Tennis in Hawaii (The Big Island)

Although some resorts only allow guests to use their tennis facilities, the Kohala Coast has several delightful exceptions. The 11-court Seaside Tennis Club (808/882-5420) at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is frequently ranked among the world’s finest for good reason: Three of the courts ($25 per person) are right on the ocean and all enjoy beautiful landscaping. The club also boasts luxurious locker rooms, a pro shop with racket and ball machine rentals, daily clinics, round robins, and lessons for ages 4 and up. Those not staying at the hotel just need to make a reservation for a court (open daily 8am–5pm) or lesson.

Just as highly ranked, the Hawaii Tennis Center 808/887-7532) at the Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii offers 10 courts (including one stadium court), with evening play available until 9pm by reservation. It has a pro shop, rents rackets and ball machines, and offers lessons. Fees are $30 per court; check in at pro shop.

You can also play for free at any Hawaii County tennis court; the easiest way to find one nearest you is to visit www.tennisinhawaii.com. For those in Kailua-Kona, the four courts at Old Kona Airport Park offer the best experience.