Sarasota has earned its reputation as a premier golf destination. From legendary architects like Donald Ross and Jack Nicklaus to modern championship layouts carved through Florida wetlands and pine forests, the variety of courses here is remarkable.
Whether you are seeking a private country club with resort-style amenities or a public links-style course open to everyone, the Sarasota area delivers world-class golf in stunning natural settings.
Private Country Clubs: The Ultimate Golf Lifestyle
For those who want more than a round of golf, Sarasota's private clubs offer comprehensive lifestyle experiences with championship courses, dining, tennis, fitness centers, and active social calendars.
TPC Prestancia
One of Sarasota's premier private clubs, located within Palmer Ranch just minutes from Siesta Key Beach. The club features two 18-hole championship courses, extensive practice facilities, lakeside dining, a contemporary bar, and global reciprocity to more than 700 premier courses worldwide.
The Founders Club
One of Sarasota's most exclusive golf communities, offering privacy and elegance east of I-75. The Robert Trent Jones Jr.-designed course stretches over 7,000 yards with rolling fairways, natural wetlands, and strategic bunkering.
Laurel Oak Country Club
Known for mature oak trees and two championship courses designed by Gary Player and Rees Jones. The club also has one of the area's most active tennis programs, plus year-round dining and events.
The Ritz-Carlton Members Golf Club
A luxury golf experience tied to the Ritz-Carlton brand. The Tom Fazio championship course is known for immaculate conditions, dramatic bunkering, and wide fairways framed by natural wetlands.
University Park Country Club
A nationally recognized club with 27 holes across three nine-hole layouts: Park, Lakes, and Nine. The location near University Parkway puts it close to UTC, Benderson Park, and Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport.
Sarasota National Golf Club
A newer resort-style community with an 18-hole Gordon Lewis championship course designed around wetlands and native Florida landscape, plus a large clubhouse, resort pool, fitness, and pickleball.
Bent Tree Country Club
Founded in 1980, Bent Tree features an 18-hole John McBroom championship course with natural water hazards, dining, tennis, social events, and a history of local and regional tournaments.
Sara Bay Country Club
A historic golf experience on an 18-hole Donald Ross-designed course. Ross is one of golf's celebrated Golden Age architects, and Sara Bay preserves classic design elements.
Semi-Private & Public Courses: Accessible Excellence
Not every great round requires a membership. Sarasota and nearby Bradenton have outstanding semi-private and public courses that welcome golfers of many skill levels.
The Concession Golf Club
A Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course designed with Tony Jacklin and set across 520 acres of pine forests, oaks, and wetlands. No homes or internal roads interrupt the experience, and the course hosted the 2026 Senior PGA Championship.
Tatum Ridge Golf Links
A Ted McAnlis-designed links-style course spanning more than 6,500 yards, with lush fairways, water hazards, wildlife viewing, practice facilities, and a clubhouse with dining options.
Waterlefe Golf & River Club
A Ted McAnlis layout along the Manatee River with five sets of tees and five memorable holes touching or bordering the river. Amenities include a golf academy, practice facilities, pro shop, and grille room.
The Meadows Country Club
An 18-hole course within The Meadows, one of Sarasota's largest planned communities, offering practice facilities, dining, and lush Florida scenery.
What's Happening in 2026
Senior PGA Spotlight
The Concession Golf Club hosted the Senior PGA Championship from April 16-19, 2026.
The Meadows Transition
The Meadows is navigating a proposed long-term lease of golf courses and green space, with litigation and uncertainty ongoing as of spring 2026.
TPC Prestancia Access
TPC Prestancia continues to offer Mastercard cardholders booking opportunities through the Priceless experiences program through December 31, 2026.
Golf Guide by Preference
What to Know Before You Go
- Private club access is generally restricted to members and their guests, though some clubs offer limited public tee times or special access programs.
- Membership requirements vary by community. Some neighborhoods include mandatory golf memberships with home purchases, while others offer optional social, sports, or dining memberships.
- Dress codes are enforced at private and semi-private clubs. Collared shirts are typically required, while jeans and metal spikes are often prohibited.
- Peak golf season runs from late fall through spring, when temperatures are mild and conditions are ideal. Summer rounds are hotter and stormier, but tee times can be easier to find.
Summer golf can be hot and humid, with afternoon thunderstorms common, but rates are often lower and tee times more available.
Final Take
Sarasota's golf scene is unusually broad: historic Donald Ross architecture, private country club communities, resort-style amenities, riverfront holes, public links-style play, and championship venues all within the regional orbit.
Best for: Golfers comparing lifestyle communities, seasonal residents, private-club buyers, and visitors looking for memorable public or semi-private rounds.
Information updated May 2026. Club access, fees, and membership policies are subject to change. Contact individual clubs for current information.
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