The Concession vs. Lakewood Ranch Golf Club: A Luxury Comparison

For buyers seeking estate-level homes and a refined club lifestyle in Sarasota County, two names frequently top the list: The Concession and Lakewood Ranch Golf Club. Both communities offer multimillion-dollar residences, award-winning golf, and private amenities, but the experience in each is distinct.

If you're exploring $3M+ homes in Sarasota, understanding the nuances between these two gated communities can help determine which one better aligns with your priorities.

Location and Accessibility

The Concession is located on the eastern edge of Manatee County, bordering natural preserves and offering a more secluded setting. It's roughly 30 to 35 minutes from downtown Sarasota and the Gulf Coast beaches. The community is adjacent to the northeast corner of Lakewood Ranch, giving residents indirect access to retail centers, dining, and medical facilities without the density of a built-out village.

Lakewood Ranch Golf Club is situated within Lakewood Ranch’s Country Club East and Country Club West neighborhoods. It offers direct access to Lakewood Ranch Boulevard, University Parkway, and Main Street. The location is ideal for those who want proximity to shopping, restaurants, and community events. Travel time to downtown Sarasota is shorter, averaging 20 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic.

Home Styles and Lot Sizes

Both communities offer expansive homes, but their design standards and lot configurations vary significantly.

The Concession features custom estate homes with large lots that often exceed one acre. Homes are spaced farther apart, and architectural styles are carefully regulated for consistency and prestige. The minimum home size is 3,000 square feet, but most exceed 5,000 square feet. The homes often include extended motor courts, detached guest suites, and private pool complexes.

Lakewood Ranch Golf Club homes are found in both Country Club East and West. These neighborhoods include custom residences built by top regional builders. Lot sizes range from roughly one-third to one-half acre, depending on the village. Square footage varies from 3,000 to over 6,000 square feet. Many homes include lake or fairway views, and a variety of architectural styles are permitted, adding diversity to the streetscape.

Golf and Club Memberships

The Concession Golf Club is a private, invitation-only club with a single 18-hole championship course designed by Jack Nicklaus and Tony Jacklin. The course is known for its challenging layout and exclusivity, recently hosting major events like the World Champions Cup. There are no tee times, and membership is separate from homeownership. The club includes a practice facility, fine dining, and limited member events. It does not offer tennis or aquatics.

Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club features 54 holes of golf across three private courses: King’s Dunes, Cypress Links, and Royal Lakes. Membership is tiered, and homeowners in Country Club neighborhoods have access to club amenities. For a detailed breakdown of options, read our Ultimate Guide to Lakewood Ranch Golf Memberships. The club includes a fitness center, pickleball, tennis courts, swimming pools, and a full calendar of social activities and tournaments.

Amenities and Lifestyle Features

Residents of The Concession benefit from a quiet, private environment with limited public traffic. There are no commercial centers or non-residential uses within the gates. Walking trails and preserve views are prominent, and homes are bordered by protected green space. The community does not have a village center or community pool, maintaining its low-density character.

Lakewood Ranch Golf Club residents enjoy extensive amenities within and outside their neighborhoods. Country Club East features The Retreat, a resident clubhouse with a pool, fitness center, and gathering spaces. The broader Lakewood Ranch area includes multiple shopping centers, medical campuses, schools, and recreational facilities—all within golf cart distance or a short drive.

Which Community is Right for You?

When choosing between these two premier communities, consider the following:

• Club Experience: Do you prefer a golf-centric, quiet environment (The Concession) or a full-service resort with tennis and social buzz (LWR Golf Club)?
• Convenience vs. Privacy: Are you looking for proximity to Main Street's events, or do you prioritize the seclusion of a nature preserve?
• Space: Is a one-acre estate lot a necessity for your dream home design?
• Activity Level: How important are amenities like pickleball, lap pools, and group fitness classes to your daily routine?

Partner with the Sarasota Real Estate Experts

If you're considering luxury home options in The Concession or Lakewood Ranch Golf Club, Sheldon, Gettel & Dahl offer the experience and local knowledge to guide your search. Their team understands the distinct advantages of each community and works with buyers to evaluate floor plans, lot orientation, and club options.

Contact Sheldon, Gettel & Dahl to explore current listings, private tour options, and membership details that match your lifestyle and investment goals.