Bradenton, Florida, is a desirable destination for those seeking exceptional real estate and a golfer's paradise. Known for its beautiful natural landscapes and proximity to the coast, Bradenton is home to several PGA-quality golf courses. Whether you are a seasoned golfer or just starting out, the area offers numerous opportunities to test your skills. This article highlights Bradenton's top PGA golf courses, focusing on each course's unique features and how they offer the perfect setting for recreational and competitive play.

Waterlefe Golf & River Club combines luxury with exceptional golfing. Located along the Manatee River, this 18-hole course, with 8 holes touching the Manatee River, offers gorgeous waterfront views and a range of play options for golfers of all abilities. It is known for its meticulously maintained greens and strategic layout, which incorporates natural water features and wildlife habitats. Waterlefe offers members and guests an unforgettable golfing experience with its blend of natural beauty and challenging design. The newly opened Pro Shop and “Grill Room” at Waterlefe has been received with rave reviews and offers an upscale sports bar theme with a twist that residents and guests truly enjoy!

Established in 1924, Bradenton Country Club is a prestigious, member-owned course known for its well-manicured greens and welcoming atmosphere. Donald Ross designed the club’s 18-hole championship course, which was restored in 2018, and offers a challenging layout suitable for golfers of all skill levels. Bradenton Country Club is well-regarded for its amenities, including a driving range, practice greens, and an active social calendar for members. The course’s rolling fairways and mature trees provide both beauty and difficulty, making it a must-play for those visiting Bradenton, FL. Bradenton CC hosted the 2024 LPGA Drive On Championship won by Bradenton resident Nelly Korda in a thrilling playoff over Hall of Famer Lydia Ko. 

River Strand Golf & Country Club is one of the premier golfing destinations in Bradenton, featuring 27 holes of championship golf designed by Arthur Hills with all 3 nines going under a recent renovation. Divided into three 9-hole courses—Sanctuary, Tributary, and Estuary—this course challenges players with strategically placed bunkers and water hazards. River Strand is known for its picturesque views of the Manatee River and its exceptional practice facilities. Golfers enjoy the club’s upscale amenities, which include tennis courts, a fitness center, and a full-service clubhouse.

The Concession Golf Club is an award-winning course designed by Jack Nicklaus and Tony Jacklin. It offers an exclusive and challenging experience for serious golfers. This private course is known for its rigorous layout, which rewards strategic thinking and precise shot-making. The Concession has received numerous accolades, including being ranked among the best courses in Florida. Its scenic design incorporates lush forests and natural wetlands, providing a serene backdrop as you navigate its difficult yet rewarding holes.  It has hosted the NCAA Championships won by Bryson DeChambeau, A WGC event won by Colin Morikawa on the PGA TOUR and the World Champions Cup won by Team USA in 2024. 

River Club is a premier golf course in Bradenton, Florida, offering a challenging 18-hole layout designed by Ron Garl. This par-72 course is known for its distinctive mounding, grass, and pot bunkers, with water hazards present on 16 of the 18 holes. The front nine is more open, featuring elevated greens, while the back nine winds through wooded areas, adding to the difficulty and scenic beauty. A standout feature is the island green on the 16th hole, offering a memorable and exciting challenge. Golfers can enjoy GPS-equipped carts with touch screens for added convenience. The course is complemented by top-notch amenities, including a clubhouse, restaurant, pro shop, driving range, and practice facilities, along with access to a swimming pool and tennis courts. Nestled in a family-friendly community with over 700 homes, River Club offers a mix of Mediterranean and contemporary-style residences on larger lots, all within close proximity to downtown Sarasota, Lido Beach, and I-75, making it a popular destination for both golfers and families alike.

Heritage Harbour Golf Club is part of the larger master-planned community of Heritage Harbour and features an 18-hole championship course originally designed by Arthur Hills and recently redesigned and rerouted. The Heritage Harbour Golf Club course is a risk/reward Par 71 Championship golf course that offers 5 sets of tees to allow players of all levels to choose the level of difficulty that they wish to take on. The course's natural beauty and strategic layout make it a top pick for golfers in the Bradenton area.

River Run Golf Links is an excellent choice for a more affordable yet challenging option. This municipal course offers an 18-hole, par-70 layout that is suitable for golfers of all skill levels. River Run is known for its challenging layout along the Braden River and it’s one of the most accessible courses in Bradenton. The course’s relaxed atmosphere and reasonable rates make it a popular option for local golfers looking to enjoy a round without breaking the bank.

Rosedale Golf & Country Club offers an upscale golfing experience. It features an 18-hole, par-72 championship course. The course is known for its scenic layout, with water features on almost every hole. Rosedale’s challenging design incorporates tight fairways and fast greens, making it a true test for experienced golfers. In addition to the course, the club offers tennis, a fitness center, and a luxurious clubhouse where members can relax and socialize after a day on the green.

Tara Golf & Country Club is a private, member-owned golf community known for its well-maintained 18-hole championship course. Recently renovated, the course offers a fair challenge to golfers of all levels, with lush fairways and strategic water hazards. All homeowners have memberships included with their HOA fees here!  Thanks to its welcoming community and extensive social events, Tara is especially popular among retirees and seasonal residents. Golfers enjoy the club’s other amenities, which include tennis courts, a swimming pool, and a full-service restaurant.

Adjacent to Tara Golf & Country Club is The Preserve Golf Club at Tara, a semi-private course. The Preserve is an 18-hole, par-72 championship course that is open to the public but offers memberships for those who prefer regular access. The course features wide fairways and challenging greens, making it a great choice for golfers looking to enjoy a relaxing yet competitive round. The Preserve’s natural setting and well-manicured conditions make it a favorite among Bradenton golfers.

The Links at Greenfield Plantation is a scenic 18-hole championship golf course in Bradenton, Florida, designed by Chip Powell. Stretching 6,719 yards from the back tees, this par-72 course offers generous landing areas and undulating, well-bunkered greens, making it a challenging yet enjoyable experience for all skill levels. Weaving through wetlands and lakes, it provides both natural beauty and strategic play, with four sets of tees to accommodate various abilities. Known for its excellent course conditions and abundant wildlife, the course also features a driving range, putting green, pro shop, and clubhouse. PGA professionals are available for lessons, and with its convenient location near I-75, The Links at Greenfield Plantation is a top choice for golfers seeking an affordable, championship-caliber round.

The 941 Team was founded and named aptly to reflect the importance of local knowledge in the real estate process. The partners of the 941 Team have nearly a century of combined experience living in the Manatee and Sarasota County area. Their deep connection to the region gives them unique insights into the local real estate market, ensuring that buyers and sellers can make informed decisions quickly. The team’s approach revolves around client needs, utilizing the collective expertise of each agent to provide exceptional service. Each agent is carefully selected and trained to ensure they deliver personalized, dedicated assistance throughout every step of the transaction.

If you're looking to buy or sell a home or have any questions about the Bradenton, FL real estate market, contact 941 Team today.