The Ultimate Guide to Lakewood Ranch Golf Memberships

Lakewood Ranch is one of the country's most carefully planned residential communities, spanning over 33,000 acres across southeastern Manatee and northeastern Sarasota counties. Known for its upscale neighborhoods, resort-style amenities, and well-integrated shopping and dining districts, Lakewood Ranch appeals to those seeking a refined and active lifestyle.

Golf plays a significant role in the area’s appeal, attracting serious players and casual enthusiasts who value well-maintained courses, scenic backdrops, and a social club experience. The golf scene in Lakewood Ranch includes several private, semi-private, and bundled membership options. Players can choose between championship courses, short executive layouts, and extensive practice facilities. Memberships often go beyond the game, offering access to fitness centers, pools, spas, tennis courts, and exclusive dining venues.

This guide outlines the standout communities offering golf memberships in Lakewood Ranch, each with its own character, amenities, and real estate offerings.

Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club offers 72 holes of championship golf across four courses, including the recently added Legacy Golf Club. Members can access extensive practice areas, a golf academy, and a fitting center. The club also features three full-service restaurants, a 20,000-square-foot fitness center, two resort-style pools, 20 tennis courts, and 20 pickleball courts.

Membership categories include Golf, Sports, and Social, catering to various interests and lifestyles. The club is open to both Lakewood Ranch residents and non-residents. Nearby shopping options include Main Street at Lakewood Ranch, offering upscale boutiques and dining establishments.

Esplanade Golf & Country Club is a gated community featuring an 18-hole championship golf course. Residents enjoy resort-style amenities, including a clubhouse, fitness center, spa, and tennis courts. The community offers a bundled golf membership, which includes golf privileges with home ownership.

Homes in Esplanade range from single-family residences to condominiums, catering to diverse preferences. The community's location provides convenient access to shopping centers and unique boutiques in Lakewood Ranch.

Country Club East is a gated community within Lakewood Ranch that showcases a broad mix of home styles, including custom estates, single-family homes, and maintenance-free villas. Built around beautifully landscaped streets and lakes, the community emphasizes privacy and elegant living. Home designs reflect modern architectural trends with clean lines, open layouts, and high-end finishes.

Residents of Country Club East have access to The Retreat, a private amenity center that includes a resort-style pool, a well-equipped fitness center, and a clubhouse with social spaces. Though the community does not include a golf course, residents can apply for membership at Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club, which is only a short drive away. The central location of Country Club East also makes it convenient for accessing Waterside Place.

Lakewood National Golf Club is a premier bundled golf community known for its two Arnold Palmer-designed 18-hole championship courses. These courses are professionally maintained year-round and offer a diverse mix of hole designs, elevation changes, and water features, making them suitable for competitive players and social rounds. Because the community is bundled, all homeowners automatically receive golf privileges, which removes the need for a separate golf membership and ensures widespread access to club facilities.

The amenities at Lakewood National go well beyond golf. Residents enjoy access to a large clubhouse with dining options, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a full-service spa, tennis and pickleball courts, and a resort-style pool with poolside service. Homes include a mix of single-family residences, coach homes, and condominiums, many with golf course or lake views. The community is close to downtown Lakewood Ranch and University Town Center, offering easy access to retail, restaurants, and entertainment.

Del Webb Lakewood Ranch is a 55+ active adult community designed for residents who prioritize health, activity, and social connection. The neighborhood features various home designs, including single-story models with open layouts and customizable options. This gated enclave includes miles of walking trails and carefully manicured landscaping that enhances the feeling of calm and retreat.

Though it does not feature an on-site golf course, Del Webb Lakewood Ranch residents can secure memberships at nearby golf clubs, including Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club. The amenity center includes a spacious clubhouse, resort-style pool, modern fitness facilities, and courts for pickleball, tennis, and bocce. Its location just south of Main Street provides easy access to high-end shopping, independent boutiques, and well-regarded restaurants.

The Lake Club is one of Lakewood Ranch’s most prestigious gated communities, featuring custom homes by some of the area’s top luxury builders. Properties range from expansive estates to Mediterranean-inspired residences, each built on oversized lots with architectural detail and premium finishes. Many homes include courtyards, wine rooms, and covered lanais, adding to the upscale residential experience.

Homeowners can access golf through nearby clubs such as Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club. The Lake Club’s Grande Clubhouse includes a full fitness center, yoga studio, dining lounge, tennis courts, and a resort-style pool. The neighborhood’s location also allows for quick trips to Waterside Place and other shopping destinations where residents can explore luxury boutiques, fine dining, and seasonal events.

Calusa Country Club is a newer bundled golf community with an 18-hole championship course and a 12-hole executive course, making it ideal for golfers of all skill levels. The bundled membership structure includes golf privileges with home ownership, allowing every resident to enjoy the club’s offerings without additional fees. The two courses are thoughtfully designed to provide scenic views, manageable challenges, and excellent playability throughout the year.

The community includes an array of housing types, including single-family homes, coach homes, and condominiums, offering flexibility for both seasonal and full-time residents. Calusa’s location provides quick access to Lakewood Ranch and surrounding shopping centers, including The Green and University Town Center, where visitors can enjoy name-brand retailers, upscale markets, and stylish boutiques.

If you’re looking to buy or sell in Lakewood Ranch, Sheldon, Gettel & Dahl offer the expertise, insight, and personalized service you need. This award-winning team delivers a high standard of real estate guidance, combining decades of experience with a deep understanding of the Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch markets. With over $1 billion in combined sales and a commitment to working directly with every client, Sheldon, Gettel & Dahl provide tailored service and consistent results.

Connect with Sheldon, Gettel & Dahl today to make your next move in Lakewood Ranch with confidence.