore and brings his 20+ years of teaching and coaching to the Hidden Dunes Tennis Center. Under his guidance, vacationers can expect to find the same level of game-matching for which the resort has long been known, as well as a roster of round robins, socials, tournaments, junior clinics, and parent/child instruction and matches. He’s acutely aware of the resort’s reputation for high-quality tennis activities and his goal is at once to preserve and enhance it. “Players come to Hidden Dunes Resort for the personalized service and attention,” he acknowledges. “We’ll continue that focus and add compelling programming. I plan to bring my ‘Drills, Skills & Thrills’ program, which is appropriate for all skill levels as well as introduce a Cardio tennis program and Game 105.”
The court complex includes not only a pro shop and clubhouse, but also a General Store. The store stocks tennis clothes—including Hidden Dunes apparel—as well as beach rafts and games, sunglasses, sunscreen, rainy day games, ice cream, and drinks.
Broadly speaking, the vibe and activities at Hidden Dunes varies with the seasons. The tennis and pickleball center is busiest in winter (November through Spring Break) when the snowbirds come down and gather with their extended families. During that period, the weekly roster includes round robins and clinics geared to a mostly older clientele. In the height of summer, by contrast, there are drill clinics for both adults and kids. At any season, the resort welcomes groups and teams for custom-tailored tennis or pickleball getaways.
Court Complex: The five clay and five pickleball courts are arrayed around a tasteful wood-frame pro shop with patios and umbrella tables and an upper viewing deck covered by an awning. The courts have weathered wooden fence posts and see-through screens. One has some terraced seating set off by latticework.
Off Court
Accommodations
The choices include midrise condos on the beach, cottages with private porches, and 3- and 4-bedroom villas, many of the last on the lake.
Getting there
Seasons: Year-round.
Travel Instructions: By Air: Although there are regional airports in Fort Walton Beach (VPS) and Pensacola Regional (PNS), and Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP), roughly an hour’s drive to the east in Panama City. Rental cars are available at all three.
296 Reviews on “Hidden Dunes Beach & Tennis Resort”
Excellent
4.8
296 reviews
On Court Experience
5.0
Off Court Experience
4.8
Overall Tennis
5.0
Overall Pickleball
4.6
Tennis Instruction
4.9
Pickleball Instruction
4.6
Accomodations
4.7
Resort Amenities
4.7
DA
What a great setup and atmosphere. Just the right mix of friendly, professional and great courts. The tennis matching is unbelievable. The staff is first rate. Thank you for all you do.
RR
Great place to play tennis and get great professional help from Rhett! Excellent court maintenance and beautiful location on the beach in Destin, Fl.
BO
rhett has done an exemplary job since becoming director of tennis for hidden dunes. much better and more cooperator than his predecessor.
I believe rhett is the strongest director in our community for tennis and pickleball. he goes over and above to accommodate all players needs. Rhett is very responsive in returning calls to clients.
I am a member at two other facilities in the area. Rhett is far more attentive and resourceful than i find from staff at other clubs in the area.
The only advice i would make is to try and host more tennis tournaments throughout the year.
RC
Love our times at Hidden Dunes!
JC
Excellent tennis facility.
EV
Tennis very good
SS
The Hidden Dunes resort is top notch. I love the guys that come out and sweep the courts. The courts are well maintained. Rhett does a great job!
HT
Great weekend and tournaments
JJ
Outstanding tennis club offering well maintained clay courts and supportive staff. Whenever my travels take me there several times each year, I simply alert the staff of my in-town days and I immediately get invitations to play every day (sometimes twice a day) and the matches are always competitive. They treat their guests very well.
HR
Great tournament, well run, on schedule, and clear communication.
BO
Great tournament
MB
Tennis at Hidden Dunes was great!! The staff did a fantastic job getting courts prepared and people playing in spite of rainy conditions. The tennis pro and staff were friendly and helpful. I would highly recommend the facilities!!
BS
Hidden Dunes is a class organization. From its staff all the way through its members. As a non member I am always made to feel welcome by everyone at the club. Thank you for hosting the Kessler tournament every year. You make it really enjoyable and fun. Well run.
JF
Rhett, Ashley, Mary,Allen(volunteer) are Awesome Folks!!!
They are the Reason we spent 2-3 months per year on Property!!!
All the volunteers that work tirelessly to assist with court maintenance is Amazing!!!
Takes a Village to be the Best in Area!!!
You Folks Rock!!!
See yall Soon!!
HC
Wonderful facilities
JM
Wonderful tournament and facility. Staff are very welcoming and knowledgeable. Highly recommend this tennis resort to anyone.
MS
Tennis tournament was extremely well run. I have participated and run many myself over the years, and I’ve never found better. Staff was friendly and accommodating. Everyone was super genuine and helpful. Great group of people and staff.
MS
What an amazing facility and staff! Everyone was super-friendly and professional. Courts were in great shape. Couldn’t ask for more. Will definitely return to play in the future.
GD
Just could not be a better tennis resort. Great Pro and staff. Been going to it for over 30 years !!!
DI
Nicest staff & players here that provide good tennis!
PF
Been playing tennis/pickleball at Hidden dunes for many years. Great people and easy to get players. Thank you, Rhett and Ashley,.
CF
Love everything and everybody at Hidden Dunes
Beach and Tennis Resort.
BL
Very personable and professional experience!
RS
The Hidden Dunes Beach and Racquet Resort is a hiddem gem in NW Florida! Excellent facilities, but more importantly the best pro and staff. Rhett goes overboard to ensure a great experience. Through his clinics, private lessons, and match arranging – no one does it better. Ashlie who runs the pro shop always has a smile and is very helpful! The local tennis and pickleball community are so fortunate to have the Hidden Dunes facility.
MB
Hidden Dunes is THE tennis facility to go to in the Destin/Miramar beach area. The tennis drills are 1 1/2 hours, 6 days/week. Rhett and Ashley are fantastic not only with the tennis facility, but as caring humans! I stayed on a different property for three months and came to Hidden Dunes for tennis 3-4 x’s per week. Many of the players drove 30 minutes to play at this facility. Rhett connected me not only for tennis drills, but they will hook you up to play matches with similar level players if you desire. Next year, I plan to stay at Hidden Dunes for the tennis, the community, and the people! Highly recommend
DK
We have been coming to Hidden Dunes since the late 80’s & have found it like a 2nd family. While I can no longer play Court Sports my wife still enjoys PB on a daily basis. We’ve made lifelong friendships from our stays at Hidden Dunes. Whether summer, spring break, fall break or as a Snowbirder the Beaches, restaurants & convenient shopping are terrific!
JK
Great courts, beautiful setting. Staff does good job of scheduling matches.
DK
Beach, plenty of great accommodation/rental options, optimal tennis/pickleball staff and facilities – a great combination!
GC
We always love Hidden Dunes Tennis and Pickleball resort!! Rhett and Ashley make us all feel so welcome!! Both professional and friendly the entire staff work hard to accommodate times and matches!!
We can’t wait to come back!!
SG
I always have a wonderful time at Hidden Dunes. The tennis and pickleball is so much fun! Ashley and Rhett go above and beyond in helping us with anything we need ❤️
GG
Outstanding like level match making. Best maintained courts in the panhandle.
PS
Excellent location for pickle ball and tennis. Pickle ball registration is very easy.
Tennis bookings and match arrangements are easily made through pro shop.
Daily tennis lessons are popular and always up beat.
Rhett and Ashley are very welcoming and always ready to help.
Thanks for a wonderful overall experience.
PS
Hidden Dunes is an excellent facility for pickleball and tennis. Very friendly players and staff. Easy to book pickleball online, with limited registration numbers for maximum play time, and multi play discounts.
Thank you Ashley and Rhett. We look forward to seeing you next year.
PA
Ashley and Rhett do a great job!
RC
Recently participated in a tennis tournament event, which was wonderfully managed, in spite of not optimal weather. The facilities and staff are excellent and very accommodating. We’ll definitely go again.
JO
Excellent place to play and socialize!
Rhett does an outstanding job of matching games when you come in town! Excellent facilities. Excellent staff!
Thank you for making our time fantastic!
RR
What a great event with amazing service from Rhett Russell and his staff! A very joyful time with men that love the game of tennis. Thanks Rhett for all your hard work and thankful for Gaines Dyer and staff who work countless hours putting this all together. Look forward to 2027!!
BB
GREAT JOB EVERYONE!
Less than ideal weather on Friday,
but adjusted and had a great tournament.
BS
Always enjoy our visit and tennis at Hidden Dunes. Staff and guests are the best
CH
Fantastic tournament Rhett, Ashley, and Alan. Thanks to Gaines, Lacey, and all those who sponsored and made it happen. It was a great time. Love being in Destin and at Hidden Dunes in February .
AH
Great facility and court conditions. Friendly and helpful staff.
RS
Great facility and wonderful staff!
EB
Great job Rhett!
JL
Hidden Dunes is a great place to play tennis. Courts are well maintained and there’s always plenty of good tennis to be had!
JC
Loved our experience yet again. Rhett and his staff are top notch, and we always appreciate the matches they arrange and the morning clinics! The courts were in good shape and our trip was perfect! We will be back soon!
We want to see your racquet sports vacations! When you’re documenting your trip, tag @TennisResortsOnline on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn and use #TROAdventures for a chance to be featured on our page.
296 Reviews on “Hidden Dunes Beach & Tennis Resort”
What a great setup and atmosphere. Just the right mix of friendly, professional and great courts. The tennis matching is unbelievable. The staff is first rate. Thank you for all you do.
Great place to play tennis and get great professional help from Rhett! Excellent court maintenance and beautiful location on the beach in Destin, Fl.
rhett has done an exemplary job since becoming director of tennis for hidden dunes. much better and more cooperator than his predecessor.
I believe rhett is the strongest director in our community for tennis and pickleball. he goes over and above to accommodate all players needs. Rhett is very responsive in returning calls to clients.
I am a member at two other facilities in the area. Rhett is far more attentive and resourceful than i find from staff at other clubs in the area.
The only advice i would make is to try and host more tennis tournaments throughout the year.
Love our times at Hidden Dunes!
Excellent tennis facility.
Tennis very good
The Hidden Dunes resort is top notch. I love the guys that come out and sweep the courts. The courts are well maintained. Rhett does a great job!
Great weekend and tournaments
Outstanding tennis club offering well maintained clay courts and supportive staff. Whenever my travels take me there several times each year, I simply alert the staff of my in-town days and I immediately get invitations to play every day (sometimes twice a day) and the matches are always competitive. They treat their guests very well.
Great tournament, well run, on schedule, and clear communication.
Great tournament
Tennis at Hidden Dunes was great!! The staff did a fantastic job getting courts prepared and people playing in spite of rainy conditions. The tennis pro and staff were friendly and helpful. I would highly recommend the facilities!!
Hidden Dunes is a class organization. From its staff all the way through its members. As a non member I am always made to feel welcome by everyone at the club. Thank you for hosting the Kessler tournament every year. You make it really enjoyable and fun. Well run.
Rhett, Ashley, Mary,Allen(volunteer) are Awesome Folks!!!
They are the Reason we spent 2-3 months per year on Property!!!
All the volunteers that work tirelessly to assist with court maintenance is Amazing!!!
Takes a Village to be the Best in Area!!!
You Folks Rock!!!
See yall Soon!!
Wonderful facilities
Wonderful tournament and facility. Staff are very welcoming and knowledgeable. Highly recommend this tennis resort to anyone.
Tennis tournament was extremely well run. I have participated and run many myself over the years, and I’ve never found better. Staff was friendly and accommodating. Everyone was super genuine and helpful. Great group of people and staff.
What an amazing facility and staff! Everyone was super-friendly and professional. Courts were in great shape. Couldn’t ask for more. Will definitely return to play in the future.
Just could not be a better tennis resort. Great Pro and staff. Been going to it for over 30 years !!!
Nicest staff & players here that provide good tennis!
Been playing tennis/pickleball at Hidden dunes for many years. Great people and easy to get players. Thank you, Rhett and Ashley,.
Love everything and everybody at Hidden Dunes
Beach and Tennis Resort.
Very personable and professional experience!
The Hidden Dunes Beach and Racquet Resort is a hiddem gem in NW Florida! Excellent facilities, but more importantly the best pro and staff. Rhett goes overboard to ensure a great experience. Through his clinics, private lessons, and match arranging – no one does it better. Ashlie who runs the pro shop always has a smile and is very helpful! The local tennis and pickleball community are so fortunate to have the Hidden Dunes facility.
Hidden Dunes is THE tennis facility to go to in the Destin/Miramar beach area. The tennis drills are 1 1/2 hours, 6 days/week. Rhett and Ashley are fantastic not only with the tennis facility, but as caring humans! I stayed on a different property for three months and came to Hidden Dunes for tennis 3-4 x’s per week. Many of the players drove 30 minutes to play at this facility. Rhett connected me not only for tennis drills, but they will hook you up to play matches with similar level players if you desire. Next year, I plan to stay at Hidden Dunes for the tennis, the community, and the people! Highly recommend
We have been coming to Hidden Dunes since the late 80’s & have found it like a 2nd family. While I can no longer play Court Sports my wife still enjoys PB on a daily basis. We’ve made lifelong friendships from our stays at Hidden Dunes. Whether summer, spring break, fall break or as a Snowbirder the Beaches, restaurants & convenient shopping are terrific!
Great courts, beautiful setting. Staff does good job of scheduling matches.
Beach, plenty of great accommodation/rental options, optimal tennis/pickleball staff and facilities – a great combination!
We always love Hidden Dunes Tennis and Pickleball resort!! Rhett and Ashley make us all feel so welcome!! Both professional and friendly the entire staff work hard to accommodate times and matches!!
We can’t wait to come back!!
I always have a wonderful time at Hidden Dunes. The tennis and pickleball is so much fun! Ashley and Rhett go above and beyond in helping us with anything we need ❤️
Outstanding like level match making. Best maintained courts in the panhandle.
Excellent location for pickle ball and tennis. Pickle ball registration is very easy.
Tennis bookings and match arrangements are easily made through pro shop.
Daily tennis lessons are popular and always up beat.
Rhett and Ashley are very welcoming and always ready to help.
Thanks for a wonderful overall experience.
Hidden Dunes is an excellent facility for pickleball and tennis. Very friendly players and staff. Easy to book pickleball online, with limited registration numbers for maximum play time, and multi play discounts.
Thank you Ashley and Rhett. We look forward to seeing you next year.
Ashley and Rhett do a great job!
Recently participated in a tennis tournament event, which was wonderfully managed, in spite of not optimal weather. The facilities and staff are excellent and very accommodating. We’ll definitely go again.
Excellent place to play and socialize!
Rhett does an outstanding job of matching games when you come in town! Excellent facilities. Excellent staff!
Thank you for making our time fantastic!
What a great event with amazing service from Rhett Russell and his staff! A very joyful time with men that love the game of tennis. Thanks Rhett for all your hard work and thankful for Gaines Dyer and staff who work countless hours putting this all together. Look forward to 2027!!
GREAT JOB EVERYONE!
Less than ideal weather on Friday,
but adjusted and had a great tournament.
Always enjoy our visit and tennis at Hidden Dunes. Staff and guests are the best
Fantastic tournament Rhett, Ashley, and Alan. Thanks to Gaines, Lacey, and all those who sponsored and made it happen. It was a great time. Love being in Destin and at Hidden Dunes in February .
Great facility and court conditions. Friendly and helpful staff.
Great facility and wonderful staff!
Great job Rhett!
Hidden Dunes is a great place to play tennis. Courts are well maintained and there’s always plenty of good tennis to be had!
Loved our experience yet again. Rhett and his staff are top notch, and we always appreciate the matches they arrange and the morning clinics! The courts were in good shape and our trip was perfect! We will be back soon!