For a master-planned community that already boasts more than 1,300 acres of protected open space, the addition of six new pickleball courts might seem like a small detail. But for residents of Lagoon Valley, the Bay Area’s first Conservation Community, this expansion signals something bigger: a deliberate push to make recreation and social connection as accessible as the surrounding hillsides.
Located just off Interstate 80 between San Francisco and Sacramento, Lagoon Valley is rolling out the new courts as part of a broader commitment to active, outdoor living. The development follows the recent grand opening of the Linear Park at Fall Fest and is the first phase of a larger Event Center complex that will eventually include farm-to-table dining, banquet facilities, a fitness center, and a multi-pool Swim Center.
“The new pickleball courts reflect our commitment to state-of-the-art design, active living, and creating places where residents can connect while enjoying the natural beauty that surrounds them,” said Curt Johansen, Development Director at Lagoon Valley. Johansen emphasized that every amenity is intentionally designed to draw people outdoors and into shared spaces.
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The courts are not your typical neighborhood blacktop. They feature seven-layer cushioned playing surfaces aimed at reducing joint impact for longer, more comfortable play. The layout is engineered to minimize wind interference while preserving panoramic views of Lagoon Valley Park and the surrounding hills. Integrated lighting extends playing hours into the evening, and the courts are placed more than 1,000 feet from residential neighborhoods to prevent noise complaints. Professional-level spacing and low-height fencing separate the courts, and an app-controlled entry system handles reservations and secure access. Perhaps the most tech-forward touch: Save My Play™ court-mounted cameras that let players capture, replay, and relive rallies and matches.
Whether residents are in it for a friendly match, skill sharpening, or just the scenery, the new facility is meant to weave nature and recreation into daily routines.
Lagoon Valley’s Visitors Center is located at 200 Mount Royal Road, off Highway 80 near Vacaville, and is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Those interested can join the interest list at Lagoon-Valley.com.
Why it matters: As housing developments compete to attract buyers, amenities like these are no longer just nice-to-haves—they are deciding factors for families and retirees seeking an active, connected lifestyle. Lagoon Valley’s investment in high-end, tech-enabled recreational facilities reflects a broader shift in master-planned communities toward prioritizing wellness and community interaction over mere square footage.
