If you've ever been on holiday along the Northern Costa Blanca — in places like Jávea, Moraira, Altea, La Nucía, or Dénia — you’ve probably seen them: glass-walled courts where men and women enthusiastically swing what look like perforated tennis rackets. Welcome to the world of pádel!
Pádel has become so big in Spain that it's now even more popular than tennis. And that’s no surprise — it’s easy to pick up, quick to learn, and above all, very social. Whether you're having a friendly match with friends, joining local competitions, or booking a full pádel holiday on the sunny coast, this sport is everywhere.
Where does pádel come from?
Although many people assume pádel is a Spanish invention, its origins are surprisingly Mexican. In 1969, Enrique Corcuera designed and built the first official pádel court in his garden in Acapulco. He was trying to stop his daughter from disturbing his siesta by hitting balls against the house wall. From Mexico, the sport spread to Argentina and later to Spain — where it really took off. In Spain, pádel grew into a national phenomenon, with millions of players, countless clubs, and even a presence in schools and the media.
Spain’s most famous pádel player
Ask any Spaniard who the biggest pádel star is, and they’ll almost certainly name Juan Lebrón. This flamboyant Andalusian has been at the top of the world rankings for years and is known for his high-energy play and charismatic presence. For years, he dominated the sport alongside his regular partner Ale Galán. But starting in early 2025, he’s forming a new powerhouse duo with Jorge Stupaczuk. Fun fact: pádel stars in Spain enjoy near-footballer-level fame — complete with fans, sponsors, and millions of social media followers.
Pádel on the Northern Costa Blanca
The Northern Costa Blanca is a true paradise for pádel lovers. In towns and cities along the coast, you'll find clubs and courts everywhere. Think Club de Tenis Jávea, Pádel Club Altea, or the beautiful courts at La Sella in Dénia. Many of these clubs offer not just court rentals, but also lessons, tournaments, and weekly leagues.
Even luxury apartment complexes in the region often feature pádel courts in the communal gardens, available for residents to use.
For the more dedicated players, there are even full pádel holiday packages — where you stay in high-end accommodations and train daily under the Spanish sun. These packages often include participation in local tournaments, with plenty of time left for tapas, wine, and relaxing on the beach. What could be better than combining sport with vacation?
The courts and the balls
Pádel courts are smaller than tennis courts and are surrounded by glass walls and metal fencing. This makes the game more dynamic: the ball can bounce off the walls and stay in play much longer. There are outdoor courts for sun lovers and indoor courts for play during extreme heat or rainy days.
What many beginners don’t know is that pádel balls are not the same as tennis balls. While they look similar, they’re slightly smaller and have lower pressure, which makes them bounce less. This gives the game a unique rhythm and feel.
How do you pronounce it?
For foreign speakers, it might be tempting to pronounce it as padèl, but in Spain, everyone correctly says pádel (PA-del). The emphasis is on the first syllable, with a short, sharp sound. Say it right, and you’ll blend in much better on the court — even as a tourist!
Fun facts
– Spain has over 20,000 pádel courts — the highest number in the world.
– Pádel is almost always played in doubles, though there are rare single-player courts.
– Some luxury villas on the Costa Blanca even have private pádel courts, complete with lighting for evening matches.
– The World Pádel Tour, featuring the top global players, stops annually in Marbella, Madrid, and other Spanish cities.
Feeling inspired to play?
If you’re visiting the Northern Costa Blanca soon, you won’t have to look far. Most clubs are welcoming, even to beginners, and you can usually rent a court along with rackets and balls. Just show up, play a match with the locals with the sea in front of you and the Spanish mountains behind you — and of course, enjoy a well-earned cold drink on the terrace afterwards!
