Padel at La Manga Club: A Game On the Rise

La Manga Club is renowned for its world-class sporting facilities, from its three spectacular golf courses to its 28 tennis courts. As a magnet for top football teams, rugby clubs, and even cricket enthusiasts, this luxurious resort has it all. Now, there’s a fresh addition to its impressive portfolio: the fast-paced sport of padel. Taking centre stage at the Racquets Club, padel has become an increasingly popular pastime that’s bringing people together in a fun and social setting.

What Is Padel?

Padel is an exhilarating mix of tennis and squash, with a hint of its own distinct charm. Typically played in doubles on an enclosed court, it uses walls for rebounds in a way that sets it apart from most other racquet sports. It’s easy to learn and suits players of all ages and abilities, making it an ideal activity for families, friends, and anyone looking to stay active.

A padel court is about a third the size of a tennis court and is surrounded by glass and metallic mesh walls. This unique setup allows the ball to bounce off walls, adding a strategic layer to the game. Points are scored when the ball bounces twice in the opponent's area—a simple enough concept, but one that becomes thrilling as players master the tactics needed to outsmart their opponents.

Unlike tennis, where the power of your serve or raw strength often dictates play, padel is more about finesse and strategic match-play. It’s a sport where men, women, and younger players can compete together on equal footing. Many newcomers find themselves grasping the basics within just half an hour—it’s easy to see why padel has become a favourite at La Manga Club.

Padel at the Racquets Club at La Manga Club

The Racquets Club at La Manga Club boasts an impressive array of facilities for padel enthusiasts. There are seven floodlit padel courts, including three with panoramic views, each covered with the same artificial grass used on the World Padel Tour. Situated in the heart of the resort, the Racquets Club offers something for everyone, from casual players to those looking to elevate their game to competition level.

For those interested in a more immersive experience, the Racquets Club runs a five-day Padel Academy designed to help players of all levels refine their skills. Under the expert guidance of Spanish coaches, participants work on everything from grip and positioning to volley techniques and defensive play. There’s a maximum player-to-coach ratio of four, ensuring each participant receives personal attention tailored to their needs. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in padel while benefiting from the insights of seasoned professionals.

The Racquets Club also caters for those who prefer more relaxed games, with equipment available to rent and a full selection of padel gear in the club shop. Whether you’re just getting started or you’re an experienced player, there’s something here for everyone.

Who Is Padel For?

Padel’s charm lies in its accessibility. Unlike many sports, it isn’t dominated by players who have spent years honing physical strength or technical finesse. The beauty of padel is that it’s a sport where savvy strategy wins over brute force, making it ideal for players of all ages and abilities. Grandparents can comfortably play alongside grandchildren, friends can team up for an afternoon of fun, and families can enjoy a day of active competition.

Because padel courts are smaller, the action is concentrated, creating a more sociable environment compared to traditional tennis. The doubles format and rapid rallies mean there’s little waiting around—every player gets a real chance to shine. It’s easy to see why padel is a fantastic choice for those wanting a sociable, enjoyable sport that keeps you fit without feeling overly strenuous.

The learning curve is gentle—after a quick introductory lesson, most beginners find themselves playing full games and having a laugh within just an hour. It’s this mix of fun and ease that has seen padel spread like wildfire throughout Spain, and now La Manga Club is leading the charge in making the sport accessible to all.

More Than Just Sport: Why La Manga Club Is the Ideal Place for Padel

Of course, it’s not just the sport itself that makes padel at La Manga Club such an attractive proposition. The resort can be found in the sun-soaked landscape of southern Spain, offers so much more than just sporting facilities. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, you’re virtually guaranteed good weather, making it the perfect spot for outdoor activities.

La Manga Club isn’t just about the physical exertion; it’s also about kicking back and enjoying a slower pace of life. With more than 35 bars and restaurants to choose from, ranging from Mediterranean cuisine to Asian delights, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re relaxing with a cool drink after a game of padel or indulging in a gourmet dinner at one of the resort’s fine dining establishments, there’s no shortage of places to unwind.

As the only Grand Hyatt hotel in Spain, La Manga Club offers luxurious accommodation to match the quality of its sporting facilities. Beyond the resort itself, there’s a host of attractions to explore. The Mar Menor, Europe’s largest saltwater lagoon, is just on the doorstep, offering all kinds of water sports from kayaking to windsurfing. If you prefer to keep your feet on solid ground, nearby historic towns like Cartagena are perfect for day trips filled with history and culture.

Padel and Beyond: The Full La Manga Club Experience

La Manga Club has long been the go-to destination for sporting enthusiasts, and the addition of padel tennis makes it even more enticing. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer, a dedicated tennis player, or a newcomer to racquet sports, there’s something here for everyone. The resort’s commitment to providing world-class facilities across multiple sports means you can easily transition from a padel match to a round of golf or even a game of cricket, all in the same day.

The friendly competition of padel is a great way to work up an appetite, and with so many dining options, refuelling afterwards is a pleasure rather than an afterthought. The mix of casual eateries and refined restaurants caters to all tastes, making it easy to enjoy a post-match meal. And when the sun goes down, the resort’s bars and terraces come alive, offering a relaxing end to an action-packed day.

For those who want to push their skills even further, La Manga Club also hosts various competitions throughout the year. These events provide an opportunity to put your training into practice, meet other padel enthusiasts, and perhaps even claim a spot on the podium. It’s a vibrant community of sports lovers, and padel has quickly become one of the favourite activities within the resort.

Ready to Play Padel at La Manga Club?

Whether you’re just starting out or you’re already a padel enthusiast, La Manga Club is ready to welcome you. The resort’s dedication to providing first-class facilities and coaching makes it the ideal place to dive into the world of padel. With a combination of top-quality courts, experienced coaches, and a setting that’s nothing short of spectacular, your padel experience at La Manga Club will be one to remember.

So, pack your trainers, grab your racquet, and head to La Manga Club to discover the exciting world of padel—a game that’s easy to pick up, impossible to put down, and perfect for everyone.