Golf Experiences You Will Never Fore-get.

By Lizzie Cole

Sarasota Scene is pleased to publish articles written by students at Ringling College of Art and Design. This is part of a collaborative program with creative writing instructor Sylvia Whitman to provide real life experiences to her students, many of whom will undoubtedly be our writers of tomorrow!  

For hundreds of years, golf has been considered the ultimate sport of luxury. It’s what CEOs, celebrities, and even presidents spend their days off doing. With its popularity, finding the best courses may seem difficult; however if you know what makes a good golf experience, it’s not hard at all. I asked several golfers what they looked for when choosing a course to play, and the answers were quite simple. “Scenic vistas,” said one. “You want a unique experience, not something that just weaves back and forth between a bunch of trees.” Most had similar responses, such as distinct, challenging holes, excellent caddy service, and “Really verdant.” Overall, the ideal experience seemed to rely on good conditions. One of the golfers explained, “It should be well cared for and maintained. You can tell when you’re in a nice place.” Taking all of these qualities into account, I decided to search for the best and most luxurious golf courses here in Sarasota.

If you’re a fan of sophistication and luxury, Esplanade may be the perfect fit for you. Located in Lakewood Ranch, it is considered one of the nicest public golf courses in Sarasota. Built in 2014, this high-end course is relatively new, and consists of 18 holes. Highlights of Esplanade include bunkers, water hazards, and undulating greens, making it great for locals and advanced golfers. With many difficult sand traps, you’re guaranteed a challenge. Players will be relieved to know that it is well maintained and cared for, containing better fairways and grass than most courses. Esplanade’s designer, Chris Wilczynski has created over 20 golf courses throughout his career, including upscale public, resort, private, and even residential courses. It’s only natural to expect a top-notch experience. Prices at Esplanade start at around $59 for non- residents. The course is open from 7:00 – 4:00, and is located on 12825 Malachite Drive in Lakewood Ranch.

Want a more old-fashioned experience? Lakewood National Country Club may be exactly what you’re looking for. Lakewood National Country Club has received excellent reviews since its opening, and provides an amazing golfing experience. Inspired by the “golden age” of golf architecture, it consists of rolling terrain, strategic concepts, and agrarian landscape. Blended together, these concepts create an intriguing golf course, with a stunning, yet natural feel. Lakewood National’s rustic, classic touch is something unique to the typically flat western Florida, and will offer local residents an experience unlike what they are used to. The course is full of distinctive topography, such as broad rolls, long ridges, and unexpected dips. Those looking for a challenge will find one in the contour and width of the course, as depending on the player’s skill the ball may either roll towards the target or completely disappear.

Built in 2017, Lakewood National contains 36 holes, and 7184 yards. Arnold Palmer, one of the most charismatic and famous golfers in history, designed each hole to have a distinctive appearance, offering risk and reward situations, and the opportunity to use strategy and imagination. Lakewood National Country Club is located at Lakewood Ranch. One round starts at about $90. The course is open 7:00-6:00, and is located at 17605 Lakewood National Parkway.

Perhaps your perfect course is something award winning. If so, you may want to look into University Park. Voted the #1 golf course in Southwest Florida, this semi-private club contains 27 stunning holes. The course has maintained its 4-star rating since 1996, and welcomes daily fee players. Those wishing to reserve a spot can book a tee time up to 3 days in advance. University Park’s golf course was designed by Ron Garl, an innovative architect, who strongly believes courses should “sit softly on the land.” The course is designed in a way that requires the player to use strategy and accuracy. Highlights of University Park include risk-reward situations, bunkers, and shots that require precision and commitment. University Park is open from 7:15-5:30. Prices start at around $49, and appropriate attire is required by the club. The course is located at 7671 The Park Blvd, University Park.

When it comes down to it, Sarasota is a great destination for those who love to play the game of golf. Players who aren’t afraid of a drive are also only an hour away from Streamsong resort, a luxurious location containing 2 of the top 20 courses in America. So, if you’re in the mood for a round of the most elegant sport in existence, you’re definitely in the right place.