Best Golf Courses in Arizona: Your Ultimate Golfer’s Guide

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Born and raised in Arizona, I’ve always loved the desert—and the game of golf. With 300+ days of sunshine and top-tier courses all around, this state is a true golfer’s paradise. From sunrise tee times in Scottsdale to chasing birdies in Wickenburg, I’ve played many of these courses myself. I know what makes each one special. In this guide, I’m sharing local tips and personal favorites to help you plan the perfect Arizona golf trip—or find a new go-to spot close to home.

Introduction: Best Golf Courses in Arizona

Arizona is consistently ranked as one of the top golf destinations in the United States — and for good reason. Arizona’s sunny skies, desert views, and world-famous course designers make it a top spot for golfers of all levels. Whether you’re just starting or chasing scratch, there’s a course here for you. In this guide, I’m sharing the best golf courses in Arizona—based on firsthand experience, real reviews, and top rankings. You’ll find everything you need to know, from green fees and signature holes to local tips and when to play.

Ready to level up your Arizona golf game? I’ve got expert picks and insider insight to help you tee off with confidence.

1. We-Ko-Pa Golf Club – Saguaro Course (Fort McDowell)

One of my all-time favorite spots to recommend to visiting golfers is We-Ko-Pa Golf Club’s Saguaro Course, just outside Scottsdale. Designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, this course offers a pure desert golf experience—no homes, no noise, just open fairways and mountain views. It’s also one of Arizona’s most walkable courses, built to flow naturally with the land.

Play here between October and April for ideal weather and blooming desert views. The par-3 15th hole, with its elevated tee, is a standout—beautiful and tricky. If you want quiet surroundings paired with top-level design, Saguaro is hard to beat.

Insider Tip: Take advantage of twilight rates for a more affordable round while enjoying the stunning desert sunset.

2. Quintero Golf Club (Peoria)

Now, if you’re looking for something a bit more secluded and visually dramatic, head northwest to Quintero Golf Club in Peoria. Nestled in the Hieroglyphic Mountains (yes, that’s the real name), Quintero is a Rees Jones-designed course that feels like you’re a million miles from the city. The conditions here are immaculate—the greens are fast and true, and the layout challenges every level of golfer without ever feeling unfair.

One of the most memorable holes is the par-3 9th—an elevated tee shot to a green framed by desert views that honestly makes you pause for a second before pulling a club. The best time to play Quintero? Late fall through early spring when the desert air is crisp, and the skies are crystal clear. I always recommend warming up on the range—this course has some serious elevation changes, and dialing in your distances early can save you strokes later.

Insider Tip: Utilize the practice facilities before your round to adjust to the course’s unique elevation changes and green speeds.

3. Troon North Golf Club – Pinnacle Course (Scottsdale)

If Scottsdale is on your radar (and it should be—it’s a golfer’s paradise), don’t miss Troon North Golf Club’s Pinnacle Course. This is classic Sonoran desert golf. Giant granite boulders, twisting arroyos, and jaw-dropping views—this course delivers a pure, scenic experience. The Pinnacle Course is known for being challenging but fair, with smooth, fast greens and just enough bite to keep you focused.

Every time I play the par-5 15th hole, I’m reminded why this course is always in Arizona’s top rankings. It’s long, it’s strategic, and the desert framing makes for a picturesque finish. October through May is the sweet spot weather-wise, and if you’re serious about getting the full experience, consider hiring a forecaddie. They know this course like the back of their hand, and the insights they offer—from reading greens to picking the right angles—can turn a good round into a great one.

Insider Tip: Consider hiring a forecaddie to gain valuable insights into the course’s nuances and enhance your playing experience.

4. TPC Scottsdale – Stadium Course (Scottsdale)

And of course, no Arizona golf roundup would be complete without a stop at TPC Scottsdale’s Stadium Course, the legendary home of the PGA Tour’s Waste Management Phoenix Open. Yes, the course is open to the public, and yes—it lives up to the hype. From its perfectly manicured fairways to its dramatic bunkers and water hazards, this is as close as you can get to playing a Tour-level course without needing a PGA card.

But let’s talk about that hole—the iconic par-3 16th, nicknamed “The Coliseum.” During the tournament, this hole turns into a roaring arena of 20,000 fans. When you play it, you’ll see the grandstands and feel the energy lingering in the air. It’s exhilarating. Book your tee time for the months leading up to the tournament—usually November to January—for a chance to play the course while it’s in pristine, tournament-ready condition.

Insider Tip: Book a tee time shortly after the Waste Management Phoenix Open, which is always super bowl weekend, to experience the course in its tournament setup.

5. Wickenburg Ranch Golf & Social Club – Big Wick (Wickenburg)

Just when you think Arizona can’t offer any more jaw-dropping golf experiences, along comes Wickenburg Ranch Golf & Social Club’s Big Wick Course. Located about an hour northwest of Phoenix, Wickenburg is a hidden gem that’s quickly climbing the ranks. What I love most about Big Wick is its balance—it’s challenging, but not punishing, and every hole feels thoughtfully sculpted into the rolling desert terrain.

The par-3 13th hole is a highlight: it’s perched on a ridge with panoramic views and a green that’s guarded by tricky bunkers. The greens here roll true, and the turf conditions are top-notch year-round. Try to tee off in the early morning when the light hits the hills just right—golf here feels more like a retreat than a competition.

Insider Tip: Make time to grab a bite at the on-site Wick’s Hideaway—it’s casual, scenic, and the perfect 19th hole to recount your round.

6. Grayhawk Golf Club – Raptor Course (Scottsdale)

Back in Scottsdale, Grayhawk Golf Club’s Raptor Course is a top-tier desert layout designed by Tom Fazio. It demands precision and smart shot-making. With large, fast greens and deep bunkers, it’s a true test—especially for low handicappers. Mid-level players will also find it fun and fair.

The par-4 14th stands out. It’s a dogleg right with a split fairway, giving bold golfers a risk-reward play off the tee. Play the Raptor Course in late fall or spring when the turf is firm and temperatures are perfect.

Insider Tip: Get there early. The practice area is one of the best in Arizona—and you’ll want to be sharp before tackling these greens.

7. Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club (Maricopa)

For a change of pace, head to Maricopa and play Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club. Co-designed by Fred Couples, this course breaks from typical desert layouts. It has wide fairways, deep bunkers, and a true links-style feel—rare in Arizona.

The standout is the par-5 15th. Big hitters can reach it in two, but tricky bunkers and rolling mounds make eagle dreams risky.

Insider Tip: Check the official website for summer twilight rates and online-only specials. You can often score top value during off-peak times.

8. The Boulders Golf Club – South Course (Carefree)

Now, if you’re after pure desert ambiance, The Boulders Golf Club’s South Course in Carefree might just steal your heart. It’s nestled among gigantic granite rock formations that give it one of the most dramatic backdrops in Arizona. This course demands accurate play—tight fairways and elevation shifts will test your shot-making and club selection skills.

The signature 5th hole is a visual masterpiece—a short par-3 with a tee shot over desert brush and a green cradled by boulders. The wildlife here is plentiful too—you might see coyotes, bobcats, or even javelinas during your round.

Insider Tip: Stay at the Boulders Resort and book a stay-and-play package. You’ll get early tee time access and priority booking for spa services after your round.

9. Ventana Canyon Golf & Racquet Club – Mountain Course (Tucson)

Heading down to Tucson, Ventana Canyon’s Mountain Course offers one of the most scenic and challenging rounds in the state. Carved directly into the Santa Catalina Mountains, this course features dramatic elevation changes, rocky outcrops, and jaw-dropping desert flora.

The par-3 3rd hole is their signature—one of the most photographed in Arizona—where your tee shot is launched from a cliffside to a green tucked into the rocks.

Insider Tip: The resort is fantastic, but for serious golfers, ask about the Troon Golf Advantage Card—it can help with discounts and preferred tee times here and at other Troon-managed properties across Arizona.

10. Desert Mountain Club – Chiricahua Course (Scottsdale)

And finally, for those lucky enough to score access, Desert Mountain Club’s Chiricahua Course in Scottsdale is one of the most prestigious private golf courses in the Southwest. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, the course winds through the high Sonoran Desert, offering a serene and luxurious golf experience. With perfectly groomed fairways, world-class amenities, and vistas stretching for miles, Chiricahua feels like a golfer’s paradise.

The par-5 7th hole stands out—a true risk-reward monster with a downhill tee shot and dramatic canyon views.

Insider Tip: If you’re not a member, consider booking a Discovery Visit or asking your club pro about reciprocal access—it’s worth the effort for a chance to play this ultra-exclusive course.

Conclusion: Best Golf Courses in Arizona

From the stunning desert vistas of Troon North to the legendary greens of TPC Scottsdale, Arizona truly is a golfer’s dream destination. As someone who’s lived here my whole life, I can honestly say there’s nothing quite like a sunrise tee time with the red rocks glowing in the distance and the scent of creosote in the air. Whether you’re looking for a bucket-list course designed by golf legends, a hidden gem locals love, or a resort-style experience with all the amenities, Arizona delivers — and then some.

I hope this guide helps you discover your next favorite fairway. Every course I’ve shared here offers a unique slice of what makes golf in Arizona so unforgettable. So pack your clubs, book your tee time, and prepare to fall in love with desert golf — just like I did.

And if you’ve played one of these courses (or have a favorite I missed), I’d love to hear about it in the comments! ⛳

Happy golfing, friends — and I’ll see you on the green!