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. As of 2025, the golf scene in Lakewood Ranch has expanded to include 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 is the crown jewel of the community, now offering 72 holes of championship golf across four distinct courses: Cypress Links, King’s Dunes, Royal Lakes, and the recently acquired Legacy Golf Club. This expansion solidifies its status as a premier golf destination. Members enjoy access to two award-winning practice facilities, a golf academy, and a professional fitting center.

Beyond golf, the club features three full-service restaurants, a 20,000-square-foot fitness center, two resort-style pools, 20 tennis courts, and 20 pickleball courts. 2025 Membership Update: Initiation fees for full golf memberships are approximately $85,000, with annual dues around $14,400. Membership categories include Golf, Sports, and Social, and the club remains open to both Lakewood Ranch residents and non-residents, though waitlists may apply.

Esplanade Golf & Country Club is a luxury gated community featuring an 18-hole championship golf course designed to be as beautiful as it is playable. As a bundled golf community, membership privileges are included with the purchase of a "Golf Deeded" home, ensuring a seamless lifestyle for residents.

Residents enjoy resort-style amenities, including a culinary center, wellness spa, fitness center, and Har-Tru tennis courts. Homes range from maintenance-free villas to estate residences. For 2025, annual HOA and club fees vary by village but generally cover full access to the club’s extensive social and recreational calendar.

Country Club East is a gated sanctuary known for its privacy and lush landscaping. While it does not operate its own separate golf club, it is historically linked to the Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club. Many residents choose to join the nearby club for access to its 72 holes of golf and social facilities.

Within the gates, residents have exclusive access to The Retreat, an aquatic and fitness center with a resort-style pool and clubhouse. Country Club East features a broad mix of home styles, from custom estates to maintenance-free villas, all located just minutes from the new Waterside Place dining and entertainment hub.

Lakewood National Golf Club has quickly become one of the most desirable bundled golf communities in Florida. It boasts two 18-hole championship courses designed by Arnold Palmer Design Company: the Commander and the Piper. Because golf privileges are bundled with homeownership, there is no massive initiation fee—just a one-time capital contribution and annual fees included in your community costs.

The lifestyle at Lakewood National is vibrant and active. Amenities include a grand clubhouse with dining, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a full-service day spa, and a resort pool with a tiki bar. The community offers a diverse range of real estate, from terrace condos to executive single-family homes, making it a top choice for seasonal and full-time residents alike.

Del Webb Lakewood Ranch is the area’s premier 55+ active adult community. While it does not have an on-site golf course, its strategic location offers residents easy access to public and semi-private courses, including The Legacy (now part of LWRG&CC) and University Park Country Club.

The focus here is on social connection and wellness. The lakeside clubhouse features a resort-style pool, fitness center, movement studio, and courts for pickleball, tennis, and bocce. It is an ideal option for buyers who want the "country club lifestyle" without the mandatory golf fees.

The Lake Club stands as one of Lakewood Ranch’s most exclusive enclaves. Known for its grand Tuscan and modern coastal architecture, this community is purely residential but offers a lifestyle that rivals any country club. The private Grande Clubhouse includes a fitness center, billiard room, two resort pools, and an exclusive dining lounge.

While there is no golf course within the gates, many residents hold memberships at the adjacent Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club or the private Concession Golf Club nearby. This separation allows residents to choose the golf membership that best fits their game while enjoying the privacy of a non-golf course community.

Calusa Country Club is the newest addition to the Lakewood Ranch golf scene. This bundled golf community features a unique 30-hole setup: a challenging 18-hole championship course and a 12-hole executive course, perfect for a quick round.

For 2025, Calusa offers an Annual Golf Pass Program (approx. $5,000 for individuals, $7,500 for families) that provides flexible access while the community matures. Residents will eventually enjoy a full suite of amenities, including a clubhouse, burger bar, resort pool, and extensive fitness facilities. With Lennar offering a variety of new construction homes, Calusa represents one of the few opportunities to buy new in a golf community in 2025.

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, we can help you navigate the nuances of bundled vs. equity memberships to find your perfect fit. Connect with Sheldon, Gettel & Dahl today to make your next move in Lakewood Ranch with confidence.