Consistently rated four stars by Golf Digest since 1996, this course is the highest rated in the Sarasota area and one of the best in the state. Designed by Ron Garl, it offers 27 thrilling holes winding their way through natural woodlands and wetlands, all surrounded by canopies of southern live oak and slash pines. There's also a great practice facility and a unique, well-equipped pro shop.... more info.

There are very few semi-private clubs in the Sarasota area as challenging as River Club. The club is in Bradenton, convenient for visitors to both Tampa and Sarasota. Architect Ron Garl incorporated extensive mounding with rolling fairways, undulating greens, and numerous grass and pot bunkers. Although water comes into play on 16 holes, the front side is actually fairly open off the tee. However, the back meanders through dense woodlands so you'd better be hitting it straight by the turn.... more info.

Designed by talented architect Ron Garl, Oak Ford features three distinctly different nines: Live Oaks, Palms, and Myrtle. All are well manicured and provide a combination of water, wetland preserves, abundant wildlife and natural forests — all of this with hardly any homes in sight. Every combination of nines provides an interesting and challenging round. Without a doubt, Oak Ford is one of the area's finest golf clubs and a solid choice for any visiting golfer. In fact, Golf Digest's "Best Places to Play" rated Oak Ford 4.5 stars in 2006. Best of all, it's just 20 minutes east of... more info.