A Summer Morning on the Fairways at Tara Golf & Country Club
There’s something special about an early summer golf round in Florida. The air is still comfortable, the course is waking up with the sun, and for a few hours, the only thing on the agenda is enjoying good golf and even better company.
That was exactly the scene as we recently headed over to Tara Golf & Country Club for a morning round with friends. We arrived early enough to spend some time exploring the extensive pro shop, where I somehow managed to leave with a box of TaylorMade golf balls featuring pink flamingos—a purchase that felt very Florida and absolutely necessary.
From there, it was off to the practice facilities. After a few swings on the range, we made our way to the putting green, where Tara immediately reminded us why it has such a strong reputation. The greens were lightning fast, incredibly smooth, and rolled like silk. It didn't take long to realize that putting would be just as challenging as the golf course itself.
And what a course it is.
Tara offers a layout that is both beautiful and demanding—a course that rewards good shots while still finding ways to keep you humble. Our foursome got off to a strong start with several early pars, but Tara quickly reminded us that concentration is required on every hole.
The tree sitting squarely in the middle of the fairway on No. 3 certainly got everyone's attention. The lengthy 195-yard par-3 sixth challenged the boys to bring their best swings. And then there was my longtime nemesis, No. 8, which once again lived up to its reputation as I found myself visiting the trees. Some traditions, apparently, are meant to continue.
By the turn, we were ready for a quick stop at the snack shack. Lunch did not disappoint. I enjoyed an excellent chicken salad sandwich while Stitch opted for the egg salad. Armed with a cold beverage and one of those cooling towels wrapped around our necks, we were ready to tackle the back nine and the rising Florida temperatures.
The back nine offers plenty of memorable moments as well. Consecutive doglegs require thoughtful course management, while No. 16 presents one of the more interesting tee shots on the course, asking players to navigate a creek and hazard as you set up the approach. The round concludes with a challenging uphill eighteenth that requires one final good effort to finish strong.
At least one member of our group did exactly that. Stitch was quick to remind everyone that he closed out the day with a one-putt birdie on No. 18. Not that anyone was counting.
After the round, we settled into the clubhouse bar for a well-earned beverage before continuing the fun at the nearby Parrot restaurant for appetizers and plenty of post-round storytelling. As any golfer knows, scores tend to improve slightly with every retelling.
The clubhouse itself is currently undergoing an extensive renovation, and it will be exciting to see the finished product once completed. Even now, it's easy to see why Tara remains one of the area's most popular golf communities.
Part of Tara's appeal is its unique membership structure. Homeownership includes membership in the club, with a Class A golf membership required throughout the community. Yet despite offering an impressive golf experience, the costs remain remarkably affordable compared to many area clubs—approximately $650 per month, or about $7,800 annually, making it one of the more accessible bundled golf communities in the region.
Beyond golf, members enjoy a full lifestyle experience that includes a swimming pool, tennis courts, pickleball courts, dining, social activities, and an active community atmosphere.
At the end of the day, Tara Golf & Country Club delivers exactly what many Florida golfers are looking for: a challenging but fair course, excellent conditions, great amenities, and a welcoming community. Add in a beautiful June morning with friends, and it's hard to imagine a better way to spend the day.
Until next time, may your drives stay in the fairway and your putts roll true.
