Familiar as the former site of the WTA Mercury Insurance Open each summer, La Costa Resort & Spa has a long tradition of caring about tennis and of pampering the guests of its spa. But this is a far different La Costa than the one I first visited back in the 1980s. Over the last several years, more than $50 million to upgrade the resort, including renovations of the rooms, upgrades to the golf course, and a new adult swimming pool. Its architecture reflects the state’s Spanish Colonial history—all white stucco, wrought iron, red tile, and open plazas. A handsome Feng Shui-aligned spa anchors one end of the main plaza, with restaurants scattered throughout, some with outdoor seating.
The tennis club has four red clay and 8 hard courts, one of the latter a sunken stadium with seating for 1,000, as well as six permanent pickleball courts. It is managed by Cliff Drysdale Tennis, who installed Bryce Cunningham as director. A certified USPTA elite professional coach and Tennis Australia professional coach, he had previously run camps and programs at The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne and directed the Bluewater Bay Tennis Center, Niceville, both in Florida. At La Costa, he and his staff of nine pros offer not only private lessons but also thrice daily 3.0/Intermediate clinics supplemented by sessions for beginners and workouts for intermediate/advanced players. In addition, there are after-school programs for various ages of juniors. The San Diego Aviators formally hosted their home World Team Tennis at la Costa. Instruction is also available for those looking to learn pickleball or hone the skills they have, and for anyone wanting to play the club stages weekly pickleball mixers/open play events.
Court Complex: The resort has 8 hard courts—one of them a stadium—and 4 red clay courts (7 with lights) arrayed below an attractive clubhouse containing an expansive, apparel-stocked pro shop. There are also 6 pickleball courts.
Court fees: $35/hour (includes a cal of balls)
Racquet rental is available if needed.
Off Court
Tucked inside a Spanish Mission-style property north of San Diego, 400-acre Omni La Costa Resort & Spa recently completed a multi-million dollar renovation in the spring of 2024 and welcomes guests with championship golf courses, eight sparkling resort pools and an award-winning spa. Share fresh southern California flavors overlooking fairways or feast on steak and seafood at the resort’s restaurants. Whether visiting for a meeting, celebration or well-earned vacation, or immersing yourself in the La Costa lifestyle with a year-round membership to The Club at La Costa, this Carlsbad, CA resort promises warm, friendly service, and memories to be cherished for a lifetime.
Accommodations
There are 607 guest rooms, suites and villas that are welcoming retreats to unwind following resort activities or days exploring San Diego’s popular attractions including Legoland, the San Diego Zoo and Birch Aquarium.
Getting there
Seasons: Year-round
San Diego International Airport is the closest - about 30–45-minute drive
76 Reviews on “Omni La Costa Resort and Spa - Cliff Drysdale Tennis”
Excellent
4.6
76 reviews
On Court Experience
5.0
Off Court Experience
5.0
Overall Tennis
5.0
Overall Pickleball
5.0
Adult Tennis Camp Experience
0.0
Tennis Instruction
5.0
Pickleball Instruction
0.0
Adult Tennis Camp Experience
5.0
Accomodations
5.0
Resort Amenities
5.0
BL
I did a three day tennis vacation just for myself here, scheduled around clinics and match play already done at the club with locals, and two private lessons. This amounted to about 3 hours of court time for the first two days, and an hour and a half morning clinic on the last day. I was very sore even by the end of the first day but I soldiered through. I got a lot of good private lessons about various aspects of my game and mentality that I will be taking away. The match play was doubles for two hours mixed with players about my level, and the clinics were hour and a half focused around doubles points. This is exactly what I was looking for, and the resort itself had jacuzzi tubs and dining that I needed to recover in between sessions. I will definitely do this again.
KA
Norman was very friendly and great to work with. He asked me about my goals and understood them well. I came into the lesson wanting to work on game play strategy, in preparation for matches and to level up. Norman was incredibly helpful at making me more aware of my patterns and my opponents’ patterns. He made valuable recommendations based on his observations, called out where I was taking risky shots and what I needed to change (in form, movement, and placement) to increase my success rate, and got me thinking more within the points about where I was placing my shot and where my opponent would likely return the shot. I went on to have multiple match wins in the following week that I credit to the lessons.
SS
Awesome instructors, beautiful facilities and well organized clinics! I really enjoyed my tennis experience at Omni La Costa and I definitely have improved my game over the last 5 days!
DG
We went for a tennis vacation and it was superb. My husband and I enjoyed both the clinics and lessons and our games improved during the time we stayed there. Cliff Drysdale Omni La Costa Pros were not only great teachers they were supportive and encouraging and most important made everything fun!! I met members of the club who said they would invite me to play with them when I return next time – as an intermediate player still learning the game that offer made me very happy. Beyond tennis. – the resort is beautiful and in a perfect location for short excursions to seaside towns, shopping experiences and a variety of wonderful restaurants. We are already looking forward to returning next February and I will be reaching out to Bryce Cunningham to facilitate another wonderful experience.
SL
The tennis camp was wonderful. Fantastic instructors, high energy, and very accommodating. I had many different instructors for both the clinics and private lessons and each was very qualified. I left with better skills than when I arrived. The resort itself is very spread out, but in a nice setting. We did not eat at the resort. There was a steakhouse and a bar menu at the bar. We opted to go offsite for lighter cuisine. Our room was located near the tennis courts which was convenient. It is a great place to go if you want a fantastic tennis program experience for a few days. I would definately recommend this resort.
JK
We have come every year from Canada to play tennis, taking private lessons and joining in on group drills/lessons. We love the resort accommodations including the pool, lounges and restaurants. The fitness Center also offers many classes which weaves in nicely between tennis lessons. The tennis has a nice mix of tourists and local residents which makes it fun. The instructors are energetic and manage to cater to individual needs even in group sessions. Highly recommend for all levels.
KF
The Omni La Costa resort is an outstanding experience. Friendly staff, unsurpassed views of the golf course from the adult oriented pool and a tennis center that is absolutely the best! The tennis coaches are experienced talented professionals who provide energetic customized coaching. All the coaches I had combined constructive feedback to improve my strokes and game play as well as providing a fun and energetic learning environment. These lessons are by far the best I’ve had … and I’ve had a lot of tennis lessons! I can’t wait to go back!
RF
Fantastic Resort for Tennis. This was our second trip and will be returning next year…we can’t wait.
SG
Norman was a great tennis coach
DG
my husband and I visited this resort and tennis camp thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I enjoyed my group tennis lesson experience — I was part of the camp but my fellow tennis players for the group lesson came as either hotel guests or from the community. It worked out well as everyone was welcoming and supportive. Norman did a great job, offering instruction during the group lesson which mainly focuses on drills and playing for points. It was fun. I loved my private lessons with Valentin Berlin – he worked very hard to bring my game up and I definitely improved. His dedication to teaching me was very much appreciated.
CM
Attending the Ladies Retreat was exemplary! The pros from multiple clubs/resorts were great! Including our pro, Teg Lozano, from Castlewood! I learned a lot and would love to return, maybe in a year, or two. The energy level on the courts was off the charts. Loved meeting other ladies from across the country. The accommodations, food and beverages were exceptional. The grounds of Omni La Costa were well kept and welcoming.
SH
This Ladies Retreat is a getaway I look forward to. I brought 2 friends this year and will invite more next year! The tennis is so fun and the Pros are great. Good energy, complimentary, fun and helpful. I have been to other tennis retreats and this one is my favorite!
SH
I have a number of tennis friends that would like to try a tennis camp and I feel it’s a great way to work on your skills coming onto the competitive tennis season. Where I live in the Vail Valley, our options for tennis in the winter are extremely limited with only two indoor courts in the entire valley. So for me and my friends, having the ability to get top notch instruction and supervised game/play time in our ‘off-season’ is paramount to us. The only suggestion I would offer for this particular camp and I mean no offense to anyone, would be to make sure the camp participants are at least a 3.5 USTA Level. I feel that 3.5-4.0 can interchange pretty well. And 4.0-4.5 can interchange well too. Just a suggestion.
KF
An absolutely beautiful property with top notch customer service across the board. I had two fantastic private lessons with pros that were responsive to where I was in my game and crafted the lesson accordingly. The clinics kept us moving but would love to see more drills. Overall, a great experience and I will be back!
PM
Omni La Costa is an outstanding place to go for adult tennis “camps”. They create a custom program for you, based on your schedule, level of play, and interests. I came for a 3 day experience (Friday/Saturday/Sunday), which ended up being a mix of group clinics and private lessons. The pros are honestly outstanding, and easily the best I have worked with. Enthusiastic, supportive, and extremely good at teaching to my level. It was a fantastic experience. I did not stay at the hotel (I found a cheaper room nearby), but the grounds are lovely. Its so nicely set up, with easy strolling to get food or coffee, easy (free) parking, and just a relaxing place. The tennis pro shop has anything you might need, including (free) demo rackets from Head. I can say that if you are looking for something like this, I would really say go for it here. It was such a good experience. I want to come back soon!
AW
I LOVED playing tennis at Omni La Costa. The courts were incredibly well-maintained, the staff was professional and super helpful, and the pros were great. Matt Dudley is the best- definitely book a lesson with him! He gives great instruction and has a ton of energy.
KS
We attended the Cliff Drysdale Ladies’ Tennis Retreat in May of 2019. This experience exceeded my expectations. The staff was excellent and the tennis clinics were very well organized and structured. The itinerary was well structured and challenging. The food was great. The tennis staff were very accessible and fun. I can’t recommend this experience enough. I was exhausted at the end but it was so worth it!!
ML
The Women’s Tennis Retreat is the best week in tennis. 2019 was my third camp in San Diego and one in Amelia Island. Each year seems to get better and better. I think this year the women bonded and socialized more, which makes it comfortable for the participants who come alone.
MW
We went on a girls trip and had a fabulous time! Travis was awesome and we had a lot of fun!
RG
Alejandro and Travis are my favorite pros. Alejandro has so much game knowledge and has helped my game tremendously
LM
Omni La Costa has awesome tennis facilities with 16 courts. We play on them daily. Sheena does a great job scheduling. Alejandro (Alex) is a great pro.
ME
I’ve really enjoyed coming to the tennis drills! It has pushed me to play with more experienced players and always learn something new from these great coaches!! I have been going to Sean and Alex and always enjoy my session with these guys!!
VS
We love this resort. My kids have been taking tennis lessons with Alex for a few years now, and he’s the best! He’s so good with the kids, and I see their skills progressing each time. Can’t say enough positive things about him and the resort.
RR
Great location for a tennis resort, excellent facility and top quality pros. Could have a better tennis shop and a few more courts with lights.
TB
The pros at Omni La Costa are full of energy and are ready to challenge players at any level! I highly recommend the Spanish teaching pro Alejandro who helps players focus more on proper technique than on “winning a point”. If you want to learn the basis or want to fine-tune your game, you will get your money’s worth from him. Highly recommend!
SP
Omni La Costa has a wonderful tennis program for juniors and adults. My son who is 10years old participated in the tennis academy program 1-2 times per week and is challenged by the other players as well as the instructors. He has has an hour long lesson at least once a week with Alex, one of the teaching pros and ho has been there for awhile now. He is a great teacher and knows when to be serious and stern if necessary. He does not let my son get lazy with technique but challenges him in a positive way. I also take lessons from Alex and he definitely does not sugar coat anything. He wants you to become a stronger player and gives good consistent criticism as well as complements strong shots.
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76 Reviews on “Omni La Costa Resort and Spa - Cliff Drysdale Tennis”
I did a three day tennis vacation just for myself here, scheduled around clinics and match play already done at the club with locals, and two private lessons. This amounted to about 3 hours of court time for the first two days, and an hour and a half morning clinic on the last day. I was very sore even by the end of the first day but I soldiered through. I got a lot of good private lessons about various aspects of my game and mentality that I will be taking away. The match play was doubles for two hours mixed with players about my level, and the clinics were hour and a half focused around doubles points. This is exactly what I was looking for, and the resort itself had jacuzzi tubs and dining that I needed to recover in between sessions. I will definitely do this again.
Norman was very friendly and great to work with. He asked me about my goals and understood them well. I came into the lesson wanting to work on game play strategy, in preparation for matches and to level up. Norman was incredibly helpful at making me more aware of my patterns and my opponents’ patterns. He made valuable recommendations based on his observations, called out where I was taking risky shots and what I needed to change (in form, movement, and placement) to increase my success rate, and got me thinking more within the points about where I was placing my shot and where my opponent would likely return the shot. I went on to have multiple match wins in the following week that I credit to the lessons.
Awesome instructors, beautiful facilities and well organized clinics! I really enjoyed my tennis experience at Omni La Costa and I definitely have improved my game over the last 5 days!
We went for a tennis vacation and it was superb. My husband and I enjoyed both the clinics and lessons and our games improved during the time we stayed there. Cliff Drysdale Omni La Costa Pros were not only great teachers they were supportive and encouraging and most important made everything fun!! I met members of the club who said they would invite me to play with them when I return next time – as an intermediate player still learning the game that offer made me very happy. Beyond tennis. – the resort is beautiful and in a perfect location for short excursions to seaside towns, shopping experiences and a variety of wonderful restaurants. We are already looking forward to returning next February and I will be reaching out to Bryce Cunningham to facilitate another wonderful experience.
The tennis camp was wonderful. Fantastic instructors, high energy, and very accommodating. I had many different instructors for both the clinics and private lessons and each was very qualified. I left with better skills than when I arrived. The resort itself is very spread out, but in a nice setting. We did not eat at the resort. There was a steakhouse and a bar menu at the bar. We opted to go offsite for lighter cuisine. Our room was located near the tennis courts which was convenient. It is a great place to go if you want a fantastic tennis program experience for a few days. I would definately recommend this resort.
We have come every year from Canada to play tennis, taking private lessons and joining in on group drills/lessons. We love the resort accommodations including the pool, lounges and restaurants. The fitness Center also offers many classes which weaves in nicely between tennis lessons. The tennis has a nice mix of tourists and local residents which makes it fun. The instructors are energetic and manage to cater to individual needs even in group sessions. Highly recommend for all levels.
The Omni La Costa resort is an outstanding experience. Friendly staff, unsurpassed views of the golf course from the adult oriented pool and a tennis center that is absolutely the best! The tennis coaches are experienced talented professionals who provide energetic customized coaching. All the coaches I had combined constructive feedback to improve my strokes and game play as well as providing a fun and energetic learning environment. These lessons are by far the best I’ve had … and I’ve had a lot of tennis lessons! I can’t wait to go back!
Fantastic Resort for Tennis. This was our second trip and will be returning next year…we can’t wait.
Norman was a great tennis coach
my husband and I visited this resort and tennis camp thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I enjoyed my group tennis lesson experience — I was part of the camp but my fellow tennis players for the group lesson came as either hotel guests or from the community. It worked out well as everyone was welcoming and supportive. Norman did a great job, offering instruction during the group lesson which mainly focuses on drills and playing for points. It was fun. I loved my private lessons with Valentin Berlin – he worked very hard to bring my game up and I definitely improved. His dedication to teaching me was very much appreciated.
Attending the Ladies Retreat was exemplary! The pros from multiple clubs/resorts were great! Including our pro, Teg Lozano, from Castlewood! I learned a lot and would love to return, maybe in a year, or two. The energy level on the courts was off the charts. Loved meeting other ladies from across the country. The accommodations, food and beverages were exceptional. The grounds of Omni La Costa were well kept and welcoming.
This Ladies Retreat is a getaway I look forward to. I brought 2 friends this year and will invite more next year! The tennis is so fun and the Pros are great. Good energy, complimentary, fun and helpful. I have been to other tennis retreats and this one is my favorite!
I have a number of tennis friends that would like to try a tennis camp and I feel it’s a great way to work on your skills coming onto the competitive tennis season. Where I live in the Vail Valley, our options for tennis in the winter are extremely limited with only two indoor courts in the entire valley. So for me and my friends, having the ability to get top notch instruction and supervised game/play time in our ‘off-season’ is paramount to us. The only suggestion I would offer for this particular camp and I mean no offense to anyone, would be to make sure the camp participants are at least a 3.5 USTA Level. I feel that 3.5-4.0 can interchange pretty well. And 4.0-4.5 can interchange well too. Just a suggestion.
An absolutely beautiful property with top notch customer service across the board. I had two fantastic private lessons with pros that were responsive to where I was in my game and crafted the lesson accordingly. The clinics kept us moving but would love to see more drills. Overall, a great experience and I will be back!
Omni La Costa is an outstanding place to go for adult tennis “camps”. They create a custom program for you, based on your schedule, level of play, and interests. I came for a 3 day experience (Friday/Saturday/Sunday), which ended up being a mix of group clinics and private lessons. The pros are honestly outstanding, and easily the best I have worked with. Enthusiastic, supportive, and extremely good at teaching to my level. It was a fantastic experience. I did not stay at the hotel (I found a cheaper room nearby), but the grounds are lovely. Its so nicely set up, with easy strolling to get food or coffee, easy (free) parking, and just a relaxing place. The tennis pro shop has anything you might need, including (free) demo rackets from Head. I can say that if you are looking for something like this, I would really say go for it here. It was such a good experience. I want to come back soon!
I LOVED playing tennis at Omni La Costa. The courts were incredibly well-maintained, the staff was professional and super helpful, and the pros were great. Matt Dudley is the best- definitely book a lesson with him! He gives great instruction and has a ton of energy.
We attended the Cliff Drysdale Ladies’ Tennis Retreat in May of 2019. This experience exceeded my expectations. The staff was excellent and the tennis clinics were very well organized and structured. The itinerary was well structured and challenging. The food was great. The tennis staff were very accessible and fun. I can’t recommend this experience enough. I was exhausted at the end but it was so worth it!!
The Women’s Tennis Retreat is the best week in tennis. 2019 was my third camp in San Diego and one in Amelia Island. Each year seems to get better and better. I think this year the women bonded and socialized more, which makes it comfortable for the participants who come alone.
We went on a girls trip and had a fabulous time! Travis was awesome and we had a lot of fun!
Alejandro and Travis are my favorite pros. Alejandro has so much game knowledge and has helped my game tremendously
Omni La Costa has awesome tennis facilities with 16 courts. We play on them daily. Sheena does a great job scheduling. Alejandro (Alex) is a great pro.
I’ve really enjoyed coming to the tennis drills! It has pushed me to play with more experienced players and always learn something new from these great coaches!! I have been going to Sean and Alex and always enjoy my session with these guys!!
We love this resort. My kids have been taking tennis lessons with Alex for a few years now, and he’s the best! He’s so good with the kids, and I see their skills progressing each time. Can’t say enough positive things about him and the resort.
Great location for a tennis resort, excellent facility and top quality pros. Could have a better tennis shop and a few more courts with lights.
The pros at Omni La Costa are full of energy and are ready to challenge players at any level! I highly recommend the Spanish teaching pro Alejandro who helps players focus more on proper technique than on “winning a point”. If you want to learn the basis or want to fine-tune your game, you will get your money’s worth from him. Highly recommend!
Omni La Costa has a wonderful tennis program for juniors and adults. My son who is 10years old participated in the tennis academy program 1-2 times per week and is challenged by the other players as well as the instructors. He has has an hour long lesson at least once a week with Alex, one of the teaching pros and ho has been there for awhile now. He is a great teacher and knows when to be serious and stern if necessary. He does not let my son get lazy with technique but challenges him in a positive way. I also take lessons from Alex and he definitely does not sugar coat anything. He wants you to become a stronger player and gives good consistent criticism as well as complements strong shots.