Course Details
- Architect: Ted McAnlis (2000)
- Course Type: Public
- Par: 72
- Rating: 73.8
- Slope: 141
Course Score
- Course Conditions: 6
- Green Complexes: 7
- Amenities: 7
- Practice Facilities: 6
- Service: 5
- Course Design: 6
- Value: 5
Course Score: 6.00
The Good: Waterlefe is an interesting Ted McAnlis design in the Bradenton area just outside of Sarasota. Devoid of houses is a huge plus, the course routes through wetlands on literally every hole but has enough trees and sand to hold its own even if you manage to keep it dry. Very strong Par 5’s and good variety in Par 4 with several doglegs. Par 3’s are extremely difficult but visually appealing. Well-conditioned fairways and very large, smooth greens that don’t have too much undulation. Very nice clubhouse and above average putting green. Pace of play for a five-some was excellent (under 4 hours). Starter and clubhouse staff were very accommodating. Great GPS on the carts!
The Bad: Seems odd to be hitting into a pond for the driving range at such an expensive course: perhaps its just foreshadowing for whats to come. While off-course service was friendly, the ranger was extremely pushy despite our great pace as a five-some and there was no on-course beverage service to speak of. Course design provided very little options off the tee, particularly the medium length Par 4’s. The Par 3’s were overly long, difficult for the tees that we played. Overpriced for the quality of course and service received.
The Verdict: Waterlefe is a good, yet uninspiring option in the Sarasota area. Lacks a “wow-factor” set of holes. I found myself saying multiple times “This isn’t a hundred dollar golf course.”
Best Hole: The dogleg left Par 4 13th is one of the few holes with ample room off the tee and an approach that must cross a creek and avoid overhanging palm trees.
Midwest Golf Tripper 