Ace Your Next Match: LA’s Ultimate Outdoor Tennis Courts by Neighborhood

LA’s Ultimate Outdoor Tennis Courts by Neighborhood

Sunlight filters through the sycamores as rackets zip across the courts at Griffith Park, where players blend the thrill of the game with postcard views of the hills. In a city as sprawling and diverse as Los Angeles, tennis isn’t just a sport—it’s the heartbeat of dozens of neighborhoods, each with its own courts, quirks, and communities.

"The LA tennis scene has something for everyone, from beginners to advanced players." – Local Tennis Coach

Griffith Park: Where Nature Meets Competition

Nestled just north of Los Feliz, Griffith Park Tennis Courts deliver a rare, tranquil escape from city buzz. With 12 lighted courts set among rolling hills, matches here feel both relaxed and epic. Court fees run $8–$12 per hour (verified for tennis only), and the serene setting draws everyone from early risers perfecting their serve to weekend warriors.

• Scenic park environment ideal for all skill levels
• Ample free parking, but spaces fill quickly on weekends
• Permit system available for reservations, otherwise first-come-first-serve

Venice Beach & Echo Park: Energy, Community, and Free Play

Down by the coast, the Venice Beach courts pulse with an open-air festival vibe. It’s the only place where you’ll rally to a drum circle soundtrack. You’ll find free-to-use courts (tennis only), but arrive early—especially on weekends—or expect to wait. Echo Park, meanwhile, offers nine free, lighted courts buzzing with pickup games and LA’s most social tennis crowd, though parking is mostly limited to side streets.

• Venice: Beachside courts, lively atmosphere, and walk-up play
• Echo Park: Free public courts, vibrant tennis scene, night lighting for late matchups
• Street parking only at both; consider ride-sharing during peak times

Westwood and Cheviot Hills: Club-Like Quality Without the Price

In West LA, Westwood Recreation Center and Cheviot Hills Rec Center attract competitive players and families alike. Westwood’s eight courts are free before 5pm on weekdays, then $12/hour after. Cheviot Hills boasts 14 well-maintained courts, often with openings and relatively low-key vibes. Both locations offer organized programming and plentiful parking, but Westwood’s proximity to UCLA means you’ll see everything from casual rallies to serious singles.

Tennis Resource	Location	Details
Griffith Park Tennis Courts	Los Feliz	12 lighted, $8–$12/hr, shaded, scenic
Cheviot Hills Rec Center	West LA	14 courts, quiet, public, programs, $8–$12/hr
Echo Park Courts	Echo Park	9 courts, free, night lights, street parking only
Westwood Rec Center	Westwood	8 courts, free before 5pm, $12/hr after, programs
Venice Beach Tennis Courts	Venice	Free, lively, walk-up only, beachside vibe
Obama Sports Complex	Baldwin Hills	12 courts, free, community events, walk-on friendly

Realities of Tennis in Los Angeles: Tips and Challenges

• Court Availability: Popular spots fill quickly; arrive at off-peak hours or check permit options
• Weather: LA’s sunshine means year-round play, but summer heat can make mid-day tennis tough—bring water and sunscreen
• Finding Partners: Traffic and busy schedules make it hard to connect, which is why PlayTennisLA remains a lifeline for local players
• Parking: Free at some sites, limited at others—plan ahead, especially at Echo Park and Venice

Los Angeles' tennis community thrives on diversity—of players, courts, and playing styles. Whether you’re chasing that Olympic forehand in Baldwin Hills or just breaking into the sport in Sylmar, LA’s outdoor courts let you play your way. For more detailed court-by-court reviews, check /blog/la-s-top-outdoor-tennis-courts-where-to-play-in-every-neighborhood-2025-04-15.

Finding consistent tennis partners in Los Angeles can be challenging with busy schedules and traffic. PlayTennisLA solves this by connecting you with players at your skill level in your neighborhood, completely free. Sign up today to find your next match.