Sarasota, Bradenton, FL

Whether you are searching for world-class golf, a quaint seaside inn, a four-star resort, or a unique mixture of cultural events and amenities, Sarasota, located in the heart of Florida's Gulf Coast, has something to offer all travelers. Long known for its sandy white beaches, temperate climate, and sparkling blue waters, Sarasota offers an endless array of activities and attractions combined with a charm and style befitting any vacationer. Visit the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art and Ringling Mansion and see priceless painting and ancient sculptures. Go deep see fishing for delicious Florida Grouper. Experience the local flavor at exquisite restaurants and local eateries. Window shop on St. Armand's Circle for the latest fashions and designs. Dig your feet into the sand and watch awesome sunsets. Or just play championship caliber golf courses day after day!

Consistently rated four stars by Golf Digest since 1996, University Park Golf Club offers 27 thrilling holes winding their way through natural woodlands and wetlands, all surrounded by canopies of southern live oak and slash pines.

Managed by Troon Golf and given 4.5 stars by Golf Digest, the Arnold Palmer designed Legacy at Lakewood Ranch is comprised of towering pines, majestic native oaks, and wetlands that serve as a stunning backdrop where Florida's coastal wildlife abounds.

Another four-star favorite on the Golf Digest list is the Ron Garl design at Oak Ford Golf Club. This track features three different nines distinguished by the predominant species of tree on each piece of land: Live Oaks, Palms, and Myrtle. All three nines are well manicured and provide an excellent challenge for visiting golfers of all levels.

Located in Bradenton, River Club incorporates extensive mounding with rolling fairways and undulating greens with water coming into play on 16 holes. The front nine is open off the tee; however, the back meanders through dense woodlands and marsh.

Chip Powell's layout at Venetian Golf & River Club challenges players without being overly penal. This terrific new course is set on 660 acres and provides panoramic views over the surrounding countryside.

Situated along the Manatee River in nearby Bradenton, Waterlefe is a virtual collection of signature golf holes designed by course architect Ted McAnlis. The course offers five sets of tees and features five unforgettable holes bordering the scenic Manatee River.

Of course, you can't play them all in one day so you will need a place to stay while visiting Sarasota and whether it you prefer vacation villas or gulf-side resorts, the area has plenty to offer, all within reasonable driving distance to the area's best courses.

For example, Gulfcoast Holiday Homes offers a wide range of three- and four-bedroom homes throughout the Sarasota/Bradenton area with each home coming fully equipped with washer/dryer, a supply of linens, kitchen utensils, and all appointments necessary for a "home away from home." Situated on a 600-foot stretch of white-sand beach, The Helmsley overlooks the Gulf of Mexico and is within walking distance of St. Armand's Circle with its fine shopping and dining. All guestrooms offer a morning newspaper, a small refrigerator for chilling beverages. On-site facilities and activities include two outdoor pools, shuffleboard, volleyball, poolside Tiki bar, and The Candlelight Dining Room and Lounge.

Just three miles from Lido Beach and St. Armand's Circle, Hyatt Sarasota Bay has 294 well-designed guestrooms and terrific resort facilities including a heated outdoor lagoon style pool with waterfalls. This popular hotel also features three restaurants and lounges ranging from light fare at the Hurricane Hut Pool Bar to succulent seafood in the Boathouse Restaurant.

Conveniently situated between Sarasota and Bradenton, the Hilton Garden Inn offers 115 guestrooms featuring complimentary high-speed Internet access, microwave, refrigerator, coffeemaker, hair dryer, iron and ironing board. On-site facilities include a fitness center, an outdoor pool and spa, and casual dining options.

Located just north of Sarasota and Longboat Key, Shorewalk Vacation Villas boasts 240 spacious two-bedroom/ two-bath villas complete with kitchen, living room, dining area, washer/dryer, and screened porch. Set within a 30-acre compound, Shorewalk has a wide variety of activities available including fishing ponds, pools, Jacuzzis, lighted tennis courts, volleyball, and billiards.

Timberwoods Vacation Villas features 112 two-bedroom, two-bath villas each with a fully equipped kitchen, washer/dryer, living room, dining room, screened lanai, closed garage with remote-control entry, cable television, and private phone. Golf groups love the extra space provided by the layout of these units.

There's truly something for all budgets in Sarasota, so be sure to consult with one of our "Golf Agents" if you have any questions. See you on the first tee!