Sarasota's Finest Clubs: The 2025 Edition

Sarasota, Fla., continues to shine in 2025 as a beacon of refined living, celebrated for its stunning beaches, vibrant cultural scene, and exceptional quality of life. For those seeking a lifestyle that blends leisure with luxury, the area’s top-tier country clubs offer the perfect escape.

From hosting major professional tournaments to unveiling multimillion-dollar renovations, these clubs provide everything from world-class golf courses to luxurious dining and social calendars packed with exclusive events. Whether you are looking for the equestrian prestige of equestrian communities or the waterfront allure of Sarasota's islands, here are the premier options for the 2025 season.

1. Founders Golf Club

Distinguishing Feature: Traditional Caddie Program & Low Density

Founders Golf Club remains one of Sarasota's most prestigious enclaves, celebrated for its low-density, member-owned community. The club’s centerpiece is the Robert Trent Jones, Jr. designed course, which honors the traditional Scottish links style with rolling fairways and natural landscapes. Unique to the region, Founders offers a traditional caddie program, allowing members to experience the game as it was meant to be played. The clubhouse features fine dining and a state-of-the-art fitness center, fostering a close-knit community spirit.

2. Sarasota Yacht Club

Distinguishing Feature: Premier Marina Services & Downtown Proximity

Situated near the vibrant downtown Sarasota area, Sarasota Yacht Club offers an exclusive waterfront lifestyle. Perfect for boating enthusiasts, the club provides world-class marina services and a robust calendar of nautical events, including the 2025 regatta series. Beyond the water, the club is a social haven with fine dining, a fitness center, and resort-style pools. Its location serves as a gateway to the beautiful waters surrounding Bird Key and Lido Key.

3. The Field Club

Distinguishing Feature: Historic 1927 Architecture & Clay Tennis Courts

Located in the historic West of Trail neighborhood, The Field Club is an elegant sanctuary on Sarasota Bay. Built in 1927, it seamlessly combines old-world charm with modern luxury. The club is renowned for its competitive tennis program on classic clay courts and a strong tradition of competitive play. Members also enjoy a private marina, fitness facilities, and exquisite dining in a waterfront clubhouse that feels like a timeless estate.

4. Laurel Oak Country Club

Distinguishing Feature: Two 18-Hole Courses by Gary Player & Rees Jones

A premier destination for golf enthusiasts, Laurel Oak Country Club features two 18-hole championship courses designed by Gary Player and Rees Jones. The courses are beautifully maintained to provide a variety of challenges for casual and serious golfers alike. Laurel Oak also offers a robust tennis program with 12 Har-Tru courts and a busy social calendar filled with themed parties and events. Real estate in this private, member-owned community continues to be highly desirable for those seeking an active, family-friendly environment.

5. The Ritz-Carlton Beach Club Sarasota

Distinguishing Feature: Ultra-Luxury Brand Service & Private Beach Access

Offering a luxurious experience on the white sands of Lido Key, The Ritz-Carlton Beach Club is synonymous with unmatched service. As part of the prestigious Ritz-Carlton brand, members enjoy private beach access, a zero-entry family pool, and the iconic Tiki Bar for sunset cocktails. With the excitement surrounding the new Ritz-Carlton Residences on Sarasota Bay in 2025, the brand continues to set the standard for ultra-luxury living.

6. Longboat Key Club

Distinguishing Feature: 45 Holes of Golf & Award-Winning Tennis Gardens

Located on the Gulf of Mexico, Longboat Key Club remains one of the area's most luxurious retreats. The club boasts 45 holes of championship golf with platinum paspalum greens and the award-winning Tennis Gardens, featuring 20 Har-Tru courts. Recent modernizations to the facilities ensure a contemporary feel, while the club continues to host over 250 annual events. It serves as the social anchor for residents of Longboat Key.

7. The Country Club of Sarasota

Distinguishing Feature: No Mandatory Membership & Palmer Ranch Location

Bordering the TPC at Prestancia, The Country Club of Sarasota offers a unique blend of casual elegance in the popular Palmer Ranch area. This gated community of single-family homes requires no mandatory membership, giving residents flexibility. However, many choose to join the nearby Serendipity Racquet Club for tennis and fitness amenities. Its location offers convenient access to Siesta Key beaches and the lifestyle amenities that make Palmer Ranch a top choice.

8. Sarasota Polo Club

Distinguishing Feature: Equestrian Lifestyle & Sunday Matches

For those drawn to equestrian communities, the Sarasota Polo Club in Lakewood Ranch offers a thrilling social scene. The upcoming season promises excitement, with Sunday Polo matches running from December 21, 2025, through April 12, 2026. The popular Sunset Polo Happy Hour returns in March 2026. Beyond the matches, the club’s spectacular grounds host concerts, festivals, and charity fundraisers.

9. Concession Golf Club

Distinguishing Feature: Host of the World Champions Cup & Jack Nicklaus Design

Designed by Jack Nicklaus and Tony Jacklin, Concession Golf Club is a premier destination for serious golfers. The club has solidified its reputation on the global stage and is set to host the prestigious World Champions Cup in December 2025. Located near Lakewood Ranch, this exclusive enclave offers challenging play and upscale luxury, including private dining and overnight lodging for members and their guests.

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