If you're in Maroochydore, Alexandra Headland, or Mooloolaba and looking to get into pickleball, you're in a good spot — the Sunshine Coast's pickleball scene has grown fast over the past couple of years, and you don't need to travel far to find a proper indoor club.
Where to play near Maroochydore
Carpe Dink'em Pickleball runs indoor sessions at Coolum State High School, about a 20-minute drive north of Maroochydore up the David Low Way. It's an easy trip whether you're coming from the CBD, Alex Headland, or Mooloolaba, and being indoors means sessions run rain or shine — no washed-out games or scorching midday heat to deal with.
Why indoor matters on the Sunshine Coast
Outdoor courts are more exposed to whatever the Sunshine Coast weather is doing that day — summer heat, sudden downpours, glare off the court in the afternoon. An indoor venue sidesteps all of that, plus indoor courts tend to have more consistent bounce and lighting, which matters more than people expect once you're playing regularly.
New to the area or new to the sport?
Either way, you don't need to know anyone or own any gear to show up. Paddle hire is available at every session, and sessions are grouped by skill level — from social beginner-friendly rounds through to competitive advanced play — so you'll be matched with players at a similar level rather than thrown into the deep end.
What a session looks like
Sessions run as round robins, meaning you rotate partners and opponents throughout rather than playing one long match — a good way to meet the group and get a lot of court time in a single session. Casual sessions are $15, or a 10-Session Pass works out to $12 a session if you end up playing regularly.
Getting started
Check the sessions calendar for what's running this week, pick a time that suits, and just show up — no need to book gear or find a partner first. If you're coming from Maroochydore, allow about 20 minutes for the drive up to Coolum.