1. Merage Jewish Community Center of Orange County

1 Federation Way, Irvine; 949-435-3400; jccoc.org

Since the day Noah Simon, athletics director at the Merage Jewish Community Center, first arrived on campus a year ago, he sensed something special, particularly on the pickleball courts.

“I really wanted to build on the potential (of pickleball) and turn out a big program,” Simon said. He has done that in a big way.

It’s not just any pickleball program at the 220,000-square foot facility on the Samueli Jewish Campus in Irvine either. According to readers it’s the best of the bunch. When asked what sets the JCCOC program apart, Simon says it comes to one thing. While it’s easy to talk about academies, lessons, tournaments, leagues, open play seven days a week, that’s just the tip of the pickle spear.

“What really separates us is the community we have here,” Simon said. “It is so welcoming from beginners to advanced players and the relationships that are built here, that’s what sets us apart.”

Merage has four indoor courts, with the possibility of expanding to six through renovation and redesign. There are also two lighted outdoor courts. The Center has a youth academy, and pickleball coach Luan Tran is available to offer lessons for one-to-10 players, “live ball” drills and clinics.

The courts are open to JCCOC members, though guests can accompany for a nominal fee and decide whether to join. Merage also features a health and fitness complex, licensed preschool and toddler care, teen lounge, gymnasium, junior Olympic swimming pool and facilities for social occasions.

2. iPickle La Habra

351 S Euclid St., La Habra; 562-690-5040, ipickle.com

Pickleball in La Habra, as in many venues, began modestly in a tennis facility and since has taken off.

iPickle has six Southern California locations, with La Habra being the sole Orange County spot. However, with 20 dedicated courts with permanent lines and nets, La Habra is the flagship location. As its organizers say, ”Here you will find an extremely active, fun community with play at all levels.”

The facility is open to the public and offers open play, ladder leagues, drop-in and one-on-one instruction, plus six-week or drop-in group lessons taught by qualified pros. Players can join any time during a session and pay a prorated fee.

On select Fridays, there are “Social Nights,” with free food and drinks. In addition to the courts, there are amenities such as food, locker rooms, restrooms, pro shop, trainers, and wheelchair accessibility.

3. Los Cab Sports Club

7272 Newhope St., Fountain Valley, 714-546-8560, loscab.com

With  39 dedicated courts and 12 hybrid courts, all with new lights, Los Cab is taking over the pickleball scene in O.C.

“We are all in on pickleball,’ says Vinnie Brascia, co-founder with Mitch Bridge of the Los Cab Pickleball program in 2023. “I say, ‘If you’re opposed to having fun, don’t try pickleball.’”

With 2,000 members, players can always find a game. “At any time, day or night we have people of all levels and backgrounds,” said Brascia, who has a staff of nine teaching pros, including daughters Mary and Maggie Brascia, who are ranked professional players.

“We have the highest level of play in O.C.,” Brascia said.

Guests can attend with members or sign up for tours. Los Cab offers full programming, including lessons, clinics, “live ball” competitions, leagues, tournaments and social drop-in play.

Los Cab Sports Club has a full menu of racquet sports, Olympic-size pool, gym, spa and cafe.