5 of the Best Places to Golf in Bradenton and Sarasota

A day out on the green is good for both the mind and the body. Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced golfer, the Bradenton and Sarasota area is home to some beautiful golf courses that you'll love visiting. Take a look at the following five:

Bradenton

1. Tara Golf and Country Club
6602 Drewry's Bluff

This member-owned facility features a par-72, 18-hole championship course that was re-designed by noted course designer Ron Garl in 2009. There’s also a full driving range and a pro shop on site, so you can stock up on the latest equipment or apparel. Golf lessons are taught by two PGA "class A" professionals and offer a great way for you to brush up on your game.

2. Legacy Golf Club at Lakewood Ranch
8255 Legacy Blvd

With an award-winning, Arnold Palmer Signature Design, Legacy Golf Club is known for its dramatic appearance and challenging layout, as nearly every hole of the 18-hole championship course is framed with sand and water. Guests can enjoy breakfast or lunch at Legacy Grille, which opens promptly at 7 a.m. and offers selections such as deli sandwiches and char-grilled chicken breasts.

3. Smuggler's Cove Adventure Golf
2000 Cortez Rd W

If miniature golf is more your speed, head to Smuggler's Cove, where you can enjoy 18 holes of mini golf while navigating through pirate ships and waterfalls. Smuggler's Cove Adventure Golf has been voted Best Mini-Golf in Florida for five years running, and is a great place to visit with the family.

Sarasota

4. Bobby Jones Golf Club
1000 Circus Blvd

This 45-hole municipal golf facility has a long history, with the first course having been designed in 1925 by revered course designer Donald Ross. Today, there are three courses to choose from: the 18-hole "American" course with a par of 71, the 18-hole "British" course with a par of 72, and a 9-hole "Executive" course with a par of 30. Bobby Jones Golf Club even offers rental golf clubs if you don't have your own, and there’s a golf shop on-site offering quality merchandise.

5. Misty Creek Country Club 
8954 Misty Creek Dr

This country club's tagline is "golf in nature's backyard," and indeed, golfing here makes you feel as though you're immersed in nature. Set in a wildlife preserve, the course is home to bald eagles. alligators, and bobcats, and it offers spectacular views of dense vegetation. The Misty Creek golf course—designed by Ted McAnlis—has a par of 72 and is always willing to make accommodations for golfers with disabilities.

These are just a few of the many lovely golf courses in Bradenton and Sarasota. Have you visited any other area courses not on this list? Let us know about them in the comments below!