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Welcome to Palm Aire Country Club, a premier golf and lifestyle destination nestled in the heart of Sarasota, Florida. As you step onto our meticulously manicured grounds, you’ll discover a haven of elegance, recreation, and Southern charm. With its lush fairways, world-class amenities, and vibrant community, Palm Aire Country Club is more than just a golf club – it’s a way of life. Whether you’re an avid golfer, a social butterfly, or simply seeking a serene escape, Palm Aire offers something for everyone. Join us as we explore the beauty and allure of this exceptional Sarasota gem.

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Palm Aire Country Club History and Founding

Palm Aire Country Club has a rich history dating back to its founding in the early 1950s. Originally established by a group of visionary developers and golf enthusiasts, the club was designed to offer a distinctive and elegant golfing experience in the beautiful Sarasota, Florida region.

The acclaimed architect responsible for crafting Palm Aire’s exceptional golf courses is none other than Dick Wilson. Known for his expertise in golf course design, Wilson’s work at Palm Aire reflects his commitment to creating challenging yet enjoyable layouts that harmonize with the natural beauty of the landscape.

Over the years, Palm Aire Country Club has evolved into a renowned golf and country club, attracting members and visitors alike with its impeccable fairways, world-class amenities, and commitment to providing a premier golfing experience in the Sarasota area. Today, the club continues to thrive as a testament to the vision of its founders and the enduring legacy of Dick Wilson’s exceptional golf course design.

Famous Golf Tournament held at Palm Aire Country Club

The most famous golf tournament held at Palm Aire Country Club is the DeSoto Open. It was a PGA Tour event that was played at the club from 1960 to 1964. The tournament was named after the original name of the club, which was DeSoto Lakes. Some of the biggest names in golf won the DeSoto Open, including Sam Snead, Arnold Palmer, and Gary Player.

Other golf tournaments that have been held at Palm Aire Country Club include:

Florida Open (1965, 1967, 1970, 1973, 1976, 1979, 1982, 1985, 1988, 1991, 1994, 1997, 2000, 2003, 2006, 2009, 2012, 2015)
South Florida Classic (1968-1972)
LPGA Legends Tour Handa Cup (2014-2016)
US Am Tour Palm Aire Championship (2023)

The club also hosts a number of amateur tournaments, including the Dixie Amateur and the Palm Aire Invitational.

The current name of the club’s Champions Course is a bit of a misnomer. It was originally called the Green Monster, and that name is still more commonly used. The course is known for its challenging layout and its signature 18th hole, which is an island green.

Palm Aire Country Club is a private club located in Sarasota, Florida. It is a popular destination for golfers of all levels, and it has hosted some of the biggest names in the game.

Palm Aire Country Club Membership Costs and Dues

The estimated membership costs and dues for Palm Aire Country Club in Sarasota, FL are as follows:

Golf Membership
- Initiation fee: $15,000
- Annual dues: $10,776
Social Membership
- Initiation fee: $1,500
- Annual dues: $2,640

Here are some of the factors that can affect the cost of a membership at Palm Aire Country Club:

The type of membership: There are different types of memberships available at Palm Aire Country Club, each with its own set of benefits and costs. For example, a golf membership will cost more than a social membership.
The age of the member: The initiation fee is typically lower for younger members.
The number of family members included in the membership: Some memberships allow for a certain number of family members to be included, which can increase the cost.
The length of the commitment: Some memberships require a longer commitment than others, which can also affect the cost.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind about the membership costs at Palm Aire Country Club:

The initiation fee is a one-time payment that is required when you join the club.
The annual dues are paid on a monthly basis.
There are also additional fees that may be charged, such as green fees, cart fees, and dining fees.
The cost of a membership at Palm Aire Country Club is a significant investment, but it can be a great way to enjoy a variety of amenities and activities.

Palm Aire Country Club Amenities

Palm Aire Country Club in Sarasota, Florida, offers a wide range of amenities to cater to the interests and needs of its members and guests.

Here are some of the typical amenities you can expect to find at Palm Aire Country Club:

Championship Golf Courses: Palm Aire is renowned for its exceptional golf facilities, featuring two championship golf courses designed by renowned architect Dick Wilson. These courses provide challenging and enjoyable rounds for golfers of all skill levels.
Golf Pro Shop: A well-equipped pro shop where golfers can purchase equipment, apparel, and accessories. It may also offer professional club fitting and repair services.
Practice Facilities: Facilities for honing your golf skills, including driving ranges, putting greens, and chipping areas.
Tennis Courts: Tennis enthusiasts can enjoy well-maintained tennis courts and often have access to tennis pros for lessons and clinics.
Swimming Pools: Many country clubs, including Palm Aire, have swimming pools, which can be perfect for relaxation and leisure or for swimming laps.
Dining: On-site dining options, which may include formal dining rooms, casual restaurants, and lounges where members can enjoy meals and socialize.
Fitness Center: A fitness center with modern exercise equipment for members looking to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.
Social Activities: Country clubs often organize a variety of social events and activities for members, including parties, themed nights, and community gatherings.
Spa Services: Some country clubs offer spa and wellness services, including massages, facials, and other relaxation treatments.
Meeting and Event Facilities: Facilities for hosting private events, weddings, and business meetings, often with catering services available.
Proximity to Sarasota Attractions: Depending on the location, the club may provide easy access to Sarasota’s cultural and recreational attractions, such as beaches, museums, and theaters.

Palm Aire Country Club Event Information and Dining Options

Palm Aire Country Club in Sarasota, Florida, typically offers a variety of events and dining options for its members and guests.

Here’s an overview of the types of events and dining options you might find at Palm Aire Country Club:

Events:

Golf Tournaments: Palm Aire often hosts golf tournaments and events for members and guests. These may include club championships, charity tournaments, and member-only competitions.
Social Gatherings: The club may organize various social events, such as themed parties, holiday celebrations, and special occasions like New Year’s Eve parties or Valentine’s Day dinners.
Live Entertainment: Some country clubs feature live entertainment nights with music, dancing, and other performances.
Cultural and Educational Events: Palm Aire might offer cultural and educational events, including lectures, art exhibitions, and wine tastings.
Private Events: The club often provides facilities for hosting private events like weddings, anniversaries, and corporate meetings. Catering services may also be available.
Tennis and Fitness Activities: For tennis enthusiasts and fitness-minded members, there may be organized tennis tournaments, clinics, and fitness classes.

Dining Options:

Formal Dining: Palm Aire Country Club may have formal dining rooms where members and guests can enjoy fine dining experiences. These areas are often reserved for special occasions or upscale dining.
Casual Dining: A more relaxed dining option is typically available, offering a more laid-back atmosphere for everyday meals or gatherings with friends and family.
Lounge and Bar: Many country clubs have lounge areas and bars where members can enjoy drinks, cocktails, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Outdoor Dining: Depending on the club’s layout, there may be outdoor dining options, such as patios or terraces, where you can enjoy meals in a picturesque setting.
Catering Services: Palm Aire Country Club may offer catering services for private events, allowing members to host parties and celebrations with a customized menu.
Specialty Menus: Look out for special menus for holidays, themed dinners, and seasonal offerings that showcase the culinary expertise of the club’s chefs.

Palm Aire Country Club Dress Code and Guest Policy

Palm Aire Country Club, like many private country clubs, typically has a dress code and guest policy in place to maintain a certain level of decorum and to ensure that all members and visitors have a pleasant experience.

Here’s a general overview of what you might expect:

Dress Code:

Golf Attire: While on the golf course, appropriate golf attire is typically required. This often includes collared shirts for men and women, tailored shorts or slacks, and golf-specific footwear (soft spikes). T-shirts, jeans, and athletic shorts are usually discouraged.
Clubhouse Dress Code: Inside the clubhouse, a more formal dress code may be in effect. Members and guests may be expected to wear business casual or smart-casual attire. This can include collared shirts, dress shoes, and neat, presentable clothing. Torn or excessively casual clothing may not be permitted.
Swimwear: Swimwear is typically reserved for the pool area, and it may not be appropriate attire for dining or other non-pool areas.
Tennis Attire: If you plan to play tennis, tennis-appropriate clothing, and tennis shoes are usually required.

Guest Policy:

Palm Aire Country Club, like many private clubs, often has a guest policy in place. This policy may include the following:

Accompanied Guests: Guests are typically welcome, but they may need to be accompanied by a member of the club. The sponsoring member is often responsible for their guest’s behavior and adherence to the club’s rules and policies.
Limits on Guests: There may be limits on how often a guest can visit the club in a given time period. Some clubs may restrict guest access during peak times or for specific events.
Guest Fees: A guest fee or charge may apply, which the sponsoring member is responsible for covering.
Advance Notice: Members are often required to notify the club in advance when bringing guests.

Palm Aire Country Club in Sarasota, Florida, stands as a testament to timeless elegance, exceptional golfing, and a vibrant community. With its rich history, renowned golf courses designed by Dick Wilson, and a wide array of amenities and events, Palm Aire Country Club offers a premier experience for members and guests alike.

Whether you’re a golf enthusiast, a lover of fine dining, or simply seeking a welcoming and upscale environment to enjoy life’s pleasures, Palm Aire Country Club embodies the spirit of Sarasota’s distinguished lifestyle. It remains a cherished destination for those who appreciate the perfect blend of tradition and modern sophistication, making it a true gem on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Palm Aire Country Club Sarasota FL | Membership Cost, Amenities, History, What To Know When Visiting