Business Details
Your Premier Golf & Country Club Experience in Belleair, FL
Belleair Country Club has been a cornerstone of luxury golf and country club living since its founding in 1897. Established by Henry Bradley Plant as Florida's first golf course, our club has evolved into a premier destination featuring two meticulously maintained Donald Ross-designed courses that challenge players of all skill levels. Our commitment to excellence extends beyond golf, offering a comprehensive array of amenities including seven Har-Tru tennis courts, four pickleball courts, two croquet courts, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a Junior-Olympic swimming pool. We pride ourselves on being a family-oriented community that hosts year-round social events, from Sunday Champagne Brunches to Kids Poolside Parties. Recent renovations to our West Course, recognized as Golfweek's 2024 Top Four Private Courses in Florida, demonstrate our dedication to preserving Donald Ross's original design while modernizing facilities. Our 125-year history includes hosting five U.S.Presidents and legendary athletes, cementing our status as a historic yet contemporary club. The 2023 USCA Croquet Club of the Year award and recognition as Sports Illustrated's 2022 Best Golden Age East Coast Private Course Renovation validate our industry leadership. Our experienced staff, including PGA Golf Professionals and certified fitness trainers, ensures personalized service for every member. The club's 850+ golf members and five-year waiting list reflect our enduring appeal as both a recreational haven and social hub. From our scenic Clearwater Bay vistas to our luxurious spa and diverse dining options, we deliver an unparalleled experience where tradition meets modern luxury.
Services
Golf Courses
Tennis Courts
Pickleball Courts
Croquet Courts
Fitness Center
Swimming Pool
Day Spa
Dining Services
Event Hosting
Marina Access
Highlights and features
- We offer two Donald Ross-designed golf courses ranked among Florida's top private courses
- Our club provides a wide range of amenities including tennis, croquet, and a luxury spa
- Family-oriented with events for all ages from Kids Fun Night to adult holiday parties
- Recent $9 million West Course renovation preserves historic design while modernizing playability
- Recognized as Sports Illustrated's 2022 Best Golden Age East Coast Private Course Renovation
Services
Golf Courses
Two 18-hole Donald Ross-designed courses featuring meticulously maintained fairways and greens. The West Course, recently renovated for $9 million, offers 17 holes with Clearwater Bay views and was ranked #4 private course in Florida by Golfweek 2024. Both courses include practice facilities, PGA professional instruction, and tournament hosting capabilities for men, women, and juniors.
Tennis Courts
Seven Har-Tru clay courts with evening lighting until 10 PM. Offers private lessons, clinics, and tournaments for all skill levels. Courts feature medium-speed surfaces easier on joints than hard courts, with professional instruction available from multiple certified tennis pros for both adults and juniors.
Fitness Center
20,000 sq ft state-of-the-art fitness center with strength training equipment, cardio machines, and free weights. Includes group classes like yoga, Zumba, and cycling. Certified personal trainers available for customized workout plans, with additional expansion completed in 2023 featuring updated locker rooms and equipment.
Croquet Courts
Two USCA regulation-sized courts with lighting for evening play. Features spectator terrace with seating and restrooms. Offers beginner clinics and equipment rentals, requiring traditional white clothing and flat shoes. Recognized as 2023 USCA Croquet Club of the Year with active member participation.
Dining Services
Multiple dining options including formal dining room, casual grille, and two bars. Features live music nightly and special events like Sunday Champagne Brunch. Includes poolside snack window and course-side concessions, with private dining available for member events and celebrations.
People
Ed Shaughnessy
General Manager/Chief Operating Officer
Certified Club Manager with over 20 years leading Florida country clubs. Transformed Belleair into a top family-oriented club through strategic expansions and renovations while maintaining financial stability during economic challenges.
Jim Slattery
Director of Golf
PGA Golf Professional with decades of experience at Belleair. Inducted into the PGA's North Florida Section Hall of Fame in 2023 alongside major champions, overseeing both golf operations and professional instruction programs.
Andy Neiswender
Golf Course Superintendent
Led West Course renovation project using original Donald Ross designs. Managed $9 million transformation while maintaining playability, ensuring the course received national acclaim for preserving historic elements while modernizing infrastructure.
Hal Bodley
Golf Course Renovation Committee Chairman
Key figure in negotiating the 'Waterfall West' land lease for the signature par-3 hole. Authored the club's 179-page history book for the 125th anniversary, maintaining institutional knowledge of the club's heritage.
Joe Walsh
Executive Chef
Oversees all culinary operations including formal dining, casual venues, and private events. Implements seasonal menus across multiple dining facilities while maintaining high standards for both member daily dining and special occasion catering.
Questions
What golf course memberships are available at Belleair Country Club?
We offer full golf memberships providing access to both 18-hole Donald Ross-designed courses, practice facilities, and tournament participation. Membership includes use of all club amenities with options for family packages and social memberships with limited golf access.
Are non-members allowed to play the golf courses?
Our courses are private with play restricted to members and their accompanied guests. We offer membership inquiry options for those interested in experiencing our Golfweek Top 4 ranked private facility in Florida.
What other sports facilities are available besides golf?
We feature seven Har-Tru tennis courts, four pickleball courts, two USCA regulation croquet courts, a bocce ball court, Olympic-sized pool, and a 20,000 sq ft fitness center with group exercise classes and personal training.
Can I host private events at Belleair Country Club?
Yes, our facilities accommodate weddings, corporate events, and social gatherings. Our banquet team assists with planning from intimate gatherings to large celebrations with customized packages and full-service catering.
What recent renovations have been completed at the club?
The West Course underwent $9 million renovation (2020-2022) restoring Donald Ross's original design. Recent projects include fitness center expansion, croquet court improvements, and marina upgrades with additional slips.
How does the club support family membership?
We offer family memberships with youth programs including golf clinics, swimming lessons, and social events. Family-friendly amenities include kids' pool area, seasonal camps, and special events like Kids Poolside Parties.
