TravelNerd.com just ranked Sarasota among the best small cities in the U.S. for art lovers.

Posted on May 22, 2013 by Elsa

Paris, Barcelona and…Asheville? The Best Small Cities for Art Lovers
by ANNIE WANG on MAY 20, 2013

When art lovers think of dream destinations, cities like Paris, Barcelona and New York come to mind. However, travelers shouldn’t forget about the smaller destinations closer to home with incredible art cultures. TravelNerd selected the top 10 small cities in the US for art lovers. We focused on cities with populations under 200,000 that hosted numerous art museums, galleries, and festivals to find locations with plenty of events and destinations for art lovers.

Laguna Beach, CA

Laguna Beach, just south of Los Angeles in Orange County, is an artist haven. Laguna Beach has always been popular with artists, starting from its humble beginnings as a beautiful beachside town, and Laguna Beach has embraced the artistic community. With world-famous museums like the Laguna Art Museum, currently hosting John Mason’s Blue Wall, and myriads of art galleries, Laguna Beach has embraced the artistic community with popular ongoing events like the First Thursdays ArtWalk.

If you visit during July or August, you’ll catch the world-famous Festivals of the Arts, including the Pageant of the Masters, with real-life reenactments of famous paintings. Additionally, the Sawdust Festival, a non-profit festival dedicated to promoting the art created in Laguna Beach, occurs every summer and winter. For more information on festivals and other events, check out the full calendar of art events in Orange County.

Savannah, GA

Savannah’s long history provides a rich cultural backdrop for its vibrant art scene. Located on the coast, Savannah is famous for its stunning architecture, so architecture buffs should make sure to visit the restored Historic District along the Riverfront and the Victorian Historic District. The Telfair Museum of Art, the first pubic art museum in the South, is housed in a renovated Regency-style mansion.

Savannah’s thriving art community stems from its famous Savannah College of Art and Design, which hosts the Savannah Film Festival, the Sidewalk Arts Festival, featuring chalk-drawing competitions in April, and the Sand Arts Festival, held on Tybee Island. With these popular events, its no wonder Savannah’s artist community is a draw for visitors everywhere.

To find out more about local artists and events, check out the artist roster from Georgia’s Council for the Arts. The Department of Cultural Affairs routinely hosts free festivals throughout the year, including the annual Music Festival in March, the Jazz Festival in September and the Folk Music Festival in October.

Asheville, NC

Asheville, a small city in western North Carolina, nestled near the Appalachian Mountains, seems to be an unlikely place for art lovers. However, those in the know realize the gems that this town is hiding. The Asheville community is active in promoting its artistic heritage, starting from its public art collection. Try the Asheville Urban Trail Walking Tour to see the start attractions like the Energy Loop, the Deco Gecko, the City Hall murals and a life-size sculpture of Martin Luther King, Jr. at MLK Park.

One of the most popular events in the summer is the Shindig on the Green, with live performances in Pack Square Park in downtown Asheville. Be sure to stop by the Asheville Art Museum to see the Black Mountain College Collection, with art from Black Mountain College students. Wander around downtown Asheville to see the 30+ art galleries lining the streets with exhibitions on American folk art, crafts from the Appalachian and the Asheville Gallery of Art. Check out the events calendar at the North Carolina Arts Council to find more events held in Asheville throughout the year.

Jackson Hole, WY

While Jackson Hole is famous for its powder, art lovers should also travel to the town to see its bustling art scene. Start at the Center for the Arts to see performance art, film premiers and more. You can even catch world-class workshops held by institutions like the New York City Ballet. Also be sure to check out the National Museum of Wildlife Art, featuring exhibits like the National Geographic Greatest Photographs of the American West and animal drawings by artists like John James Audubon and Andy Warhol.

In the summer, Jackson Hole hosts the Art Fair Jackson Hole, which hosts live music, over 170 artists from around the world, food booths and hands-on art activities. Walk around downtown to find the art galleries featuring antique Navajo weavings, Plains Indian beadwork and even antique cowboy gear. Check out more information on Folk Art from the Wyoming Arts Council.

Provincetown, MA

Provincetown, at the tip of Cape Cod, is a popular summer vacation spot known for its beaches, harbor and artist community. Every summer, they host the Provincetown International Film Festival, complete with A-listers like director Quentin Tarantino and actress Tilda Swinton. Also be sure to stop by the Fine Arts Work Center to hear readings and attend events by up-and-coming young artists.

Theater-lovers should stop by The Art House for screenings of independent films and live performances by artists like Joanna Gleason and Patti Lupone. Be sure to head to the Provincetown History Preservation Project to see the town art collection to see art inspired by the coast and the Provincetown Art Association and Museum, featuring locally-made arts and crafts.

Sarasota, FL

Summer on the Gulf Coast in Sarasota, with warm beaches, white sand and plenty of activities for art lovers. Sarasota welcomes art lovers into their community with plenty of events like the monthly Art Walk on the third Friday of each month. Walk down Adams Lane to see art galleries, boutiques and studios showing painting, sculptures and crafts from local artists. Head to Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall to see the Fine Arts Society’s collection and a behind-the-scenes tour of the play house.

The most famous attraction in Sarasota is The Ringling, which includes a Museum of Art (including pieces by El Greco and Titian), Circus Museum, Bayfront Gardens and performances at the Historic Asolo Theater. John Ringling, the most famous of the Ringling Brothers, dedicated his property to create a circus and arts attraction. Last, but not least, the Art Center Sarasota hosts free galleries on a rotating schedule as well as a sculpture garden. Check out more activities and events at the Arts and Cultural Alliance center.

Sedona, AZ

While the Red Rocks of Sedona may be the most popular attraction, it’s no surprise artists flock to the picturesque town of Sedona, with its famous southwestern natural beauty. Join the artistic community by participating in events hosted by the Sedona Artists Coalition, including artists’ salons. In October, Sedona hosts an annual Arts Festival that features works from local artists. While tickets are $10, all proceeds go towards funding art education in Sedona.

Head into the banks of Oak Creek to Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village to find fine art galleries and beautiful shops. You can often find the artists working on their craft right there in the store. Also be sure to check out all the art galleries around Sedona, many of which feature uniquely southwestern-inspired pieces. Be sure to especially stop by the Sedona Arts Center to see local artists and try some art workshops.

Alexandria, VA

Alexandria is a mere six miles outside of downtown Washington DC, perfect for a getaway from the capital. Head to the Torpedo Factory, the largest art center in Alexandria, in Old Town Alexandria. It’s free admission, and visitors can see all forms of artwork from ceramics and painting to fiber and glasswork. Walk around Old Town to see the public art, including art in the City Hall and the Charles Houston Memorial Public Art Project.

In October, Alexandria hosts Art on the Avenue, an arts and music festival with live music and stalls of local artists, including handmade jewelry, woodworks, soaps and pottery. Be sure to look for more events on the arts calendar compiled by the Alexandria Arts Forum.

Santa Fe, NM

Santa Fe attracts many artists due to the cultural richness of the city and the beauty of the natural landscape. With multitudes of museums, galleries and other artist organizations, Santa Fe is one of the most exciting art communities in the nation. Start at the New Mexico Museum of Art, dedicated to art from New Mexico, like an exhibit on the 14,000 years of art in New Mexico, starting from the Clovis culture. Also see the Museum of International Folk Art, where there are is a current exhibition on the history of chocolate. If you’re heading to Santa Fe this summer, be sure to check out the Santa Fe International Folk Art Festival, the largest such market in the world, and the Santa Fe Show, a summer exhibit of furniture, books, jewelry and textiles from over 65 galleries.

In the downtown area, galleries line the streets featuring exhibitions of locally-made art from rising artists. Visitors will wee antiques, folk art, jewelry and Native American art works. The Center for Contemporary Arts has a great line up of films as well as excellent exhibitions, like a current one of orientation and space in two dimensions. Those a little more hands on should head over to the Santa Fe Art Institute for workshops and lectures on prominent artistic figures like Martha Russo and Rick Lowe. The Santa Fe Arts Commission lists upcoming events and exhibitions coming into town.

Bozeman, MT

Bozeman, on the western side of Montana, may be a surprising choice for an art lover. Situated near Yellowstone National Parks, Bozeman’s magnificent natural scenery has been an inspiration for many artists, which is reflected in its many art galleries and art centers. Emerson Center for the Arts & Culture has fantastic exhibits of student and professional work as well as hosting fun events like film screenings and music festivals.

Additionally, look at local artists’ work on Art Bozeman’s website, and find their work in art galleries all around downtown Bozeman. In August, the Sweet Pea Festival provides a place for visitors to attend dance workshops, art sales and exhibits, concerts and even Shakespearean performances.

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THIS WEEK’S FEATURED LISTING in Sarasota, Florieda

Posted on May 14, 2013 by Elsa

122 Pearl Avenue, Sarasota
Listed at $189,900

Bayside of Whitfield, West of Tamiami Trail ~ Pride of ownership shows in this charming home in the Historic Whitfield Estates / Ballentine Manor Neighborhood. Finely crafted concrete home sits on a quarter acre and has been modernized while keeping that old home feel and Florida charm. 1,550-square-feet, the home features spacious great room, fireplace, tile and wood laminate floors throughout. Thermal windows provide energy efficiency and noise reduction. New stucco, and efficient central A/C
with heat pump.  Privacy fence, irrigation system with a well. 2 car garage and carport.  Nearby attractions include: The Ringling Museum and Cá d’zan, Crosley Mansion, Downtown Sarasota, St. Armand’s Circle, Siesta Key and the beaches.

Call Mike Holderness @ (941) 356-0685 or
Lisa Kartz @ (941) 587-3602
for more information or to set-up your private tour!

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All in the Family of Real Estate

Posted on May 13, 2013 by Elsa

By WENDY DAHLE
Special to the Herald, May 11, 1013

In Manatee County, a couple of families have been pioneers in the local real estate industry, and strong family bonds have helped them continue to grow and thrive today.
The Travis family boasts four generations in real estate that started early in the 1900s when Effie Travis purchased a real estate license for $5 from the court house.

“Grandmother Effie led the parade,” said Ron Travis, broker and co-founder of the ReMax Alliance Group, the largest ReMax office in Florida. “Her family was one of the earliest settlers in central Florida.”

Effie’s son, Jack, followed in her footsteps. Jack’s career stretched beyond selling as he become the president of the local real estate organization, and served as District Vice President of Florida’s West Coast for the Florida Association of Realtors, and Ron Travis, who like his father held several positions with both the local and state real estate associations.

The next generation, Jay and Christy Travis continued the tradition. But before going into real estate, the two were state-ranked tennis players receiving scholarships to Florida State University.

Although Christy Travis credits the years of intense tennis training to their success in real estate, their love for the industry cultivated from family dinner discussions, and watching father and grandfather conduct business.

“We could never envision having what every one else calls a real job.” said Christy Travis. “The freedom of this profession and the no limit income makes this the worlds’ greatest job.”

And now with six children between them, there is the possibility of even a sixth generation of the Travis family in real estate.

For Mike and Judy Holderness of SaraBay Real Estate, the family’s real estate careers took a little bit different path. It all started in 1979 when the young couple decided to enroll in a real estate course.

“We took the course strictly to broaden our horizons,” said Judy Holderness. “Our livelihood was a boat manufacturing plant that we co-operated with my parents.”
About halfway through the real estate course, their family boat business burned, she recalled. Suddenly the couple was unemployed with three small boys and a mortgage.
The logical solution to their crisis was to dive into the real estate business. Although not without any bumps along the way, it eventually developed into the family business, SaraBay Real Estate.

Early on, the broker they worked for decided to close four real estate offices in the Bradenton and Sarasota areas. The Holdernesses saw it as an opportunity for their family to put down roots in the local real estate industry.

“I was managing our office at that time,” said Judy Holderness, who is now the broker and manager of SaraBay. “Mike and I both felt strongly about keeping our wonderful office together. So we scraped up every nickel and dime we could find and bought the office, and SaraBay Real Estate was born.”

The boys love for real estate developed from growing up around the real estate business, she said.

“Michael got his license at 21, earned his GRI (graduate of the Realtor Institute) at 22, and has had award-winning sales volumes in residential real estate ever since,” said Judy Holderness.

Son Jason got his real estate license at 23, and decided to sell commercial real estate. He later moved to California where he remains today, and offers his commercial real estate expertise to budding agents at SaraBay, said Judy Holderness. And recently nephew Rob Wilhoit joined the SaraBay family.

Thirty four years in the real estate business with family, it still seems like yesterday, she said.

“Having our sons follow us into the business was both a compliment and an honor,” said Judy Holderness. “Both have excelled an made us extremely proud.”

Are there advantages to working with family? Working with family provides continuity for the clients, said Ron Travis. Clients also realize that somebody will always be there to serve them, as agents are basically on call almost 24-7 for clients and can cover for each other when needed, he added.

“There is also what is known as institutional knowledge passed between the generations, where the older members pass on valuable info about things the younger ones don’t know or haven’t learned yet,” said Ron Travis. “It is also neat that you can be with your family and stay in the same town. Plus it is a great exit strategy for the older ones to pass on their business to the younger ones.”

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This Week’s Featured Listing

Posted on April 25, 2013 by Elsa

6706 Marina Drive, Bradenton
Listed at $329,000

Direct waterfront living in this exquisitely appointed home with 107′ of canal frontage and direct access to Sarasota Bay. This one-of-a-kind residence on two oversized lots features an open plan with vaulted ceilings, wide plank hickory wood floors throughout the main living areas and bedrooms, crown molding, an open “nautical-themed” kitchen with hard surface countertops, electric skylights with rain sensors, a large family room, and a 51′ long indoor lanai with an entertainment area and bar that overlooks the picturesque boat channel. Add to this, your own private solar-heated indoor salt water pool and paver block patio/terrace and boatlift just steps away. Located in one of the gulf coast’s most active 55+ communities, amenities include an Olympic size community pool and hot tub, a large wood shop, private beach, Bacce ball and shuffle board courts, many activity and classes, marina and marine repair shop, bay front pavilion, clubhouses, and a post office. Midway between Sarasota and Bradenton and convenient to top rated beaches, shopping, and Sarasota’s renowned cultural facilities. This home must be seen to be fully appreciated. Low association fees are included in the tax bill. Note: In addition to the 1,482 sq.ft. heated area, there is also 1,156 sq.ft. that is enclosed living area.

Call Norm Luppino for your private tour or more information
(941) 565-4377

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This Week’s Featured BEACH Listing

Posted on April 17, 2013 by Elsa

4621 Gulf of Mexico Drive, #8D, Longboat Key
Listed At $395,000

GREAT MANAGEMENT with a family style touch lead to multiple awards for landscaping as well as the 2012 Award of Excellence. Premier Rental Community on Gulf of Mexico Longboat Key offers investors year round rental income. Unit has 2 bedroom/1 bath fully stocked kitchen, balcony/lanai unit which is rare. While in residence, owners and vacationers will enjoy the gulf front heated pool, private beach, tennis courts and BBQ grills. Easy access to the trolley to St Armands Circle or simply stay home and enjoy the dazzling sunsets from the pool deck.

Call Mike Holderness at (941) 725-0338 or email mike@mikeholderness.com

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Open House Today – Noon to 3:00 p.m.

Posted on April 14, 2013 by Elsa

347 Magellan Drive, Sarasota
Listed at $295,000

Deep water 3/3 canal front pool home. Entertain with friends in your spacious,
screened lanai with a solar-heated pool & spa that overlooks tranquil water views of Bowlees Creek. Two sets of fully extended sliding glass doors make this great entertainment home. Dock your boat minutes to Sarasota Bay or watch the Manatees from your back yard along the double-terraced seawall and entertainment pad. Across from the historic Donald Ross designed SaraBay Country Club and midway between Sarasota & Bradenton. New barrel roof in 2007, energy efficient 13-SEER A/C in 2012, and hurricane panels for windows. Bring your decorating ideas and get ready to enjoy your new life of Florida waterfront living!

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Check Out the TOP 10 Golf Courses in the World

Posted on April 11, 2013 by Elsa

We all know that Sarasota / Bradenton offers some of the finest golf around, but check out these amazing courses deemed as the “Top 10″ Courses of the World (From the National Geographic book The 10 Best of Everything!)

1. Pine Valley Golf Club – Clementon, New Jersey
2. Cypress Point Club – Pebble Beach, California
3. Muirfield Village Golf Club – Gullane, Scotland, United Kingdom
4. St. Andrews (Old Course) – St. Andrews, Scotland, United Kingdom
5. Pebble Beach Golf Links – Pebble Beach, California
6. Royal Melbourne Golf Club – Melbourne, Australia
7. Shinnecock Hills Golf Club – Southampton, New York
8. Augusta National Golf Club – Augusta, Georgia
9. Pinehurst Country Club – Pinehurst, North Carolina
10. Royal County Down Golf Club – Newcastle, N. Ireland, United Kingdom

Did your favorite club make the Top 10? If not, leave us a comment telling us what course you just love to play!

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Why Not Play A Round?

Posted on April 10, 2013 by Elsa

As you read in our previous blog post this week, Sarasota/Manatee Counties have plenty of Private Golf Clubs offering unique membership opportunities and some of the best golf in Florida.

We are also lucky to have a variety of area golf courses as well, offering lower prices and more flexible tee times. Why not try one of the great courses out and play a round?

Buffalo Creek Golf Course, Palmetto – (941) 776-2611
Imperial Lakewoods Golf Club, Palmetto – (941) 747-4653
Palm View Hills Golf Course, Palmetto – (941) 722-2392
Terra Ceia Country Club, Palmetto – (941) 729-7663

Palmetto Pines Golf Club, Parrish – (941) 776-1375

Links at Greenfield Plantation, Bradenton – (941) 747-9432
Heather Hills Golf Club, Bradenton – (941) 758-8888
IMG Academy Golf Club, Bradenton – (941) 758-1464
Legacy Golf Club at Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton – (941) 907-7067
Manatee County Golf Club, Bradenton – (941) 792-6773
Peridia Golf & Country Club, Bradenton – (941) 758-2582
Pinebrook/Ironwood Golf Club, Bradenton – (941) 792-3288
River Run Golf Links, Bradenton – (941) 747-6331
River Strand Golf & Country Club, Bradenton – (941) 708-3617
Rosedale Golf & Tennis Club, Bradenton – (941) 756-0004
Stoneybrook Golf Club @ Heritage Harbor, Bradenton – (941) 746-2696
The Preserve at Tara, Bradenton – (941) 756-2944
The River Club, Bradenton – (941) 751-4211
Timbercreek Golf Club, Bradenton – (941) 794-8381
Waterlefe Golf & River Club, Bradenton – (941) 744-0393

Bent Tree Country Club, Sarasota – (941) 371-8200
Bobby Jones Golf Club, Sarasota – (941) 365-4653
Gator Creek Golf Club, Sarasota – (941) 924-1111
Gulf Gate Executive Golf Club, Sarasota – (941) 921-5515
Misty Creek Country Club, Sarasota – (941) 922-2188
Oak Ford Golf Club, Sarasota – (941) 371-3680
Rolling Green Golf Club, Sarasota – (941) 355-7621
Sarasota Golf Club, Sarasota – (941) 371-2431
Serenoa Golf Club, Sarasota – (941) 925-2755
Stoneybrook Golf & Country Club, Sarasota – (941) 966-1800
Tatum Ridge Golf Links, Sarasota – (941) 378-4211
The Groves, Sarasota – (941) 306-3144
The Meadows Country Club – Groves Golf Course, Sarasota
University Park Country Club, Sarasota – (941) 359-9999
Village Green Golf Club, Sarasota – (941) 922-9500

Calusa Lakes Golf Club, Nokomis – (941) 484-8995
Sorrento Par 3, Nokomis – (941) 966-4884

Bird Bay Executive Golf Club, Venice – (941) 485-9333
Capri Isle Golf Club, Venice – (941) 485-3371
Lake Venice Golf Club, Venice – (941) 488-3948mist
Pelican Pointe Golf & Country Club, Venice – (941) 496-4653
Sarasota National Troon Golf, Venice – (941) 496-8676
Venice East Golf Club, Venice – (941) 493-0005
Waterford Golf Club, Venice – (941) 484-6621

Bobcat Trail Golf Club, North Port – (941) 429-0500
Heron Creek Golf & Country Club, North Port – (941) 423-6955
Sabal Trace, North Port – (941) 426-2804

Myakka Pines Golf Club, Englewood – (941) 474-3296
Oyster Creek Golf Club, Englewood – (941) 475-0334
Boca Royale Golf & Country Club, Englewood – (941) 474-7475

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This Week’s Featured Listing

Posted on April 9, 2013 by Elsa

7207 Broughton St, Sarasota
Listed at $475,000

Exuding romance and charm, this rare 1929 historical Sarasota treasure effortlessly combines history, style and elegance in perfect unison with the famed design of architect Ralph Twitchell. Nestled among the grand oaks and just steps away to Sarasota Bay,
this treasure boasts 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths in the main house, and one bedroom,
one bath in the guest bungalow. Entertain in the formal dinning room, and then retreat to the grande living room, where your eyes will marvel at the unique blends of finishings from the pecky cypress walls and exposed beams, to the slate, quarry tile and wood floors. Enjoy your mornings in the sunroom, and then drift outside and lounge by the pool, surrounded by a tropical paradise. The guest bungalow is ideal for overnight quests, or mother-in-law-suite. Perfectly situated just minutes from eclectic downtown Sarasota, the Arts and Theatre District, and world famous beaches.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Call Lisa Kartz @ (941) 587-3602 or send her an email at lkartz@verizon.net

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Looking for That Perfect Place to Play Golf?

Posted on April 8, 2013 by Elsa

Well, you’re in luck! If it’s one thing that Sarasota & Manatee counties have, its golf… and some of the finest around! Not only are we fortunate to have Sara Bay Country Club right in our very own backyard, we have the luxury of a variety of private / semi-private clubs and area courses to fit anyone’s skill level and price range.

Here’s a breakdown of the private clubs in our area. We hope you find one of these to be “that perfect place to play golf”.

River Wilderness Golf & Country Club
River Wilderness Golf and Country Club is a private, member-owned Club located in the Sarasota/Manatee County area. The Club borders the north shore of the historic Manatee River just off Interstate 75. It is convenient to both Sarasota and Tampa Bay commercial, retail and entertainment areas, yet it is a secluded (gated with 24-hour guard) golf and boating community. The golf course, designed by Ted McAnlis, is situated on 150 acres of pristine landscape and is a part of the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary System which blends the property’s natural beauty with an abundance of wildlife. The beautiful 27,000-square-foot Clubhouse boasts a myriad of activities to suit everyone’s needs.
www.riverwildernesscc.com

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Bradenton Country Club
Designed by architect Donald Ross in 1924, and completely renovated by Ron Garl in 1999. The Bradenton Country Club course presents a challenge for golfers of all ages and abilities. Each hole is unique with bunkers and well groomed fairways that follow the natural contours of the land and the occasional water hazard to test your mettle. Our golf course is one of the most beautiful and challenging in the area. The course features beautifully manicured fairways with undulating greens of tift eagle. The greens are a mixture of tift eagle Bermuda, which provide smooth, and firm putting surfaces that roll to a stimp meter speed of 10 to 10.5 on average.
bradentoncc.org

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The Concession Golf Club
Named “Best New Private Course of 2006” by Golf Digest,The Concession will be home to the 2015 NCAA Men’s & Women’s Championships. This marks the first time in history of the competition that the same course will serve as the site for both tournaments in consecutive weeks. The course was designed n honor of that great moment in the 1969 Ryder cup when Jack Nicklaus conceded a putt to Tony Jacklin. That gesture, known as “the concession” rendered the two teams in a time – the first in Ryder Cup history.
theconcession.com

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Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club
The Royal Lakes course makes 3 unique, Championship courses at Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club. Each poses a different challenge including: bunkers, water, forced carries, hazards and length. Offering many sets of tee boxes, the courses can be challenged by many different skill levels. As a member you have the privilege to play all 54 holes, Cypress Links, King’s Dunes and Royal Lakes. They are all part of the Private Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club. With the luxury of 3 pristine golf courses you have the unique opportunity to play some of the most exciting and well manicured courses in the area.
www.lakewoodranchgolf.com

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Palm-Aire Country Club
Palm Aire Country Club is a truly Private Member-owned Club. From the beauty and challenge of our two championship golf courses to the vigorous activities at our Athletic Center, Palm Aire Country Club members enjoy the camaraderie of membership and some of the finest service and amenities available in the Sarasota-Bradenton area. Enjoy the beauty and challenge of our two superb 18-hole championship golf courses. The Champions and The Lakes courses are ranked among the best in Florida by Golfweek Magazine. Five tee box locations on each hole accommodate every level of play.
www.palmaire.net

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Sara Bay Country Club
Founded in 1926, Sara Bay Country Club is a private, member-owned golf club located just north of downtown Sarasota, Florida’s cultural capital, and is a short drive from the adjacent keys of Longboat, Bird, Lido, St. Armands and Siesta Key. Designed by legendary architect Donald Ross, Sara Bay is widely recognized as one of Florida’s most prestigious golf clubs. The low membership charter ensures course availability when desired, and a comfortable pace of play, whether walking or riding.
www.sarabaycc.org

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The Meadows Country Club
Golf is truly the centerpiece of The Meadows Country Club. While it is one of the largest country clubs in Southwest Florida, the enjoyable small club atmosphere is our signature feature. The club offers 54 holes of golf which include two championship courses (the Meadows and Highlands) that are very challenging, yet fair, for golfers of all levels to enjoy. The third course (the Groves), is a short course designed by famed architect Arthur Hill, and it will test every aspect of your game. We pride ourselves in providing exceptional conditions on all 3 golf courses which are set in spectacular, mature Sarasota landscapes. Lakes, ponds, trees, flowers, and the ever-present wildlife are an integral part of the Meadows golf experience.
www.meadowscc.org

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Longboat Key Club
This Four Diamond, beachfront resort offers an unparalleled array of distinctive amenities – all at one spectacular location. Set on the pristine barrier island of Longboat Key, just off the coast of Sarasota, our 45 holes of championship golf are bordered by the azure blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico and beautiful Sarasota Bay. Named as one of the “Best Places to Play” by Golf Digest and named the #1 Tennis Resort on the Gulf Coast of Florida by Tennis Magazine, Club members and guests of our resort enjoy exclusive access to our unique offerings and exceptional service. Six distinctive restaurants, Island House Spa, Fitness Center, Mind & Motion Studio and the largest storm protected Marina on the West Coast of Florida offer an unparalleled luxury retreat for discerning individuals.
www.longboatkeyclub.com

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The Founders Club
The Founders Club offers the coveted privilege of year-round golf with the blissful absence of tee times. Set within the lush, sculpted landscape of our community, the 18-hole, Robert Trent Jones, Jr. signature course honors the native Florida landscape and engages golfers of all skill levels. Here, a traditional caddie program means you can walk the course at your leisure and the pro shop is staffed with seasoned professionals ready to help you reach the top of your game. Our new teaching studio, the Florida Golf Performance Center, features indoor and outdoor hitting areas, state of the art video technology, including the Track Man doppler radar system. UK instructor Terry Hanson, offers programs that cater to  amateur and advanced competitors.
thefoundersgolfclub.com

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Laurel Oak Country Club
With 36 holes, 18 by Gary Player and 18 by Rees Jones, each course has its own unique style and feel, providing a variety of playing experiences. From the “tips”, they are the most challenging two course test of golf in the Sarasota area. With 7 rated tees on both courses, there is a distance and difficulty appropriate for any level of golfer. Two courses allow for at least one to always be open, regardless of maintenance or events. We have many social and competitive events for men, women and mixed, so if you are looking for games, you will have no problem finding groups to play with. For those interested in a round with friends and family, or business entertainment, tee times are always available for individual play.
www.laureloak.com

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TPC Prestancia
Nestled within the prestigious Palmer Ranch neighborhood, TPC Prestancia features two 18-hole championship golf courses. The Stadium Course and the Club Course sprawl out over 565 acres of lush landscape, providing players with a balance of aesthetics, spectacular coastal wildlife and outstanding playing conditions. Off the course, Members enjoy the elegant Mediterranean-style  Clubhouse featuring casual and fine dining, private rooms for business meetings and intimate gatherings, as well as Men’s and Ladies’ locker rooms. In addition, swimming, fitness and tennis are available at a nearby reciprocal facility.
www.tpcprestancia.com

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Mission Valley Country Club
The golf course was designed in the late 1960’s by David Wallace with the greens and tees in close proximity which lends itself as a great walking course. The course is located in a country setting with few homes located on its borders, settled on over 200 acres with several lakes scattered throughout. The course has benefitted from a long standing capital improvement commitment, creating a championship set of tees at 6,734 yards and other tees that are handicap oriented. An active and fun golf events calendar is organized throughout the year. If tennis is your game, Mission Valley has three Har-Tru tennis courts open every day from early morning until sunset.
www.missionvalleycc.com

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Jacaranda West Country Club
Jacaranda West Country Club is a private, member-owned and member-operated club with the friendliest members as well as the best golf, tennis and social membership in the area. We welcome new members with packages and pricing designed to meet your needs, whether you’re interested in a little or a lot of golf, regular tennis, or a place to dine among friends. Children are free playing golf under the family’s package, and under 55 members get a special rate. You don’t have to live in the Jacaranda West community to become a member.
www.jacwestcc.com

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Plantation Golf & Country Club
Serene natural views and sparkling fountain-sprayed lakes set the tone for an inspired day of golf at the beautiful Venice Florida golf courses at Plantation Golf and Country Club. Our Ron Garl designed, Two 18 hole courses, offer 36-hole championship holes of golf in Southwest Florida, and feature two distinctive layouts, providing challenging play and a rewarding golf experience at every level. Maintained year round, Plantation’s courses are perfect for those who demand the finest playing conditions. This commitment to excellence puts Plantation among the greatest private golf courses in Florida and the proud home for the LPGA Annual Tour Qualifier.
www.plantationgcc.com
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