A Gulf Coast vacation can include plenty of time on the beach without putting your golf clubs away. Sarasota and Manatee counties offer a strong collection of public courses within driving distance of Siesta Key and Anna Maria Island, giving players options for championship layouts, municipal courses, and relaxed vacation rounds.
From historic Sarasota greens to popular Bradenton, FL, public golf courses, these destinations make it easy to add a tee time to your itinerary. Staying in Siesta Key vacation rentals near golf courses can also give your group convenient access to both the fairways and Gulf beaches.
Golf Courses Near Siesta Key
Some of the most convenient golf courses near Siesta Key are found on the mainland in Sarasota. Travelers staying farther north can also explore golf courses near Lido Key, creating several possibilities for a morning round followed by an afternoon near the water.
Bobby Jones Golf Club
Bobby Jones Golf Club is Sarasota’s historic municipal course. Its 18-hole Championship Course was originally designed by Donald Ross and opened in 1926 before undergoing a major renovation completed in 2023. The property also offers a nine-hole adjustable par-3 course and practice facilities.
Public players can reserve tee times up to 14 days in advance. For visitors comparing public golf courses near Sarasota FL, Bobby Jones combines local history with an updated golf experience.
Serenoa Golf Club
Serenoa Golf Club is east of I-75 in Sarasota. Water plays a significant role in the course design, including a demanding opening stretch that requires players to think carefully about shot placement.
Its mainland location makes Serenoa an easy addition to a day away from the beach, especially for guests staying in Sarasota vacation rentals who want to explore more of the area’s golf scene.
Tatum Ridge Golf Links
Tatum Ridge Golf Links is another Sarasota option, located on North Tatum Road. Multiple tee sets allow golfers to choose a distance and level of difficulty that fits their game.
For vacation groups with players of different skill levels, that flexibility can make planning a shared round simpler.
Golf Courses Near Anna Maria Island
Travelers searching for the best public golf courses near Anna Maria Island can head east into Bradenton and the surrounding communities. Several courses are close enough for golf to fill only part of your vacation day.
Manatee County Golf Course
Manatee Golf Course is an 18-hole public facility owned by Manatee County. The course features TifEagle greens, five sets of tees, water hazards, a driving range, and putting and chipping areas. Tee times can be booked up to 14 days ahead, making advance reservations useful during busy travel periods.
River Run Golf Links
River Run Golf Links is the City of Bradenton’s municipal course. The par-70 layout opened in 1987 and includes a pro shop and food service, offering an approachable option for visitors looking to play in Bradenton.
Golfers researching IMG Academy golf public tee times may also encounter the IMG Academy Golf Club while exploring Bradenton-area options. Since access and tee-time policies can change, confirm current availability directly before building it into your plans.
Legacy Golf Club at Lakewood Ranch
Legacy Golf Club at Lakewood Ranch is an 18-hole course in the Lakewood Ranch area. Current Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club information identifies The Legacy as part of its private four-course club and notes that the course is undergoing renovation.
Because access policies may differ from other public courses in the region, visitors should contact the club directly before planning a round.
Tips for Planning a Golf Day During Your Vacation
Reserve tee times early, particularly during the winter and spring travel seasons. Morning rounds can help you avoid some of the day’s heat while leaving your afternoon open for the beach, boating, dining, or exploring Sarasota.
Check each course’s dress code, cancellation policy, rental club availability, and current conditions before leaving your vacation home. If your group is staying in Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, allow extra driving time when island traffic is heavier.
Plan Your Visit
Plan your ultimate golf trip near Siesta Key and Anna Maria Island by booking directly today!
Final Thoughts
Siesta Key and Anna Maria Island give golfers access to several courses across Sarasota and Bradenton. From the restored Donald Ross design at Bobby Jones to Manatee County’s convenient public course, there are choices for different skill levels and vacation schedules.
Choosing Siesta Key vacation rentals also makes it easy to balance tee times with beach days, dining, boating, and time together along Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Book Your Siesta Key or Anna Maria Island Vacation Rental with The Cottages on the Key
The Cottages on the Key offers luxury vacation homes across Siesta Key, Anna Maria Island, Sarasota, and nearby Gulf Coast communities. Our team provides personalized service to help families and groups find a home with the space, amenities, and location that complement their plans.
Browse our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals and Siesta Key properties to create a trip that gives your group easy access to golf, beaches, restaurants, and memorable coastal experiences.
Sources
Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club
Bobby Jones Golf Club – Official Website