Best Golf Courses Near Venice Beach

by Hunt Brothers Realty

Looking for the best golf courses near Venice Beach, Florida? Venice offers an impressive selection of public, semi-private, and private golf courses, many within a short drive of the Gulf Coast. For golfers who want to play without joining a country club, Lake Venice Golf Club is the closest standout option, located directly on Venice Island. Other excellent choices include Pelican Pointe Golf & Country Club, Jacaranda West Country Club, Capri Isles Golf Club, Waterford Golf Club, and Calusa Lakes Golf Club. Private clubs such as Plantation Golf & Country Club and The Venice Golf and Country Club offer additional options for members and eligible guests. Whether you are visiting Venice Beach or considering a home near Venice's golf courses, understanding each course's location, access policies, and amenities will help you find the right fit.

Quick Answers About Golf Courses Near Venice Beach

What is the closest golf course to Venice Beach?

Lake Venice Golf Club is the most convenient choice for golfers staying near Venice Beach. Located at 1801 South Harbor Drive on Venice Island, it offers 27 holes of public golf near the Gulf of Mexico.

Are there public golf courses in Venice, Florida?

Yes. Public-access options include Lake Venice Golf Club, Jacaranda West Country Club, Capri Isles Golf Club, Waterford Golf Club, Calusa Lakes Golf Club, and Pelican Pointe Golf & Country Club. Some are semi-private, meaning members receive benefits but nonmembers can also book available tee times.

Which Venice golf course is best for visitors?

Lake Venice Golf Club is particularly convenient because it is on Venice Island and does not require a membership. Pelican Pointe and Jacaranda West are strong alternatives for visitors seeking a traditional championship-style round.

Does Lake Venice Golf Club require tee times?

No. According to the club and the City of Venice, Lake Venice operates without advance tee-time reservations. Golfers can walk or ride, subject to course availability and operating conditions.

Which courses offer 27 holes?

Lake Venice Golf Club, Pelican Pointe Golf & Country Club, and Waterford Golf Club each offer 27 holes, allowing different nine-hole combinations.

Are there private golf clubs near Venice Beach?

Yes. Plantation Golf & Country Club, The Venice Golf and Country Club, and Venetian Golf Club are private membership facilities. Their membership structures and guest-access policies differ.

When is the best time to golf in Venice, Florida?

Fall, winter, and spring generally offer comfortable golfing weather, although demand and rates can be higher during the winter visitor season. Summer often brings lower rates, hotter temperatures, humidity, and afternoon thunderstorms.

What Are the Best Golf Courses Near Venice Beach?

The following courses are among the most useful options to compare when planning a golf outing near Venice Beach. Rather than presenting a subjective ranking as an official award, this guide highlights what makes each course appealing and whether visitors can generally play without a membership.

1. Lake Venice Golf Club: Best for Golfers Staying Near Venice Beach

Address: 1801 South Harbor Drive, Venice, FL 34285
Course: 27 holes
Access: Public
Reservations: No advance tee times
Phone: (941) 488-3948
Website: Lake Venice Golf Club

For visitors staying near Venice Beach, Lake Venice Golf Club is the natural starting point. The course is located on Venice Island, close to the Gulf of Mexico, and is not part of a residential development.

Designed originally by Mark Mahannah, the facility features three nine-hole layouts. Golf architect Jan Bel Jan redesigned holes 19 through 27 in 2013.

The course offers a practice range, pro shop, and grill room. Golfers can choose to walk or ride, depending on current operating conditions.

Its most unusual feature is its walk-on system. Unlike many courses that require reservations, Lake Venice does not take advance tee times. Golfers should contact the course to confirm current availability, wait times, and rates before visiting.

Why choose it? Lake Venice is particularly appealing for a relaxed golf outing that can be combined with a visit to Venice Beach, downtown Venice, or other Venice Island attractions.

2. Pelican Pointe Golf & Country Club: Best for Variety and Scenic Golf

Address: 499 Derbyshire Drive, Venice, FL 34285
Course: 27 holes
Access: Semi-private, nonmember tee times available
Phone: (941) 496-4653
Website: Pelican Pointe Golf & Country Club

Pelican Pointe Golf & Country Club is an established golf destination east of Venice Island. Its 27-hole layout was designed by Ted McAnlis and is divided into three nine-hole courses: Meadows, Preserve, and Hatchett Creek.

These nines can be combined into different 18-hole rounds, providing variety for golfers who return frequently.

The course winds through a residential community with lakes, wetlands, and preserved natural areas. Its landscape makes it a popular option for golfers who appreciate scenery as much as the round itself.

Pelican Pointe accepts nonmember reservations based on availability. According to its published reservation policy, nonmembers may reserve tee times four days in advance, while golf members receive a seven-day booking window.

2026 pricing example: The club's published rates list morning rounds at $59 and afternoon rounds at $49 from May 1 through October 15, 2026. Rates increase for the period beginning October 16, with published morning and afternoon rates of $139 and $119 through January 31, 2027. Rates are subject to change, so golfers should confirm current pricing directly with the club.

Why choose it? Pelican Pointe is a strong choice for golfers who want multiple course combinations, natural scenery, and a traditional country-club golf experience without necessarily becoming a member.

3. Jacaranda West Country Club: Best for a Classic Championship Layout

Address: 1901 Jacaranda Boulevard, Venice, FL 34293
Course: 18 holes
Access: Members and public golfers
Phone: (941) 493-5010
Website: Jacaranda West Country Club

Jacaranda West Country Club is one of Venice's established championship golf facilities. Its 18-hole course features five sets of tees, giving golfers opportunities to select a playing distance that matches their abilities and preferences.

The club emphasizes its traditional layout, maintained fairways, and course conditions. Practice facilities, instruction, dining, and membership programs are also available.

Importantly, Jacaranda West is available to both members and the public. Visitors should check current tee-time availability, rates, and guest policies before arriving.

Why choose it? Jacaranda West is a good option for golfers who prefer a traditional 18-hole course and want to experience a country-club setting without assuming a full membership commitment.

4. Capri Isles Golf Club: Best for Convenient Public-Access Golf

Address: 849 Capri Isles Boulevard, Venice, FL 34292
Course: 18 holes, par 72
Access: Public-access, semi-private facility
Phone: (941) 485-3371
Website: Capri Isles Golf Club

Capri Isles Golf Club is a well-established Venice course with an 18-hole, par-72 layout. The course was rebuilt in 2003 and features lakes, maintained fairways, and a design intended to offer challenges for golfers with different experience levels.

Amenities include a full driving range, oversized putting green, pro shop, rental clubs, and golf carts.

Capri Isles is part of the Golf in Venice family, which also includes Waterford Golf Club and Calusa Lakes Golf Club.

2026 pricing example: Published rates for June through September 2026 included $59 morning rounds, $49 afternoon rounds, and $40 twilight rounds, before applicable tax. These seasonal prices are historical examples, not guaranteed current rates.

Why choose it? Capri Isles offers a practical option for golfers seeking an accessible, full-length course with practice facilities and online tee-time booking.

5. Waterford Golf Club: Best for Multiple Nine-Hole Combinations

Address: 1454 Gleneagles Drive, Venice, FL 34292
Course: 27 holes
Access: Public-access, semi-private facility
Phone: (941) 484-6621
Website: Golf in Venice Courses

Waterford Golf Club offers 27 holes in a residential setting east of Venice Island. Its three nine-hole layouts are known as Gleneagles, Turnberry, and Sawgrass.

The different combinations provide variety for regular players and visiting golfers who want more than one course experience.

Waterford is part of Golf in Venice, which provides public-access play and membership options across multiple courses.

Why choose it? Waterford is worth considering for golfers who enjoy changing course combinations while remaining close to Venice's residential communities and regional road network.

6. Calusa Lakes Golf Club: Best for a Natural, Wooded Setting

Address: 1995 Calusa Lakes Boulevard, Nokomis, FL 34275
Course: 18 holes
Access: Public-access, semi-private facility
Phone: (941) 484-8995
Website: Golf in Venice Courses

Calusa Lakes Golf Club is located in Nokomis, north of Venice. It is another member of the Golf in Venice group.

The 18-hole course is known for its wooded terrain and natural surroundings. Homes in the surrounding residential community are generally set back from the playing areas, helping create a distinct landscape.

2026 pricing example: Published rates for June through September 2026 included $75 for morning play, $60 for afternoon play, and $50 for twilight play, before applicable tax.

Why choose it? Calusa Lakes is a strong alternative for golfers willing to drive north of Venice Beach for a course with a more wooded atmosphere.

What Are the Best Private Golf Clubs Near Venice Beach?

Venice also offers private clubs that may appeal to residents who want regular golf, organized events, and additional recreational amenities.

These facilities should not be confused with public courses. Access may require club membership, homeownership, or an invitation from an eligible member.

Plantation Golf & Country Club

Address: 500 Rockley Boulevard, Venice, FL 34293
Courses: Two 18-hole championship courses
Access: Private club
Website: Plantation Golf & Country Club

Plantation Golf & Country Club offers 36 holes across its Bobcat and Panther courses. Both were designed by golf course architect Ron Garl.

The Bobcat course opened in 1982, followed by the Panther course in 1987. Plantation has a long history of hosting professional qualifying events and offers tennis, fitness, swimming, dining, and social facilities.

The club is private, so prospective golfers should contact its membership office to learn about current membership categories and guest-access rules.

The Venice Golf and Country Club

Address: 250 Venice Golf Club Drive, Venice, FL 34292
Course: 18 holes
Access: Private, member-owned club
Website: The Venice Golf and Country Club

The Venice Golf and Country Club is a private, member-owned residential club with an 18-hole championship course.

The club underwent a significant golf course renovation in 2015, including irrigation improvements and regrassing of playing surfaces.

According to its membership information, homeowners select either a Golf or Club membership. Nonresident memberships are not currently available.

Buyers considering homes in the community should carefully review the membership obligations and associated expenses before purchasing.

Venetian Golf Club

Address: 105 Pesaro Drive, North Venice, FL 34275
Course: 18 holes
Access: Private membership club
Website: Venetian Golf Club

Venetian Golf Club is a private facility in North Venice featuring a course designed by Chip Powell.

The layout features generous fairways, undulating greens, and nine sets of tees. The club also offers organized golf activities, dining, and social events.

Unlike some residential golf clubs, Venetian Golf Club advertises membership opportunities for both residents and nonresidents. Prospective members should confirm current availability and terms directly with the club.

Which Venice Golf Courses Are Open to the Public?

For golfers who do not want a private club membership, the following facilities are especially useful to compare:

Lake Venice Golf Club: Public, 27 holes, walk-on play without advance tee times.
Pelican Pointe Golf & Country Club: Semi-private, 27 holes, nonmember reservations accepted based on availability.
Jacaranda West Country Club: Public-access championship course with membership options.
Capri Isles Golf Club: Public-access, 18-hole, par-72 course with practice facilities.
Waterford Golf Club: Public-access, 27-hole facility with three nine-hole layouts.
Calusa Lakes Golf Club: Public-access, 18-hole course in nearby Nokomis.

Public access does not guarantee an available tee time. Golfers should verify current booking windows, course conditions, dress codes, and pricing before visiting.

How Much Does Golf Cost Near Venice Beach in 2026?

Golf rates in Venice vary significantly by course, season, time of day, and membership status.

Winter and early spring generally bring stronger demand from seasonal residents and visitors. Summer rates may be lower, although golfers should prepare for heat and thunderstorms.

Examples from published 2026 rates include:

Pelican Pointe: $59 morning and $49 afternoon rates from May 1 through October 15, 2026.
Capri Isles: $59 morning, $49 afternoon, and $40 twilight rates from June through September 2026, before tax.
Calusa Lakes: $75 morning, $60 afternoon, and $50 twilight rates from June through September 2026, before tax.
Waterford: The club publishes seasonal rates on its official rates page.
Lake Venice: Contact the club or consult its official website for current walk-on rates.

These figures illustrate seasonal pricing differences and are not quotes for a future round. Rates, taxes, cart charges, and promotions can change without notice.

Are Golf Memberships Worth Considering in Venice?

For residents who play regularly, a golf membership may offer advantages beyond individual green fees.

Potential benefits include advance tee-time access, organized leagues, practice facilities, social activities, and preferred guest rates.

Golf in Venice Memberships

The Golf in Venice membership program provides access to Capri Isles, Waterford, and Calusa Lakes, a combined 63 holes of golf.

Different membership categories and seasonal programs are offered. Membership dues, cart fees, walking policies, guest privileges, and reservation windows depend on the selected program.

Jacaranda West Memberships

Jacaranda West Country Club advertises Full, Gold, and Summer membership options.

Its Summer membership program includes access to Jacaranda West, Capri Isles, Waterford, and Calusa Lakes, subject to program conditions and applicable fees.

Prospective members should request current written membership terms rather than relying on older advertised prices or assuming that all programs include unlimited cart use.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Golf Near Venice Beach?

Fall and Winter

Fall and winter are attractive for golfers who prefer milder weather. As seasonal visitors return to Southwest Florida, however, popular courses can become busier and rates may increase.

Spring

Spring can provide comfortable mornings and pleasant playing conditions. Demand often remains elevated during part of the season, particularly around holidays and peak visitor periods.

Summer

Summer may offer attractive green fees and more flexible booking opportunities. However, high temperatures, humidity, and thunderstorms require additional planning.

Golfers should monitor weather conditions, follow course lightning policies, stay hydrated, and seek appropriate medical guidance if they have health concerns related to heat or physical activity.

Can You Live Near a Golf Course in Venice, Florida?

Yes. Venice offers a range of residential communities associated with golf courses, from established neighborhoods to private country-club developments.

For buyers who want golf to be part of their everyday lifestyle, location and membership structure are just as important as the course itself.

Jacaranda West

Jacaranda West is an established residential area with single-family homes, villas, and condominium communities near Jacaranda West Country Club.

An important distinction is that the residential associations and golf club are separate organizations. Owning a home in Jacaranda West does not automatically include or require golf club membership.

Pelican Pointe

Pelican Pointe is a gated residential golf community with a variety of home styles and extensive natural areas.

Homebuyers should verify which recreational amenities are included with property ownership and whether golf membership requires separate dues or arrangements.

Plantation Golf & Country Club Area

The Plantation area includes established residential neighborhoods and condominium developments near the club's two golf courses.

Golf club membership should not be assumed to be included with a home purchase. Buyers should confirm the specific property's association requirements and the club's current membership terms.

The Venice Golf and Country Club

The Venice Golf and Country Club has a different structure from neighborhoods where club membership is optional.

The club states that membership is integrated with homeownership and that homeowners select a Golf or Club membership category.

This makes it especially important for prospective buyers to understand the membership obligations, dues, and available privileges before entering into a purchase agreement.

Waterford, Capri Isles, and Calusa Lakes

These golf courses are located within or near residential neighborhoods that may appeal to buyers seeking convenient access to regular play.

However, living near a golf course does not necessarily provide membership, guaranteed tee times, or access to every club facility.

What Should Buyers Know Before Purchasing a Venice Golf Course Home?

Golf course homes can offer attractive views and convenient recreational access, but buyers should evaluate more than the scenery.

Important considerations include:

Golf access: Determine whether the course is public, semi-private, or private.
Membership obligations: Verify whether membership is optional, required, or unavailable to nonresidents.
HOA and condominium fees: Review current assessments and what they include.
Club dues: Confirm initiation fees, recurring dues, cart fees, and potential additional charges.
Golf course proximity: Consider maintenance activity, golf cart traffic, and the possibility of errant golf balls.
Property condition: Obtain appropriate inspections and evaluate roofs, HVAC systems, drainage, and other major components.
Insurance: Obtain property-specific homeowners and flood insurance quotes.
Association finances: Review reserve funding, pending projects, and potential special assessments.
Community restrictions: Confirm rules involving rentals, pets, exterior modifications, and property use.
Long-term plans: Consider whether the home's layout and maintenance requirements will remain practical over time.

Buyers should review association documents and club agreements with the appropriate qualified professionals. Questions about contract obligations or ownership rights should be addressed with a Florida real estate attorney when necessary.

Can You Combine Golf With a Venice Beach Vacation?

Absolutely. One of the appealing aspects of visiting Venice is the ability to combine golf with Gulf Coast recreation.

A typical day might include a morning round at Lake Venice Golf Club, lunch on Venice Island, and an afternoon exploring Venice Beach or downtown Venice.

Visitors who prefer a championship-style course can schedule a round at Pelican Pointe or Jacaranda West and then return to the island for dining and waterfront activities.

Golfers interested in trying several layouts during a longer stay can compare the three Golf in Venice courses or explore additional facilities in Nokomis and the surrounding Sarasota County area.

Which Golf Course Near Venice Beach Is the Best Choice?

The best course depends on the experience you want.

Best for Venice Beach convenience: Lake Venice Golf Club.
Best for scenic 27-hole variety: Pelican Pointe Golf & Country Club.
Best for a traditional championship layout: Jacaranda West Country Club.
Best for accessible 18-hole public play: Capri Isles Golf Club.
Best for multiple nine-hole combinations: Waterford Golf Club.
Best for a wooded setting: Calusa Lakes Golf Club.
Best for private 36-hole golf: Plantation Golf & Country Club.
Best for a private, homeowner-integrated club lifestyle: The Venice Golf and Country Club.

These recommendations reflect course characteristics and access arrangements rather than an official ranking. Course conditions, membership availability, and visitor policies can change.

Why Golf Is Part of the Venice, Florida Lifestyle

Venice offers an unusual combination of Gulf beaches, established residential neighborhoods, and a broad selection of golf facilities.

Golfers can choose a casual public round on Venice Island, explore several semi-private courses, or consider the social and recreational benefits of private country-club membership.

For homebuyers, this variety creates opportunities to prioritize golf access without necessarily committing to a single type of residential community.

Some buyers prefer to live directly within a golf development. Others choose Venice Island or a nearby neighborhood and drive to whichever public course suits their schedule.

Both approaches can support an active Venice lifestyle, depending on individual preferences and budgets.

Explore Venice Golf Communities With Hunt Brothers Realty

If you enjoy golf and are considering buying a home in Venice, choosing the right neighborhood is just as important as choosing your favorite course.

Some Venice communities offer convenient access to public golf. Others are associated with private clubs, membership programs, and additional recreational amenities.

Hunt Brothers Realty can help you explore available homes in Venice and surrounding Gulf Coast communities while comparing property features, locations, and relevant real estate considerations.

Whether you are searching for a golf course condominium, a single-family home near your favorite course, or a property close to Venice Beach, visit HuntBrothersRealty.com to begin exploring your options.

Important Information: This article is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. Golf course access, operating hours, green fees, membership categories, course conditions, amenities, and reservation policies may change. Contact each golf facility directly to confirm current details. Information about golf communities should not be interpreted as a guarantee of membership rights or club access through homeownership. Buyers should verify all property-specific association rules, club agreements, assessments, insurance costs, and maintenance obligations before purchasing. Questions involving contracts, ownership rights, or legal obligations should be reviewed with a qualified Florida real estate attorney when appropriate. Insurance coverage and premiums should be discussed with a qualified insurance professional, and inspection or construction concerns should be evaluated by the appropriate licensed inspector, contractor, or engineer. Hunt Brothers Realty provides real estate brokerage services and does not provide individualized legal, financial, tax, insurance, lending, inspection, engineering, or other professional advice.