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Back in 1965, Joel Pritchard, Barney McCallum, and Bill Bell were enjoying the summer on Bainbridge Island, Washington, USA. Looking for ways to entertain their families, they designed and erected a game using a badminton court with the net lowered, ping-pong paddles, and a plastic ball with holes, courtesy of their dog, Pickles. Hence the name Pickleball! (One of two versions and probably the most popular.)
I hardly believe they would ever have thought that this made-up summer family game has become the fastest-growing sport globally.
So, what is Pickleball? It’s played on a court smaller than a badminton court but bigger than a ping-pong table, divided by a net in the middle. On either side of the net is the kitchen! Confused yet? Wait until you start scoring; it takes a while to get the hang of it. The paddles are similar to ping-pong paddles, only bigger and far more scientifically advanced. The ball is plastic with holes, which vary depending on whether it’s an indoor or outdoor ball. It’s a fast-paced game for all ages, played as singles or doubles, and, besides being a healthy activity, it’s also tons of fun.
Now, thanks to entrepreneur Pablo Salinas, Cozumel Island, Mexico, has Pikapok Pickleball, open to everyone.
Pablo has an active lifestyle with a passion for sports and hospitality – places where people with common interests meet. He loves building projects, such as his restaurants Almar Beach Club and Café de Isla that unite communities through great experiences, and since Cozumel is a hotspot for visitors, Pickleball seemed like an opportunity to create a space where locals and visitors could blend; it’s social, inclusive, and competitive at the same time, which is unique.
Living and building on an island can be a logistical nightmare. Developing Pikapok had its fair share of challenges with materials, shipping, permits, and, of course, the weather, which caused delays. However, Pablo and his team stayed focused on quality and their long-term vision. The official opening was on November 24, 2024.
Look up Pikapok in a dictionary or Google it; you won’t find a definition. Actually, if you Google Pikapok, the only results are for Pikapok Pickleball, Cozumel. How great is that!
So, how did the name come about?
Pablo explains, “We wanted something short, memorable, and playful. ‘Pikapok’ has rhythm and energy — it reflects the fun spirit of the game and stands out as a brand.”
Well, there you have it. Pikapok is unique and original, amplifying the people, atmosphere, and venue.
Opening hours are from 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Midday hours are simply too hot in the exciting Caribbean. Each session offers open play (200 mxn per person), round robins, clinics, children’s academy, and court rentals (500 mxn per hour per court). Prices are subject to change.
On special occasions like birthdays, Halloween, and Christmas, Pikapok will entertain not only on the court but also with games, including the Mexican favorite Piñata, great food, and a whole lot of fun. It brings players together like a huge family party.
For visitors and beginners (to easily try it out first), paddles and balls are available to rent.
Pikapok also has a lovely outdoor restaurant where people can relax and socialize after playing, a concept that has been in place from the beginning. Currently, specialty coffee, smoothies, fresh juices, and hydration drinks are available, and soon, food that aligns with active lifestyles will be added to the menu.
Superbly managing Pikapok is Johan Mendoza. Johan reigns from Chapala, Jalisco, has been playing since 2018, and now has a 5.o DUPR ranking. Searching for an opportunity to grow the pickleball community in Mexico, he found an online job offer, and the rest is history. Besides managing, Johan also competes in tournaments across the country, earning many podium finishes. Pikapok is proud and fortunate to have him.
In January 2026, Pikapok held its first official tournament. There were numerous categories, including intermediate, intermediate+, and advanced, further divided into men’s and women’s singles, gender doubles, mixed doubles, and age-appropriate. It took a lot of planning with players from clubs on the mainland joining. The result was nothing short of a fabulous success.
So, what are Pikapok’s plans for the future?
Pablo says, “I see Pikapok becoming a pickleball hub in the Caribbean, hosting tournaments and bringing together locals and international visitors. My goal is for Pikapok to become a true destination.”
Pikapok is active on all social media platforms, or you can contact Johan directly:
Johan (WhatsApp): +52 33 1791 4244 or +52 987 259 2764
Email: pikapokcozumel@gmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558647251054
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pikapokcozumel
TikTok: @pikapokcozumel