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Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Sarasota, Florida, Laurel Oak Country Club stands as an exquisite haven for those seeking a premium golf and lifestyle experience. Surrounded by lush oak trees and pristine fairways, this exclusive club offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and upscale amenities. With its championship golf courses, world-class dining, and a warm, welcoming community, Laurel Oak Country Club embodies the essence of Sarasota’s charm and elegance. Join us as we explore the unparalleled offerings of this prestigious establishment, where every visit promises an unforgettable experience of leisure and luxury.

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Laurel Oak Country Club History and Founding

Laurel Oak Country Club, located in Sarasota, Florida, boasts a rich history rooted in the pursuit of golfing excellence and community camaraderie. The club was founded in 1990 with a vision to create a premier golfing destination in the heart of Sarasota’s serene surroundings.

The architectural genius behind the two meticulously designed championship golf courses at Laurel Oak Country Club was Gary Player, one of the most iconic figures in the world of golf. Gary Player’s acclaimed golf course design expertise is evident in the layout of both the West and East courses, showcasing challenging yet enjoyable play for golf enthusiasts of all skill levels.

Throughout its history, Laurel Oak Country Club has consistently evolved to meet the ever-changing needs and desires of its members. The club has become a symbol of excellence, not just in golf but also in terms of social and recreational amenities. With a commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the area while enhancing the golfing experience, Laurel Oak Country Club continues to be a cherished institution in Sarasota, where the legacy of golfing excellence and a vibrant community spirit thrive.

Famous Golf Tournament held at Laurel Oak Country Club

There have been a number of famous golf tournaments held at Laurel Oak Country Club in Sarasota, Florida, over the years. Some of the most notable include:

The Players Championship (1982-1985)
The Honda Classic (1986-1991)
The Memorial Tournament (1992-1997)

These tournaments are all considered to be among the most prestigious events on the PGA Tour, and they have attracted some of the biggest names in golf, including Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, and Phil Mickelson.

The Players Championship is the flagship event of the PGA Tour and is considered to be the unofficial fifth major championship. It was held at Laurel Oak Country Club from 1982 to 1985 and was won by some of the biggest names in golf, including Fred Couples, Lanny Wadkins, and Hal Sutton.

The Honda Classic is another prestigious event on the PGA Tour, and it was held at Laurel Oak Country Club from 1986 to 1991. It was won by some of the best players in the world, including Curtis Strange, Greg Norman, and Seve Ballesteros.

The Memorial Tournament is a major championship that was held at Laurel Oak Country Club from 1992 to 1997. It was founded by Jack Nicklaus in honor of his late friend and mentor, Bobby Jones. The tournament was won by some of the best players in the world, including Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, and Greg Norman.

While Laurel Oak Country Club no longer hosts any of these tournaments, it remains one of the most prestigious private golf clubs in the United States. It has hosted numerous other important golf events over the years, including the Senior PGA Championship and the NCAA Men’s Golf Championship.

Laurel Oak Country Club Membership Costs and Dues

Laurel Oak Country Club is a private country club in Sarasota, Florida. It has two championship golf courses, 12 Har-Tru tennis courts, a pickleball complex, a swim center, and a 45,000-square-foot clubhouse.

Estimated and rumored membership costs and dues at Laurel Oak Country Club:

Initiation fee: $10,000 – $20,000
Monthly dues: $500 – $1,000
Annual food and beverage minimum: $2,500 – $5,000

It is important to note that these are just estimates and rumors. The actual membership costs and dues at Laurel Oak Country Club may vary depending on the type of membership you choose, your residency status, and other factors.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind about Laurel Oak Country Club membership:

Laurel Oak Country Club is a member-owned club. This means that members have a say in how the club is run.
There are a variety of membership options available at Laurel Oak Country Club, including golf memberships, tennis memberships, social memberships, and junior memberships.
Laurel Oak Country Club has reciprocal membership privileges with a number of other private clubs in southwest Florida, North America, and Europe.

Laurel Oak Country Club Amenities

Laurel Oak Country Club in Sarasota, Florida, offers a wide range of amenities designed to cater to the interests and needs of its members.

Here are some of the amenities typically associated with private country clubs like Laurel Oak:

Championship Golf Courses: Laurel Oak boasts two championship golf courses designed by golf legend Gary Player. These courses offer challenging play for golfers of all skill levels.
Practice Facilities: The club often provides practice facilities, including driving ranges, putting greens, and chipping areas, where members can hone their golf skills.
Clubhouse: The clubhouse serves as the social hub of the club, featuring fine dining restaurants, casual dining options, and well-appointed lounges for relaxation and socializing.
Tennis: Many country clubs, including Laurel Oak, offer tennis courts and often have tennis professionals available for lessons and clinics.
Swimming Pool: A swimming pool area is a common amenity, allowing members and their families to relax and enjoy the Florida sun.
Fitness Center: Some clubs have fitness centers equipped with modern exercise equipment and offer fitness classes and personal training sessions.
Social Events: Country clubs typically organize various social events and activities throughout the year, including holiday celebrations, themed dinners, and parties.
Private Event Spaces: Laurel Oak often provides private event spaces for weddings, meetings, and special occasions.
Junior Programs: Many country clubs have junior golf and tennis programs designed to introduce young members to these sports and develop their skills.
Wellness and Spa Services: Some clubs offer wellness and spa services, including massages and relaxation treatments.
Gated Community: Laurel Oak may also include a gated residential community, providing security and exclusivity for its residents.

Laurel Oak Country Club Event Information and Dining Options

Laurel Oak Country Club in Sarasota, Florida, offered a variety of events and dining options for its members.

Here’s a general overview of what they may have offered:

Event Information:

Golf Tournaments: Laurel Oak typically hosts a range of golf tournaments and events for members. These may include member-guest tournaments, club championships, and charity golf events.
Social Events: The club often organizes social events and gatherings throughout the year. These could include holiday parties, themed dinners, wine tastings, and more.
Private Events: Laurel Oak Country Club may offer its members the opportunity to host private events, such as weddings, receptions, corporate meetings, and family celebrations, in their event spaces.
Junior Programs: They might have programs and events designed for junior members, including junior golf and tennis clinics, camps, and activities.
Wellness Events: Some clubs host wellness-related events such as fitness challenges, health seminars, and spa days.
Holiday Celebrations: Laurel Oak likely celebrates major holidays with special events and dining options for members and their guests.

Dining Options:

Clubhouse Dining: The clubhouse typically offers formal and casual dining options. Members can enjoy fine dining in an elegant setting or opt for a more relaxed atmosphere in a casual dining area.
Lounge or Bar: There may be a lounge or bar area within the clubhouse where members can unwind and enjoy drinks, cocktails, and light snacks.
Outdoor Dining: Some country clubs provide outdoor dining options, allowing members to dine while enjoying scenic views of the golf course or other natural surroundings.
Private Dining: Laurel Oak might offer private dining rooms for members who wish to host special occasions or private gatherings.
Catering Services: The club may provide catering services for events held at the club or for off-site occasions.

Laurel Oak Country Club Dress Code and Guest Policy

Country clubs like Laurel Oak often have specific dress codes and guest policies in place to maintain a certain level of decorum and ensure a comfortable and respectful environment for all members and guests.

Here is a general outline of what you might typically expect:

Dress Code:

Golf Course: Golf attire standards are usually in place and often include collared shirts, golf slacks or shorts, golf shoes, and no denim. Some clubs may also have specific requirements for women’s golf attire.
Clubhouse: The dress code for indoor dining areas, lounges, and other clubhouse facilities is typically more formal. This might include business casual or resort casual attire, which often means collared shirts, slacks or dress shorts, closed-toe shoes for men, and comparable attire for women.
Pool Area: For the pool area, clubs generally allow swimwear, but often require cover-ups and appropriate footwear when transitioning between the pool and other club areas.
Special Events: Special events like formal dinners or themed parties may have specific dress codes, such as black-tie or cocktail attire. These are typically communicated in advance.

Guest Policy:

Member Sponsorship: Guests at country clubs are often required to be sponsored by a club member. The member is typically responsible for their guests and ensuring they adhere to the club’s rules and policies.
Limitations on Guests: There may be restrictions on the number of times a guest can visit the club within a given time period or limits on the number of guests a member can bring at one time.
Charges: Some clubs may charge a guest fee or require guests to pay for their meals or activities during their visit.
Advance Notice: Members may be required to notify the club in advance when bringing guests, especially for events or dining reservations.
Guest Behavior: Guests are generally expected to adhere to the same dress code and behavior standards as members while on the club premises.

Laurel Oak Country Club in Sarasota, Florida, is a distinguished haven that blends golfing excellence, a vibrant community spirit, and upscale amenities. With its meticulously designed Gary Player golf courses, a rich history of commitment to member satisfaction, and a wide array of social and recreational offerings, Laurel Oak embodies the essence of refined country club living.

Whether you’re a golf enthusiast, a lover of social gatherings, or seeking a welcoming and exclusive community, Laurel Oak stands as a testament to the timeless appeal of Sarasota’s premier country club experience.

Laurel Oak Country Club Sarasota FL | Membership Cost, Amenities, History, What To Know When Visiting