Van Der Meer Tennis Academy

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, United States

Overview

Dennis Van der Meer, one of the world’s leading tennis instructors, coached legends like Margaret Court and Billie Jean King before establishing his teaching center on Hilton Head Island. In 1988, he was honored as one of the first recipients of the “National Master in Tennis” award. Unlike most tennis camps, the Van Der Meer Tennis Center is solely a teaching facility without its own lodging, allowing campers to stay anywhere they choose. While the center offers discounted rates at local hotels, participants generally disperse after sessions, reconvening only for the next day’s lessons.

View this property’s listing on Tennis Resorts Online, including direct reviews from guests.

Inside the Lines

Van Der Meer’s teaching method, known as the Official Standard Method of Instruction, breaks down basic strokes into specific steps, helping students build confidence by mastering simple skills before combining them into full strokes. This method aims to teach beginners the game quickly and efficiently. Multi-day adult clinics are held at the Van Der Meer Shipyard Tennis Resort, while the Tennis Center focuses on daily clinics and drills for shorter sessions. The complex features 28 hard and clay courts, including four indoor courts, with no court fees.

Outside the Lines

Some accommodations used by the Van Der Meer Center offer beach access, so it's best to check with the resort for details. While the center itself has no golf courses, you can book the Van Der Meer program at Shipyard Plantation or explore other Hilton Head Island resorts for golf options.

Lodging

Most extended adult programs are held at Van der Meer’s Shipyard Racquet Club, while the Tennis Center offers daily sessions. Players at both locations can access discounted lodging.

Travel

The Van Der Meer Center operates year-round, with peak seasons in spring and fall. For the best rates, visit in winter when the weather is ideal for tennis, though beach time may be limited. The center is 45 miles from Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) and 95 miles from Charleston International Airport (CHS), both served by major airlines. Hilton Head Island Airport (HHH) also offers commuter flights, with rental cars and shuttles available at all airports.

Essential Info

116 Shipyard Drive, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, United States

Tennis Courts: 13 Har-Tru, 4 Hard, 3 Indoor

Director: Steve Rickard

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Lodging: Yes

Dining: Yes

Spa: No

Pool: Yes

Gym: Yes

Golf: No

Beach: Yes

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