Golf in Venice?

Although golf is not likely to be a priority on your trip to Venice, you may save a day for the lovely parkland course on the island of Lido. Easily reachable by public sea bus from various points in the city, Lido is a quiet, green getaway from the hubbub of tourism. A strip of beaches facing the Adriatic and tree-shaded parks are popular with daytrippers all summer, and visitors in the know stay in Lido hotels, zipping back and forth on the frequent water taxis, ferries (you can bring a car) and sea buses. Families opt for lodging on Lido, so that kids can run around, swim in the hotel pools and play on the beach--not possible in the city.
    Opened circa-1930, the Golf Club of Lido is a pretty thing, fortunately walkable, the better to enjoy the spreading willows, pines, poplars and mulberry trees. Among notables to have dined in the pleasant glass-in dining room of the clubhouse are the Duke of Windsor, Henry Cotton and Bing Crosby -- and although they are not known to be golfers, apparently Mussolini and Hitler lunched here, too. You can rent clubs; green fees are about 75 Euro; hotel discounts are 20%-30%. Makes tee times ahead during the high season.
    Staying over on Lido? the Westin Excelsior Resort, Venice Lido is the top choice, a smashingly flamboyant, century-old resort with private cabanas on the beach, luxe designer boutiques, a sunny, beachside terrace for drinks and meals, and 5-star accommodations and service. The hotel offers complimentary private launch service to and from Venice all day and into the evening, connecting with sister Starwood hotels, the Danielli, the Westin Regina-Europa and the Gritti Palace.
    How to get to Lido from the train station? It's either a $100 private water taxi (up to 6 people); or the public sea bus, with taxi to the hotel, about $50 altogether for two people. Because we were jetlagged and exhausted upon our arrival, we took the water taxi to Lido. Days later, we departed on the sea bus to the train station, which was fun, as the bus makes several stops and goes through the port area and along the waterfront; the water taxi jets along so fast that you don't get that nice tour.