Key Biscayne Tennis Association

The Key Biscayne Tennis Association (KBTA) is a historic landmark situated on the barrier island of Key Biscayne within the landscape of Crandon Park. Established in 1978, the nonprofit facility was constructed largely by hand by 150 charter member families in partnership with Miami-Dade County. Founded to promote the sport of tennis, KBTA’s charter established an inclusive membership policy open to all individuals regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, sex, or age, with courts accessible to the general public. The facility includes a clubhouse designed in the South Florida Vernacular architectural style, a large wood patio with shaded gathering areas, and ten tennis courts set within a tropical environment of palm trees and native landscaping.

In 1977, a community-led fundraising initiative to establish open, public tennis facilities on Key Biscayne was spearheaded by residents Ed Easton and Ed Smith. Since its founding, the Key Biscayne Tennis Association (KBTA) has operated as a nonprofit organization managing the facilities and advancing a philanthropic, community-centered mission. KBTA has long served as a training ground for elite athletes, hosting former ATP and WTA players, distinguished coaches, and international competitors. The association hosts two annual tournaments—the All Island Tournament (est. 1981) and the F’all Island Tournament (est. 2005)—each attracting more than 400 participants. From 1987 to 2018, KBTA also functioned as a practice venue for the Miami Open, supporting professional preparation for the clay-court season. Committed to accessibility and youth engagement, KBTA annually hosts Miami-Dade Inner City and Liberty City Kids Day, introducing more than 200 children to tennis. Grounded in a grassroots ethos, KBTA remains a testament to community-driven efforts to ensure equitable access to sport for future generations.