RACQUET ROADTRIP
DREAM COURT
MALIBU RACQUET CLUB
Malibu, California
By Mayleen Ramey
Nestled into a lush hillside with sweeping views of blue skies and sea, Malibu Racquet Club embodies sporty sophistication. This elegantly-designed private tennis club is a palette of soothing neutral tones mixed with warm woods, blending into the beauty of its natural surroundings and perfectly capturing the essense/spirit of Malibu: relaxed and inviting, yet oh so chic.
Getting here is a quintessential California road trip in itself. The drive (ideally in a convertible) winds along the famed Pacific Coast Highway, hugging the shoreline and passing beaches made famous by Baywatch and Beverly Hills 90210 along the way. Ultimately ending at an inconspicuous dirt road next to Pepperdine University, the club looks unassuming and almost hidden from the entrance. But a quick turn into the parking lot and the rustic modern clubhouse emerges, along with a line of gorgeous green courts noticeably built into an incline.
Immediately upon arrival, the sky looks bluer and the sun shines brighter. There's something breathtakingly surreal and understated about Malibu Racquet Club. Walking up the stairs into the modern rustic clubhouse, a beautiful expanse awaits. An open pro shop and lounge space with an enormous flatscreen TV leads to a wrap-around terrace overlooking all courts.
Walking a few steps to Sparrow Cafe's outdoor dining terrace, one is greeted with the delicious smell of healthy California cuisine. A canopy of palm trees and cacti surround the terrace, which flows into the recently-renovated viewing deck of the magnificent sunken stadium court. The deep lounge chairs and plush cushions are reminiscent of a luxury hotel or day club in the Mediterranean. One could spend from morning to night here, lounging and listening to the peaceful rhythm of tennis balls in absolute bliss.
There's an obvious appreciation for the finer things, yet without the desire to be flashy or ostentatious. There's a respect for the ocean, nature, the planet. And most of all, the palpable excitement and passion for the sport that fills the air. This gem of a tennis club perfectly captures the essence of Malibu - relaxed and inviting, yet oh so chic.
The eight tennis courts and modern rustic clubhouse are nestled amongst winding paths, lined with a mix of palm trees and cacti. You’ll never want to leave this tennis oasis and, thankfully, short-term memberships are available, starting at $500/month.
For a taste of the good life without the fees/dues, the club’s Sparrow Cafe is open to the public during the week. Dine al fresco on the terrace, overlooking the beautifully-designed landscape and impressive tennis courts, while enjoying delicious California cuisine.
📍 Malibu Racquet Club
23847 Stuart Ranch Road
Malibu, CA 90265
QUICK HITS:
▪️ private tennis club
▪️Pacific Ocean views
▪️8 tennis courts
▪️clubhouse & small gym
▪️ Sparrow Cafe
PRO TIPS:
▪️ Short-term memberships are available. This is a great option if you're visiting town.
▪️ Sparrow Cafe is open to the public during the week, so even if you're not a member you can still come and enjoy the grounds.