By: Steve Turk

In today's competitive hospitality landscape, finding fresh ways to increase guest satisfaction and drive revenue is key. One trend that’s picking up serious momentum is Pickleball. On the latest episode of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast, I spoke with Scott Colbourne, the founder of PICKLESTARS, who’s on a mission to bring Pickleball to hotels and resorts everywhere. After our conversation, it's clear why this sport is something every hospitality company should be considering.

Pickleball is making waves across the U.S. for good reason. As Scott shared, “Pickleball is hugely popular in the United States right now. It’s extremely easy to play, sociable, and really fun.” With its simple rules and easy learning curve, it appeals to guests of all ages, making it an ideal amenity for hotels looking to create memorable experiences. Unlike other racquet sports, Pickleball courts don’t require much space, which makes them a practical addition to almost any property. Scott explained, "Pickleball is extremely easy to set up courts and is really space efficient," meaning hotels can get creative with their underutilized areas — whether that’s converting ballrooms, utilizing rooftops, or even experimenting with pop-up courts​.

But beyond being a fun, guest-friendly sport, Pickleball also represents a significant revenue opportunity. Hotels can monetize their courts by charging a fee, offering lessons, or including the courts in premium packages. Scott mentioned that some properties have already seen impressive results. "Properties like Baha Mar in the Bahamas and Kiawah Island Golf Resort in South Carolina are doing a fantastic job with Pickleball," he noted, demonstrating that when done right, it can be a game-changer for guest engagement and satisfaction​.

If you're wondering how to get started, Scott recommends beginning with a quick assessment of your property. “Look at your space — from ballrooms to rooftops, even outdoor areas you hadn't considered before. You might be surprised by the possibilities,” he suggests. The idea is to think outside the box and explore how Pickleball can fit into your specific environment. It's an innovative, flexible addition that can transform underused spaces into vibrant hubs of activity​.

For those curious to hear more from Scott, I encourage you to check out the full episode on the Hospitality Mentor Podcast or watch it on our YouTube channel. We dive deep into why Pickleball is more than just a trend — it’s a strategic move that can enhance the guest experience and add a new revenue stream to your business. Whether you’re a boutique property or a large resort, it might just be the perfect time to join the Pickleball wave.