New Pickleball Facility with Cafe and Lounge Set to Open in Bluffton

A new indoor pickleball facility is coming to Bluffton .

Nancy Herbst , a passionate level 4.0 pickleball player, is preparing to open The Local Pickle at 1204 Fording Island Rd , just a short distance from Hilton Head.

The 22,000-square-foot, climate-controlled facility will feature 11 tournament-grade courts, professional-grade lighting, spacious waiting areas, full-sized bathrooms, and ample parking. It will offer a range of services, including ball machine rentals, live streaming, and free Wi-Fi.

Full-time onsite professionals will provide lessons and organize competitive and social gameplay. The facility will host scheduled tournaments, glow-in-the-dark pickleball, leagues for all ages and skill levels, lessons, clinics, and rental and demo equipment to cater to diverse player needs.

Additionally, The Local Pickle will include Time Out Cafe , managed by Shannan Baiocchetti , Herbst’s sister. This cozy cafe will provide ample seating for guests to relax and enjoy a range of food and refreshments. Whether taking a break between games or savoring the social atmosphere, visitors can indulge in great food, beer, wine, soft drinks, and coffee throughout the day.

The facility will also house a pro shop complete with top-quality gear, equipment, and apparel to elevate the pickleball experience. The knowledgeable staff will assist players of all levels in selecting the right equipment for their game.

Herbst told The Island Packet that membership will be capped at over 1,000. However, they are open to extending hours or potentially offering 24-hour access if demand requires. Membership rates will range from $30 to $130 per month for individuals and $40 to $200 per month for families, depending on the chosen tier.

Work on The Local Pickle began last September and is expected to be complete in December of 2024 or January of 2025.