7 Best Golf Courses in Sarasota to Make Par

Nothing defines the Sarasota lifestyle, and Sarasota real estate, quite as clearly as morning tee times and mimosas. Florida is an international haven for golf lovers and this city is no exception. With numerous award-winning courses and temperate weather year-round, it’s no wonder our Sunshine State is the Golf Capital of the World.

Ready to tee up? Keep your options open with semi-private courses or join a members-only club for a more exclusive experience.

Here are Living Vogue’s top picks to make par:

1. Longboat Key Club

We’ll begin with the iconic island course at Longboat Key Club. Open to members and guests of The Resort at Longboat Key Club, this location features 45 holes – including the notable Harborside and Links courses that run alongside the beautiful Gulf of Mexico. Earning AAA Four-Diamond ratings, this Sarasota golf resort is a must for any competitor looking to play with prestige… and oceanfront views.

2. The Founders Club

Looking for an ace? The Founders Club is inspired by traditional Scottish courses, pairing elevated terrain with nimble fairways. This par 72 takes guests to the cusp of Florida’s native wildlife, and places players seductively close to waterways. Another exclusive perk of this course, otherwise non-existent in Sarasota; Caddie service. If that’s not upping your game, we recommend the mimosa. 

3. Laurel Oak Country Club

This course and club cater to classic prestige and is considered one of Sarasota’s most well-loved private courses. Gary Player designed the 18-hole East Course in 1990 and included several big challenges with tight, sharp fairways. 

4. Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club

As one of the largest country clubs in the area, Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club is a golfing institution. It has three, 18-hole championship courses designed by world-famous Arnold Palmer. Another beloved feature of this club includes practice amenities, facilities, and a 400-yard driving range. 

5. The Concession Golf Club

While this top-choice club is not in Sarasota’s exact parameters, it is well worth the “drive.” Located near Lakewood Ranch in Bradenton, this golf retreat was named “Best New Private Course” by Golf Digest upon its opening in 2006. Designed by Jack Nicklaus and Tony Jacklin following their on-course public “moment,” it was lovingly deemed “The Concession” and has been recognized as one of the most challenging and elite in Florida.

6. University Park Country Club

This semi-private course features 27 holes of championship golf and is a fine choice for those not prepared to commit to a full golf membership. The clubhouse at this location is subtly relaxed, however the course itself offers a fair share of twists and turns; not to mention the narrow, long fairways mixed with surprisingly challenging short par-threes. 

7. Sara Bay Country Club

Sara Bay Country Club is a hidden gem of the Sarasota area. Not widely circulated among travelers, this Donald Ross-designed course is perhaps one of the most walkable fairways. When seeking a leisurely round of golf, this course is perfect for taking it all in! Golf lovers will enjoy the disconcerting bunker placement, famous for sneaking up on the most experienced competitor, as well as the hidden ups and downs of the greens.