Imperial Lakewoods Golf Club

Over the past eighteen years, Imperial Lakewoods Golf Club has become one of the Tampa Bay area’s favorite places to play. While there are many reasons for the popularity of the golf club, the prime one is the care and devotion that is given to this family-owned and operated business.

Patriarch Augie Cueto’s commitment to excellence and love of the property ensured that the course was always in such great condition, that it was continuously ranked as one of the area’s best courses by Golf Digest. When his children took over the property following his death in 2002, they built on his legacy by constantly finding ways to upgrade and improve the entire facility.

The most recent improvements to the golf course include replacing all 18 greens with tifdwarf bermuda putting surfaces that are rolling firm and fast throughout. Along with the new greens, the14th and 15th holes have been redesigned for better drainage and playability by actually relocating the greens and enlarging two lakes. The 15th is a short, straight par-4 with water right and trees left.

This hole requires an accurate tee shot, then a well-placed iron into a small green. You may think birdie on the tee, but you are very happy with par when you leave the green. The work to the course was done in stages to promote healthy growth and lush fairways, so consequently the course is superbly conditioned. The attention to detail throughout the property becomes obvious as you play the course that stretches over more than 500 beautifully wooded acres with 16 lakes, majestic maples, large oaks, swaying palms, and rolling terrain.

The golf course was designed by Ted McAnlis, who took the natural terrain surrounding Imperial Lake and produced one of his finest creations. Like many of McAnlis’ designs, Imperial Lakewoods plays comfortably from the senior (silver) tees and is an enjoyable and fair course from the white tees. Conversely, the course can be difficult from the tips, testing professional or low-handicap players. The 18th hole is the signature hole of Imperial Lakewoods Golf Club, and is ranked as one of the best par-5s in Florida. At 600 yards from the back tees, this hole requires a long, accurate drive, an accurate second shot, and a perfect third shot to a green with water left, woods right, and a bunker in front. Not that the hole isn’t difficult enough, but don’t forget to check out the wind, which is always blowing hard off Imperial Lake. When you finish this hole, you’ll understand the frequent comparisons to the famous 18th at Pebble Beach Golf Links.

The upgrades and improvements were not limited to the golf course. The latest addition to the clubhouse and remodeled lakeside restaurant is a new Outdoor Patio Bar.

This full service bar adds a relaxed atmosphere to the outdoor area. Locals and patrons have discovered the great drink specials and appetizer menu, and usually stop in for a late night drink or a bite to eat. The new outdoor patio bar is the talk of the town. Just inside, the lakeside restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy the view of the lake and natural landscape before or after a round of golf. The banquet facilities comfortably hold 175 people inside or outside and provide a beautiful backdrop for any occasion.

Customized menus can be individually created for weddings, receptions, rehearsal dinners, parties, birthdays, anniversary celebrations, showers, company parties and meetings.

The Grill at Imperial is the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely breakfast, meet friends for lunch or to host your next special occasion. A professional staff and helpful banquet manager will fulfill your every need.

Convenience also contributes to Imperial Lakewoods popularity. Located at exit 229, directly off I-75, it is just one mile north of the intersection of Interstates 75 and 275. The course is located approximately 10 minutes from the Sunshine Skyway Bridge and 30 minutes (or less) from Sarasota, Bradenton, Tampa and St. Petersburg.

And finally, Imperial Lakewoods is popular for affordable rates. The course is open to the public throughout the year, and Imperial Lakewoods is now offering membership opportunities to non-resident golfers, with membership dues among the lowest of any comparable championship-caliber golf course in the area. As an added bonus, if you join in 2005 you pay no initiation fee. That is a savings of $2500.

In addition to all of the above, Imperial Lakewoods Golf Club offers a grass tee driving range; practice bunker and chipping areas; a fully stocked golf shop; a beverage car on course; golf instruction by PGA professionals and tournament capabilities.

Championship golf at affordable rates at a convenient location, combined with the ease of interstate travel, make Imperial Lakewoods a “must” place to visit and play.

Now you can book your tee times directly 24 hours per day, seven days per week at: www.imperiallakewoods.com. Call Imperial Lakewoods to book tournaments or outings at 941 747-4653 or toll free: 1-800-642-2193 from Hillsborough or Pinellas counties. For party or banquet information call (941)723-3655. For membership information, please call 941-729-4700.