Disclaimer: CountryClubMag.com is an independent resource and is not associated with any of the clubs on this website. Club initiation and membership cost information are estimates only and should not be relied upon for making club membership decisions.

Nestled along the picturesque shores of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Lago Mar Country Club is a haven of luxury and leisure, where world-class amenities and pristine natural beauty unite to create an unforgettable escape. With its lush golf courses, elegant dining, and an array of recreational offerings, Lago Mar Country Club is the quintessential destination for those seeking a refined yet relaxed lifestyle in one of South Florida’s most coveted communities.

Whether you’re a golf enthusiast, a culinary connoisseur, or simply in search of tranquility by the sea, Lago Mar Country Club invites you to experience the epitome of country club living in the heart of Fort Lauderdale.

Lago Mar Country Club History and Founding

Lago Mar Country Club was founded in 1969 by Mr. Walter Banks, who owned the Lago Mar Resort Hotel on Ft. Lauderdale Beach. The course was designed by Bill Watts, a renowned golf course architect who also designed the Sunrise Country Club and the Miami Lakes Country Club.

The course was originally a par 71 but was changed to a par 72 in 1998. It measures 7,053 yards from the longest tees and features a variety of challenges, including water hazards, sand traps, and rolling terrain.

In 2009, the club underwent a major renovation that included the redesign of the greens, tees, and bunkers. The renovation was led by Kipp Schulties, a renowned golf course architect who has also designed courses such as the TPC Sawgrass Stadium Course and the Doral Golf Resort & Spa.

The renovated Lago Mar Country Club is now considered to be one of the premier golf courses in South Florida. It has hosted a number of professional and amateur tournaments, including the USGA Senior Amateur Championship in 2013.

The club is located in Plantation, Florida, and is a private club. It has a membership of over 500 families.

Here is a brief history of the architects of Lago Mar Country Club:

Bill Watts (1931-2015) was a renowned golf course architect who designed over 200 courses in the United States. He was known for his creative designs that incorporated the natural features of the land. Some of his most notable courses include the Sunrise Country Club, the Miami Lakes Country Club, and the Lago Mar Country Club.
Kipp Schulties is a golf course architect who has designed over 100 courses in the United States. He is known for his modern designs that are challenging yet playable. Some of his most notable courses include the TPC Sawgrass Stadium Course, the Doral Golf Resort & Spa, and the Lago Mar Country Club.

Famous Golf Tournament held at Lago Mar Country Club

The most famous golf tournament held at Lago Mar Country Club in Lauderdale, FL is the Florida Senior Amateur Championship. It is a 36-hole stroke play event for amateur golfers who are 55 years of age or older. The tournament is hosted by the Florida State Golf Association (FSGA) and has been played at Lago Mar Country Club since 2009.

The 2023 Florida Senior Amateur Championship will be held on October 16-17, 2023. The course will be set up at 6,650 yards and par 72. The defending champion is Michael Golden of Naples, FL.

Other golf tournaments that have been held at Lago Mar Country Club include:

The Florida Mid-Amateur Four-Ball Championship
The Palm Beach Senior Championship
The Palm Beach Junior-Senior Championship
The Florida Net Four-Ball Championship
The Dixie Senior & Mid-Master Championship
The Florida Winter Series

The course is known for its rolling fairways, challenging greens, and stunning views of the Intracoastal Waterway.

Lago Mar Country Club Membership Costs and Dues

The estimated and rumored membership costs and dues for Lago Mar Country Club in Lauderdale, Florida are as follows:

Estimated initiation fee: $50,000
Estimated annual dues: $20,000
Rumored initiation fee: $100,000
Rumored annual dues: $30,000

Here are the different membership types offered by Lago Mar Country Club:

Full Golf Membership: This membership includes full privileges to the golf course, tennis courts, dining facilities, and social events.
Young Executive Golf Membership: This membership is for golfers under the age of 41 and includes the same privileges as the Full Golf Membership.
Sports Membership: This membership includes full privileges to the tennis courts and pickleball courts, as well as dining facilities and social events.
Social Membership: This membership includes dining facilities and social events, but does not include access to the golf course or tennis courts.

Here are some additional details about the membership costs that I found from my research:

The initiation fee is typically paid upfront, but it may be possible to finance it.
The annual dues are due in installments throughout the year.
There may be additional fees for things like golf cart rentals, lessons, and events.
The membership prices are subject to change.

Lago Mar Country Club Amenities

Lago Mar Country Club in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, typically offers a wide range of amenities and facilities to cater to the interests and desires of its members.

Here are some common amenities you might find at a prestigious country club like Lago Mar:

Golf Courses: Country clubs often feature championship golf courses designed to challenge and delight golf enthusiasts. Lago Mar likely offers meticulously maintained fairways and greens.
Tennis Courts: Tennis facilities with both hard and clay courts, as well as professional instruction and league play opportunities.
Swimming Pools: Resort-style swimming pools for both relaxation and exercise.
Dining: Fine dining restaurants, casual eateries, and bars where members can enjoy exquisite cuisine and socialize.
Spa and Fitness Center: State-of-the-art fitness centers equipped with the latest exercise equipment and often include spa services such as massages and treatments.
Social Events: Regularly scheduled social events, parties, and themed gatherings to foster a sense of community among members.
Junior Programs: Special activities and events designed for junior members, including golf and tennis programs.
Private Event Spaces: Banquet and event spaces for weddings, parties, and corporate events.
Pro Shops: Golf and tennis pro shops offering equipment, clothing, and expert advice.
Boating and Water Activities: Some clubs with waterfront locations may offer marinas, water sports, and access to boating activities.
Kids’ Clubs: Childcare services and programs designed to keep young members engaged and entertained.
Fitness Classes: Group fitness classes such as yoga, Pilates, and spinning.
Concierge Services: Assistance with reservations, event planning, and other personalized services.

Lago Mar Country Club Event Information and Dining Options

Lago Mar Country Club, like many private clubs and event venues, can host a variety of events and celebrations.

Here are some common types of events that you can celebrate at Lago Mar Country Club:

Weddings: Lago Mar is an ideal location for weddings, offering beautiful settings for ceremonies and receptions. The club often provides wedding packages and event planning services to help create a memorable day.
Anniversaries: Whether you’re celebrating a milestone anniversary or a special occasion with loved ones, the club’s elegant dining facilities can provide a perfect backdrop for your celebration.
Corporate Events: Lago Mar may host corporate meetings, conferences, and business events. They often offer meeting spaces, audiovisual equipment, and catering services.
Golf Tournaments: If you’re an avid golfer or part of a golf group, you can organize golf tournaments and outings at the club’s golf course.
Private Parties: Lago Mar can accommodate a wide range of private parties, including birthday parties, retirement celebrations, and family reunions.
Holiday Parties: Many clubs host festive holiday parties for their members, providing a great opportunity to celebrate with friends and family.
Charity Events: Some clubs host charity fundraisers, auctions, and benefit events to support local causes and nonprofit organizations.
Social Gatherings: Lago Mar often organizes social events and gatherings for members to enjoy, including themed parties, dances, and live entertainment.
Junior Member Events: Clubs often offer special events and activities for junior members and their families.
Cultural and Educational Events: Some clubs host cultural events, guest speaker series, and educational seminars for their members.

Private country clubs like Lago Mar offer a range of dining experiences to cater to their members’ preferences.

Here are some common dining options you might find at Lago Mar Country Club:

Fine Dining Restaurant: Many country clubs have an upscale, formal dining restaurant that offers gourmet cuisine and an elegant atmosphere. This is often a place for members to enjoy special occasions or a romantic dinner.
Casual Dining: Clubs typically have casual dining options such as a grill room or bistro. These areas are more relaxed and are ideal for enjoying a casual lunch or dinner with friends and family.
Bar or Lounge: Some clubs have a bar or lounge area where members can enjoy drinks, cocktails, and light snacks in a comfortable and social setting.
Outdoor Dining: Given the beautiful Florida weather, many country clubs offer outdoor dining options, often overlooking golf courses, water features, or scenic landscapes.
Private Dining Rooms: Private dining rooms are available for members who want to host private events, meetings, or gatherings in a more intimate setting.
Poolside Snack Bar: If the club has a pool, there may be a poolside snack bar offering a variety of refreshments and light meals.
Catering and Banquet Services: Country clubs often offer catering services for special events like weddings, parties, and corporate meetings, allowing members to host events at the club.
Special Theme Nights: Some clubs have themed dining nights or special culinary events, such as wine tastings, seafood nights, or barbecue evenings.

Lago Mar Country Club Dress Code and Guest Policy

Lago Mar Country Club in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, like many private country clubs, likely has specific dress codes and guest policies to maintain a certain level of decorum and uphold the club’s atmosphere.

Here’s a general guideline you can expect at many country clubs:

Dress Code:

Golf Course: Proper golf attire is typically required, which includes collared shirts, slacks or golf shorts, and golf-appropriate shoes (soft spikes). Some clubs may have specific dress code rules regarding the type and color of shorts and shirts allowed.
Dining Facilities: Dining dress codes may vary depending on the specific restaurant or dining area within the club. Fine dining areas usually require more formal attire, such as collared shirts, slacks, dresses, and closed-toe shoes. Casual dining areas may have a more relaxed dress code but still typically prohibit swimwear, workout attire, and excessively casual clothing.
Swimming Pool: Swimwear is generally acceptable in pool areas, but cover-ups and appropriate footwear (e.g., flip-flops or sandals) are often required when outside the pool area.

Guest Policy:

Country clubs often have guest policies in place to manage guest access and ensure a positive experience for members. The specific guest policies, including the number of guests allowed, guest fees, and restrictions, can vary from one club to another. Typically, the following guidelines apply:

Member Sponsorship: Guests are usually required to be sponsored by a club member. The sponsoring member is often responsible for ensuring their guest complies with club rules and policies.
Limits on Guests: There may be restrictions on the number of times a guest can visit the club in a given period, as well as the number of guests a member can bring on a particular visit.
Guest Fees: Clubs often charge guest fees, which can vary depending on the guest’s relationship with the member (e.g., family, friends, business associates).
Reservations: Members should typically make reservations for their guests in advance, especially for dining or events.

In conclusion, Lago Mar Country Club in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is a distinguished haven of luxury and leisure, offering a blend of timeless elegance and modern amenities. With its scenic golf courses, upscale dining options, and a wide array of recreational activities, Lago Mar Country Club stands as a testament to the charm and prestige of the country club lifestyle.

Whether you’re a golf enthusiast, a connoisseur of fine dining, or seeking a vibrant social community by the sea, Lago Mar Country Club invites you to experience a world of refined relaxation and camaraderie. It’s a place where moments of tranquility and excitement come together, creating unforgettable memories for members and guests alike.

Lago Mar Country Club Fort Lauderdale FL | Membership Cost, Amenities, History, What To Know When Visiting