GOLF
With its famous powdery sand beaches, sparkling Gulf waters, and eclectic mix of dining, night life, shopping and culture, the Sarasota area has so much to offer it’s easy to forget that it is also a first-rate golf destination. More than 100 golf courses dot the landscape between Tampa Bay and south Sarasota with many in Audubon-protected areas or along the Gulf of Mexico or local rivers.
Private Courses
Bent Tree Golf & Country Club, Sarasota
The Bent Tree Par-72 Championship Course with majestic woodlands and mature wetlands provides a true northern-style golfing experience that will challenge golfers of all levels. A staff of PGA Professionals offer instruction and organize weekly events. Amenities include three tennis courts, a pool area and a clubhouse. Membership options include equity, corporate, junior, trial and seasonal/non-resident. The dining and grilling rooms are open daily for lunch, Wednesday – Friday nights for dinner and Sunday for brunch.
4700 Bent Tree Boulevard, Sarasota. 941-371-8200. http://www.benttreecc.net
Founders Club, Sarasota
The Founders Club is a private, traditional Golf and Social Club community that expresses and encourages communion with nature, camaraderie among neighbors, and connection to the timeless traditions of Scottish links golf. Features include an intimate Golf and Social Club, signature Robert Trent Jones, Jr. designed 18-hole course, no tee-time, professional caddie programs, fine dining, fitness/wellness programs and close proximity to the Gulf beaches, all within 700 acres of natural landscaping.
3001 Founders Club Drive, Sarasota. 941-378-0900. www.thefoundersgolfclub.com
Gator Creek Golf Club, Sarasota
The 18-hole "Gator Creek" course at the Gator Creek Golf Club, Inc. facility in Sarasota, Florida features 6,912 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 72. The course rating is 73.2 and it has a slope rating of 136 on Bermuda grass. Designed by Joseph L. Lee, the Gator Creek golf course opened in 1974.
9000 Gator Creek Drive, Sarasota. 941-921-1111.
Heritage Oaks Golf & Country Club, Sarasota
This women-friendly 18-hole championship course was redesigned in 2006 by internationally known architect, Ron Garl, to give all levels of players a positive experience. Several new tees were added or redesigned and all the greens were rebuilt to provide consistent putting surfaces. Heritage Oaks provides an active program of tournaments year round, helping new members and renters get acquainted, and can arrange lessons to improve your game, regardless of current skill level.
4800 Chase Oaks Drive, Sarasota. 941-926-7600. www.heritageoaksgcc.com
Jacaranda West Country Club, Venice
In 2004, the course was renovated with a redesign by architect Chip Powell. The original design is by architect Mark Mahannah. The practice facility includes a range, putting green and practice bunker. For those looking to improve their game, there are private lessons and group clinics offered by experienced PGA professional, Julie Baiers and her assistant, Bob Doyle. Julie and her staff maintain a carefully-stocked Pro Shop featuring the latest equipment and seasonal demo days, plus a tasteful assortment of golf attire. Members may use their own cart or one owned by the club. Walking is also permitted at all times except during shotgun events. Pull carts are available. Non-members are invited to call up to three days in advance for a limited number of open tee times.
601 Jacaranda Boulevard, Venice. 941-493-2664. www.jacwestcc.com
Key Royale Golf Club, Anna Maria
Key Royale is the only golf facility on Anna Maria Island. Memberships are available for every lifestyle, including Full (12 months), Seasonal (6 months), Summer, Corporate and Social. For the seasoned golfer, our par-32 layout provides the opportunity to use every club in your bag. For the 18-hole experience, playing from the white tees then the blue tests all your skills. For higher handicappers, generous fairways are less intimidating. Each week there are organized golf outings for men, women and couples. Key Royale is a walking course, with special provisions for members requiring electric carts. No tee times are required, and ample bag and pull-cart storage facility are available. Cashless club with all purchases, initial costs and annual dues billed monthly.
700 Key Royale Drive, Holmes Beach. 941-778-3055. www.keyroyaleclub.com
Lakewood Ranch Country Club, Bradenton
The Royal Lakes course makes 3 unique, Championship courses at Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club. Each poses a different challenge including: bunkers, water, forced carries, hazards and length. Offering many sets of tee boxes, the courses can be challenged by many different skill levels. As a member you have the privilege to play all 54 holes, Cypress Links, King’s Dunes and Royal Lakes. They are all part of the Private Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club. The private club has 54 holes as part and the youngest membership in the area with an average age of about 57. Royal Lakes, as Cypress Links, was designed with all skill levels in mind to be more forgiving, yet quite challenging for the most skilled players measuring 7,320 yards from the Championship tees. The course can also be very enjoyable for beginner golfers from the Par 3 tees measuring 1,800 yards. Every hole can be played as a par 3 and it's a great way to introduce golf to any member of the family, young or old.
7650 Legacy Boulevard, Bradenton. 941-907-4700. www.lakewoodranchgolf.com
Laurel Oaks Country Club, Sarasota
Membership is limited to a fortunate 600. Golf courses and golf shop are open seven days a week. Tee times may be scheduled up to one week in advance. Each member may secure up to two tee times per day. There are two practice tees with complimentary range balls, a short game area with bunker, chipping area and putting green. All professional staff members are available for individual lessons. A program of clinics is also available. There are organized events three days each week and Saturday. Just sign up and show up. Members may join either the 9-hole or 18-hole Ladies Golf Association each of which plays once a week. Junior members have various opportunities to participate in individual or group lessons and clinics provided by our professional staff or three day Holiday Camps or Summer Camp Programs. All golf members are automatically entered in the Hole-In-One club. Each golfer is charged 50¢ for each hole-in-one made. The player making the ace receives a Hole-In-One trophy and a cash prize which is posted to their club account ($500 total value).
2700 Gary Player Boulevard, Sarasota. 941-378-3608. www.laureloak.com
Longboat Key Club, Longboat Key
Play All Around the Links at the Beach Golf Resort. Both courses have consistently rated among the country's finest, and have earned Golf Digest’s “Best Places to Play” award and Four-Diamonds from AAA. The links-style Islandside Course bordering the Gulf of Mexico is known as the "watery challenge.” The 6,792 yard course borders the Gulf of Mexico with water hazards coming into play on all 18 holes. Tifdwarf grass on the greens ensures smooth putting surfaces. More than 5,000 palm trees, and pink and white blooming oleander line the fairways and canals, making Islandside one of Florida’s most beautiful courses. The tree-lined Harbourside Course runs along Sarasota Bay, and presents a uniquely different golf experience from the Islandside course. This challenging 27-hole layout features of 3 nine-hole courses designed by Willard Byrd. The Red course is 3,323 yards; the White course is 3,426 yards; and the Blue course is 3,386. The Harbourside course plays through stands of oak, sabal palm, fiddleleaf palm, Washingtonian palm, fig, palmetto and southern pine. Tee times may be arranged by calling the Pro Shop two days in advance of play.
361 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. 941-387-1632. www.longboatkeyclub.com
Mission Valley Golf & Country Club, Nokomis
The golf course is a great walking course, settled on over 200 acres with several lakes scattered throughout. The course is located in a country setting with few homes located on its borders. 18 redesigned tees create a championship set of at 6,734 and a front set of tees for juniors at 5,147. There is never a fee for practice balls. There are 72 riding carts and over 50 Sun Mountain walking carts. Walking is permitted anytime and is encouraged. Golf events are organized throughout the year: November through April, the WGA (Woman’s Golf Association) and the Lady 9 Holers have a very active schedule. The MGA (Men’s Golf Association) have guest days, ABCD events, two man team both stroke and match play, a three day Invitational and a Club Championship. Members may request tee times through a card system three days in advance. During summer months members enjoy a Reciprocal Program with other private and semi-private clubs in the area as well as Yacht and Dining Clubs.
1851 Mission Valley Boulevard, Nokomis. 941-488-7747. www.missionvalleycc.com
Misty Creek Country Club, Sarasota
Set on 350 acres of preserve with lakes and hammock forests, Misty Creek is a par 72 championship course with four sets of tees measuring 5,208 yards from the forward tees to 6,895 yards from the back tees. Native trees, wetlands, and wild life bring you closer to the ideal golf experience. The wilderness setting includes an abundance of deer, bobcat, wild boar, alligators and over seventy different species of birds - bring your camera! Golfers with disabilities are welcome; Misty Creek makes reasonable accommodations to ensure that golfers with disabilities are able to enjoy the course.
8954 Misty Creek Drive, Sarasota. 941-922-2188. www.mistycreek.net
Plantation Golf & Country Club, Venice
Serene natural views and sparkling fountain-sprayed lakes set the tone for an inspired day of golf at the beautiful Plantation Golf and Country Club. The Ron Garl designed, 36-hole of championship golf course features two distinctively different layouts, providing challenging play and a rewarding golf experience at every level. Impeccably maintained year-round, Plantation is proud to be the home of the LPGA Annual Tour Qualifier. Both the Bobcat and the Panther courses have undergone recent renovations. In addition to regularly scheduled men’s and ladies’ play, members may participate in a variety of fun-filled special events.
500 Rockley Boulevard, Venice. 941-493-2000. www.plantationgcc.com
River Wilderness Country Club, Parrish
River Wilderness Golf and Country Club is a private, member-owned Club located in the Sarasota/Manatee County area. The Club borders the north shore of the historic Manatee River just off Interstate 75. Gated with a 24-hour guard golf and boating community is situated on 150 acres of pristine landscape and is a part of the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary System, blending the property’s natural beauty with an abundance of wildlife. Art classes, card groups, and group trips are just some of the social amenities made available at the 27,000 square foot Clubhouse. The 3,800 square foot Athletic Center offers outstanding fitness, tennis and swimming programs that are geared to the beginner as well as the advanced athlete looking for a healthy lifestyle.
2250 Wilderness Boulevard, Parrish. 941-776-2691. www.riverwildernesscc.com
The Meadows Golf & Country Club, Sarasota
One of the largest country clubs in Southwest Florida, the enjoyable small club atmosphere is a signature feature. The club offers 54 holes of golf which include two championship courses (the Meadows and Highlands) that are both fair and challenging for golfers of all levels to enjoy. The third course (the Groves), is a short course designed by famed architect Arthur Hill to test every aspect of your game. Lakes, ponds, trees, flowers, and the ever-present wildlife are an integral part of the Meadows golf experience. The club enables our members to enjoy many benefits including a very active tournament schedule for all players, a staff of PGA Professionals that provide great service and can help with your game, a fully stocked golf shop, and excellent practice facilities.
3101 Longmeadow, Sarasota. 941-378-5153. www.meadowscc.org
The Oaks Club, Sarasota
The Oaks Golf & Country Club is 1000 acre development featuring two private 18-hole championship golf courses. The development is situated on both the east and west sides of US 41 in Osprey, just 12 miles south of downtown Sarasota. Amenities include a private country club, a guest lodge, 14 Har-Tru tennis courts, a croquet court, a 34,000 square foot Georgian-style clubhouse, a junior Olympic pool and an active social calendar.
301 MacEwen Drive, Osprey. 941-966-2161. www.theoaksclub.com
Venetian Golf & River Club, Venice
This 18-hole, par-72 course features generous fairways framed with natural-looking mounds, strategically located bunkers and an abundance of grass hollows. Hazards are configured in a manner to make forced carries optional. With five sets of tee markers and featuring TifEagle greens, Venetian provides players of all abilities with a dynamic golfing experience. The mission of our strategic partner, Audubon International, is to improve the quality of life and the environment through research, education and conservation assistance. Venetian Golf & River Club is proud to partner with Audubon International as a Gold Signature Member, the highest level of participation that a golf course development can achieve.
502 Veneto Boulevard, Venice. 941-412-9550. www.viangolfandriverclub.com
Semi-Private Courses
Bobcat Trail Golf Club, North Port
Bobcat Trail Golf Club is one of southwest Florida's finest public courses. Bobcat Trail is rated by Golf Digest as a "must play 4-1/2 star course" and one of Florida's "top 30 public courses" in its 2003 "Places to Play" publication. Bobcat Trail Golf Club is located in North Port, Florida halfway between Sarasota and Fort Myers and just 3 miles from Interstate 75. "The Cat" is just 40 minutes away from the international airports of each city and just minutes away from shopping, dining, boating, fishing and the magnificent beaches at Venice and Siesta Key. Bobcat Trail Golf Club offers the finest golf in the area, full practice and teaching facilities, excellent food and a fully stocked 19th Hole.
1350 Bobcat Trail, North Port. 941-429-0500. www.bobcattrailgc.com
Calusa Lakes Golf Course, Nokomis
Calusa Lakes' beautiful wooded terrain highlights the natural setting of this outstanding, 18-hole presentation. The spacious course is nestled in an environmental community, with the homes set well back from play. The golf course weaves its way through a variety of Florida landscape and wildlife. The many pine and oak trees give a rare mid-Atlantic feel to the course. Even with its many lakes, the course is player friendly. The rolling fairways, fair landing areas and new Champion Grass greens offer a unique and enjoyable golfing experience for players of all abilities. Membership now provides privileges to 3 area golf courses, Waterford, Capri Isles, and Calusa Lakes Golf Club.
1995 Calusa Lakes Boulevard. 941-484-8995. www.calusalakes.org
Capri Isles Golf Club, Venice
Located just off I-75 (Exit 193) near the heart of Venice, Capri is perfectly situated for everyone staying in the Sarasota area. Rebuilt in 2003, this par 72 layout offers challenges that are guaranteed to capture the interest of the serious golfer or the casual player. The character and playability of the 18-hole course was enhanced with numerous expansions and additions of strategic water features, fairway and greenside bunkers, configurations of greens, rerouted layout, additional yardage and four sets of tees.
849 Capri Isles Boulevard, Venice. 941-485-3371. www.golfinvenice.com
Heron Creek Golf & Country Club, North Port
Presently organized as a privately-owned, semi-private golf and country club, the focal point of all social and golfing activity at Heron Creek is the 21,000 square foot, two-level Main Clubhouse at the end of Heron Creek Boulevard. The Main Clubhouse contains the formal Dining Room, the more casual Grill Room, the Golf Pro Shop, several meeting rooms, and administrative offices. The center-point of the club is the 27-hole championship golf course and world-class golf learning complex designed by highly noted architect, Arthur Hills. Also at the clubhouse complex are the state-of-the-art Fitness Center, with saunas and locker rooms, five lighted Har-Tru tennis courts and Tennis Pro Shop, and resort-style swimming pool with sun deck and spa.
3401 South Sumpter Boulevard, North Port. 941-423-6955. www.heron-creek.com
IMG Academies Golf & Country Club, Bradenton
IMG Academies (IMGA) purchased what was formerly the El Conquistador Country Club in 2005. IMGA is the pioneer in the camp/academy training business. From its inception in 1978 as the Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy, it has evolved into a 300-acre multi-sport training and education, camp and academy, club/resort/real estate development. Rich in history of creating champions across an array of sports including tennis, golf, soccer, baseball, basketball and swimming, IMGA trains its Sarasota golf prodigies on this 18-hole championship layout. IMGA Golf and CC’s challenging, sporty and perpetually interesting course has trained top players including Paula Creamer, Casey Wittenberg, David Gossett, Ty Tryon, Sean O’Hair, Aree and Naree Song Wongluekiet, Virada Nirapathpongporn, and Michelle Wie.
Members can enjoy a new level of excitement as they watch the up-and-coming phenoms from world-renowned IMG Academies’ David Leadbetter Golf Academy, as well as current PGA and LPGA professionals, as they hone their skills on IMG Academies Golf & Country Club course.
4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton. 941-758-1466. www.imggcc.com
Pelican Pointe Golf & Country Club, Venice
Pelican Pointe is routinely rated as one of the finest facilities in the area and has been awarded the “Reader’s Choice” award by residents in Sarasota County every year since 2001. The 27 holes of championship golf were designed by Ted McAnlis. The original 18 holes of golf, the “Meadows” and “Preserve” nines were opened in 1995, with the “Hatchet” side debuting in 2002. Ranging from a gentle 5,326 yards to a “Tiger” style course at 7,182 yards, the different combinations of nines allows golfers to consistently play a variety of golf hole designs. Wildlife, natural preserves and wetlands accent the day on the links. There are no parallel fairways and seldom do you see any golfers other than the ones playing on your hole.
499 Derbyshire Drive, Venice. 941-496-4653. www.pelicanpointeclub.com
Peridia Golf & Country Club, Bradenton
Redesigned by Jed Azinger and Gordon Lewis with newly renovated greens, our course offers a challenge to all skill levels and the ability to play within three hours. Whether you'll be walking or riding, the course is the perfect distance for every player including seniors, and families with young children. A challenging 18-hole, Par 60, 3,344 yards course wind through 66 acres of land surrounded by 649 patio homes, villas, condominiums and single family residences. With just the right amount of water and bunkers, this is the perfect setting to fine tune your short game. The golf shop includes all the latest in golfing apparel and equipment along with a snack bar. Peridia is a spikeless golf course. Schedule a tee time up to four days in advance.
4950 Peridia Boulevard East, Bradenton. 941-753-9097. www.peridiagcc.net
Pinebrook/Ironwood Golf Club, Bradenton
Voted Bradenton's #1 golf course in 2007 and Finalist in 2008 and 2009, the 18-hole course at the Pinebrook/Ironwood Golf Course in Bradenton features 3,964 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 61. The course rating is 56.3 and it has a slope rating of 113 on Bermuda grass. Designed by Dean Refram, the Pinebrook/Ironwood golf course opened in 1970.
4260 Ironwood Circle, Bradenton. 941-792-3288. www.pinebrookironwood.com
Preserve Golf Club, Bradenton
The Preserve Golf Club features a Ted McAnlis signature championship golf course with Champion Ultra Dwarf Greens, the same greens surface used at the #1 ranked course in the state of Florida Seminole Golf Club and at the Atlanta Athletic Club and the home of the 2011 PGA Championship. The golf course winds through the natural and lush Florida wetland settings.
Some 52 lakes make water an omni-present feature.
7310 Tara Preserve Lane, Bradenton. 941-756-2944. www.golfthepreserve.com
River Club, Bradenton
This Golf Digest “Places to Play” Four Star Facility boasts a Ron Garl designed, 18-hole course perfect for seasoned golfers and beginners alike. It also houses every necessary amenity, including a restaurant with panoramic views of the course, full-service Pro Shop, golf lessons, driving range, tennis courts, pool and lounge/banquet facilities. Conveniently located one mile east of I-75 (exit 217) just minutes from Sarasota, Tampa and St. Petersburg, this semi-private country club offers memberships and is open seven days a week. The River Club’s outstanding course is right around the corner, so don’t wait to reserve your tee time!
6600 River Club Boulevard, Bradenton. 941-751-4211. www.riverclubgc.com
River Strand Golf & Country Club, Bradenton
River Strand features Arthur Hill's trademark generous fairways and precision approach shots in 27 holes. The golf course fits harmoniously with the environment, with holes intertwined by tributaries and estuaries. The Manatee River and its tidal water areas are incorporated into several of the holes. The course is meticulously maintained and features Tif-eagle greens that are mowed with a walk mower to insure pristine conditions. You will also enjoy the use of a snack bar located between the 9th and 10th holes, in addition to our complete clubhouse dining facilities.
7155 Grand Estuary Trail, Bradenton. 941-708-3617. www.riverstrandgolf.com
Rosedale Country Club, Bradenton
Rosedale is an 18-hole championship facility with amenities that include a 4,000 square foot putting and chipping green, banquet facilities and an outdoor patio. Rosedale Golf & Country Club has been organized as a semi-private club for the purpose of enabling its members and guests to have use of the golf, tennis, swimming, fitness center and social facilities available at the club. The focal point of this extraordinary community is the dynamic layout of the eighteen-hole championship golf course and related practice facilities designed by highly noted architect Ted McAnlis. The Clubhouse complex includes five Har-tru tennis courts, swimming facilities, dining and lounge facilities, a fitness center, men's and women's locker facilities, Club offices, a golf pro shop, golf cart facilities and a tennis pro shop.
5100 87th Street East, Bradenton. 941-756-0004. www.rosedalegcc.com
Stoneybrook Golf & Country Club, Sarasota
Stoneybrook Golf and Country Club offers a challenging Arthur Hills designed golf course which opened in 1994. The par 72 layout will allow all skill levels of players a chance. The course provides 6 teeing grounds ranging from 6,587 yards from the tips to 4,965 yards from the forward tees. The layout’s well manicured Bermuda grass fairways and Tiff eagle Ultra Dwarf greens will not disappoint. Be sure to bring quality shot making, as the course has water hazards, and natural wetlands that come into play 17 out of the 18 holes.
8801 Stoneybrook Boulevard, Sarasota. 941-966-1800. www.stoneybrook.net
Tournament Players Club at Prestancia, Sarasota
TPC Prestancia offers 36 challenging holes in the beautiful Palmer Ranch area. The Stadium Course and the Club Course sprawl out over 565 acres of lush landscape, providing a balance of aesthetics and spectacular coastal wildlife with outstanding playing conditions. The Championship Stadium Course was fashioned after the TPC network's Flagship, TPC Sawgrass, which allows for maximum gallery enjoyment from the many hills dotted along the broad fairways. Designed by Florida's own Ron Garl, with PGA TOUR player, Mike Souchack, as consultant, the par 72 Stadium Course rewards shot making more than length, and features undulating greens that rise and fall as players approach the signature 9th and 18th holes. Playing to 6,927 yards from the tips of the back tees, it is just about as much golf course as any player can enjoy
4409 TPC Drive, Sarasota. 941-922-2800. www.tpcprestancia.com
University Park Country Club, Bradenton
The setting at the University Park Country Club is magnificent, gently nestled in a natural enclave, far removed from the urban pace. Here nature has been carefully preserved to provide a backdrop of rare beauty, the perfect location for the area’s award winning residential community and premier country club lifestyle. The golf course features 27 holes. A 3-day advance is necessary to secure tee times.
7671 Park Boulevard, University Park. 941-359-9999, ext. 1. www.universitypark-fl.com
Venice East Golf Club, Venice
Venice East Golf Course (VEGC) is a Semi-Private, 18-Hole Member Owned Executive
Course. Public is welcome except when Weekly Membership Leagues and other
Special Events are playing. The 2,781 yard, Par 57 course caters to the Beginner, the Experienced, the Young and the Senior Golfer. Driving Range customers will enjoy mat and all-natural turf range, free practice putting green, sand trap and chipping areas. Tee-Times are not required. Fees are seasonal. Offers include 10 and 6 play tickets, regular specials, and a limited number of "Equity Memberships". Associate memberships are available with many of the benefits of Equity Membership.
107 Venice East Boulevard, Venice. 941-493-0005. www.veniceeastgolfclub.com
Venice Golf & Country Club, Venice
Nestled in 460 tropical acres, The Venice Golf and Country Club is a member-owned, world-class equity club community of 587 single family homes with 26 lakes and 13 preserves. Native Florida trees and vegetation play a key role in the club's landscaping design, showing a commitment to maintaining the integrity of Florida's natural beauty while guaranteeing continued habitat for the local and migratory bird population. As a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, the 18-hole course is laid out to meander throughout the community's 26 lakes and 56 acres of nature preserves.
250 Venice Golf Club Drive, Venice. 941-492-9600. www.venicegolfandcc.com
Village Green Golf Club, Sarasota
This 18-hole, par 58 layout keeps golf fun for the novice, but provides a good test for the advanced golfer. Players may walk or ride anytime. A great place to learn the game, with two Class-A golf professionals available to offer instruction to all abilities. Built on an orange grove in the 1960s, this traditional golf course is part of Sarasota history. A tasty menu can be found in the restaurant, along with a full bar. Tee times are available up to 3 days in advance.
3500 Pembrook Drive, Sarasota. 941-922-9500. www.villagegreengolfclub.com
Waterford Golf Club, Venice
Waterford Golf Club is a semi-private golf course situated just off I-75 (Exit 195 from the north or 193 from the south) within two beautiful upscale home developments. Each of the 27 holes has distinct picturesque qualities with abundant natural landscape and wildlife. There are no holes contiguous to each other. Play any combination of the Turnberry, Gleneagles, or Sawgrass courses and enjoy the experience of three, 18-hole courses. The combination of Waterford’s rolling fairways, undulating greens, hazards and water in play will sharpen the skills of all golfers.
1454 Gleneagles Drive, Venice. 941-484-6621. www.golfinvenice.com
Public Courses
Bird Bay Executive Golf Club, Venice
Bird Bay Executive Golf Club is an 18-hole executive length golf course in Venice, Florida. This short layout will reward good shots and provide a fun golf outing for everyone. Online tee times may be available at Bird Bay Executive Golf Club or at nearby golf courses, usually offered at a discount from the normal rate.
602 Bird Bay Drive, Venice. 941-485-9333. www.thegolfcourses.net
Bobby Jones complex, Sarasota
The Bobby Jones Golf Club is a 45-hole municipal facility named for the legendary Robert Tyre Jones, Jr. who personally dedicated the facility on Sunday, February 13th, 1927. It is the only golf facility located within the city limits of beautiful Sarasota; a golfing Mecca nestled on the Gulf of Mexico coast just one hour south of Tampa, Florida. The Facility sits on 325 contiguous acres of virgin meadowland adjacent to State Road 780 -- Fruitville Road -- the gateway to downtown Sarasota and its world-famous beaches. The historic gem, initially designed by Donald Ross in 1926, has grown to include two 18-hole championship courses and a 9-hole executive course. A particularly unique feature of this complex is the absence of any building development on all but one golf hole.
1000 Circus Boulevard, Sarasota. 941-955-8097. www.BobyJonesGolfClub.com
Bradenton Country Club, Bradenton
The Bradenton Country Club course presents a challenge for golfers of all ages and abilities. Each hole is unique with bunkers and well groomed fairways that follow the natural contours of the land and the occasional water hazard to test your mettle. The course features beautifully manicured fairways with undulating greens of tift eagle. The greens are a mixture of tift eagle Bermuda, which provide smooth and firm putting surfaces that roll to a stimp meter speed of 10 to 10.5 on average.
There is a driving range with target greens for practicing your skills. Private and group lessons are available from our golf professionals year round. Membership is capped and tee times are not a problem. Unlike increasingly crowded public courses, you're free to enjoy a private and uncrowded round of golf - the way the game was meant to be played, walking or in a golf cart.
Tournaments and special events include the annual men's and women's championships as well as purely social golf activities.
4646 Ninth Avenue West, Bradenton. 941-792-4159. www.bradentoncc.org
Buffalo Creek Golf Club, Palmetto
The Buffalo Creek Golf Course is a spacious, challenging, links-style championship golf course designed by Ron Garl. Located in North East Manatee County, the course setting is in a natural environment with no adjoining houses. Par 3’s play over water, par 5’s are reachable with very undulating greens, and many par 4’s can be challenging as well, depending on which way the winds are blowing.
8100 69th Street East, Palmetto. 941-776-2611. www.buffalocreekgcpublic.com
Concession Golf Club, Bradenton
Named “Best New Private Course of 2006” by Golf Digest Magazine, The Concession Golf Course was designed by Jack Nicklaus in association with Tony Jacklin. This 18-hole par 72 course is set on 520 acres of ruggedly pristine land dotted with massive oaks and majestic pines. It totals 7,470 yards and runs three miles from tip to tip. Coupled with scenic water features, breathtaking vistas await every turn. Meticulous attention to detail is evident throughout from the Northern Ohio sand that was trucked in for the bunkers which are hand-raked daily to the over $1 million dollars spent moving mature trees to strategic spots along the course. The Concession is one of the only clubs in the country that has the Advanced Aer system under all 18 greens, guaranteeing tournament-quality play conditions all year.
Ganton Avenue, Bradenton. 941-322-1922. www.theconcession.com
Gulf Gate Executive Club, Sarasota
Just two miles from Siesta Key, this beautiful 27-hole course is a favorite of local golfers. Family and kid friendly, inexpensive and very convenient, Gulf Gate Golf Course is the perfect place for your next golf outing. Enjoy the beautiful lake views and nature while you play - or while you relax at the bar/lounge.
2550 Bispham Road, Sarasota. 941-921-5515. www.gulfgategolf.com
Heather Hills Golf Club, Bradenton
The 18-hole "Heather Hills" course at the Heather Hills Golf Course facility in Bradenton, Florida features 3,521 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 61 . Designed by Roy Albert Anderson, the Heather Hills golf course opened in 1963.
101 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. 941-755-8888.
Lake Venice Golf Club, Venice
This 27-hole public course was voted Best Local Golf Course in 2009. No tee-times are necessary, and annual memberships are available.
1801 South Harbor Boulevard, Venice. 941-488-3948. www.lakevenicegolf.com
Legacy Golf Club, Sarasota
Legacy is an upscale, 18-hole championship daily fee course, different from anything found in the region. Offering a level of service and conditions found at world-class private facilities, this award-winning Arnold Palmer-signature designed course has quickly earned its reputation as one of the premier courses in Southwest Florida. The impeccable service makes it a local favorite for visitors and residents. The course features elevated multiple tees, and virtually every hole is framed with sand and water. What makes this course unique is the 360-foot wide fairways on all corridors making the look very dramatic and visually challenging while still approachable to all players.
8255 Legacy Boulevard, Sarasota. 941-907-7920. www.legacygolfclub.com
Links at Greenfield Plantation, Bradenton
In the heart of Manatee County, just minutes from I-75 at State Route 64. The Links combines the rare mix of affordability with championship golf, outstanding course conditions and natural beauty. Generous landing areas off of the tee are coupled with well bunkered undulating greens as the course weaves its way through wildlife rich wetlands and lakes. Regardless of which of the four sets of tees you choose, The Links provides just the right amount of challenge in a relaxed and friendly environment. Sparkling lakes and large bunkers offer every shot a unique challenge as you approach the large and undulating greens. The clubhouse features a Snack Bar and well-stocked Golf shop. Individual golf lessons are available by contacting the P.G.A. professional golf staff.
10325 Greenfield Boulevard, Bradenton. 941-747-9432. www.linksatgreenfieldplantation.com
Manatee County Golf Club, Bradenton
Manatee Golf Course is a 18-hole championship golf course. One of the area’s best public golf courses located on the west side of Bradenton, it is the closest golf course to the beaches. The course was recently rated 4 Stars by Golf Digest for outstanding layout, course conditions, and customer service. The Golf Club meanders through the natural wetlands, well placed water hazards with no forced carries, with many well placed fairway and greenside bunkers that will test even the most skilled players. All types are wildlife are abundant throughout the wetlands.
6415 53rd Avenue West, Bradenton. 941-792-6773. www.manateegcpublic.com
Oak Ford Golf Club, Sarasota
Oak Ford is unlike typical Florida golf courses - you will play through tree lined fairways and open spaces, and not see a condo anywhere. This Ron Garl Design masterpiece was built in 1989, and has withstood the test of time. The 27 holes are constantly groomed and our staff willing to make your day memorable.
1552 Palm View Road, Sarasota. 941-371-3680. www.oakfordgolfclub.com
Palm Aire Country Club, Sarasota
Enjoy the beauty and challenge of two superb 18-hole championship golf courses. The Lakes and The Champions courses are ranked among the best in Florida by Golfweek Magazine. There are five tee box locations on each tee to accommodate every level of play. The club includes a driving range with 24 grass hitting locations. Famed architect, Joe Lee, designed the Lakes Course, and world renowned architect Dick Wilson designed the Champions course.
5601 Country Club Way, Sarasota. 941-355-9738. www.palmaire.net
River Run Golf Links, Bradenton
The City of Bradenton Recreational facility was originally designed by Ward Northrup and opened for play in 1987. River Run was redesigned by Azinger - Lewis in 2005 and went through a major renovation of greens and tees during the summer of 2005. The enhanced 18-hole par 70 layout offers a wide variety of challenges for players of all ages and experience levels. River Run offers a unique combination of affordability and challenging golf. Over the years River Run has established itself as one of the Gulf Coast's most popular municipal golf courses. Amenities include a fully stocked pro shop and snack bar. Rental clubs are also available. River Run Golf Links also caters to outing and tournament groups, accommodating from 24 to 144 players. Golf instruction is also available from in-house golf professionals.Tee times can be reserved up to 7 days in advance, 24 hours a day at your convenience.
1801 27th Street East, Bradenton. 941-708-6331. www.riverrungolflinks.com
Rolling Green Golf Club, Sarasota
Rolling Green is a par 72 layout with tree-lined fairways and large greens. The course is known throughout Sarasota for its collection of challenging par 3 holes, and offers four sets of tees. The course plays to nearly 6,500 yards from the back tees with the forward tees playing about 5,000 yards. Excellently maintained and perfect for holding tournaments or weekly leagues.
4501 North Tuttle Avenue, Sarasota. 941-355-7621. www.rollinggreengc.com
Sabal Trace Golf & Country Club, North Port
Designed by Charles Ankrom and built by General Development in 1970, Sabal Trace offers 18 holes of gently rolling fairways, large elevated greens and just enough water to test any player’s nerve.
5456 Greenwood Avenue, North Port. 941-436-2804. www.sabaltracegolfcourse.com
Sara Bay Country Club, Sarasota
The course was originally designed in 1925 by the “dean of golf course architects” Donald Ross on a choice piece of land near Sarasota Bay that included undulating terrain, native trees, and a meandering creek. Ross is credited with approximately 400 designs throughout the world, and upon completion of this layout, Ross stated that he had a complished as much in this design as any of his master works in America and Europe. Tees, fairways and roughs are turfed with Tifway 419 bermuda grass. The putting surfaces are covered with TifEagle Certified ultradwarf bermuda grass. Bunkers are filled with 38Special Florida sand.
7011 Willow Street, Sarasota. 941-355-7658. www.sarabaycc.org
Sarasota Golf Club, Sarasota
Sarasota Golf Club is a championship course that winds through mature trees in a very natural Florida setting. Variety is the dominant theme in the design of the course, with a nice balance of long holes and short holes. The club features a full practice range, a golf shop, and an informal grill room that offers some of the friendliest service in Sarasota.
7280 North Leewynn Drive, Sarasota. 941-371-2431. www.sarasotagc.com
Sarasota National Golf Center, Venice
The 18-hole "Sarasota" course at the Sarasota National Golf Club facility in Venice, Florida features 7,344 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 72 . Designed by Gordon Lewis, the Sarasota golf course opened in 2008. Troon Golf, LLC manages this facility.
25510 National Boulevard, Venice. 941-496-8676. www.sarasotanationalgolf.com
Serenoa Golf Club, Sarasota
Serenoa was named one of the top 100 courses in Florida by the Florida Gulf News. The short, 6,270-yard layout was designed to play more like 7,200 by bringing water into play on every single hole and creating a true shot-maker’s course.
6773 Serenoa Drive, Sarasota. 941-925-2755. www.serenoagc.com
Suncoast Golf Center, Sarasota
The 9-hole "Suncoast" course at the Suncoast Golf Center facility in Sarasota, Florida features 840 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 27. The course rating is 22.0 and it has a slope rating of 113. Suncoast golf course opened in 1998.
7741 15th Street East, Sarasota. 941-351-2666. www.suncoastgolfcenter.com
Tara Golf & Country Club, Bradenton
Tara has a full driving range, and an 18-hole championship course with a brand new facility. It was re-designed by Ron Garl in the summer of 2009.
6601 Drewrys Boulevard, Bradenton. 941-758-2203. www.taragcc.com
Tatum Ridge Golf Links, Sarasota
This Ted McAnlis-designed course was recently names one of Golf Digest’s 08/09 “Best Places to Play.” A Scottish-style links course with preserved wetlands and 11 lakes in a natural setting, the signature hole is 504-yard, par-5 13th, a dogleg right, over water. Amenities include a fully stocked pro shop, courteous staff, and restaurant serving breakfast and lunch, plus a phone on the ninth tee to order food at the turn. A large practice facility offers grass tees, chipping from grass and traps and an 18-hole putting green. Call for tee times up to seven days in advance or book online ten days in advance.
421 North Tatum Road, Sarasota. 941-378-4211. www.tatumridgegolflinks.com
Terra Ceia Bay Golf & Tennis Club, Sarasota
Enjoyable, picturesque, and challenging are a few of the words used to describe the 18-hole, par 62 golf course at Terra Ceia Bay Country Club. Hone your skills utilizing the driving range, practice bunker and putting green before taking off. Hit straight to avoid the hazards. Sign up for one of the weekly social golf events and meet new friends, or sign up for some golf lessons and pick up some additional tips from the professional on staff. The Pro Shop offers the latest in attire and equipment to make your golfing experience a memorable one.
2802 Terra Ceia Bay Boulevard, Palmetto. 941-729-7663. www.terraceiabay.com
The Groves, Sarasota
The Groves Golf Course is a challenging 18-hole public golf course located just off I-75 and University Parkway. Tight fairways and sloping greens reward shot placement and accuracy, making this course feel like a championship par 72 course in spite of its par 65 rating. With its nine par 4’s, eight par 3’s and one par 5, the 50 plus acres of beautiful scenic Florida landscape provide you with a memorable and highly enjoyable golf experience. The course opens for tee times at 7am, with the last available tee time 90 minutes before dusk. Tee times are available seven days in advance online, and by calling the pro shop.
3400 Longmeadow, Sarasota. 941-306-3144. www.grovesgolf.com
Timber Creek Golf Club, Bradenton
Made with personal improvement in mind, Timber Creek is a Par-3 Course geared towards beginners, families, seniors, and those wanting to sharpen their short game. The finishing hole is a 100-yards test with a large pond in front of the green. Obstacles abound on #6, a par-3 that plays just 117 yards but has towering oak trees right and left and a pond that swallows shots hit too far. Out of bounds lurk on both side of #1, a 150-yard hole that demands a smooth, unhurried swing.
4500 Timber Lane, Bradenton. 941-794-8381. www.timbercreekgolf.org
