Welcome my fellow tennis players. If you’re visiting Georgetown in Penang, Malaysia and wanting to play tennis, you’ve come to the right place. I went on a journey to discover Georgetown’s tennis community and best courts for travelers visiting or for expats planning a long-stay, and I’m here to share it with you.
If you’re new to Primal Tennis, I’m Eric Claggett and my mission with this project is to highlight local tennis communities, clubs, and players around the world.
There are plenty of tennis opportunities in Georgetown, but for me, it took a little bit of work to find them. I didn’t find much online and there didn’t appear to have the large welcoming tennis communities that some other cities have. But, it exists and this guide will point you in the right direction.
Universiti Sains Malaysia Tennis Courts
This is where I had the most success, but you probably need to bring a parter to play with and tennis equipment (racquets, balls, etc) prior to coming. I got lucky and approached a man who accepted my request to play with him. There were 8+ courts, plus a two-sided hitting wall. I went there on the weekend and the facility was open to the public, with several groups playing. Not sure if it’s open during the week for non-students. I did not see a pro shop or tennis instructor on site.
If you’re having trouble finding the tennis courts, try putting “Stadium Olahraga USM” into your Google Maps. The courts are directly beside the stadium and running track.
The facility is gorgeous, featuring a backdrop of mountains nearby. Next door was a full sized, super well-maintained rubberized track. Perfect if you bring a friend who doesn’t want to play tennis. They can run on the track or use the outdoor exercise equipment.
Want to play tennis in Cebu City, Philippines? Check out my Cebu Tennis guide.
NSTE Tennis Academy
A two hardcourt facility close to downtown Georgetown, where most visitors and expats reside. I did not play here but I spoke with the tennis director there who was friendly and eager to setup a lesson or hitting session. Unfortunately, morning rain ruined our plans.
For services they offer private lessons, group lessons, kid’s classes, video analysis, and tennis camps. Checkout their Facebook Page: NSTE TENNIS ACADEMY
Chinese Recreational Club (CRC)
A very well maintained facility with six hard courts, lights, plus a hitting wall and pickleball courts. A tennis instructor there told me that the club is primarily for long-term memberships, but was happy to accommodate travelers like me who want some lessons or hitting sessions for a few days. The tennis courts are just a small part of a very large recreational facility.
During my visit in the afternoon, there was a large group of after school kids participating in their academy, ranging from ages 5-15. There were about 5 tennis instructors and it was cool to see them utilizing red ball and orange ball.
I entered the facility without hassle. From the main entrance you’ll walk past the football fields and swimming pool to reach the tennis courts and pickleball in the back. This club is probably a better fit for long-term residents of Georgetown, but is a fantastic family-style facility with full size football fields, swimming pools, badminton, basketball, and a restaurant.
Also see: The Ultimate Bangkok Tennis Guide: Courts, Players, and Equipment
Where To Play Pickleball in Georgetown (Penang), Malaysia
Pickleball has reached the far corners of the earth, and that includes Georgetown, Penang. The city features multiple pickleball facilities and dedicated courts. However, I didn’t find the large socializing pickleball groups that you sometimes see in other cities, where people are playing pickup games and switching partners. It is very possible that these groups exist but I didn’t have the right timing to find them.
Centre Court Georgetown Pickleball
My top choice for pickleball in Georgetown. Four court facility with lights, pro shop and equipment. Having nets that separate each court, preventing balls from rolling onto your court, is an added touch that I personally loved.
I originally went to this facility because Google maps showed a tennis court next door. However, the tennis court was recently torn apart but the manager said that there were plans to rebuild it.
My favorite thing about Centre Court was it’s location – close and walkable from downtown Georgetown, my hotel, and from the oceanfront strip.
Chinese Recreation Club
As mentioned earlier, this club has a couple of dedicated pickleball courts. I saw a group of four taking a pickleball lesson when I visited.
Covered Pickleball Court From Ad
While walking the streets I found this large advertisement for a “fully covered” pickleball facility to protect players from the rain. Contact information on the sign:
Overall Thoughts on Georgetown, Malaysia
One of the most beautiful cities I’ve ever visited in my travel journey. A unique culture blending of Malaysian, Chinese, and Indian subcultures, that seem to blend together peacefully. Frankly, I was quite surprised there aren’t tons of expats living in Georgetown, because of how awesome I found it.
*Courts and situations change at a pace faster than I can keep posts updated.