Business Details
Experience Florida's Premier Golf Course at Belleair Country Club
Belleair Country Club, established in 1897, is Florida's first and most prestigious golf course. Founded by Henry Bradley Plant and later refined by Donald Ross, our two 18-hole courses offer a world-class golfing experience with meticulously maintained fairways and greens. We combine historic tradition with modern amenities, including state-of-the-art tennis and pickleball courts, a fitness center, croquet and bocce ball facilities, and a luxurious day spa.Our family-oriented approach ensures members of all ages enjoy social events, dining options, and recreational activities. With recent renovations restoring the West Course to Ross's original 1924 designs, we maintain our reputation as Golfweek's 2024 Top Four Private Course in Florida. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our rankings, member satisfaction, and recognition as the 2023 USCA Croquet Club of the Year.
Services
Golf Courses
Tennis Courts
Fitness Center
Dining
Spa Services
Event Hosting
Croquet
Pickleball
Marina
Swimming Pool
Highlights and features
- We offer Florida's first golf course, established in 1897, with Donald Ross-designed layouts.
- Our family-oriented community provides amenities for all ages, from sports to social events.
- Recent $9M West Course renovation restored historic Donald Ross designs with modern enhancements.
- Ranked #4 in Florida's Best Private Courses by Golfweek (2024) and #77 in Top Classic Courses.
- We provide 27,000 sq ft of event space and personalized planning for weddings and corporate events.
Services
Golf Courses
Belleair Country Club features two 18-hole Donald Ross-designed golf courses, including the recently renovated West Course. The West Course, ranked #4 in Florida and #77 nationally, offers 17 holes with Clearwater Bay views. Both courses provide challenging layouts for all skill levels, with driving ranges, practice greens, and PGA professionals. The East Course includes a new practice facility doubling in size to 75,000 sq ft.
Tennis & Pickleball
Seven Har-Tru clay tennis courts and four pickleball courts provide year-round play. Courts are lit until 10 PM, with lessons available from professional instructors. The facility hosts tournaments and casual matches, catering to both competitive players and recreational enthusiasts seeking social engagement in a scenic setting.
Fitness Center
The 20,000 sq ft Sports Center includes cardio machines, strength training equipment, free weights, and group classes like yoga and Zumba. Certified trainers offer personalized programs, while the Olympic-size pool supports lap swimming and Masters programs. The facility expanded in 2023 with improved locker rooms and fitness technology.
Dining
Dining options include formal and casual venues with two bars, a grille, and poolside/snack shacks. Menus feature American cuisine with live music nightly. The Sam Parks Lounge expansion in 2024 added indoor-outdoor seating, maintaining the club's tradition of culinary excellence and social gatherings.
Private Events
The club offers 27,000 sq ft of event space for weddings, corporate functions, and private parties. Services include customized catering, dcor, and planning assistance from dedicated coordinators. Recent enhancements include a new Marina with 50-foot boat slips and expanded banquet facilities.
People
Ed Shaughnessy
General Manager/Chief Operating Officer
Ed Shaughnessy, CCM, has led Belleair Country Club since 2000, transforming it into Florida's premier family-oriented club. With over 40 years in hospitality management, he oversaw $20M+ in renovations during the Great Recession while maintaining member loyalty.
Jim Slattery
Director of Golf
Jim Slattery, PGA, has served as Director of Golf since 2005, following Bill Conway's 43-year tenure. A former assistant, he was inducted into the PGA's North Florida Section Hall of Fame in 2023 alongside major champions.
Andy Neiswender
Golf Course Superintendent
Andy Neiswender, Golf Course Superintendent since 2008, led the $9M West Course renovation. He implemented Donald Ross's original 1924 designs, addressing water quality concerns while preserving the course's historic character and natural beauty.
Hal Bodley
Golf Course Renovation Committee Chairman
Hal Bodley chaired the West Course renovation committee, securing the 30-year lease for Waterfall West. He negotiated with the Town of Belleair to create the signature par-3 seventh hole overlooking Clearwater Bay.
Joe Walsh
Executive Chef
Executive Chef Joe Walsh oversees all culinary operations, maintaining the club's reputation for excellence. He manages dining venues, private events, and seasonal menus that complement the club's luxury offerings.
Questions
What golf courses are available?
We offer two 18-hole Donald Ross-designed courses: the recently renovated West Course (ranked #4 in Florida) and the East Course, both featuring scenic Clearwater Bay views.
Are non-members allowed to play golf?
Golf is exclusive to members and their guests. However, we offer membership tours and opportunities to experience the course through guest privileges.
What other amenities are included with membership?
Members enjoy tennis/pickleball courts, fitness center, croquet/bocce, spa services, dining venues, social events, and a Marina with boat slips available for rent.
Can I host private events at the club?
Yes, we offer 27,000 sq ft of event space for weddings, corporate functions, and private parties. Our dedicated banquet team assists with planning and catering.
What recent renovations have been completed?
Recent projects include the $9M West Course renovation, expanded Sports Center, new croquet/bocce courts, Marina upgrades, and the Sam Parks Lounge expansion in 2024.
