FAQs


Welcome to Authentic Croatia Pickleball Vacations! Here are some answers to help you plan your unforgettable trip to the Adriatic coast.


1️⃣ What’s included in the trip package?

Our trips include:

  • Accommodation in charming local guesthouses or boutique hotels

  • 6 days of pickleball play and instruction (if desired) on beautiful outdoor courts

  • Cultural excursions and guided tours of historic villages, coastal towns, and national parks

  • Traditional meals and tastings of Croatian specialties (all food, one drink per meal)

  • Optional add-ons: olive-picking experiences, kayaking, cycling, property tours, and more!

2️⃣ How do I book a trip?

Booking is easy!
👉 Visit our website and choose your preferred dates.
👉 Email me with your booking request and pay the deposit (50%).
👉 We’ll confirm your trip and help you get ready for your adventure!

👉 Final payment due 4 weeks before the start of the trip


3️⃣ Who can join? Do I need to be an experienced pickleball player?

Our trips welcome all levels – from beginner to advanced players.

You can bring your own group, so you know exactly what to expect from one another on (and off) the courts, or you can join a group of soon-to-be friends. We will always try to have 4 players at each level, if possible.
We tailor pickleball sessions to your experience and ensure everyone has a great time!


4️⃣ What is the group size?

We want to keep it small and personal. Our groups will either be

6-7 guests or 13-15 guests (one or two vans)

to ensure personal attention and a friendly atmosphere.


5️⃣ What if I’m traveling alone?

No worries! Many of our guests come solo. We create a welcoming and inclusive vibe – you’ll have travel buddies in no time. There may be an additional fee for single housing (or share with me or one of the other solo guests)


6️⃣ What should I pack?

We recommend: PACK LIGHT
🎒 Comfortable pickleball gear and shoes
🎒 Light, breathable clothing
🎒 Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
🎒 Casual outfits for exploring towns
🎒 A camera to capture memories!


7️⃣ How much pickleball is there each day?

We will have at least 6 opportunities to play pickleball (1-2 days in Zagreb, depending upon your arrival time, 1-2 days in Gospič with the locals, 1 day in Split, and 3 days on Brač – leaving plenty of time to relax, explore, or join cultural activities.


8️⃣ Can I extend my trip or arrive early?

Absolutely! Let us know your travel plans, and we’re happy to help with extra nights or other experiences. Some guests may decide to stay for free a few extra nights on Brač in exchange for getting to help renovate my 230-year-old villa! Or they might want to stay and pick olives on the island to help out my elderly neighbors…


9️⃣ Do you offer real estate advice?

Yes! If you’re curious about moving to Croatia, our local experts can offer property tours and guidance to help you find your dream spot. You might decide it is so amazing that you want to retire there!


10️⃣ What’s the best time of year to experience Croatia?

Spring and early fall are fantastic – mild weather, fewer crowds, and the Adriatic at its best.
We run trips from late March-early June and late August to early November


11️⃣ Is the trip physically demanding?

Pickleball sessions are active, but you set the pace. Our tours are mostly easygoing, with plenty of breaks and optional activities. There are lots of hills, but we can get most places by car that might be too demanding.


12️⃣ Do you recommend travel insurance?

Yes, we strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance for your trip. This helps protect you in case of unexpected events, such as flight cancellations, medical emergencies, or trip interruptions.


13️⃣  Are the tour dates flexible?

If you have dates in mind that work for your group that don’t align perfectly with the offered dates, we can try to accommodate changes of a few days. They are set up to allow for slight variations in plans to help you find the best travel days for your group.


14️⃣   What’s the cancellation policy?

Cancellation is possible up to 3 months before the trip for a 10% fee.

After that you can find a replacement for your spot or rebook for a later date.


Have more questions?
👉 Reach out anytime to effensmithpickleball@gmail.com –

we’re here to help you plan your authentic Croatian adventure!