Phoenix's Finest: A Guide to the Best Golf Courses

Top 10 Golf Courses in Phoenix

If you're a golf enthusiast looking for your next challenge or just someone who enjoys the occasional round with friends, Phoenix has got something to offer. From stunning desert landscapes to meticulously manicured greens, here's our rundown of the top 10 golf courses in Phoenix.

First up is Troon North, a legend among Arizona’s golf circles. It offers two challenging yet picturesque courses - Monument and Pinnacle - that wind through scenic foothills and natural ravines of the Sonoran Desert.

The TPC Scottsdale needs no introduction. Known worldwide as home to the Waste Management Open each year, it provides an opportunity for amateurs to play where professionals have trodden before them.

Raven Golf Club, though relatively new on the scene compared to its contemporaries, makes quite an impression with its lush fairways set against striking mountain views. Plus, it’s just minutes from downtown.

Golfing gems off-the-beaten-path:

Away from city lights but well worth the drive are several exceptional venues like We-Ko-Pa Golf Club. Set amid the untamed beauty of the Fountain Hills area outside Scottsdale borderlines, its Saguaro course boasts sweeping vistas unencumbered by houses or roads – making every hole feel like a private retreat.

The exclusive Boulders Resort & Spa features not one but two Jay Morrish-designed courses known for their dramatic rock formations while Grayhawk offers variety with Raptor and Talon courses, each providing a unique challenge.

Value-for-money picks:

If you're after quality golf without breaking the bank, consider Papago Golf Course. This municipal course is considered one of the best public courses in Arizona. Likewise, ASU Karsten - home to Sun Devils’ men’s and women’s golf teams – offers top-tier play at affordable rates.

Rounding out our list, Longbow and Gold Canyon's Dinosaur Mountain offer top-tier experiences paired with absolutely stunning visuals.

Unraveling the Beauty of Phoenix's Golf Courses

Phoenix, Arizona, is a treasure trove for golf enthusiasts. It's not just about the game here but also about immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscapes that each course offers.

The Troon North Golf Club, renowned for its desert vistas, makes you feel as if you're playing on another planet. Its Monument and Pinnacle courses showcase unique cacti formations against panoramic mountain views, creating an unparalleled aesthetic experience.

A stark contrast to Troon North’s desert terrain is found at the lush Camelback Golf Club. With mature eucalyptus trees lining manicured fairways and ponds reflecting cloudless blue skies, this oasis brings a touch of greenery into your round.

Dramatic Desert Vistas: Grayhawk and We-Ko-Pa

If it's drama you seek in landscape design, then look no further than Grayhawk and We-Ko-Pa. The former features two distinct courses - Raptor and Talon - both offering stunning Sonoran Desert backdrops with saguaros reaching towards azure skies like silent spectators cheering your every shot.

We-Ko-Pa, however, steals the show with its uninterrupted 360-degree views of surrounding mountains such as Four Peaks, Red Mountain, and even parts of downtown Phoenix in the distance. Each hole presents new eye-catching panoramas, making sure that boredom doesn't find its way onto these fairways.

The Classic Appeal: Phoenix Country Club and Arizona Biltmore

For a more classic golfing experience, the Phoenix Country Club and Arizona Biltmore are hard to beat. The former, with its tree-lined fairways and strategic bunkering, gives off an old-school charm that transports you back in time.

Arizona Biltmore's Adobe course also has a lot to offer. It's known for its charm and character, making it an excellent choice for golf enthusiasts.

Challenging Layouts of Phoenix's Premier Golf Courses

Golf in Phoenix isn't just about swinging clubs and sinking putts. It’s a battle against unique course designs that test your skill, strategy, and patience. Let's dive into the challenge posed by some of these renowned golf courses.

Troon North Golf Club - Monument Course

Troon North's Monument Course, designed by legendary architect Tom Weiskopf, is famous for its rugged desert terrain, which provides both visual appeal and technical difficulty. Its signature hole is the par-5 3rd with an enormous boulder in the middle of the fairway, challenging golfers to play around it or risk bouncing off the course.

The Boulders - South Course

The South Course at The Boulders gives players a real taste of Arizona's Sonoran Desert landscape while testing their skills. Expect plenty of sand traps camouflaged within natural rocky outcroppings on this beautifully crafted Jay Morrish design.

Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club

Few courses can match Ak-Chin Southern Dunes' level of complexity due to its wide array of bunkering styles scattered across rolling fairways. This brainchild from Australian designers Lee Schmidt and Brian Curley demands precision shot-making throughout each round.

We-Ko-Pa Golf Club – Saguaro Course

The Saguaro Course at We-Ko-Pa Golf Club is another gem from the designer duo Coore & Crenshaw. They've created a layout that pays homage to classic golf architecture, favoring walking and strategic play over power driving.

TPC Scottsdale - Stadium Course

TPC Scottsdale's Stadium Course is widely recognized as the home of exhilarating golfing experiences. It is an unmissable destination for all sports enthusiasts.

History and Heritage of Phoenix's Golf Courses

The golf courses in Phoenix, Arizona, boast a long-standing history and heritage. From their humble beginnings to hosting prestigious tournaments, each course has a unique story.

Birth of Golfing Culture in Phoenix

Golfing culture began blossoming in the early 20th century when pioneers recognized the potential of desert landscapes for golf course design. The Phoenix Country Club, founded in 1900, is one such gem that set its roots during this era.

This iconic club paved the way for more challenging designs by integrating native desert vegetation into fairways and greens. It was revolutionary at that time.

Proliferation Era: Rise of Championship Courses

The mid-20th century marked an important phase with numerous championship-worthy courses sprouting across Phoenix like mushrooms after rain. One shining example is Troon North Golf Club, which continues to be rated among America’s top public-access tracks even today.

Built amidst picturesque desert-scape settings, these championship layouts added not just quality but also immense diversity to the city's burgeoning golf portfolio.

Rise Of Desert-style Layouts

Inspired by British links-style architecture but adapted uniquely for the Arizonian landscape came our third wave - “Desert” style layout. In the late '80s, Jack Nicklaus' designed masterpiece – Desert Mountain made waves with its bold design.

This was a turning point where architects started leveraging natural topography to create dramatic elevations and rugged aesthetics - A true ode to Phoenix’s inherent beauty.

A New Era: Sustainability In Golf Course Design

As we stepped into the 21st century, there's been a heightened emphasis on creating sustainable designs. These are particularly aimed at reducing water usage, as demonstrated by examples like this.

The Climate Factor - Best Seasons to Play

Phoenix's desert climate plays a big role in when you should hit the greens. With mild winters and scorching summers, planning your tee time requires some weather wisdom.

In summer, temperatures often soar above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. But don't let that deter you. Golf courses like Troon North offer early morning and twilight rounds to beat the heat.

Fall brings more comfortable golfing conditions. Temperatures range from high 60s to low 80s, making it an ideal season for a game of golf at places like We-Ko-Pa Golf Club.

Winter Wonders on the Fairway

Golfers flock to Phoenix during winter months because of its inviting weather contrasted with colder climates elsewhere. Average highs hover around mid-60s, which is perfect for playing without breaking a sweat.

Courses such as TPC Scottsdale, famous for hosting the PGA Tour’s Waste Management Phoenix Open during this season, provide excellent opportunities for watching pros play while enjoying Arizona's sunshine.

Springtime Splendor – Peak Season Alert.

Average temperatures rise gradually through spring but stay below 90 until May—making it another prime season for golf enthusiasts. But remember, spring is peak tourist time, so expect busier fairways and slightly higher green fees, especially at renowned courses like Grayhawk Golf Club.

Phoenix golf courses also tend to overseed during late summer and early fall. It's a process where they plant winter rye grass over the Bermuda grass that goes dormant in cooler temperatures, ensuring lush green fairways all year round.

Off-Peak Play - A Smart Choice?

Should you be someone who doesn't mind a bit of heat, or maybe you prefer golfing without the crowds, then think about hitting the links during off-peak times.

Unique Features of Phoenix's Top Golf Courses

Golf courses in Phoenix are not just about teeing off; they offer more than your typical fairways and greens. Each one has unique features that set them apart, making every round a novel experience.

The Boulders Club: Natural Desert Scenery

Located in Carefree, Arizona, is The Boulders Club. The course blends seamlessly into the desert landscape with towering boulder formations as its backdrop. It’s like playing golf on another planet.

Troon North Golf Club: Monument Course Design

Troon North Golf Club’s Monument Course, designed by Tom Weiskopf, presents an intriguing challenge to all skill levels. Its innovative design incorporates native vegetation and natural washes - elements typically considered obstacles in traditional course designs.

We-Ko-Pa Resort & Conference Center: Unobstructed Views

If it's panoramic views you're after, then head over to We-Ko-Pa Resort & Conference Center. There are no houses or buildings around their two award-winning courses - only 360-degree vistas of untouched desert beauty surrounding you as you play.

SunRidge Canyon Golf Club: Dramatic Elevation Changes

SunRidge Canyon’s Wicked Six, coined “the best finishing hole,” offers heart-pounding drama with significant elevation changes. This desert golf course will test your skills and leave you wanting more.

Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club: Strategic Bunkering

is the standout feature of Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club.

Accessibility and Location - Getting to Your Tee Time

Phoenix, the Valley of the Sun, is a golfing paradise. But getting to your tee time at these world-class courses isn't just about location; it's also about accessibility.

The city sprawls across 517 square miles, but fear not. Our Phoenix Limo Service can make sure you arrive in style and on time. No matter where you're located, in the city or its outskirts, we've got your transportation needs taken care of.

Downtown Phoenix, for instance, is less than 30 minutes from several top-notch golf venues. Troon North Golf Club? Just a short drive away. Camelback Golf Club? A stone's throw distance.

Diving Deeper into Locations

We all know that every golfer has their preferred type of course layout—desert links, parkland-style fairways, or traditional designs—and each has its own unique charm.

In north Scottsdale sits Troon North Golf Club. This gem features two picturesque desert championship golf courses surrounded by natural ravines and foothills with towering cacti standing guard over your shots.

Closer to central Phoenix lies Camelback Golf Club, nestled against Mummy Mountain, providing breathtaking views along its green fairways dotted with serene lakes.

Acing Accessibility

• Parking facilities: These clubs offer ample parking spaces for those driving in.
• Public transit: If you're not keen on taking the wheel, Phoenix has a robust public transport system. You can use their Valley Metro to get around.
• If you're after a touch of luxury, our limo service has got your back. For a truly remarkable journey, our limo service provides door-to-door pickup and drop-off. Plus, booking with us at PHX.CAB is now easier than ever.

Green Fees and Membership Options

Golfing in Phoenix doesn't have to break the bank. With a variety of green fees and membership options, you can choose what suits your golfing lifestyle best.

Green Fees - Pay as You Play

The beauty of many Phoenix golf courses is their pay-as-you-play model. This means that instead of an annual fee, you simply pay each time you hit the greens.

The average cost for 18 holes ranges from $30 at more accessible public courses like Encanto Golf Course up to $300 for premier spots such as TPC Scottsdale during peak season. But remember: high prices often come with perks like free cart rentals or range balls included.

Budget-Friendly Twilight Rates

If saving some dollars sounds appealing, consider playing during twilight hours when rates are usually reduced by about 50%. Courses like Papago Golf Course offer these discounted tee times after 1 p.m. on weekdays.

Punch Cards – Bulk Savings

An alternative option offered by some clubs is punch cards, which give regular players discounts on green fees. For instance, Aguila Golf Course offers a card where every tenth round is free.

Affordable Junior Programs

Young enthusiasts aren’t left out, either. Several Phoenix area courses run junior programs offering affordable access to kids aged under 17 years old, Legacy Golf Club being one great example.

VIP Memberships – A World Of Perks At Your Fingertips

For those serious about their golfing, membership at a Phoenix course can provide unrivaled access and benefits. Most clubs offer annual memberships with unlimited play and additional perks like priority tee times or discounts in the pro shop.

Shelling out a fortune each time you play. Courses like Quintero Golf Club, famous for its pristine greens, offer memberships starting from about $6,000 annually. This price tag might seem steep at first glance, but consider this: it lets you enjoy top-notch facilities without constantly digging deep into your wallet.

Dining Options - From Tee Box to Table

Phoenix's top golf courses aren't just about perfect swings and breathtaking views. Golf courses in Phoenix have some of the city's most noteworthy eateries, offering a wide range of delicious food that goes beyond the ordinary clubhouse grub.

The Troon North Golf Club, for instance, boasts the Dynamite Grille. It dishes out American cuisine with a Southwestern twist amidst stunning Sonoran Desert panoramas.

Then there's the Ironwood American Kitchen at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. Here, you can enjoy locally sourced meals while overlooking one of Arizona’s most beautiful greens.

A Variety in Cuisine Choices

Gone are the days when club sandwiches were all you could get after hitting 18 holes. Now, it’s possible to indulge in an array of cuisines from around the globe right on these Phoenix golf courses.

The Adobe Restaurant at Arizona Biltmore Golf Club offers Mexican-inspired entrees along with classic favorites like burgers and salads. But if Italian is more your style, check out Acacia at Camelback Golf Club, where pasta dishes take center stage.

Fancy or Casual – Your Choice.

In Phoenix, each golf course has its own unique atmosphere, which extends into its dining options as well. Some clubs offer formal fine dining, while others lean more towards a relaxed vibe.

The Palo Verde restaurant at The Boulders Club offers an upscale dining experience with menu items like prime rib and lobster tail. Conversely, if you prefer casual grub after your game, head over to the Grill Kitchen & Bar at TPC Scottsdale for tasty burgers and refreshing beers.

Ambiance That Matches the Course

Dining options on Phoenix's golf courses are not just about good food but also great ambiance. These establishments have gone to great lengths to ensure that their décor matches the aesthetics of their respective courses.

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Pro Shops - Gear Up for Your Game

If you're keen on improving your game, Phoenix golf courses have pro shops packed with the latest gear. These are not just retail outlets; they're a golfer's paradise filled with equipment and apparel to help elevate your performance.

Let's take a trip down the fairways of some top-notch Phoenix golf courses like Troon North, where their fully-stocked pro shop boasts an extensive selection of premium brands such as Titleist, TaylorMade, and Callaway. Whether it’s clubs or balls that you need, these pro shops have got you covered.

Golf Equipment Selections

The beauty of these pro shops lies in their vast inventory. They house everything from drivers designed for maximum distance to putters engineered for precision accuracy. The knowledgeable staff at these stores can assist in choosing what best fits your swing style and skill level.

It's not all about hard goods, though. High-tech gadgets such as GPS watches from Garmin, and rangefinders by Bushnell can be used to gain a competitive advantage on the course, providing accurate yardage measurements and precise distances to targets. Devices like GPS watches from Garmin offer accurate yardage measurements, while rangefinders by Bushnell provide precise distances to targets, helping improve shot selections.

Fashion Forward Golf Apparel

No one said practicality couldn't be stylish. Pro shops at Phoenix golf courses stock fashionable yet functional clothing options catering to both men and women players alike.

Beyond polos and pants, expect footwear offerings ranging from classic leather styles by FootJoy to sporty designs by Adidas, providing comfort throughout those 18 holes. To shield yourself against Arizona sun rays while maintaining chic looks, don’t forget hats offered here, too.

Accessories to Complement Your Game

A visit to the pro shop isn't complete without browsing through their selection of golf accessories. From practical items like gloves and tees to more luxury goods such as custom club covers or stylish golf bags - these stores offer an assortment that caters to every golfer's need.

Take the TPC Scottsdale’s Pro Shop as an example. It's just one of many instances that can be pointed out.

What You Need To Know

Phoenix, Arizona, is a golfer's paradise with a bounty of golf courses spread across the metropolitan area, including the Scottsdale area, known for its luxurious and pristine courses. The city hosts some of the best public golf courses in the nation, acclaimed by institutions like Golf Digest for their quality and design. Among the numerous 18-hole courses, Whirlwind Golf Club stands out for its challenging yet rewarding layout, offering a memorable experience for any avid golfer. Other top-rated golf courses like the Wildfire Golf Club have also hosted PGA Tour events, reflecting their high standards. The city of Phoenix's golf scene is further enhanced by the variety of course designs, ranging from the desert landscapes of the new course at the TPC Scottsdale to the more traditional layouts found in other parts of the city.

The vast array of courses in Phoenix offers different sets of challenges, from the narrow and demanding fairways of some to the wide open fairways of others, catering to a variety of skill levels. For instance, the Champions Course and Cholla Course are known for their generous fairways, allowing for a great time even for less experienced players. Courses like the Raptor Course and Talon Course, on the other hand, challenge players with water hazards and tighter fairways. Various courses also offer distinct scenic views, such as the beautiful mountain vistas at the South Mountain courses. Each course, whether it be a gold course or a private course, has its unique charm and challenge, making the golf scene in Phoenix extremely diverse and appealing.

Designed by renowned architects like Tom Fazio, Robert Trent Jones, Gary Panks, Arnold Palmer, Scott Miller, and Brian Curley of Schmidt-Curley Design, these courses are a testament to excellent golf architecture. For example, the Faldo Course, designed by Nick Faldo, and the Palmer Course, designed by Arnold Palmer, offer unique golfing experiences with meticulously crafted hazards and greens. The Westin Kierland, known for its Scott Miller design, even offers innovative conveyance options like golf bikes alongside traditional golf carts, adding a fun twist to the game. The meticulous design extends to the placement of back tees and sets of tees, ensuring a fair challenge for golfers of all handicaps.

Furthermore, many of these courses offer extensive golf instruction for those looking to improve their game. They provide a range of learning resources from professional instructors, and some even have gift cards available for purchase, making them an excellent gift for the golf enthusiast in your life. The golf season in Phoenix is long due to its favorable climate, allowing for extended play throughout most of the year. This is in contrast to places like Las Vegas, where the golf season is relatively shorter due to extreme summer temperatures.

The bucket list courses in Phoenix and the Scottsdale area are not just about the game; they are about the entire golf experience. From the moment you step onto the well-maintained course conditions to the time you relax in the clubhouses after a game, every aspect is taken care of. The variety of courses, from those on the Indian Reservation to those in the heart of the city, the plethora of designs by world-renowned architects, and the backdrop of Arizona’s picturesque landscapes make golfing in Phoenix a sublime experience. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a casual player, the golf courses in Phoenix offer something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination for every golf enthusiast.

FAQ - Best Golf Courses Phoenix

What PGA courses are in Arizona?

Arizona is home to several prestigious PGA courses, including TPC Scottsdale, Dove Mountain, and Grayhawk Golf Club.

Is TPC Scottsdale public?

Absolutely. Although it hosts the Phoenix Open - a big-time PGA event - TPC Scottsdale is open for public play, too.

How many golf courses does Phoenix, Arizona, have?

The greater Phoenix area boasts over 200 golf courses. That's enough variety to keep even avid golfers on their toes.

How many golf courses are in Phoenix Scottsdale?

In the combined region of Phoenix-Scottsdale alone, there's an impressive collection of around 50 top-notch golfing venues available.

The Bottom Line

Choosing the best golf courses Phoenix has to offer isn't easy...

Each one, with its unique features and breathtaking views, presents a different challenge. The stunning landscapes are hard to forget.

You've explored their rich history and heritage and felt the climate's influence on your game. You've understood what sets them apart from each other.

The accessibility and location of these courses play a crucial role in planning that perfect round. Costs also matter when choosing between green fees or membership options.

A great meal after a day on the fairway is always appreciated... As is finding just the right gear at pro shops for your next outing!

In essence, Phoenix truly caters to every golfer’s dream - diverse terrains combined with top-notch facilities! So why wait? Let's get out there!