From Cupcakes to Crosscourts: How One Santa Barbara Businesswoman Built a Pickleball Oasis

For Shannon Gaston, the owner of Crushcakes & Café, pickleball started as a fun hobby and quickly turned into something much bigger. After falling in love with the game in 2023—and even meeting her partner on the courts—she realized that the public pickleball scene was missing something: privacy, exclusivity, and a relaxed, social atmosphere. That’s when she decided to convert an old tennis court on her parents’ property into Crush Courts, Santa Barbara’s newest private pickleball retreat.

Crush Courts offers two private courts, allowing players to book time without the usual crowds, court wait times, or pressure to rotate out. Gaston and her partner, pickleball instructor Andrew Manalis, have made it more than just a place to play. Guests can enjoy catered food and beverage packages from Crushcakes, including cupcake and champagne pickleball parties. They’re also collaborating with local resorts like Rosewood Miramar Beach, making Crush Courts an exclusive getaway for hotel guests. Rates start at $50 for two hours, with private lessons from Manalis available for $85 per hour.

With a growing community of pickleball lovers and a unique blend of sport and hospitality, Gaston’s new venture is more than just a business—it’s a passion project. Whether it’s a corporate event, birthday party, or just a casual game with friends, Crush Courts delivers an unmatched pickleball experience. And yes, while they’re working on a “no trash-talking” rule, we all know that a well-placed dink can still bring out some colorful language.