by Elizabeth Higginbottom
December has a special kind of energy. The holidays are approaching, winter is settling in, and many of us are ready for a change of scenery. Instead of bundling up and waiting for spring, why not trade gray skies for turquoise water, warm-weather court time, and a luxury all-inclusive pickleball vacation?
Our December 2026 trips bring players together at three beautiful Sandals resorts, and there is also an earlier winter option that begins just before December at Sandals Saint Vincent. Each option offers a different way to enjoy the game, from focused coaching to an advanced 3.5+ camp. You can hone your skills, connect with a welcoming group, and let our team handle the travel details.
Pack your bags. Paradise is calling!
Why December Is the Perfect Time to Escape
A December pickleball getaway gives you more than sunshine. It gives you a refreshing reset before the new year begins.
Picture yourself starting the day with your paddle in hand and the warm Caribbean breeze around you. You might work on your third shot drop, refine your shot selection, or move with more confidence through the transition zone. After play, the rest of the day is yours.
Relax by the pool. Walk along a breathtaking beach. Enjoy all-inclusive dining and refreshing drinks. Join a group dinner or private cocktail reception. Then reconnect with your new pickleball friends over stories from the day.
Our vacations are designed for players who want meaningful court time without giving up the pleasures of a luxury resort escape. We unite players who love the sport, bond over shared goals, and create the kind of friendships that continue long after the final match.
Four Winter Getaways to Consider
Here is a concise look at the winter 2026 options, including one earlier winter option that starts just before December and is close enough to include in this seasonal getaway comparison.
Availability can change quickly. Sandals Saint Vincent currently has one room left, and once it is gone, it is gone. Do not wait or assume another room will open. Contact us today to secure your room and confirm the latest details before making travel plans.
Option One: Sandals Saint Vincent with Maryhelen Atkins and Jodie Merrill
November 29–December 5, 2026 | Saint Vincent
If you are looking for an earlier winter getaway that still feels very much part of the December escape season, Sandals Saint Vincent deserves a place in this comparison.
Join Maryhelen Atkins and Jodie Merrill for this earlier winter Sandals Saint Vincent getaway.
Because the trip begins on November 29 and runs into December, it is a natural fit for travelers who want to kick off the winter travel season before the mid-December calendar fills up. It gives guests the chance to enjoy warm-weather court time, all-inclusive resort amenities, and the camaraderie that comes from reconnecting with a familiar pickleball group in a breathtaking Caribbean setting.
This trip currently has only one room left. Do not wait and do not assume another room will open. Once this room is gone, it is gone. Book now or contact us today to secure your room and get the most current details.
Option Two: Sandals Royal Curaçao Advanced Camp
December 13–19, 2026 | Curaçao
For players rated 3.5 and above, the Sandals Royal Curaçao Advanced Camp offers a more targeted December experience. The camp is led by Mary Helen Atkins and Jodie Merrill.
This is the choice for players who enjoy a faster pace, sharper decision-making, and more advanced tactical conversations. At the 3.5+ level, small improvements can create meaningful results. Better court positioning, more disciplined shot selection, and stronger communication can change the outcome of a long rally.
You may spend time refining:
- Third shot drops and drives.
- Transition-zone movement.
- Dinking patterns and resets.
- Offensive and defensive positioning.
- Partner communication.
- Choosing when to speed up and when to stay patient.
The court time is only part of the appeal. Sandals Royal Curaçao offers a mesmerizing beachfront setting, all-inclusive dining, resort activities, and the chance to explore a colorful island with a distinctive character. The resort page also highlights eight dedicated pickleball courts, creating an excellent environment for a focused group camp.
This trip is currently listed as limited availability, so contact us for the latest room and booking information.
The VIP Touches That Make the Trip Special
A Pickleball in Paradise vacation is more than a resort booking with court time added. We create a group experience that helps guests feel welcomed from the moment they arrive.
Depending on the trip itinerary, guests may enjoy a Pickleball in Paradise welcome bag, a first-evening Meet & Greet with the Pros, a private cocktail reception with appetizers, and reserved courts for scheduled pickleball activities. We also love adding special touches to group meals, along with a private dinner or group dinner that brings everyone together in a relaxed, social setting. A group photograph and keepsakes help you remember the trip long after the final point is played.
Dining is an important part of the social experience. Your all-inclusive package includes meals and beverages according to the resort’s program, while select group meals and receptions give everyone an opportunity to gather, connect, and celebrate the day.
Most gratuities are included in all-inclusive packages, but some may be excluded, such as gratuities for shuttle drivers or certain upgraded services. We will help clarify the details for your selected trip.
Make December Your Month in Paradise
Winter does not have to mean putting your game on hold. This December, you can trade cold-weather routines for warm courts, picturesque beaches, and a group of players who share your passion.
Choose Sandals Saint Vincent for an earlier winter trip with Maryhelen Atkins and Jodie Merrill, but do not delay if that is your top choice. Only a few rooms remain across these sought-after winter getaways, and the Saint Vincent trip is especially close to selling out. Choose the Bahamas for a clinic with John and Leesa Walker. Or secure your place at the 3.5+ advanced camp in Curaçao with Mary Helen Atkins and Jodie Merrill.
Hone your skills. Connect with new friends. Leave the planning to us.
Secure your spot, book now, and contact our team today to make December 2026 your next Pickleball in Paradise adventure!
Contact Us!
Elizabeth Higginbottom
Director, Pickleball in Paradise
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 843-331-6955
Website: www.pickleballinparadise.com
