Sarasota, Florida, is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant arts scene, and excellent golf courses. For golf enthusiasts, Sarasota offers various courses catering to different skill levels and preferences. This guide will highlight five of the best golf courses in Sarasota, FL: Village Green Golf Club, The Palms Golf Club at Forest Lakes, Bobby Jones Golf Club, TPC Prestancia, and Sara Bay Country Club.
Village Green Golf Club
Overview
Village Green Golf Club is a local favorite for its friendly atmosphere and well-maintained course. Established in 1969, it provides a casual yet engaging golfing experience suitable for players of all skill levels.
Course Layout
The course features 18 holes with a par of 58, making it a relatively short course ideal for beginners or those looking to enjoy a quick game. Despite its shorter length, the course design incorporates various challenges, including water hazards and sand traps, ensuring a fun and varied round of golf.
Facilities
Village Green Golf Club offers a pro shop stocked with essential golf gear and apparel. There's also a practice area where golfers can hone their skills before hitting the course. The club's friendly staff and laid-back atmosphere make it an excellent choice for casual golfers and families.
Membership and Fees
Village Green Golf Club offers several membership options, including annual and seasonal memberships. Green fees are reasonable, with special rates for seniors and juniors. The club frequently offers promotions and discounts, making it an affordable option for regular play.
Community and Events
The club hosts regular tournaments and social events, fostering a strong sense of community among its members. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or new to the sport, you'll find a welcoming environment at Village Green Golf Club.
The Palms Golf Club at Forest Lakes
Overview
The Palms Golf Club at Forest Lakes is a beautifully renovated course combining modern amenities and classic Florida golf. The course is known for its lush landscaping and meticulously maintained greens, offering a picturesque and challenging golfing experience.
Course Layout
This 18-hole, par-64 course spans 4,545 yards from the back tees. The design incorporates numerous water features and strategically placed bunkers, providing a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all abilities. The course layout emphasizes precision and strategy over sheer distance.
Facilities
The Palms Golf Club features a fully equipped pro shop, a practice putting green, and a driving range. The clubhouse offers dining options with a view of the course, making it a great spot to relax after a round. The modern and well-maintained facilities ensure a comfortable experience for all visitors.
Membership and Fees
The Palms Golf Club offers flexible membership options for individuals, families, and corporate groups. Green fees are competitive, and the club often offers special rates for twilight play and off-season golfing. Membership includes access to all club facilities and exclusive events.
Community and Events
The Palms Golf Club is active in the local golf community, hosting regular leagues, tournaments, and social gatherings. The club’s events calendar is packed with opportunities for golfers to compete and socialize, enhancing the overall experience of membership.
Bobby Jones Golf Club
Overview
Named after the legendary golfer Bobby Jones, this historic golf club has been a cornerstone of Sarasota's golf scene since it opened in 1927. The club offers a classic golfing experience with two 18-hole courses and one 9-hole course.
Course Layout
The American Course is an 18-hole, par-71 course stretching over 6,032 yards. It features wide fairways and large greens, making it accessible to golfers of all skill levels. The British Course, also 18 holes and par 72, is slightly longer at 6,710 yards and presents a more challenging layout with tighter fairways and smaller greens. The 9-hole Gillespie Executive Course is ideal for a quick round or for beginners.
Facilities
Bobby Jones Golf Club boasts a comprehensive range of facilities, including a large pro shop, practice greens, and a driving range. The clubhouse includes a restaurant and bar, offering a comfortable setting to unwind after a game. The club also offers rental equipment and professional golf lessons.
Membership and Fees
The club offers a variety of membership plans, including annual and seasonal options. Green fees are modest, with special rates available for Sarasota residents, seniors, and juniors. The club also offers frequent discounts and deals, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious golfers.
Community and Events
Bobby Jones Golf Club has a rich history and a strong community presence. The club hosts numerous tournaments, charity events, and junior golf programs, fostering a vibrant and inclusive golfing community. Its historical significance and community-oriented approach make it a beloved institution in Sarasota.
TPC Prestancia
Overview
TPC Prestancia is part of the prestigious Tournament Players Club network, known for its high standards and championship-quality courses. Located within the Palmer Ranch community, TPC Prestancia offers two distinct 18-hole courses: the Stadium Course and the Club Course.
Course Layout
The Stadium Course, designed by Ron Garl, is a par-72 layout stretching 6,927 yards. It features a challenging design with strategically placed bunkers, water hazards, and undulating greens. The Club Course, designed by Robert Von Hagge, spans 6,721 yards and offers a more traditional layout with tree-lined fairways and large, inviting greens.
Facilities
TPC Prestancia provides top-notch facilities, including a state-of-the-art practice area, a fully stocked pro shop, and luxurious locker rooms. The clubhouse features fine dining with panoramic views of the courses, providing a premium experience for members and guests.
Membership and Fees
Membership at TPC Prestancia is exclusive, with several options, including golf, social, and corporate memberships. While the fees are higher, members benefit from access to two premier courses, exceptional facilities, and reciprocal privileges at other TPC clubs. The club also offers limited public access to the courses.
Community and Events
TPC Prestancia is known for its vibrant community and active event calendar. The club hosts numerous member tournaments, social events, and charity fundraisers annually. Its affiliation with the PGA Tour ensures a high standard of golfing excellence and community involvement.
Sara Bay Country Club
Overview
Sara Bay Country Club is a private, member-owned club with a rich history from 1926. The course, designed by the legendary Donald Ross, offers a classic golf experience with a focus on tradition and excellence.
Course Layout
The 18-hole, par-72 course spans 7,012 yards and features Ross’s signature design elements, including crowned greens and strategically placed bunkers. The course layout emphasizes shot-making skills and strategic play, providing a challenging yet rewarding experience for golfers of all levels.
Facilities
Sara Bay Country Club offers first-class facilities, including a practice range, a short game area, and a putting green. The clubhouse exudes traditional elegance and includes dining options, a bar, and event spaces. The club also provides caddie services and professional golf instruction.
Membership and Fees
As a private club, Sara Bay Country Club offers several membership categories, including full golf, social, and junior memberships. Membership fees are commensurate with the club’s prestigious status, and potential members must go through an application process. The exclusivity ensures a high-quality experience and personalized service.
Community and Events
Sara Bay Country Club prides itself on its strong sense of community and tradition. The club hosts numerous member-only tournaments, social events, and themed dinners, fostering camaraderie among its members. The club’s commitment to preserving Donald Ross's legacy and maintaining high service standards makes it a standout in Sarasota’s golfing scene.
Sarasota's Premier Golfing Experiences
Sarasota, FL, is home to some of the finest golf courses in the region, each offering a unique blend of challenges, amenities, and community. Sarasota's golf clubs have something to offer whether you’re a casual golfer looking for a relaxed round or a serious player seeking championship-level courses. From the friendly atmosphere of Village Green Golf Club to the exclusive and historic Sara Bay Country Club, these five courses represent the best of what Sarasota has to offer to golf enthusiasts.
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