20 of the Best Golf Courses in Arizona in 2025

Arizona’s golf scene combines stunning desert landscapes with championship-level course design. From Phoenix to Scottsdale and beyond, you’ll find exceptional golfing experiences featuring dramatic mountain backdrops and meticulously maintained fairways. Many courses blend seamlessly with their natural surroundings, creating unique challenges for golfers of all skill levels.

The top 20 golf courses in Arizona represent the best combination of design excellence, playing conditions, and memorable holes as evaluated by expert rating panels from major golf publications. These prestigious courses have been recognized for their distinctive features, from target-style desert layouts to lush parkland designs at higher elevations. Whether you’re planning a dedicated golf trip or looking to play during your Arizona vacation, these standout courses deliver unforgettable rounds.

1. TPC Scottsdale

TPC Scottsdale stands as Arizona’s only PGA TOUR property, offering golfers an exceptional experience with standards typically reserved for tour professionals. Set against the stunning backdrop of the McDowell Mountains in the Sonoran Desert, this premier golf destination delivers both challenge and playability.

The property features two championship courses – the world-famous Stadium Course and the equally impressive Champions Course. The Stadium Course, designed by Jay Morrish and Tom Weiskopf in 1986, has hosted numerous memorable moments in golf history as the home of the WM Phoenix Open.

The Champions Course, redesigned by Randy Heckenkemper in 2007, flows naturally through the rugged terrain with ravines and foothills creating a picturesque desert golf experience. You’ll find it rivals its sister course in both beauty and playability.

Beyond golf, TPC Scottsdale offers comprehensive amenities including dining experiences, corporate outings, and special events. You can even become a TPC passholder to enjoy exclusive privileges and discounts throughout the year.

Rating: 4.7 (2823 reviews)
Location: 17020 Hayden Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Contact: (480) 585-4334
Website: Visit Website

2. Quintero Golf Club

Nestled in the pristine Arizona desert, Quintero Golf Club stands as a pinnacle of golfing excellence in the Southwest. This secluded course offers a pure golf experience free from distractions, allowing you to focus entirely on your game amidst spectacular natural surroundings.

The course features strategic bunker placement, generous landing areas, and some of the smoothest bentgrass greens in the region. For skilled players, Quintero presents fresh challenges that demand precision from tee to green, making each hole a thoughtful test of your abilities.

Located less than an hour northwest of Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, Quintero is consistently ranked among the country’s best golf courses. The club is currently undergoing renovations (June 2 – November 1, 2025) to further enhance its already impressive facilities and playing conditions.

Beyond just exceptional golf, Quintero offers luxurious accommodations in designer-decorated homes on the property. These fully-equipped residences provide the perfect base for an extended golf vacation, with every amenity imaginable for a carefree, relaxing stay.

Rating: 4.2 (704 reviews)
Location: 16752 AZ-74, Peoria, AZ 85383
Contact: (928) 501-1500
Website: Visit Website

3. Troon North Golf Club

Nestled in the scenic Sonoran Desert, Troon North Golf Club stands as one of Arizona’s premier golfing destinations. The club features two meticulously landscaped 18-hole courses that provide a challenging yet rewarding experience for golfers of all skill levels.

The stunning desert landscape serves as a breathtaking backdrop, with giant granite boulders and picturesque views of Pinnacle Peak creating a truly memorable setting. You’ll find yourself immersed in the natural beauty while navigating the strategically designed fairways and greens.

The modern clubhouse offers excellent amenities, including an all-day bistro and bar where you can relax after your round. Overlooking the manicured greens, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and discuss the highlights of your game while enjoying quality food and beverages.

Beyond golf, Troon North also serves as a popular venue for weddings and special events, with professional planning services available. The combination of spectacular desert scenery and top-notch facilities makes it a versatile destination that appeals to both serious golfers and those looking for a picturesque Arizona experience.

Rating: 4.4 (449 reviews)
Location: 10320 E Dynamite Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85262
Contact: (480) 585-5300
Website: Visit Website

4. We-Ko-Pa Golf Club

Nestled in the pristine Sonoran Desert just outside Scottsdale, We-Ko-Pa Golf Club offers what many consider Arizona’s ultimate golf experience. The property features two award-winning courses with dramatically different characters – the Scott Miller-designed Cholla and the Coore/Crenshaw-designed Saguaro.

What sets We-Ko-Pa apart from other Scottsdale-area facilities is the complete absence of development. You won’t find homes, roads, or businesses disrupting your experience – it’s just you, your ball, and the natural desert landscape stretching to the horizon.

Both courses have received exceptional accolades, with Saguaro consistently ranked as the #1 public golf course in Arizona by Golfweek. The Cholla course has earned its own impressive collection of honors, including recognition from Golf Magazine and Golf Digest as one of the top public courses you can play.

We-Ko-Pa offers the complete package with excellent practice facilities, attentive service, and the We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort nearby for those seeking stay-and-play options. The Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation property provides a genuine desert golf experience that keeps golf enthusiasts returning year after year.

Rating: 4.6 (914 reviews)
Location: 18200 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, AZ 85264
Contact: (480) 836-9000
Website: Visit Website

5. Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club

Nestled in the desert landscape of Maricopa, Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club offers a championship-caliber golfing experience. The course features strategic bunkering and rolling fairways that challenge players of all skill levels while showcasing the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert.

You’ll appreciate the meticulously maintained grounds that stand out against the desert backdrop. The expansive layout provides a sense of solitude during your round, with generous fairways that still demand thoughtful shot placement to navigate effectively.

This club distinguishes itself with exceptional practice facilities and professional instruction options. The Fred Couples signature design incorporates traditional links-style elements while adapting beautifully to the Arizona terrain, creating a unique playing experience that differs from many other courses in the region.

The clubhouse offers comfortable amenities for post-round relaxation, including dining options where you can reflect on your game while enjoying views of the course. Many golfers consider the conditions here comparable to private clubs, making it an outstanding public-access option.

Rating: 4.4 (297 reviews)
Location: 48456 AZ-238, Maricopa, AZ 85139
Contact: (480) 367-8949
Website: Visit Website

6. Verrado Golf Club

Nestled in the shadows of the White Tank Mountains west of Phoenix, Verrado Golf Club offers an exceptional golfing experience with 36 holes of championship golf. Designed by renowned golfer Tom Lehman, the two distinct layouts provide varying challenges amidst the stunning Arizona landscape.

As you play through the courses, you’ll be surrounded by ancient saguaros and ironwood trees that define the Sonoran Desert. The elevation changes throughout both courses provide breathtaking valley views that enhance your golfing experience.

After your round, you can relax at the Verrado Grille or visit the Cliff House for a satisfying meal. The club serves as more than just a golf destination—it’s also a popular venue for weddings and special events with dedicated banquet spaces and picturesque settings.

Don’t miss the well-stocked pro shops featuring top golf brands and merchandise to help improve your game or commemorate your visit to one of Arizona’s premier golf destinations.

Rating: 4.6 (1146 reviews)
Location: 4242 N Golf Dr, Buckeye, AZ 85396
Contact: (623) 388-3000
Website: Visit Website

7. Grayhawk Golf Club

Nestled in North Scottsdale, Grayhawk Golf Club boasts two captivating layouts that challenge and delight golf enthusiasts of all skill levels. The club maintains spectacular course conditions year-round, making it a premier destination for both casual players and serious golfers.

You’ll find more than just exceptional golf at Grayhawk. The club offers multiple dining options including Isabella’s Kitchen, Quill Creek Café, and Phil’s Grill, each providing distinctive culinary experiences. Morning players can enjoy coffee at Mojo alongside fresh-squeezed juices and handmade Bloody Marys.

The facility welcomes everyone to experience the unique Scottsdale golf lifestyle. With its expansive fairways and stunning mountain views, Grayhawk delivers a memorable Arizona golfing experience that keeps visitors returning. The Golf Shop & Trading Company is also recognized as one of the country’s most stylish shopping venues.

Grayhawk Golf Club serves as an impressive venue for meetings and events, offering flexible spaces for gatherings of various sizes. Their professional team ensures seamless planning and execution for any occasion.

Rating: 4.6 (708 reviews)
Location: 8620 E Thompson Peak Pkwy, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Contact: (480) 502-1800
Website: Visit Website

8. Desert Forest Golf Club

Desert Forest Golf Club stands as a premier private golf destination in Carefree, Arizona. Designed in 1962, this undulating course sits at an elevation of 2,750 feet, offering players a distinctive desert golf experience that has stood the test of time.

The course is widely respected for its natural layout that embraces the surrounding desert landscape rather than fighting against it. You’ll find no water hazards here—just strategic bunkering, native vegetation, and the natural contours of the desert terrain challenging your game.

Practice facilities include a driving range and dedicated practice area where you can warm up before tackling the course. The club’s minimalist approach to course design creates a pure golf experience that serious players appreciate, focusing on shot-making skills rather than artificial obstacles.

Desert Forest’s layout requires thoughtful strategy and precise execution, rewarding golfers who can shape their shots and adapt to the natural flow of the land. The elevation changes and undulating greens provide subtle challenges that keep the course interesting with every round.

Rating: 4.7 (59 reviews)
Location: 37207 Mule Train Rd, Carefree, AZ 85377
Contact: (480) 488-4589
Website: Visit Website

9. The Stone Canyon Club

Tucked against the stunning Tortolita Mountains in Oro Valley, The Stone Canyon Club stands as one of Arizona’s premier golfing destinations. This exclusive private club features a world-class 18-hole golf course designed by renowned architect Jay Morrish.

The course holds the distinction of being the only golf course in the Tucson area ever ranked among Golf Digest’s Top 100 golf courses in America. As you navigate the challenging layout, you’ll be treated to breathtaking desert landscapes and meticulously maintained fairways that complement the natural surroundings.

Beyond golf, Stone Canyon offers a comprehensive club experience with luxurious amenities. You can enjoy the modern health and fitness facility, take a refreshing swim at the swim club, or perfect your game at the tennis facilities. The property spans an impressive 1,400 acres within an upscale residential community.

After your round, you can relax at the club’s restaurant and bar, which provides a sophisticated atmosphere for post-game refreshments. The venue also hosts weddings and special events, making it a versatile destination in the Tucson area.

Rating: 4.6 (101 reviews)
Location: 14320 Hohokam Village Pl, Oro Valley, AZ 85755
Contact: (520) 219-1500
Website: Visit Website

10. Scottsdale National Golf Club

Scottsdale National Golf Club represents golf in its purest form, offering an exclusive members-only experience in the breathtaking Sonoran Desert. The club features an impressive 45 holes across three distinct courses, with no homes lining the fairways and no tee times required.

The Mine Shaft Course delivers a visually stunning par-72 desert experience, complete with a notorious 13-foot-deep bunker that challenges even the most skilled golfers. The Other Course takes a different approach with its links-style design and unique balance of six par-3s, six par-4s, and six par-5s.

For those seeking an extraordinary challenge, The Bad Little Nine lives up to its name with deep bunkers, difficult hazards, and wickedly shaped greens. The club’s facilities include two distinctive clubhouses offering panoramic views and fifteen luxurious member Villas with sixty well-appointed rooms.

Membership is invitation-only, making this one of Arizona’s most exclusive golfing destinations. The club operates with just one simple rule established by owners Bob and Renee Parsons: “No member shall ever impinge upon another member’s enjoyment of the club.”

Rating: 4.6 (96 reviews)
Location: 28265 North Scottsdale National Drive, Scottsdale, AZ 85262
Contact: (480) 443-8868
Website: Visit Website

11. Forest Highlands Golf Club

Nestled in the pines of Flagstaff, Forest Highlands Golf Club offers an exclusive golf experience that stands out in Arizona’s high country. You’ll find two spectacular championship courses that provide a welcome escape from the desert heat during summer months.

The private club boasts impressive amenities beyond golf, including tennis courts, a recreation center, and fine dining options. The pristine conditions and thoughtful course design have earned Forest Highlands a reputation as one of the state’s premier golfing destinations.

Forest Highlands also serves as a sought-after event venue, particularly for weddings, with its picturesque mountain setting. The gated community surrounding the courses creates an atmosphere of secluded luxury that enhances the overall experience.

Your round here will challenge your skills while rewarding you with stunning panoramic views of northern Arizona’s landscape. The elevation provides not only cooler temperatures but also affects ball flight, adding an interesting dimension to your game.

Rating: 4.6 (30 reviews)
Location: 2425 William Palmer, Flagstaff, AZ 86005
Contact: (928) 525-5200
Website: Visit Website

12. Whisper Rock Golf Club

Nestled in the pristine desert landscape of Scottsdale, Whisper Rock Golf Club stands as one of Arizona’s premier private golfing destinations. This exclusive club offers a pure golf experience away from the hustle of more commercial venues.

Whisper Rock boasts exceptional course conditions that challenge and delight members throughout the year. The natural desert terrain has been thoughtfully incorporated into the course design, creating a seamless blend of challenge and beauty that showcases Arizona’s unique landscape.

The club’s commitment to maintaining a traditional golf atmosphere has made it a favorite among serious golfers, including PGA Tour professionals who frequent the facilities. You’ll find the atmosphere pleasantly focused on the game itself, without the distractions that often come with resort-style courses.

Privacy and exclusivity define the Whisper Rock experience, making it one of the most sought-after memberships in the Southwest. The club’s facilities complement the outstanding course with understated elegance that perfectly matches its desert surroundings.

Rating: 4.8 (104 reviews)
Location: 31900 N Old Bridge Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85266
Contact: (480) 575-8700
Website: Visit Website

13. Raven Golf Club

Nestled in the shadows of South Mountain, Raven Golf Club offers a championship golf experience that has earned impressive recognition in Arizona’s golf scene. The lush, par-72 course features manicured greens and stunning mountain views that provide a picturesque backdrop for your game.

This Phoenix gem has received numerous accolades, including 4.5 stars from Golf Digest and being ranked as the “#5 Golf Course in the State” by Arizona Magazine. Perhaps most impressively, the club has been recognized for having “#1 Guest Service in North America,” reflecting their commitment to creating an exceptional experience for visitors.

Beyond the impressive course, Raven Golf Club boasts an expansive practice facility where you can fine-tune your skills. The property also features multiple dining options including Grill 36 Restaurant, The Nest, and The Perch, allowing you to enjoy a meal before or after your round.

If you’re planning a special event, the club offers an air-conditioned wedding and event pavilion that overlooks the 18th hole, making it a popular venue for celebrations and tournaments against the beautiful Arizona landscape.

Rating: 4.5 (665 reviews)
Location: 3636 E Baseline Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85042
Contact: (602) 243-3636
Website: Visit Website

14. Seven Canyons Golf Club

Nestled within the breathtaking Coconino National Forest, Seven Canyons Golf Club offers you an exclusive golfing experience surrounded by Sedona’s iconic red rock formations. The par-71 championship course stretches nearly 7,000 yards from the championship tees and provides 360-degree views of the stunning landscape.

The course design masterfully incorporates natural elements including jagged cliff faces, red-rock monoliths, and ancient pinion pines. You’ll navigate subtle contours, meandering arroyos, and strategic hazards that create a rewarding challenge for golfers of all skill levels.

Beyond golf, Seven Canyons functions as a luxury retreat with world-class amenities. The clubhouse provides fine dining options and comfortable spaces to relax after your round. As a private club, it offers members access to various social activities, fitness classes, and special interest groups.

Located just 30 miles south of Flagstaff and two hours north of Phoenix, this golf sanctuary creates a perfect harmony with Sedona’s natural environment. The secluded setting within the canyons provides a peaceful escape while still offering all the amenities of a premium golf destination.

Rating: 4.4 (215 reviews)
Location: 625 Golf Club Way, Sedona, AZ 86336
Contact: (928) 203-2000
Website: Visit Website

15. Wildfire Golf Club

Wildfire Golf Club at JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge offers a premium golfing experience with two distinct championship courses. The Nick Faldo course mimics an Australian sand belt design, featuring expansive fairways, large greens, and over 100 strategically placed bunkers to test your skills.

The Arnold Palmer signature course provides a different but equally challenging experience with its flashed bunkers and undulated putting greens. Both courses showcase the natural desert landscape while providing wide-open fairways that forgive slightly errant shots.

Your experience at Wildfire extends beyond the courses with excellent practice facilities. You’ll find an all-grass driving range, putting and chipping greens, and a green-side practice bunker to work on your game before or after your round.

Don’t miss the Coyote Den challenge on holes 13-15 on both courses, where you can win prizes for scoring par or better. The 2,500 square-foot golf shop, recognized as one of the “100 Best Golf Shops in America” by Golf World Magazine, offers top-quality equipment and apparel to enhance your game.

Rating: 4.4 (149 reviews)
Location: 5350 E Marriott Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85054
Contact: (888) 705-7775
Website: Visit Website

16. Whirlwind Golf Club at Wild Horse Pass

Nestled in the beautiful foothills of the Sierra Estrella Mountains just south of Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, Whirlwind Golf Club offers two pristine courses in a stunning desert landscape. The club features Devil’s Claw and Cattail, both masterfully designed by Gary Panks to honor and preserve the rich cultural heritage of the Gila River Indian Community.

Both courses consistently rank among the best public golf experiences in Arizona, featuring creative designs that incorporate the natural Gila River landscape. You’ll find cottonwood, mesquite, saguaro, and palo verde trees lining the fairways, complemented by native grasses and rolling terrain that provide an authentic Southwest golf experience.

The courses offer uncluttered views and follow the contours of desert canyons carved by ancient rivers. After your round, you can enjoy creative culinary experiences at the Sivlik Grill, making Whirlwind not just a golf destination but a complete recreational experience within the larger Wild Horse Pass Destination.

When playing at Whirlwind, you’ll appreciate how the design sensitively integrates with the surrounding environment while delivering championship-caliber golf challenges suitable for players of various skill levels.

Rating: 4.5 (713 reviews)
Location: 5692 W North Loop Rd, Chandler, AZ 85226
Contact: (480) 940-1500
Website: Visit Website

17. Ventana Canyon Golf & Racquet Club

Ventana Canyon presents a stunning golf destination nestled in the picturesque Santa Catalina foothills of Tucson. The club features 36 holes of exceptional golf designed by renowned architect Tom Fazio, who masterfully integrated the courses with the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert landscape.

You’ll find the courses thoughtfully designed to harmonize with the canyon’s natural splendor, offering challenging play amid breathtaking mountain views. The lush fairways contrast beautifully with the rugged desert terrain, creating a memorable golfing experience that showcases Arizona’s distinctive landscape.

Beyond golf, Ventana Canyon offers a complete club experience with world-class racquet sports, regional cuisine, and comprehensive fitness facilities. The welcoming clubhouse provides a sophisticated retreat after your round, while the 50-suite lodge accommodates those looking to extend their stay.

Member-owned and operating for over forty years, Ventana Canyon maintains an atmosphere of relaxed sophistication that appeals to serious golfers seeking both quality play and scenic beauty. The club’s dedication to preserving the natural environment while providing exceptional recreation makes it a standout destination in Arizona’s golf landscape.

Rating: 4.7 (436 reviews)
Location: 6200 N Club House Ln, Tucson, AZ 85750
Contact: (520) 577-1400
Website: Visit Website

18. SunRidge Canyon Golf Club

Nestled in the ridges and canyons of the McDowell Mountains, SunRidge Canyon Golf Club offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for golf enthusiasts. This Keith Foster design stretches 6,823 yards with a par-71 layout that takes full advantage of the dramatic elevation changes and natural desert beauty.

The course is famous for its “Wicked Six” – a demanding six-hole stretch that will test golfers of all skill levels. You’ll find yourself navigating through picturesque canyons and lush Sonoran Desert landscapes as you play, with the signature 17th hole presenting a unique challenge over a box canyon.

After your round, you can relax at the Wicked Six Bar & Grill, enjoying gourmet burgers and artisan pizzas while taking in the stunning views. Though public, the course provides an experience that rivals many private clubs, with impeccable conditions and amenities throughout.

The dramatic desert setting combined with thoughtful course design makes SunRidge Canyon a standout among Arizona’s golf destinations. You’ll appreciate both the challenge and the scenery as you wind through this Fountain Hills gem.

Rating: 3.8 (140 reviews)
Location: 13100 Sunridge Dr, Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
Contact: (480) 837-5100
Website: Visit Website

19. The Golf Club at Dove Mountain

Nestled in the stunning Tortolita Mountains of Marana, Arizona, The Golf Club at Dove Mountain offers a premier golfing experience that ranks among the state’s finest. This exceptional course gained international recognition as the host of the WGC Accenture Match Play Championship from 2007 to 2014, welcoming the world’s top golfers to its challenging terrain.

The course features legendary design work, contributing to the impressive 63 holes of golf available through The Clubs of Dove Mountain membership system. As part of a dual-club offering alongside The Gallery Golf Club, members enjoy access to courses created by renowned designers including Jack Nicklaus, John Fought, and Tom Lehman.

Beyond golf, the club provides a complete luxury lifestyle experience. You can enjoy various amenities including fitness facilities, tennis, pickleball, swimming, and spa services. The stunning desert backdrop also makes it an ideal venue for special events, from intimate weddings to corporate golf tournaments.

Rating: 4.6 (297 reviews)
Location: 6501 W Boulder Bridge Pass, Marana, AZ 85658
Contact: (520) 572-3500
Website: Visit Website

20. Wickenburg Ranch

Nestled in the desert foothills near historic Wickenburg, Arizona, Wickenburg Ranch offers an exceptional golf experience that earns its place among Arizona’s elite courses. The meticulously maintained grounds provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape while challenging players of all skill levels.

The course is part of a larger retirement community that emphasizes resort-style living, creating an atmosphere where golf is just one component of a vibrant lifestyle. You’ll find the 42,000-square-foot Wickenburg Ranch Golf and Social Club serves as the heart of the community.

What sets Wickenburg Ranch apart is its recognition in multiple “best of” lists, including Top 25 Golf Course Layouts and Best Golf Courses in Arizona. The course’s design takes advantage of the natural terrain, offering both strategic challenges and visual splendor that make every round memorable.

When you’re not on the greens, you can explore the charming town of Wickenburg nearby, which provides small-town charm with convenient amenities including quaint shops, outdoor adventures, and healthcare facilities.

Rating: 4.6 (332 reviews)
Location: 3312 Maverick Dr, Wickenburg, AZ 85390
Contact: (928) 668-5536
Website: Visit Website