How Singapore Hotels Are Embracing Pickleball to Win Over Guests
Source: Stories From Hilton
Hotels Leading the Pickleball Trend
Top hotels such as Fullerton Bay, Novotel and Mercure Stevens, and Four Seasons have built or converted facilities specifically for pickleball, offering open-air courts with city views and amenities. Fullerton Bay’s rooftop court lets players compete overlooking Marina Bay Sands, while Novotel and Mercure have repurposed rarely-used tennis courts for pickleball under the management of Anytime Fitness. Four Seasons has split its outdoor space to host both pickleball and padel, debuting an elegant racquet sports destination and running events like their inaugural “Summer Smash” padel and pickleball tournament for guests and locals.
Growing Demand and Revenue
Bookings at these hotels surged, Novotel and Mercure saw a 30% increase in reservations since launching pickleball, with over half of the bookings coming from non-staying guests. Four Seasons reported a 37% rise across all racquet sports bookings after opening pickleball courts and hosting tournaments.
The game's social nature is fundamentally changing the hotel ecosystem. The surge in bookings goes beyond locals seeking a workout, it's attracting a distinct, high-value demographic too. Over 50% of the bookings at venues like Novotel and Mercure come from non-staying public players, who then often stay to utilize the hotel's Food & Beverage outlets, directly boosting restaurant and bar revenue.
Pickleball players are also turning hotel courts into the new social hub. The short, fast-paced matches encourage players to stay longer, socialize, and dine after their games. This dynamic has seen courts become the backdrop for unique events, including corporate team-building sessions and even luxury wedding photo shoots, as noted at the Four Seasons. Hotel managers report that the atmosphere is less formal and more festive than traditional racquet sports, fostering a strong sense of community that encourages repeat visits from both guests and the public.
Rates and Packages
Court rentals typically range from SGD35 to SGD60 per hour. In-house guests enjoy more favorable rates (SGD35–40), while public players pay higher fees, plus minimum spends at some venues. During off-peak midday hours, special rates apply, such as SGD18 per hour at Novotel and Mercure Stevens. Complimentary paddle and ball rentals are included for user convenience. Guests and visitors can also book private lessons: SGD100–150 for a one-hour session, with options for group, corporate, and event-driven packages. Four Seasons participants in tournaments receive exclusive merchandise, nutritionist-designed menu access, and compete for luxury prizes.
A New Standard in Urban Hospitality
The early success of these pioneer hotels strongly indicates that pickleball will quickly transition from a novelty amenity to an expected standard amenity in Singapore's competitive hospitality landscape. The next phase of this trend will see hotels moving beyond simple court rentals.
Managers are actively planning to integrate the sport into their holistic offerings, developing bespoke "Dink and Dine" packages that bundle court time with F&B credit or spa treatments. There is strong interest in hosting major international tournaments, positioning Singapore as a premier destination for racquet sports tourism. By blending wellness, social activity, and premium services, Singapore hotels are not just responding to a trend; they are redefining the modern urban resort experience, making the social and fitness-focused appeal of pickleball an essential driver of future guest engagement and sustained revenue growth.
