Work on your tennis game at these Sammamish courts

Typically, cold and rainy Pacific Northwest weather prevents many Sammamish residents from utilizing the outdoor tennis courts dotted around the city for most of the year. But when summer comes around, abundant sunshine and pleasant temperatures beckon many to grab a racquet and break open a fresh can of balls.

Here are a few courts that local residents can easily drive to and start working on their tennis game.

Skyline High School

Skyline’s eight courts are located right beside 228th Ave SE, next to the high school’s entrance. They are free to play on and in great condition. The eight courts are separated into groups of two by fencing, which prevents errant balls from disrupting play.

Given the courts are used for competitions during the school year, they are in good condition, with minimal marks or cracks. There is almost always an unused court, even during weekends. However, they are occupied during school practices, which run from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. on weekdays.

All the courts are lighted and automatically turn on at dusk. They also have a screen to stop the setting sun from glaring straight into your eyes. However, with minimal shade, it can get quite hot during midday. Players should also bring water since none is found at the courts. In addition, its proximity to the road means there will always be traffic noise in the background.

Eastlake High School

Sammamish’s other high school, Eastlake, has six outdoor courts. There is almost always an open court. However, Eastlake’s courts are not lit up at night. Despite the lack of lighting, these courts are still a valid option because of how well they are maintained.

The courts are separated by fencing into groups of two. There is not much shading from the sun and no water nearby, so be sure to bring your own. During the school tennis season, the courts will be occupied between 3:30 and 5:30 p.m.

East Sammamish Park

If you want to try a public park, then head to East Sammamish Park, which has two courts located just east of the sparsely used parking lot. These courts are near a public playground, so players may hear the sound of children playing the background. One key benefit is that these courts are hugged by trees, so they offer some shading at certain points of the day. Players should also bring their own water.

Pine Lake Athletic Club

This is not exactly a summer court, given it is indoors, but we would be remiss to not include Pine Lake Athletic Club on this list given its popularity as a year-round tennis facility. Only members of the club can play on their courts.

The club offers four courts that are lighted and open from 5:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. on weekdays. On weekends, they open at 6:30 a.m. but still close at 10:30 p.m.

All courts are in great condition with minimal marks on surface. Tall nets separate the courts to prevent individuals on other courts from interrupting play. Water fountains are available, and tennis balls are also included on the courts for no additional charge.

A tennis individual membership costs $180 per month, while couples and families will need to fork over $272 and $317 per month, respectively. The club does offer a cheaper junior membership at $120 per month for ages 8 to 18. Pine Lake also charges a one-time enrollment fee of $300. If you are already a member, take advantage of the benefit of bringing guests for only $20 per guest.

Details on Pine Lake Athletic Club’s membership plans can be found here.