Waterlefe Golf and River Club Homes for Sale, Bradenton FL

About Waterlefe Golf and River Club

Waterlefe Golf and River Club sits on the south bank of the upper Manatee River in northeast Bradenton, in the 34212 ZIP, a few minutes east of I-75. The name says what makes it different: this is one of the few golf communities in the region that pairs a championship course with river access and a residential marina, so buyers can play in the morning and run a boat downriver in the afternoon. The community took shape after the course opened in 2000, and the housing includes single-family homes, villas and condos, many with views of the course, preserve or river. The club is semi-private, which means golf is not forced onto every owner. Residents who play can join through annual Passport memberships that include unlimited golf with no green fees, and residents who do not play are not committed to club dues. For boaters, ask about slip availability and the rules for the 59-slip residential marina before buying, since slips are a limited resource and do not come with every home.

The golf at Waterlefe Golf and River Club

The course is a par 72 Ted McAnlis design that opened in 2000, and it is known for the five signature holes that border the Manatee River. Eight sets of tees let players of very different abilities set up a fair round. The layout mixes river frontage, preserve and lakes, so wind off the water can change club selection on the holes along the bank. Waterlefe is semi-private. Its annual Passport membership, open to residents and non-residents, includes unlimited golf with no green fees, preferred tee times, unlimited range balls, complimentary bag storage and summer reciprocal privileges at other clubs. Men's and ladies' leagues and couples tournaments make up the regular event calendar. Daily fee golfers can also book times, which keeps the course active year-round.

Is club membership required in Waterlefe Golf and River Club?

Optional. The club is semi-private and sells annual Passport memberships to both residents and non-residents.

Want the current HOA, CDD and club numbers for a specific home? Ask me and I will pull them from the listing and the association.

Living in Waterlefe Golf and River Club: location and lifestyle

Boating is the headline. The upper Manatee River connects downstream to downtown Bradenton, Palmetto and eventually Tampa Bay and the Gulf, so a slip here opens up a lot of water. On land, I-75 is a few minutes away, which keeps Tampa, St. Petersburg via the Skyway, and Lakewood Ranch within an easy drive. Ellenton Premium Outlets and the US 301 shopping corridor are close for errands. Lake Manatee State Park is east for camping and trails, and Anna Maria Island beaches are about 40 minutes away by car or a scenic run by boat. The Sunset Grille and River Club give residents a place to eat with a view without leaving the community. Before buying, ask how the marina handles slip waiting lists, storm preparation and haul-out rules, since those details shape how useful the river access really is for a given owner.