Tennis vs Padel in Bali: Which Should You Try?

Tennis and Padel in Bali

Bali has seen rapid growth in both tennis and padel over the past two years. While tennis has a longer history on the island with established courts at major resorts, padel is the newcomer generating excitement. Here is how they compare.

Court and Equipment

Tennis is played on a full-size court (23.8m x 10.97m for singles) with a standard racket and pressurized balls. Padel uses a smaller enclosed court (20m x 10m) with glass walls, a solid racket without strings, and lower-pressure balls.

Learning Curve

Padel is often cited as easier to pick up for complete beginners due to the smaller court and underhand serve. However, tennis offers deeper technical development and a wider range of shots that keep the game challenging for years.

Availability in Bali

Tennis courts are available across Bali at resorts, hotels, and local clubs. Padel courts are still relatively new and mostly concentrated in the Canggu and Seminyak areas. For visitors staying outside these areas, tennis is the more accessible option.

Social Factor

Padel is almost always played as doubles, making it inherently social. Tennis can be played as singles or doubles, giving you flexibility. Both sports are excellent for meeting people on holiday.

Our Recommendation

If you want a sport with deep technique, worldwide court availability, and individual competition - choose tennis. If you want quick fun with friends in a casual setting, padel is great too. Many of our students play both.