J W Cate Recreation Center
5801 22nd Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33710, USA
Google rating
113 reviews
About J W Cate Recreation Center
J W Cate Recreation Center is a community recreation center with pickleball courts in St. Petersburg, Florida, and one of the go-to spots for pickleball players in the area. You'll find it at 5801 22nd Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33710, USA, easy to reach whether you're a local looking for open play or a visitor planning a session on your Florida trip. Players give it a standout 4.6★ across 113 Google reviews — a top-rated spot in the area.
What to expect
- Community-center courts shared with other activities. Great for casual play and beginner-friendly open sessions.
- Hours are listed below — call ahead on holidays or during heavy rain, which is the main reason Florida courts close unexpectedly.
- Bring your own paddles and balls unless you've confirmed otherwise. Water fountains vary by venue, so pack water for hot Florida afternoons.
Planning your visit
Quick tips to make your session at J W Cate Recreation Center smoother — from a player who's spent a lot of Florida mornings on the court.
- 1Play early morning or after 5pm to beat the Florida heat — court surfaces can hit 100°+ in mid-afternoon sun.
- 2Weekends fill up fastest. If you're targeting a specific time, arrive 15–20 minutes early to get in the paddle rotation.
- 3Check the Google reviews below for recent condition notes on the court surfaces and nets.
Location & map
J W Cate Recreation Center is in St. Petersburg, Florida — community recreation center with pickleball courts at 5801 22nd Ave N, St. Petersburg.
Coordinates: 27.79229, -82.71419
What players are saying
Recent Google reviews for J W Cate Recreation Center. Reviews are pulled live and refresh automatically.
Jaden Bolinder· 2 years agoJw cate is amazing to bring your kids to the park is awesome and they many more things for the public definitely in a great calm area to I definitely recommend to any family’s looking for a park to go to 😁👍
Yasser ZIane· 4 months agoI played football for them we was good and coach mitch is tuff
Curt Ingram· 2 years agoWe attended a beginners pickleball session that meets here twice a week in the mornings. It was a well organized experience. There are 8 courts. Two courts were used for the beginners session. The others were all used (and full) by normal pick up players (not beginners). The courts are very nice.
Ariana Shaver· 5 years agoI can't say enough great and wonderful things about this place. My son has been going here since he was 5 he is now 13 and still goes. The staff is so caring loving compassionate and the kids love them. They give them structure as well as care for them. This summer was different due to covid but they made due with what they had. My son has learned so much going there, the bonds he has created with his coaches means so much to me as a mother. I know when he's at the rec he is safe and very well cared for. This is so important to me to know he is safe and is always having fun. I would recommend hands down to any parent considering if they should put their child there. My child will continue to go until he is no longer able to. He has asked if when he is old enough can he be a volunteer coach. That should tell you as a kids perspective how they feel about this amazing place. I make sure to thank them all the time because it can't be easy but they do it and do it GREAT!!!!
Dani Koryn· a year agoThe summer camp program is fantastic! Our son absolutely loves it, and the staff does an incredible job creating fun and engaging activities.
Frequently asked questions
Where is J W Cate Recreation Center located?
J W Cate Recreation Center is located at 5801 22nd Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33710, USA in St. Petersburg, Florida. You can get one-tap driving directions from the button above.
Do I need a reservation to play pickleball at J W Cate Recreation Center?
No — most public and park facilities like J W Cate Recreation Center run on open play. Show up, sign in on the paddle rack, and rotate in.
How much does it cost to play pickleball at J W Cate Recreation Center?
Fees vary by venue. Contact J W Cate Recreation Center at (727) 893-7751 or visit their website for current pricing on drop-in play, memberships, and clinics.
What are the hours at J W Cate Recreation Center?
Current hours: Monday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Thursday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Friday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:30 PM; Sunday: Closed. Hours may vary on holidays.
Are the pickleball courts at J W Cate Recreation Center indoor or outdoor?
J W Cate Recreation Center is primarily an outdoor pickleball venue, which is typical for Florida parks. Check the photos for a look at the courts.
Is J W Cate Recreation Center good for beginners?
St. Petersburg has a strong beginner-to-intermediate pickleball scene, and J W Cate Recreation Center is one of the popular local spots. Show up during open play, tell someone you're new, and you'll almost always get pulled into a friendly game.