TRYLA LARSON
Guest Writer
Tryla@lbknews.com
Longboat Key is known for its gorgeous beaches, jaw-dropping sunsets and big, beautiful golf courses.Many visitors and residents like to take in a quick nine or 18 holes before maybe going out to one of our delicious restaurants. It is a little easier to get a tee time during the warmer summer months, however, tee times can get a little more challenging during our peak winter months. To help you out, here is a list of some of the golf courses in our land of paradise.
The Longboat Key Club: This prestigious golf club offers 45 holes of championship golf on two courses. They have the Harbourside Golf Course and the Links on Longboat Course designed by Ron Garl and William Byrd. Please note this and some of the others are private or semi-private courses. You must be a member of the private courses or possibly be a member of a club that has reciprocating privileges. Sometimes we have also found stay and play packages while staying at the Longboat Key Club & Resort.
The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club, Sarasota: Located nearby in Sarasota, this club offers an 18-hole Tom Fazio-designed course that is challenging and scenic.
University Park Country Club: Just a short drive from Longboat Key, this club features a 27-hole championship golf course designed by Ron Garl. I have to take a bragging moment and say that I did chip in a birdie from 70 yards out on this course. Just saying…
The Meadows Country Club: Located in Sarasota, this club offers 3 golf courses including The Meadows, The Highlands, and The Groves.
Stoneybrook Golf & Country Club: Situated in Sarasota, this club features an 18-hole Arthur Hills-designed golf course that is both challenging and enjoyable.
TPC Prestancia – Another golf course in Sarasota, TPC Prestancia offers two 18-hole championship courses designed by Ron Garl and Robert Von Hagge.
The Founders Club: An exclusive golf club with a Robert Trent Jones, Jr. designed course, also located in Sarasota.
Heritage Oaks Golf and Country Club: A private golf and country club located in Sarasota with an 18-hole course.
The newly remodeled and re-opened Bobby Jones Golf Club: A public golf course located in Sarasota with 45 holes of golf.
IMG Academy Golf Club – Located in Bradenton, this golf club offers an 18-hole championship course designed by Mark McCumber.
The golf course at Esplanade at Azario in Bradenton has nice open and friendly fairways.
If you are looking for a friendly inexpensive course to hit the ball around, you could give the Manatee County Golf Course a few swings. It is a good go-to for a last-minute round.
Please note that availability and popularity of golf courses can change over time, so I recommend checking current reviews and availability before making plans to play at any of these courses.
These are just a few of the many golf courses in the area surrounding Longboat Key. Each course offers its own unique challenges and beautiful views, so you’re sure to find one that suits your preferences.
