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.
As the first American location for a Mouratoglou Tennis Center, Horseshoe Bay Resort has raised the bar for resort tennis experiences. Offering coaching and clinics with tennis and pickleball professionals certified in the unique methodology behind Mouratoglou’s global success, resort guests have access to exceptional amenities, services, and exclusive perks. Horseshoe Bay Resort may be set on 7,000 acres of Texas Hill Country real estate once sacred to the Comanche Indians, but there is nothing Lonesome Dove-ish about it.
For one thing, it fronts Lake Lyndon B. Johnson (better known locally as Lake LBJ), a constant-level reservoir of the Colorado River. Thus, here, deep in the heart of Texas, 46 miles from Austin, resort guests and the people who live or weekend there can dig their toes into that rarest of inland features, a beach, fronted by waters that in summer can reach 80 degrees. Admittedly, that strand is a more welcome anomaly than a primary reason to visit. The real draw can be traced to the resort’s 12 tennis courts—6 of them red clay—and 14 pickleball courts arrayed around an Oriental garden, three Robert Trent Jones Sr. 18-hole golf courses, an 18-hole Zoysia grass putting course, a spa and fitness center, a jungle kids’ club, several swimming pools, a collection of colorful exotic birds, hotel or condo lodging, a marina and yacht club (with a beach), and a private jet center.
When it came to the tennis courts, Horseshoe Bay Resort took advantage of that spacious footprint and scattered them around a verdant oriental garden of trees, ponds, sculptures, and wooden walkways, just steps from the hotel. Four red clay border one side of the garden, and four hard can be found on the opposite side, slightly removed from the rest. There are four additional hard courts and 14 pickleball courts a little south of the garden, and then off of their own, in a northern part of the garden are two additional red clay courts partly embraced by the narrow grass fairways of the 18-hole putting course. Out there, you may feel you’re playing on someone’s private courts.
Courts, however appealing, still need programing and that has come at the hands of Israel Castillo, Director of Racquet Sports at the Mouratoglou Tennis Center at Horseshoe Bay. With a rich background that includes 15 years as director at prestigious resorts and clubs, Israel expertly oversees both the tennis and pickleball programs. His infectious enthusiasm for racquet sports and teaching is evident in the culture he has created among the teaching staff at Horseshoe Bay Resort.
Playing a key role in bringing The Mouratoglou Tennis Center to Horseshoe Bay, Castillo traveled to Nice for one-on-one training and certification in the Mouratoglou methodology which is now offered by the full team of international racquet professionals he has assembled, including a head tennis pro and a head pickleball pro. Resort guests and members have access to elevated learning and play through dynamic round-robin play sessions, specialized clinics, and a spectrum of private and group lessons. In addition, there are weekend camps, customized holiday and summer programs, and personalized instruction.
Beyond that, Castillo capitalizes on the rarity of those red-clay courts to stage well-attended tennis tournaments, while similar events for pickleball lure as many as 250 participants for competition on their eight pickleball courts. The latter sport has proven so popular that Castillo hired a dedicated pickleball pro and the the resort has agreed to add an additional 14 pickleball courts. All this comes on the heels of a recent sprucing up of the entire complex, including resurfacing of the hard courts, new fencing, windscreens, awnings, shade structures, and furniture.
Court Complex: There are six red clay and eight hard tennis courts and 14 pickleball courts all set in and around a garden with ponds, bridges, and trees, and sculptures.
Court fees: $25/hour; clay court $30/hour
Off Court
Beach: The Waterfront Beach is the dreamiest retreat for luxury lounging. The sandy beach area offers loungers with umbrellas, two regulation sand volleyball courts, The Shack food truck, a fully stocked Sand Bar, as well as kayak, paddle board and Sea-Doo rentals. But the dreamiest part is floating perfectly on the edge of Lake LBJ, the Waterfront Floating Pool, the only one of its kind in North America. On the deck of the Floating Pool, guests enjoy poolside loungers, or you can upgrade your fun in the sun with a private cabana. All pool deck seating enjoys food and beverage service.
Golf Courses: There are three 18-hole championship golf courses, all designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., and an 18-hole putting course.
Slick Rock: Opened in 1972, and renovated in 2016, this first of the resort’s courses winds through the lush Texas Hill Country’s granite outcrops, native oak, cedar, persimmon, and Eldarica pines. Visual highlight is the so-called “Million Dollar” 14th hole, where the cart path crosses a 35-foot waterfall, making it instantly Instagrammable and gives the front nine a different look and feel from the more open and rolling back nine. Par 72, 6,867 yards.
Ram Rock: Known as the “Challenger,” Ram Rock is by far the most difficult of the three—in fact, readers of the Dallas Morning News have frequently voted it the most difficult in all of Texas. Jones invested it with narrow fairways, natural streams, an abundance of water and sand, rock gardens, granite outcroppings, blind tee shots and all manner of trees, bushes, and plants. Its signature No. 4, an island hole, is said to be tougher than the TPC at Sawgrass. Par 71, 6,926 yards.
Apple Rock: Named “Best New Resort Course in America” by Golf Digest when it opened, Apple Rock follows the contours of some of the most elevated and scenic of Horseshoe Bay’s land. Native oak, elm, and persimmon trees frame the fairways as they cross the rocky terrain, much of it with views of Lake LBJ. Though not especially tight, the course demands well-placed drives and accurate club selection to avoid its 50+ bunkers and sand traps. Par 72, 6,999 yards.
Whitewater: Though a putting course, this 18-hole, par 72 layout is 1,712 yards in length, with Bermuda grass greens bordered by waterfalls and grazing flamingos.
Spa & Fitness Center: The Bayside Spa has 13 treatment rooms offering a range of services including facials, massages, aromatherapy, manicures and pedicures. Both men’s and women’s lounges have saunas, steam rooms, and whirlpools. The Marina Del Bay Movement Studio, which overlooks Lake LBJ, has a full range of cardio and weight-training equipment as well as daily aerobics classes, yoga studios, nutritional programs, and personal trainers. Guests of the hotel have their own fitness center on two floors with windows on a swimming pool and red-clay courts just outside.
The resort has four swimming pools, one of them heated.
The Marina is both home to private boats and to a fleet of luxury rentals, including ski boats with drivers, Sea-Doos, and fishing boats with professional guides.
Children's programs: The Jungle Kids’ Club, a two-story indoor climbing gym and arts and crafts center entertains kids from potty-trained to age 12.
Dining: There are seven restaurants, lounges, and food outlets, headlined by the Waterfront Bar & Grill for seafood and views of the lake. J’s Restaurant and Bar, in the hotel, features barbecue and Texas Hill Country cuisine. comfort food. The Market in the lobby of the hotel has morning pastries, deli sandwiches, ice cream, and Starbuck’s.
Accommodations
Four options: The Tower, a centrally located hotel whose 249 rooms and suites have views of the lake through floor-to-ceiling windows; Palm Villas, 1-to-three-bedroom apartments with kitchenettes or kitchens conveniently located just behind the hotel and adjacent to the tennis courts; The Residences, whose 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom fully equipped condos have gourmet kitchens, high-definition flat-screen televisions, spacious balconies with lake views, washers and dryers, plus for the Signature Residences, concierge services and access to the members-only Yacht Club; and the Private Home Rentals, as large as four bedrooms and situated in various locations throughout the resort.
Getting there
Seasons: Year-round.
Travel Instructions: Conveniently offering its own private Jet Center, guests may arrive via aircraft of all sizes up to a regional jetliner and be just minutes away from the resort. For arrival from Austin International Airport, the resort is a quick 59-mile drive through the scenic Texas Hill Country. For regional travel, the Mouratoglou Tennis Center at Horseshoe Bay Resort is a short drive from vibrant cities including Austin, Houston, San Antonio and Dallas.
Amazing experience for the camp had great instruction and had a great time with the coaches!
PO
Traveling to tennis camp on my own as an older adult, I was a bit nervous at first, but the moment I arrived, everyone made me feel welcome.
The coaches were exceptional and created a positive environment where players of all levels could learn, improve, and have fun. I will be back!
ZD
Wonderful experience at a weekend adult tennis camp. Gorgeous facility, great instruction, wonderful staff, warm hospitality!!!! The best time!! Israel, Alex, and Andrea were incredible coaches. We would love to come back!
AM
Top notch facility with excellent instructors, courts, and amenities.
Israel and his team are highly experienced, knowledgeable, and fun. I highly recommend taking advantage of the world-class coaching staff.
The courts, rooms, and activities are well-maintained, pleasing, and high-quality.
EM
Absolutely incredible court and coaches! Highly would recommend.
GS
Horseshoe Bay Resort is a great place for people to go relax, enjoy luxury tennis and pickleball courts, and stay at nice villas with great pools. I have been going here for many years and have been able to witness the consistent attention to detail and steady improvements to their facilities, both on and off court. Additionally the tennis instruction there is very high level, enthusiastic and knowledgeable coaches and support staff.
LB
I have been coming to the HSB resort since I was a kid. Played in tennis tourneys and have seen the growth of this club since the early 80’s. Recently I was able to attend a clinic hosted by Israel and the HSB tennis team where we welcomed global tennis coach Patrick Morataglou and played on courts that boast his brand. Horseshoe Bay is home and my happy place. The tennis experience is next level and I would recommend a HSB tennis weekend to any group, any age.
DT
My wife and I love coming here. The facilities are amazing. Coaches and staff are always so kind and helpful.
JW
Horseshoe Bay Resort is a 5-star gem nestled in the Texas hill country on the banks of lake LBJ. The tennis and pickleball amenities are wonderful and are second only to the instructors and people who run the programming. Israel and the entire staff make any level player feel welcome and a part of the action. Great workout but honestly so fun! I would highly recommend to any group looking for a fun weekend of tennis/pickleball!
SR
I went on a tennis girls trip here and I had the best experience! The tennis instructor was incredible. The facility is beautiful and the food and accommodations were perfect! I want to go back with the family now. There is no need to leave the resort. They have everything there. Tennis, pickleball, great food and restaurant choices, entertainment, boating, and the staff felt like family by the end of the trip! 10 out of 10!
SB
Great tennis instructors—patient, knowledgeable, and really know how to break down technique in a simple way. Every lesson is well-structured and tailored to your skill level, making it easy to improve quickly. Super encouraging and makes practice fun while still pushing you to get better. Highly recommend!
AW
Love every chance I have to visit the tennis facility at Horseshoe Bay! The clinics are top notch — I’ve done countless drop-ins as a guest and I’ve also coordinated a weekend of fun with my tennis team. The coaches and instruction is unparalleled: not just their expertise and the ratios, but the variation in the drills and content is always so valuable. Cherry on top is the facilities are impeccable!
JP
Horseshoe Bay is a gorgeous setting to get some stellar instructional tennis. The clay courts are immaculate and the energy is a mix of fun and insightful. The coaches are knowledgeable and professional. I would definitely recommend, either for individual or group.
GC
Horseshoe Bay keeps getting better and better. The Tennis facilities are world class. Highly recommended, incredible knowledgeable, and welcoming staff.
LF
Israel and his team are amazing! I did a combination of private lessons & clinics during my stay. Definitely leveled up my game while enjoying the beautiful resort. Will definitely be back!
JS
I really enjoy each opportunity I get to play at Horseshoe Bay. You can play on either the clay or the hard courts. The Pros keep you moving and provide spot on instruction to improve your game. After your experience on the courts, there are dining options close by so you can refuel and quench your thirst.
VG
So lucky to have Horseshoe Bay Resort be my home for tennis. Spoiled with great teaching Pros and beautiful courts.
HR
I’ve been coming regularly to Horseshoe Bay Resort and the Mouratoglou Tennis Academy, and it continues to be one of the best tennis and resort experiences I’ve found.
The tennis facilities are exceptional. The courts are always in great condition, and what really stands out is the blend of hard and clay courts—something that’s surprisingly hard to find in one place. It gives you the flexibility to train and play across surfaces, which is a big differentiator.
The environment is consistently vibrant. There’s always something going on—players, clinics, and activities—so it feels energetic without ever being overwhelming.
The staff and instructors are a major reason I keep coming back. They’re knowledgeable, engaging, and genuinely fun to work with. No matter your level, they know how to push you while keeping it enjoyable.
Beyond tennis, it’s hard to beat the overall setting. The lake is beautiful, the accommodations are truly five-star, and the amenities—from the gym to the pools—make it incredibly easy to relax and recharge.
It’s rare to find a place that combines high-quality tennis with a true resort experience, which is why I find myself coming back regularly.
DM
I Play a lot of tennis in HSB. The courts, club and pros are phenomenal. All courts are play ready and well maintained. Pro are very professional, organized and love playing. Clinics are directed for skill improvement and fun play. I have traveled around and played other clubs in many different states no comparison. Top notch!!!
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119 Reviews on “Horseshoe Bay Resort”
Amazing experience for the camp had great instruction and had a great time with the coaches!
Traveling to tennis camp on my own as an older adult, I was a bit nervous at first, but the moment I arrived, everyone made me feel welcome.
The coaches were exceptional and created a positive environment where players of all levels could learn, improve, and have fun. I will be back!
Wonderful experience at a weekend adult tennis camp. Gorgeous facility, great instruction, wonderful staff, warm hospitality!!!! The best time!! Israel, Alex, and Andrea were incredible coaches. We would love to come back!
Top notch facility with excellent instructors, courts, and amenities.
Israel and his team are highly experienced, knowledgeable, and fun. I highly recommend taking advantage of the world-class coaching staff.
The courts, rooms, and activities are well-maintained, pleasing, and high-quality.
Absolutely incredible court and coaches! Highly would recommend.
Horseshoe Bay Resort is a great place for people to go relax, enjoy luxury tennis and pickleball courts, and stay at nice villas with great pools. I have been going here for many years and have been able to witness the consistent attention to detail and steady improvements to their facilities, both on and off court. Additionally the tennis instruction there is very high level, enthusiastic and knowledgeable coaches and support staff.
I have been coming to the HSB resort since I was a kid. Played in tennis tourneys and have seen the growth of this club since the early 80’s. Recently I was able to attend a clinic hosted by Israel and the HSB tennis team where we welcomed global tennis coach Patrick Morataglou and played on courts that boast his brand. Horseshoe Bay is home and my happy place. The tennis experience is next level and I would recommend a HSB tennis weekend to any group, any age.
My wife and I love coming here. The facilities are amazing. Coaches and staff are always so kind and helpful.
Horseshoe Bay Resort is a 5-star gem nestled in the Texas hill country on the banks of lake LBJ. The tennis and pickleball amenities are wonderful and are second only to the instructors and people who run the programming. Israel and the entire staff make any level player feel welcome and a part of the action. Great workout but honestly so fun! I would highly recommend to any group looking for a fun weekend of tennis/pickleball!
I went on a tennis girls trip here and I had the best experience! The tennis instructor was incredible. The facility is beautiful and the food and accommodations were perfect! I want to go back with the family now. There is no need to leave the resort. They have everything there. Tennis, pickleball, great food and restaurant choices, entertainment, boating, and the staff felt like family by the end of the trip! 10 out of 10!
Great tennis instructors—patient, knowledgeable, and really know how to break down technique in a simple way. Every lesson is well-structured and tailored to your skill level, making it easy to improve quickly. Super encouraging and makes practice fun while still pushing you to get better. Highly recommend!
Love every chance I have to visit the tennis facility at Horseshoe Bay! The clinics are top notch — I’ve done countless drop-ins as a guest and I’ve also coordinated a weekend of fun with my tennis team. The coaches and instruction is unparalleled: not just their expertise and the ratios, but the variation in the drills and content is always so valuable. Cherry on top is the facilities are impeccable!
Horseshoe Bay is a gorgeous setting to get some stellar instructional tennis. The clay courts are immaculate and the energy is a mix of fun and insightful. The coaches are knowledgeable and professional. I would definitely recommend, either for individual or group.
Horseshoe Bay keeps getting better and better. The Tennis facilities are world class. Highly recommended, incredible knowledgeable, and welcoming staff.
Israel and his team are amazing! I did a combination of private lessons & clinics during my stay. Definitely leveled up my game while enjoying the beautiful resort. Will definitely be back!
I really enjoy each opportunity I get to play at Horseshoe Bay. You can play on either the clay or the hard courts. The Pros keep you moving and provide spot on instruction to improve your game. After your experience on the courts, there are dining options close by so you can refuel and quench your thirst.
So lucky to have Horseshoe Bay Resort be my home for tennis. Spoiled with great teaching Pros and beautiful courts.
I’ve been coming regularly to Horseshoe Bay Resort and the Mouratoglou Tennis Academy, and it continues to be one of the best tennis and resort experiences I’ve found.
The tennis facilities are exceptional. The courts are always in great condition, and what really stands out is the blend of hard and clay courts—something that’s surprisingly hard to find in one place. It gives you the flexibility to train and play across surfaces, which is a big differentiator.
The environment is consistently vibrant. There’s always something going on—players, clinics, and activities—so it feels energetic without ever being overwhelming.
The staff and instructors are a major reason I keep coming back. They’re knowledgeable, engaging, and genuinely fun to work with. No matter your level, they know how to push you while keeping it enjoyable.
Beyond tennis, it’s hard to beat the overall setting. The lake is beautiful, the accommodations are truly five-star, and the amenities—from the gym to the pools—make it incredibly easy to relax and recharge.
It’s rare to find a place that combines high-quality tennis with a true resort experience, which is why I find myself coming back regularly.
I Play a lot of tennis in HSB. The courts, club and pros are phenomenal. All courts are play ready and well maintained. Pro are very professional, organized and love playing. Clinics are directed for skill improvement and fun play. I have traveled around and played other clubs in many different states no comparison. Top notch!!!