Leisure Sports


The surrounding Sarasota area offers a wide array of professional sports teams, but what about those of us that seek a more leisurely experience? Golf is one of the most popular pastimes here on the Gulf Coast, and luckily whether you are looking for a more exclusive tee-off or a public course, Siesta & Lido Key delivers beautiful greens. Alternatively, maybe you have an affinity for tennis. You’re in luck! Be sure to add your racquet or clubs to your packing list for this Sarasota vacation!


Golf Courses

Florida truly is a golfer’s paradise and this area is no exception. You could stay for a
month and still have new courses to try on your next trip. These are our top
recommendations of the best courses within an hour’s drive. For more information
on Florida’s courses, check out the websites www.floridagolf.com/ and
www.floridagolferguide.com


Public Courses


Lakewood National

Championship 18-hole golf course with a pool, tennis & ball courts, a grill restaurant, and a spa.

  • 17605 Lakewood Nat’l Pkwy, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211
  • (941) 900-2424

Esplanade Golf & Country Club

Their 18-hole championship golf course has been recognized as one of the best golf courses in the area.

  • 12951 Malachite Dr, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211
  • 941-306-3500


Legacy Golf Club

An Arnold Palmer-designed course and a delight to play. Open Year Round, with an open guest policy, driving range, and a nice restaurant. Probably the best pay-and-play course in the area.

  • 8255 Legacy Blvd, Bradenton
  • (941) 907-7067

Semi-Private Courses


University Park Country Club

Voted the #1 Golf Course in Southwest Florida, University Park is the premier semi-private club in Sarasota.

  • 7671 The Park Blvd, University Park, FL 34201
  • (941) 355-3888


IMG Academy Golf Club

Bradenton’s premiere public golf course, open to the public and members alike, the natural beauty of IMG Academy Golf Club is both rivaled and complimented by a great golf experience.

  • 4350 El Conquistador Pkwy, Bradenton, FL 34210
  • (941) 758-1466


Tennis

Payne Park

This was once a ballpark, it now features tennis courts, fitness trails, playgrounds, and more. They also host several events throughout the year.

  • 2110 Adams Ln, Sarasota, FL 34237


The Resort at Longboat Key Club

It has 38 courts and plays host to the Eagleton Tennis Academy.

  • (941) 383- 3761

Longboat Key Public Tennis Center

  • 590 Bay Isles Rd, Longboat Key, FL 34228
  • (941) 316- 8367