April 7 - 14, 2026

ANTIGUA GUATEMALA EXPERIENCE

Pickleball retreat in Antigua Guatemala with The Pickleball Experience – April Vacation

Join us in Antigua, Guatemala for an unforgettable all-inclusive pickleball retreat that blends high-level training with rich cultural immersion. This is more than a vacation - it's a chance to play with purpose, connect deeply, and experience something extraordinary.

You didn’t come this far to stop

- 7 nights at the luxurious Porta Hotel Antigua

- Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

- Daily coaching sessions with elite instructors at the amazing CLUB 14 with fabulous views of 3 volcanoes!

- Daily OPEN PLAY with the Pros!!!

- Evening film study, strategy talks & mindset training

- Open play sessions + local excursions: Volcano hike, Coffee farm tour, Chocolate-making experience

- Airport transfers & ground transportation

You didn’t come this far to stop

Enjoy daily open play at Club 14, a private, wellness-focused sports club nestled in the lush highlands of San Miguel Dueñas, just outside Antigua, Guatemala. Play on premium pickleball courts, recharge in the fully equipped gym, and relax by a scenic pool with sweeping views of three majestic volcanoes. Just steps away, you'll find Cervecería 14—a local brewery serving up craft beer, music, delicious food, and the perfect atmosphere to unwind after a day on the court.

You didn’t come this far to stop

Pickleball Coaching

12+ hours of word class instruction, 10+ hours of play with the pros and unlimited open play on beautiful courts surrounded by picturesque volcanoes. In this truly one of a kind experience each player will fill out a form detailing exactly what they would like to work on. Our coaches then customize the curriculum so that no two experiences are ever the same. Play will take place on a mix of permanent and temporary pickleball courts at Club 14, a 15 minute shuttle ride from the hotel. Water refills will be on-site.

  • Daily instructional clinics led by top pros and coaches with a 6:1 ratio of students and coaches — or better!

  • Open play with the pros everyday

  • 1.5 hour mental game clinic

  • 1.5 hour film study session

  • Round robins and more!
black blue and yellow textile

SESSION DATES


April 7-14, 2026


- 20- 25 players per session - small group, big transformation.

You didn’t come this far to stop

Our Home Base in Antigua

For our unforgettble Pickleball Experience Retreat in Antigua, we’ll be staying at the beautiful Porta Hotel Antigua—a serene sanctuary nestled in the heart of this historic colonial city. With its charming Spanish architecture, lush gardens, and modern amenities, Porta Hotel offers the perfect blend of comfort, elegance, and authentic Guatemalan hospitality.

Just steps away from Antigua’s cobblestone streets, vibrant markets, and iconic landmarks, the hotel provides a peaceful oasis for rest and rejuvenation after a fun-filled day of pickleball, exploration, and connection. Whether you're soaking in the solar-heated pool, relaxing at the spa, or enjoying a nourishing meal surrounded by volcanic views, this boutique hotel enhances every moment of our journey.

Join us for this unique retreat experience—where play, culture, and community come together in one of the most enchanting destinations in Central America.

Farm-to-Table Flavors at Hector’s Bistro

During our Antigua Pickleball Experience Retreat, all daily meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—will be lovingly prepared and served at Hector’s Bistro, one of Antigua’s most beloved culinary gems.

Known for its warm ambiance and gourmet farm-to-table cuisine, Hector’s blends local ingredients with international flair to create meals that nourish body and soul. Each dish is crafted with care, offering a delicious variety of fresh fruits, vibrant vegetables, locally sourced proteins, and traditional Guatemalan touches.

Whether you're fueling up with a wholesome breakfast, enjoying a flavorful lunch between activities, or winding down with a candlelit dinner, Hector’s Bistro will be a daily highlight of your retreat. Get ready to savor every bite in the heart of Antigua’s rich culinary culture.

Tours and Activities

Active Pacaya Volcano Hike: Hike up one of Guatemala’s most iconic active volcanoes for stunning views and roast marshmallows over natural volcanic heat.

Antigua Guatemala City Tour: Discover the charm of Antigua on a guided walking tour through its cobblestone streets, colonial landmarks, and vibrant local culture.


Bean to Bar Workshop: Learn the origins of chocolate, from the cacao tree to the bar, and create your own 120g chocolate with milk or dark base and over 15 flavor options.


Salsa Lessons: Step into the rhythm of salsa with fun, energetic lessons led by local instructors—perfect for beginners and dancers of all levels.

man and woman dancing at center of trees
man and woman dancing at center of trees
a group of people standing in front of a yellow building
a group of people standing in front of a yellow building

Enjoy locally inspired treatments at Ceiba Spa, surrounded by views of mist-covered volcanoes and the serene ambiance of local coffee plantations. Massage, facials, salon services available.

Contact Spa in advance for appt. Link Below

SPA SERVICES AT PORTA HOTEL

Important Details

Transportation

You should plan to fly into La Aurora International Airport (GUA) on April 7th and fly out on April 14th. We recommend arriving before 3:00 p.m. so you can settle in and join us for our welcome dinner that evening. The drive from the airport to Antigua is about one hour.

We’ll collect your flight details ahead of time to ensure we’re ready for your arrival. Once you’ve picked up your luggage, head to the exit and look for the sign that says “Pickleball Experience”—we’ll be there to greet you!

Itinerary Outline

This schedule provides a general idea of what to expect during your trip. Exact times and activities may change, and you’ll receive your personalized itinerary by email as we get closer to the start date.

(Day 1)

  • Upon arrival at La Aurora International Airport (GUA), if airport security asks for your destination, let them know you’re heading to Porta Hotel Antigua.

  • After collecting your luggage, exit the terminal to find your driver holding a “Pickleball Experience” sign.

  • If you have trouble locating your driver, call or text Cristina at the number provided.

  • The drive to the hotel takes about one hour—if you’re prone to motion sickness, you may want to bring ginger chews or another remedy.

  • 8:00 p.m. – Welcome Dinner


(Day 2)

  • Breakfast at Porta Hotel

  • The Experience Clinic at Club 14

  • Lunch at Club 14

  • Open play at Club 14

  • Tours/Activities

  • Dinner at Hector’s Bistro

  • Evening free time


(Day 3)

  • Breakfast at Porta Hotel

  • The Experience Clinic at Club 14

  • Lunch at Club 14

  • Open play at Club 14

  • Tours/Activities

  • Dinner + mental clinic at Hector’s Bistro


(Day 4)

  • Breakfast at Porta Hotel

  • The Experience Clinic at Club 14

  • Lunch at Club 14

  • Open play at Club 14

  • Tours/Activities

  • Dinner at Hector’s Bistro

  • Free time


(Day 5)

  • Breakfast at Porta Hotel

  • The Experience Clinic at Club 14

  • Lunch at Club 14

  • Open play at Club 14

  • Tours/Activities

  • Dinner at Hector’s Bistro

  • Open play with locals at Club 14 in the evening


(Day 6)

  • Breakfast at Porta Hotel

  • The Experience Clinic at Club 14

  • Lunch at Club 14

  • Open play at Club 14

  • Tours/Activities

  • Film-study at Porta Hotel


(Day 7)

  • Breakfast at Porta Hotel

  • The Experience Clinic at Club 14

  • Lunch at Club 14

  • Open play at Club 14

  • Tours/Activities

  • Farewell dinner at Hector’s Bistro


(Day 8)

  • Morning yoga/meditation

  • Players depart


Additional Information

Currency & Payments: Credit/debit cards and USD cash are widely accepted in Guatemala, especially in Antigua. ATMs are also available in the city if you need local currency (Guatemalan Quetzales).

Courts & Play: Our courts at Club 14 will be available for open at the times listed in our daily schedule.

Traveler’s Insurance: All participants are required to have their own traveler’s insurance, including medical coverage, for the duration of the trip.

Participation Waiver: You will be asked to sign a waiver before the trip begins.

Climate & Clothing: Antigua’s “eternal spring” is warm and pleasant during the day, with cooler evenings—packing a light sweater or jacket for nighttime is recommended.

Health & Safety: Bring any necessary personal medications. Bottled or filtered water will be available throughout the trip.

Connectivity: WiFi is available at the hotel, though speeds may be slower than what you’re used to at home.

Packing Tip: Don’t forget your pickleball paddle, court shoes, and any personal gear you like to play with!


Cancellation Policy

We understand that plans can change. Our cancellation policy is designed to be fair while allowing us to commit to the hotels, venues, and coaches that make this experience possible.

Retreat Start Date: April 7, 2026
Full Payment Due: February 1, 2026

121+ Days Before Start Date

Cutoff Date: December 7, 2025

  • 75% refund of the deposit (minus transaction fees), or

  • Full transfer of deposit to a future retreat (within 12 months)

91–120 Days Before Start Date

Date Range: December 8, 2025 – January 6, 2026

  • Loss of the initial deposit

61–90 Days Before Start Date

Date Range: January 7 – February 5, 2026

  • 50% refund of the total amount paid (minus transaction fees)

60 Days or Fewer Before Start Date

Date Range: February 6 – April 6, 2026

  • No refund

Additional Notes:

All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing to theguatemalaexperience@gmail.com.

We strongly recommend traveler’s insurance to protect your investment in case of unexpected cancellations, medical issues, or travel disruptions.

Address

G68F+Q23, Cd Vieja, Guatemala

Brian, Peter, and Jem form the trifecta pickleball coaching team, blending fun, passion, and high-level instruction on every court. With their expertise and humor, they create an unforgettable learning experience filled with growth, connection, and plenty of laughs.

Samara is the magic behind the scenes—handling the business, the website, the marketing, and the creative spark that keeps The Pickleball Experience shining. She’s also a holistic healing practitioner, energy healer, and spiritual mentor,

Cristina is originally from Guatemala and loves sharing the beauty of her country. She’s passionate about travel, connecting with people from different cultures, and is proudly pickleball obsessed.

international team