The Meadows stands out as one of Sarasota's most desirable communities for those seeking an active lifestyle surrounded by nature. This master-planned community, similar to Lakewood Ranch but on a more intimate scale, offers residents a perfect blend of golf, outdoor recreation, and urban convenience. With 15 neighborhoods, 85 ponds, and 25 miles of waterfront, this census-designated place provides a small-town feel right in the heart of Sarasota County.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Meadows
Is The Meadows a good community for retirees?
The Meadows is particularly popular among retirees thanks to its championship golf courses, tennis facilities, and extensive walking trails. The community offers multiple social clubs, fitness programs, and a vibrant social calendar that makes it easy to stay active and connected. Many residents find the combination of recreational amenities and convenient location ideal for retirement living.
How many golf courses are in The Meadows?
The Meadows features three distinctive golf courses totaling 54 holes. This includes one private members-only course, one executive course, and a full traditional par 72 18-hole course called the Highlands. The Meadows Country Club is widely regarded as one of Sarasota's premier golf destinations.
What amenities does The Meadows Country Club offer?
Beyond golf, The Meadows Country Club boasts one of the area's finest tennis complexes, a Junior Olympic pool, a 5,000-square-foot fitness center with custom programs, and four restaurants including the Members Only Fountain View Lounge. The club also hosts social events, educational programs, and various activities year-round.
How close is The Meadows to downtown Sarasota?
The Meadows is ideally located for easy access to downtown Sarasota. Residents can reach the downtown area within a quick drive, while also being just north of Fruitville Road and south of University Parkway. This central location provides convenient access to shopping, dining, cultural attractions, and I-75 for regional travel.
What makes The Meadows different from other Sarasota communities?
The Meadows combines the charm of a small town with big-city conveniences. Its defining features include 85 ponds, 25 miles of waterfront, and over 14 miles of walking trails creating a natural sanctuary within the city. The community also has its own town center with professional services, medical offices, and dining options.
Can you walk or bike to University Town Center from The Meadows?
Yes, The Meadows is close enough to University Town Center (UTC) that residents can bike or even take a long walk to reach this premier shopping and dining destination. This proximity makes it easy to access some of Sarasota's best restaurants, shopping, and entertainment without a long drive.
About The Meadows Community
The Meadows represents a unique combination of natural beauty and urban accessibility in Sarasota County. As a census-designated place, it functions almost like its own municipality, spanning 2.2 square miles with a population of approximately 5,000 residents. This carefully planned community has evolved to become one of Sarasota's most sought-after addresses for those who value an active lifestyle.
Natural Beauty and Outdoor Recreation
One of The Meadows' most compelling features is its commitment to preserving and enhancing the natural environment. The community includes:
- 85 scenic ponds providing water features throughout the neighborhoods
- 25 miles of waterfront offering countless opportunities for waterside strolls and wildlife viewing
- Over 14 miles of walking trails that wind through oak canopies and alongside beautiful landscaping
- Abundant wildlife viewing opportunities in a carefully maintained natural setting
The walking trails are particularly noteworthy, as they connect various neighborhoods and create a pedestrian-friendly environment. Whether you're taking your morning walk, jogging in the evening, or simply enjoying the Florida outdoors, these trails provide safe and scenic routes throughout the community.
The Meadows Country Club: A Golfer's Paradise
Championship Golf Facilities
The heart of The Meadows' recreational offerings centers around the Country Club and its exceptional golf facilities. With 54 holes of golf distributed across three distinct courses, golfers of all skill levels find something to love:
- The Highlands Course: This full traditional par 72 course serves as the main championship layout. Known for its challenging design and beautiful setting, the Highlands has become one of Sarasota's most popular public golf courses.
- The Executive Course: Perfect for beginners, quick rounds, or practicing your short game, this executive course provides a more relaxed golfing experience without sacrificing quality or beauty.
- The Members Only Private Course: Exclusively available to Country Club members, this course offers the ultimate in privacy and exclusivity for serious golfers.
Beyond Golf: Comprehensive Recreational Amenities
The Meadows Country Club extends far beyond golf, offering some of the finest recreational facilities in Sarasota:
Tennis Excellence The tennis complex at The Meadows is widely recognized as one of the finest in the region. Whether you're a competitive player or just enjoy casual matches with friends, the well-maintained courts and active tennis community provide ample opportunities for play.
Aquatic Facilities The Junior Olympic pool serves both serious lap swimmers and those seeking leisurely water activities. The pool area often serves as a social hub where residents gather for both exercise and relaxation.
State-of-the-Art Fitness The 5,000-square-foot fitness center features modern equipment and offers custom fitness programs designed to meet residents' individual health and wellness goals. Professional trainers are available to help create personalized workout plans.
Dining at The Meadows Country Club
Food lovers appreciate the variety of dining options available within the club:
- Fountain View Lounge: An exclusive Members Only restaurant offering upscale dining in an elegant setting
- Fountain View Deck: Outdoor dining with beautiful views, perfect for Florida's pleasant weather
- Center Court Lounge: Casual dining with a sports bar atmosphere
- The Regency Room: Perfect for private events and special occasions
Each restaurant features quality cuisine and provides wonderful settings for socializing with friends and family while enjoying excellent food.
Strategic Location Advantages
Central Sarasota Positioning
The Meadows benefits from a strategic location that puts residents at the center of everything Sarasota has to offer:
- Downtown Sarasota: A quick drive connects residents to world-class dining, cultural attractions, and waterfront activities
- University Town Center: Close enough for biking or walking, offering premium shopping and numerous restaurant options
- I-75 Access: Easy access to the interstate makes regional travel convenient
Town Center Convenience
The Meadows includes its own town center, which houses:
- Professional services including doctors and dentists
- Physical therapy and personal training facilities
- A local cafe for casual dining
- A community pub for socializing
- Various other service businesses
This self-contained convenience means many daily errands can be handled without leaving the community, yet residents remain close to larger shopping and entertainment centers.
Why Choose The Meadows for Your Next Home?
Active Lifestyle Focus
For those who prioritize an active lifestyle, The Meadows delivers exceptional value. Whether your passion is golf, tennis, swimming, or simply enjoying nature walks, this community provides the facilities and environment to pursue your interests daily.
Community Atmosphere
With approximately 5,000 residents, The Meadows maintains a close-knit community feel while offering big-city amenities. Regular social events, educational programs, and shared recreational spaces foster connections among neighbors.
Investment in Quality of Life
The community's commitment to maintaining and improving its facilities ensures that property values are supported by continuing investment in amenities and infrastructure. This focus on quality makes The Meadows not just a place to live, but a long-term investment in lifestyle.
Perfect for Golf Enthusiasts
If golf is your passion, The Meadows offers unparalleled opportunities:
- Variety of Play: Three different courses mean you can choose the challenge level that suits your mood or skill level
- Year-Round Golf: Florida's climate allows for golfing nearly every day of the year
- Golf Community: Living among fellow golf enthusiasts creates a built-in social network centered around your favorite activity
A Natural Sanctuary in the City
Despite its urban amenities, The Meadows successfully maintains its connection to nature. The extensive pond system, native landscaping, and wildlife corridors create an environment where residents regularly encounter herons, eagles, and other Florida wildlife right in their backyard.
Making the Move to The Meadows
For those considering relocation to The Meadows, several factors make it an attractive choice:
- Established Community: With decades of development and refinement, The Meadows offers the stability and amenities that come with a mature community
- Diverse Housing Options: From condos to estate homes, The Meadows provides various housing styles and price points within its 15 neighborhoods
- Proximity to Healthcare: The community's location provides easy access to Sarasota's renowned medical facilities and specialized healthcare providers
- Cultural Access: Close proximity to Sarasota's vibrant arts and cultural scene, including theaters, museums, and galleries
Conclusion
The Meadows represents the ideal intersection of active lifestyle, natural beauty, and urban convenience in Sarasota. Whether you're drawn by the world-class golf facilities, the extensive network of nature trails, or the central location that provides easy access to all of Sarasota's attractions, this community offers something special for discerning buyers.
For those who love golf, appreciate nature, and enjoy staying active while remaining close to urban amenities, The Meadows presents an unmatched opportunity in the Sarasota real estate market. Its combination of established amenities, natural beauty, and convenient location makes it one of the area's most desirable communities for both full-time residents and seasonal homeowners.
Ready to Explore The Meadows?
If you're considering relocating to The Meadows or anywhere else on Florida's beautiful Gulf Coast, the Zachos Realty & Design Group is here to help. With over 40 years of local expertise and a unique combination of real estate knowledge and award-winning design vision, we can help you find the perfect property that matches your lifestyle needs.
Contact us today:
- Phone: 941-500-5457
- Email: [email protected]
- Sarasota Office: 205 N Orange Ave Suite 202, Sarasota, Florida 34236
- Venice Office: 217 Nassau St S, Venice, FL 34285
Visit our YouTube channel "Relocation Experts | Florida's Gulf Coast" for more insider guides to Florida's Gulf Coast communities.
