The only single family home community with a 24-hour manned security gate on the Key, some of the most spectacular waterfront residences on Florida’s Southwest coast are nestled within The Sanderling Club. Many of the estate-sized homes are built on unique two-acre lots positioned on wide lagoons brimming with wildlife and amazing Gulf of Mexico views. Some of the residences date back to the late 1940s, when Elbridge Boyd, who wanted to create a Gulf-side membership residential community, began developing the area.

Paul Rudolph, a former Dean of the Yale School of Architecture and one of the most innovative modernist architects produced by the Sarasota School of Architecture, was hired to design cabanas, a clubhouse and an observation tower. Rudolph used curving roof lines to remind the viewer of the gentle waves of the nearby gulf. He experimented with economical materials and came up with a method for bending plywood across the building space, opening up the club house to nature using broad expanses of glass. He painted the ceilings of the cabanas blue framed in white.

The main consideration at that time was to maintain a commitment to sustainable ecology with an aesthetic feeling, and that commitment has been continually upheld. Now, seventy years later, the park-like setting of the Club is still honored and maintained.

Siesta Key Realtor Mark McCann attests to the success of this community, commenting: “There are few places in Florida that have such rich tradition, architectural integrity, and an overall ambiance that welcomes flip flops, understated sophistication, and respect for the incredible beauty that nature provides daily.”

The Sanderling Club’s obligatory membership for community residents provides many benefits, including deeded gulf access and usage of the club’s cabanas, which literally sit on the front-porch of the Gulf. The cabanas may be purchased by members, some staying in families for generations. Both the cabanas and the clubhouse have been fully restored and are now on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Sanderling Club offers a quiet, private and elegant existence, not often found on this high-spirited Key. Its affable members enjoy an informal lifestyle that includes a 15 slip marina located bayside, three tennis courts, and a myriad of recreational opportunities. Realtor Ellen Wells acknowledges the special sense of community here, with an active social calendar that includes potluck suppers, welcome-back parties and holiday events throughout the year at the beach-side clubhouse. In the late afternoon, people will gather at their cabanas or on the terrace of the beach house, set up their lounge chairs, cook out on the grills, sip cocktails and watch the sunset.

Men’s and women’s tennis groups play regularly throughout the week. The members’ popular annual tennis tournament, the Pinny Cup, named after a former resident, is held in November. “Three generations of families plan their vacations around it, so you have 10-year-olds playing with 90-year-olds,” Wells says. Presently, the resident population is getting younger; recent buyers have been in their 40s and 50s.

If you are seeking an inspired way to live a coastal lifestyle, The Sanderling Club is
a unique place… where membership truly has its advantages!

Milwaukee business magnate John Schroeder originally purchased the 8,500-acres that comprise Lakewood Ranch in the early 1900’s. Two decades later, the Uihlein family, founders of the Schlitz Brewing Company, acquired the property and continued to expand the agricultural operations still active today: cattle ranching, vegetable, citrus, timber, and turf farming as well as shell mining. In 1994, development of Lakewood Ranch began, and since 2005 every village built has used products and techniques that result in more energy efficient and environmentally responsible homes. Today, Lakewood Ranch is the largest green master planned community in the United States, a tribute to its founders to be good stewards of the land.

The epicenter of Lakewood Ranch is The Country Club, an impressive members only golf and country club, surrounded by an exquisite collection of neighborhoods, connected by miles of sidewalks and trails. Each of the seven different neighborhoods offers a variety of floor plans and price ranges to elegantly suit any lifestyle. Prices start as low as the 200’s for well-appointed townhomes to luxurious custom homes valued well over $1 million dollars, complete with sweeping golf course views.

The private Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club offers three courses that challenge at every level of play. Royal Lakes and Cypress Links were masterfully crafted by the Palmer Course Design Company with golfers of differing abilities in mind. The third architectural masterpiece, King’s Dunes, is the creation of Rick Robbins, an outstanding golf course designer who ensured a challenging 18-hole play for the seasoned golfer. As a member, you have the privilege to play all 54 holes. Complementary golf support facilities, such as a driving range, a putting green, a practice area for chipping, golf pro shop, spacious locker rooms, and golf cart storage are also included.

In addition to these upscale amenities, the clubhouse, occupying 44,000 square feet of floor space, is equipped with a sophisticated lounge, a grille, an elegant dining room for formal social functions, and numerous private dining rooms for club members and guests. The Athletic Center’s fitness center not only offers state-of-the-art equipment, but a junior-size Olympic swimming pool, 18-lighted tennis courts, steam room, sauna, whirlpool and court-side deli. Alternatively, for members who wish to experience laid-back country club living, a number of lounges as well as card rooms are at their disposal.

Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club successfully combines the best of modern conveniences and world-class amenities with a feeling of community rarely seen today. The result is an impressive country club lifestyle with family and friends enjoying recreational activities in a casual, elegant Floridian paradise.

Nearby Attractions

Music on Main Street
It might be swing, it might be country, or it might just be a little bit of rock and roll. But it’s always free and its always the first Friday of every month on Main Street at Lakewood Ranch.

Sarasota Polo Club at Lakewood Ranch
Since 1991, the Sarasota Polo Club at Lakewood Ranch has been providing exhilarating polo matches every Sunday during winter season. With 130 acres of perfectly manicured grounds, the Sarasota Polo Club boasts nine world-class polo fields and a regulation size arena.

Saturday Farmers Market
Buy local and shop with area farmers every Saturday from 8am to 1pm on Main Street November through May.

Surrounded by the Gulf’s azure waters, Bird Key’s distinguishing charms continue to solidify it as one of the most coveted addresses in the area. The richness of Bird Key extends beyond its property value; it offers private, deep water boat docks with direct access to the bay, luxury estates and seaside residences nestled on the island’s edge, and spectacular views of the Ringling Bridge, Sarasota Bay, the marina, and the city’s coastal skyline.

The epicenter of the impressive enclave is the Bird Key Yacht Club, an establishment reserved for members and their guests with boating, golf, tennis and fitness programs to enjoy. Though Sarasota boasts several premier neighborhoods, each with its own distinctive charms, very few possess the splendor of Bird Key. The residential island is a prime location for real estate, boasting consistent value over the years. With a harmonious blend of young professionals and retirees living on Bird Key, it remains vibrant yet tranquil—a true, centralized paradise.

Though Bird Key is an idyllic world all its own, access to Sarasota’s thriving arts, culture and entertainment district is an added benefit. With St. Armand’s Circle and downtown Sarasota just a short drive away, Bird Key is as convenient as it is lavish. Waterside dining, electric live shows, boutique shopping and the art walk are located just minutes away. Sarasota Opera, Florida Studio Theatre, the Van Wezel, quaint coffee shops, Burns Court Cinemas, and the weekly Farmer’s Market on Main Street add to the appeal of the area. Restaurants that use locally grown ingredients are a testament to the community nature and quality of life. Downtown’s main corridor presents a European flair, quaint art galleries and open-air cafes that are classic, warm and friendly.

While the advantages of living on Bird Key are abundant, its two greatest assets are location and exclusivity. Noted as The Jewel on Sarasota Bay, Bird Key’s scenic surroundings, fine offerings and romantic views help the elegant island live up to its name.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

St. Armand’s Circle

The outdoor shopping and dining sphere is a central location for retail boutiques, specialty shops and open-air dining.
starmandscircleassoc.com 

Lido Beach

This quiet beach captures the beauty of Sarasota with miles of white sand, crystal waters and heavenly sunsets. Enjoy water sports, a food pavilion, or simple leisure by the gulf.

 Mote Marine Aquarium

This marine laboratory features more than 100 species of marine life, touch pools, 135,000-gallon shark habitat, dolphin, manatee and sea turtle exhibits.        mote.org

Winding down the pathway toward The Oaks Club, magnificent ancient oaks dripping with Spanish moss seem to wrap their arms around you. In the distance a stately Antebellum mansion with soaring white columns beckons. Once inside the clubhouse, an intoxicating atmosphere of Southern hospitality welcomes you. A graceful double staircase, beautiful flowers, warm rich woods and elegant fabrics are the final indication that you have arrived in Paradise!

The essence of luxury and comfort is the aura created by this wonderful community living “under the Oaks.” Celebrated for its sense of community and social calendar, this premier golf and country club is located in Osprey, just a blink from downtown Sarasota and beaches that are ranked among the world’s finest.

Enveloped in a lush thousand-acre tropical landscape, The Oaks Club is a private membership-required community created expressly for the very discerning. The Oaks Club offers lifestyle opportunities for all ages within three gated neighborhoods including waterfront estates, high-rise luxury condominiums, sophisticated town homes, golf course homes and maintenance-free villas.

“Life under The Oaks Club,” as described by Susan Greene, Director of Membership and Marketing, “is the result of a community of couples, families and individuals who are looking for camaraderie, security and a strong neighborhood spirit. Here they find a wonderful place to make friends and enjoy the lifestyle they have earned.” Families with children are often attracted to The Oaks Club by the exceptional educational opportunities nearby, headlined by the distinguished Pine View School for the intellectually gifted and the renowned Ringling College of Art and Design.

Susan continues, “Living at The Oaks Club is like being on a cruise ship – so many activities to choose from every day.” Among those activities are two 18-hole championship golf courses with an elite staff and first-rate pro shop, 12 lighted Har-Tru tennis courts staffed by USPTA-certified professionals and an active croquet court.

No need is missed! Outstanding dining choices include three distinct dining rooms with three different menus (72 menu items in all). Options for dining include the Tavern with its “steakhouse feel,” the Grill, a casual spot to meet after the game and the Glen Room, the most formal dining room with traditional menu items such as dover sole, rack of lamb, and tenderloin. At The Oaks, even your golf clubs get VIP treatment – they are loaded and ready at your tee time and then cleaned and stored for you after your game.

This slice of Paradise has a remarkable cultural history; it was discovered and purchased after the turn of the century by Bertha Honore Palmer, a Chicago socialite, business woman, philanthropist and champion of women’s issues. She built a residence and wintered on an area of The Oaks Club property now known as Oaks Bayside. Her original gazebo and reflecting pond remain there, providing a unique centerpiece for the community.

The imprint of Mrs. Palmer’s attention to furthering women can still be felt within The Oaks Club community, where the Women’s Club membership is three hundred and seventy-five. Many of the tournaments held in this community are female-centered: the USTA Women’s $50,000 Pro Circuit Tournament, and the U.S. Women’s Open Qualifier.

As to what’s around this well-situated neighborhood – well, there’s a lot! The Sarasota beaches must be mentioned. Famous for their white sand, Nokomis and Casey Key beaches are visitor friendly and beautiful beyond description. Dr. Beach named Siesta Key, “America’s Most Beautiful Beach,” in 2011. A Sunday sunset on Siesta Key listening to the drum circle as the sun disappears is a not-to-be-missed experience.

Nature lovers will also enjoy the abundance of hiking, canoeing and kayaking at nearby Oscar Scherer and Myakka State Parks. History buffs, as well as their families, will not want to miss Osprey’s historic Spanish Point and baseball fans will find an exciting spring season with the Baltimore Orioles at Ed Smith Stadium. When shopping therapy is required, you can check-in at Southgate Mall where occupants include Saks Fifth Avenue and Williams Sonoma or cruise over to the specialty shops on St. Armand’s Circle.

The over 600 residences at Waterlefe include estate homes, townhouses and condominiums, all enhanced by a fifty-nine slip marina on the Manatee River, an award-winning golf course and scenic views. Some homes are waterfront with boat docks in their own backyard.

The luxury Waterlefe Golf & River Club golf course is comprised of a collection of 18 unique holes designed by architect Ted McAnlis. True to its Waterlefe name, water is in play on 18 of the 18 holes — and many holes have water in play on more than one occasion. Designer McAlis comments, “…Waterlefe will present a memorable – even unforgettable – golfing experience.” The competitive layout, winding its way through protected conservation areas, presents a challenge for golfers of all skill levels. There are five sets of tees ranging in length from 4,700 to 6,908 yards. Five holes border the scenic Manatee River, where you may spot a family of manatees swimming close to shore and poking their noses up for a breath of air.

Known as a “Must Play” course, Waterlefe is a Golf Digest-rated 4 ½ star course and has been the host site for five US Open Qualifying Tournaments. PGA Professionals at The Golf Academy at Waterlefe are ready to improve your game, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned player. Ensuring a full-service atmosphere, you’ll find included an aqua range, practice putting green, pro shop, grille room, and beverage cart service.

The River Club at Waterlefe is the center of social and dining events. The impressive clubhouse offers an exquisite dining room overlooking the Manatee River and the spacious terrace, which is the perfect spot to watch the splendor of a Florida sunset. Upscale amenities abound with a 2,400 square foot saline swimming pool, tiki bar on the patio, and a modern fitness center, where programs such as personal training, yoga, Zumba, and water aerobics are offered.

Waterlefe Golf and River Club is located just east of I-75, conveniently close to the renowned culture, art, shopping and cuisine of the Bradenton-Sarasota area. When it comes to location and prestigious recreational living, this tropical residential resort has it all.