20 of the Most Overlooked Golf Courses in Arizona in 2025

Arizona offers a treasure trove of golfing experiences beyond the famous championship courses that draw national attention. While many golfers flock to well-known destinations, the state harbors numerous hidden gems that provide exceptional play without the crowds or premium green fees. These overlooked courses often deliver the same stunning desert landscapes, challenging layouts, and impeccable conditions that Arizona golf is known for, but remain relatively undiscovered by the average golf traveler.

When planning your next golf trip to Arizona, consider venturing beyond the typical tourist destinations to discover these underappreciated courses. From hidden gem golf courses nestled against breathtaking red rock formations to desert layouts that showcase the natural beauty of the Southwest, these courses offer unique playing experiences that can elevate your Arizona golf vacation. You’ll find that many of these courses provide excellent value while still delivering the memorable golf experience you seek.

1. Lookout Mountain Golf Club

Nestled in the Phoenix North Mountains, Lookout Mountain Golf Club offers an exceptional golfing experience amidst the stunning backdrop of the Sonoran desert. This hidden gem has garnered significant recognition, including nine Golf Digest Four Star Awards, yet remains surprisingly underappreciated by many Arizona golf enthusiasts.

The course seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings, providing challenging play across 18 holes. You’ll find yourself navigating through desert terrain while enjoying the contrast of lush fairways against the arid landscape.

Zagat has recognized Lookout Mountain as one of America’s Best Golf Courses, and Arizona Business Magazine readers have voted it among Arizona’s Top 10 Golf Courses. Despite these accolades, it doesn’t attract the crowds of more heavily marketed courses, making it perfect for golfers seeking quality play without the wait.

You’ll appreciate the club’s “The More You Play, The More You Save” program, which rewards frequent visitors with special offers and discounts. This makes Lookout Mountain not only a premium golfing destination but also an accessible one for regular players.

Rating: 4.4 (440 reviews)
Location: 11111 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85020
Contact: (602) 866-7500
Website: Visit Website

2. McDowell Mountain Golf Club

Nestled in the valley of Arizona’s magnificent McDowell Mountains, this Scottsdale gem offers a premium golfing experience without the exclusivity of a private club. You can enjoy all the high-end amenities typically reserved for members-only establishments, but without any annual memberships or fees.

The course presents stunning desert landscapes and challenging play that will test your skills while treating you to spectacular mountain vistas. The natural Sonoran Desert setting creates a uniquely Arizona golfing experience that many visitors overlook when planning their golf itineraries.

After completing your round, you can relax at the on-site Rossa Kitchen and Patio. This dining venue provides some of the best views in Scottsdale, making it the perfect spot to enjoy appetizers and drinks while taking in the stunning valley panorama.

The club occasionally hosts special events like TaylorMade fitting experiences, giving you opportunities to improve your game with professional equipment customization. These additional services further enhance what’s already a comprehensive golf destination.

Rating: 4.2 (582 reviews)
Location: 10690 E Sheena Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Contact: (480) 502-8200
Website: Visit Website

3. The Short Course at Mountain Shadows

Nestled in Scottsdale with stunning mountain views, The Short Course at Mountain Shadows offers a unique golfing experience that’s often overlooked by those seeking traditional championship courses. This 18-hole par-3 course provides fast-paced play while challenging golfers to perfect their short game.

The course design makes it accessible to beginners while still offering enough complexity to engage experienced players. Each hole presents its own character and challenges, with names like “Snyder Burn,” “Oasis,” and “Mummy” adding personality to your round.

After your game, you can visit Rusty’s patio and lounge to enjoy breakfast, lunch, or drinks while reflecting on your performance. The pro shop offers equipment rentals and high-quality gear, ensuring you have everything needed for an enjoyable round.

For added convenience, the course offers a mobile app with an interactive scorecard, automatic stats tracking, and the ability to book tee times without fees. There’s even a bonus hole (17.5) for settling bets or breaking ties among your group.

Rating: 4.6 (221 reviews)
Location: 5445 E Lincoln Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85253
Contact: (480) 624-5432
Website: Visit Website

4. Longbow Golf Club

Tucked away in Mesa, Longbow Golf Club offers a championship golf experience that deserves more recognition. This public course combines challenging play with scenic beauty, featuring dramatic mountain views that create a memorable backdrop for your round.

The course has earned its place among the Top 100 Resort Golf Courses Nationwide, yet remains accessible to all skill levels. You’ll find the layout player-friendly while still offering enough complexity to keep your game interesting.

After your round, you can relax at what locals consider one of the “Best 19th Holes in The East Valley.” The clubhouse features a spacious patio where you can enjoy refreshments while taking in panoramic views of the course and surrounding landscape.

For frequent players, Longbow offers special programs including a Flight Card with exclusive rates and a points system that rewards you for green fees and merchandise purchases. This makes it an excellent choice for Arizona residents looking for a regular golfing destination.

Rating: 4.5 (682 reviews)
Location: 5601 E Longbow Pkwy, Mesa, AZ 85215
Contact: (480) 807-5400
Website: Visit Website

5. McCormick Ranch Golf Club

McCormick Ranch Golf Club in Scottsdale offers an exceptional golfing experience that often flies under the radar of Arizona’s more publicized courses. The club features two 18-hole championship courses – the Pine and the Palm – each providing unique challenges for golfers of all skill levels.

The well-maintained fairways and greens give you plenty of strategic options during your round. Water comes into play on several holes, creating both visual appeal and challenging obstacles that require thoughtful club selection and precision.

Beyond the golf, the club boasts excellent amenities including a driving range, restaurant serving quality American cuisine, and event facilities that host weddings and other special occasions. You can enjoy a meal with scenic views of the course after your round.

The location in the heart of Scottsdale makes this an accessible option for both locals and visitors. While it may not have the same national recognition as some of Arizona’s destination courses, McCormick Ranch delivers a solid golf experience with less crowding and typically more favorable pricing.

Rating: 4 (1168 reviews)
Location: 7505 E McCormick Pkwy, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Contact: (480) 948-0260
Website: Visit Website

6. Gold Canyon Golf Course

Nestled in the foothills of the Superstition Mountains, Gold Canyon Golf Course offers two championship 18-hole courses that deserve more recognition among Arizona’s golfing destinations. The resort features Dinosaur Mountain and Sidewinder, each providing distinct challenges and experiences for golfers of all skill levels.

Dinosaur Mountain stands out as the premier course, consistently ranked among Arizona’s best. What makes this course special are the dramatic elevation changes and breathtaking views that create not just one signature hole, but nearly ten that could qualify. You’ll encounter wildlife and scenery that make every round memorable.

The Sidewinder course complements its sister course perfectly, earning 4 stars from Golf Digest. This desert layout guides you through arroyos and native washes, offering a different but equally engaging experience. Both courses maintain excellent conditioning year-round, ensuring quality play regardless of when you visit.

You’ll appreciate the resort atmosphere that enhances the golfing experience. The natural desert landscape integration provides a uniquely Arizona golfing adventure that combines challenge with beauty in a way few other courses manage.

Rating: 4.6 (326 reviews)
Location: 6100 S Kings Ranch Rd, Gold Canyon, AZ 85118
Contact: (480) 982-9449
Website: Visit Website

7. Encanto 18

Tucked away in the heart of Phoenix, Encanto 18 stands as one of Arizona’s hidden golf gems with a rich history that many visitors overlook. This classic course offers a traditional golf experience with well-maintained fairways and greens that challenge players of all skill levels.

The course features a comprehensive practice facility including a driving range and practice green where you can warm up before your round. You’ll appreciate the mature trees lining the fairways that provide welcome shade during Arizona’s warmer months while adding strategic elements to your game.

The full-service golf shop at Encanto provides everything you might need for your round. From apparel and shoes to clubs and golf bags, the shop caters to men, women, and junior golfers. Rental clubs are also available if you’re visiting without your gear.

As a city-operated facility, Encanto 18 typically offers more affordable rates compared to resort courses in the area, making it an excellent value for the quality of play you’ll experience. The historical significance of this course adds another dimension to your golfing adventure in Phoenix.

Rating: 4.4 (617 reviews)
Location: 2775 N 15th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Contact: (602) 534-4653
Website: Visit Website

8. Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club

Nestled in Maricopa, Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club represents one of Arizona’s hidden gems that deserves more recognition. This championship-caliber course offers a true links-style experience that stands out among the desert courses typical to the region.

The layout provides a genuine test of golf skills with strategically placed bunkers and undulating fairways that demand thoughtful shot selection. You’ll appreciate how the design incorporates natural desert landscapes while maintaining playability for various skill levels.

Professional instruction is available for those looking to improve their game, making it an excellent destination for both seasoned golfers and those working to lower their handicap. The course conditions are consistently well-maintained throughout the year, offering a premium experience without the premium price tag of more publicized venues.

What makes Southern Dunes truly special is the authentic golf experience it delivers without the crowds of better-known Arizona courses. You can enjoy a peaceful round with stunning views of the surrounding mountains that frame nearly every hole.

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

9. Arizona Biltmore Golf Club

Arizona Biltmore Golf Club stands as one of Phoenix’s most iconic golf destinations, with nearly a century of history behind it. Recent significant renovations have restored this classic property to its rightful place among Arizona’s premier golf facilities.

The club features two distinct 18-hole courses. The original Adobe Course has been completely reimagined by PGA TOUR legend Tom Lehman and renamed the Estates Course, while the Links Course has been revitalized by the club’s new agronomy team.

You’ll appreciate the vibrant new golf shop and spectacular clubhouse that enhance the experience. The Adobe Bar & Grille offers indoor/outdoor seating with views of the course, Phoenix skyline, mountains, and Arizona sunsets, creating an ideal post-round environment.

For a unique experience, you can visit the No. 37 Golf Lounge, a Virtual Golf Experience perfect for entertaining family, friends, or business colleagues. This blend of tradition and modern amenities makes the Arizona Biltmore Golf Club a surprisingly overlooked gem.

Rating: 4.3 (772 reviews)
Location: 2400 Biltmore Estates Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85016
Contact: (602) 955-9655
Website: Visit Website

10. Sedona Golf Resort

Nestled among Sedona’s iconic red rock formations, this par-71 course offers one of the most visually stunning golf experiences in Arizona. The 6,646-yard layout seamlessly integrates with the natural desert landscape, creating a unique playing experience that combines challenge with breathtaking scenery.

Each hole presents its own strategic test while showcasing panoramic views of the surrounding red rock cliffs. The signature 10th hole demands both precision and careful planning as it winds through the natural terrain, while the 17th features a water hazard that requires accuracy with the spectacular backdrop of Sedona’s famous formations.

The well-maintained fairways are framed by striking red rock formations and elevation changes that add both visual appeal and complexity to your round. You’ll find the course accommodating for various skill levels, though the strategically placed bunkers and guarded greens will challenge your short game.

Beyond the exceptional golf experience, the resort offers full amenities including breakfast and lunch dining options, making it an ideal destination for a complete day of golf in one of Arizona’s most picturesque settings.

Rating: 4.6 (614 reviews)
Location: 35 Ridge Trail Dr, Sedona, AZ 86351
Contact: (928) 284-9355
Website: Visit Website

11. Raven Golf Club

Nestled in the shadows of South Mountain, Raven Golf Club offers a championship golf experience that deserves far more recognition than it receives. The lush, par-72 course features manicured greens and stunning mountain views that create a memorable backdrop for your round.

What sets Raven apart is its world-class amenities and exceptional service. The club boasts an expansive practice facility where you can perfect your swing before hitting the course. Golf Digest awarded Raven 4.5 stars, and Arizona Magazine ranked it the “#5 Golf Course in the State.”

Beyond golf, Raven offers excellent dining options at Grill 36 Restaurant, The Nest, and The Perch. The club also serves as a picturesque venue for weddings and private events with its air-conditioned pavilion overlooking the 18th hole.

For those looking to improve their game, the Tour Striker Golf Academy provides professional instruction, and True Spec offers custom club fitting services. Various membership options are available through the Arcis Players’ program, providing regular golfers with additional benefits and savings.

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

12. 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 a distinctive Southwest golf experience. The club features two pristine courses, Devil’s Claw and Cattail, both masterfully designed by Gary Panks to preserve the rich cultural heritage of the Gila River Indian Community.

Both courses are consistently ranked among the best public courses in Arizona, yet they remain somewhat under the radar for many golfers. The creative designs reflect the natural Gila River landscape, incorporating cottonwood, mesquite, saguaro, and palo verde trees alongside native grasses and rolling terrain.

You’ll appreciate the uncluttered views and the thoughtful layout that works with rather than against the desert environment. After your round, you can enjoy creative culinary experiences at the Sivlik Grill, making your visit complete.

The club serves as a shining golf gem within the larger Wild Horse Pass Destination, offering both serious golfers and casual players a memorable experience that honors the land’s cultural significance and natural beauty.

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

13. Encanto 9-Hole Golf Course

Nestled in the heart of Phoenix, Encanto 9-Hole Golf Course offers a refreshing alternative to the longer, more time-consuming courses scattered throughout Arizona. This compact urban gem provides stunning views of the Phoenix skyline, making your round visually appealing while you play.

The course is perfect for beginners looking to develop their skills or experienced golfers wanting to fit in a quick round. Its accessible layout doesn’t sacrifice quality, providing enough challenges to keep your game interesting without the intimidation factor of larger courses.

The full-service golf shop is impressively stocked for a 9-hole facility. You’ll find everything you need from apparel and shoes to clubs and accessories for golfers of all ages and skill levels. Rental clubs are also available if you’re visiting without your gear.

As a public course maintained by the City of Phoenix, Encanto 9 offers excellent value and accessibility. The well-maintained greens and friendly atmosphere make this an overlooked treasure for those seeking quality golf without committing to a full 18 holes.

Rating: 4.5 (337 reviews)
Location: 2300 N 17th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Contact: (602) 262-6870
Website: Visit Website

14. Arizona Grand Golf Course

Arizona Grand Golf Course offers a distinctive links-style experience in Phoenix with dramatic elevation changes and stunning mountain vistas. The par 71 layout spans over 6,300 yards and presents a diverse challenge suitable for players of all skill levels.

The front nine features lush semitropical landscaping and water hazards, creating a refreshing contrast to the true desert-style experience found on the back nine. You’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Sonoran Desert landscape throughout your round.

The course has garnered impressive accolades, including being named among the nation’s Top 50 “Great Service” Facilities by Golf Digest and awarded Four Stars in their “Best Places to Play” rankings. After your round, you can take advantage of a 25% discount at the Lobby Grill with your scorecard.

As of June 2025, the course is open from sunrise to sunset with limited hours during summer months. Note that walking isn’t permitted on the course, but complimentary Club Car golf carts are provided with your round.

Rating: 3.9 (484 reviews)
Location: 8000 S, Arizona Grand Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85044
Contact: (602) 431-6480
Website: Visit Website

15. Eagle Mountain Golf Club

Eagle Mountain Golf Club offers a remarkable golfing experience nestled in the ravines of Arizona’s McDowell Mountains. This Scott Miller design, opened in 1996, harmoniously blends with the natural landscape, winding through box canyons, rolling hills, and lush desert valleys.

The course presents a challenging yet fair layout, featuring contoured fairways and meticulously maintained emerald greens throughout its par 71, 6,800-yard design. You’ll appreciate the thoughtful design that tests your skills while remaining enjoyable for various skill levels.

Beyond golf, Eagle Mountain serves as a popular dining and event destination. You can enjoy breakfast, lunch, snacks, and beverages while taking in panoramic views of the southeast Valley of the Sun from dawn to dusk. The Overlook Pavilion is particularly noteworthy for its stunning sunset vistas.

The club excels at hosting memorable events, from weddings and anniversary parties to corporate retreats and golf tournaments. Their professional staff provides exceptional service, ensuring your experience at Eagle Mountain becomes a cherished memory.

Rating: 4.4 (856 reviews)
Location: 14915 Eagle Mountain Pkwy, Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
Contact: (480) 816-1234
Website: Visit Website

16. Las Sendas Golf Club

Tucked away in Mesa, Las Sendas Golf Club is a hidden gem that deserves more recognition among Arizona’s golf destinations. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. in 1995, this course marked his Arizona debut and immediately established itself as a standout in the desert landscape.

The layout offers a challenging yet rewarding experience with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You’ll find yourself navigating through dramatic elevation changes and strategically placed hazards that require thoughtful shot selection and course management.

Despite its world-class design and impeccable maintenance, Las Sendas often gets overshadowed by more heavily marketed courses in Scottsdale and Phoenix. What makes this course special is how it seamlessly integrates with the natural desert terrain while providing a memorable golfing experience for players of all skill levels.

The clubhouse facilities include a bar and grill restaurant, making it an excellent spot to relax after your round. Las Sendas also serves as a popular wedding venue, showcasing its versatility beyond just golf.

Rating: 4.4 (841 reviews)
Location: 7555 E Eagle Crest Dr, Mesa, AZ 85207
Contact: (480) 396-4000
Website: Visit Website

17. Grayhawk Golf Club

Despite its well-established reputation, Grayhawk Golf Club remains overlooked by many Arizona golf enthusiasts searching for exceptional play. Situated in north Scottsdale, this public golf course features two captivating layouts with spectacular course conditions open to everyone.

The club offers a complete golf experience with indoor and outdoor dining options. You can enjoy American fare with Southwestern flair at Quill Creek Café or savor Italian favorites at Isabella’s Kitchen. Morning golfers appreciate grabbing coffee at Mojo, along with fresh-squeezed juices and handmade Bloody Marys.

Beyond golf, Grayhawk serves as an impressive event venue with flexible meeting spaces and stunning mountain views. Their professional team ensures seamless planning and execution for any occasion, from business meetings to social gatherings.

The Golf Shop & Trading Company provides one of the most stylish shopping venues in the country, completing the exceptional Scottsdale golf lifestyle that Grayhawk embodies.

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

18. Grand Canyon University Championship Golf Course

Tucked away on the west side of Phoenix, Grand Canyon University Championship Golf Course offers a refreshing blend of challenge and accessibility. The 18-hole public course features well-maintained fairways and greens that appeal to golfers of all skill levels.

The modern clubhouse serves as an excellent complement to your round, housing a restaurant and bar where you can relax after play. The pro shop is well-stocked with gear and accessories, ensuring you have everything needed for a successful outing.

What sets this course apart is its balance of quality and value. While it doesn’t receive the attention of Scottsdale’s premium destinations, GCU Golf Course delivers an enjoyable experience without the premium price tag. The layout provides enough variety to keep your game interesting, with strategically placed hazards testing your decision-making.

The course design incorporates the natural desert landscape while maintaining playability for average golfers. You’ll find the staff attentive and friendly, adding to the welcoming atmosphere that makes this venue stand out among Phoenix’s golfing options.

Rating: 4.2 (818 reviews)
Location: 5902 W Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85033
Contact: (623) 846-4022
Website: Visit Website

19. Elephant Rocks Golf Course

Tucked away in Williams, Arizona at an elevation of 7,000 feet, Elephant Rocks Golf Course offers a cool mountain retreat from Arizona’s desert heat. The course winds through magnificent Ponderosa pines with Bill Williams Mountain creating a stunning backdrop.

Though golf has been played here since the 1920s, Elephant Rocks truly came into its own in 1990 when renowned designer Gary Panks reconfigured the layout. Panks later expanded the course in 2000, adding nine more holes to create a full championship experience that challenges golfers of all skill levels.

You’ll appreciate the course’s natural beauty and cooler temperatures during summer months when valley courses become unbearably hot. The mountain setting provides not just comfortable playing conditions but also spectacular scenery throughout your round.

This public golf course represents one of Arizona’s hidden gems, combining historical significance with modern design elements. Environmental consciousness is also part of the course’s operation, as they utilize reclaimed water for irrigation.

Rating: 4.6 (298 reviews)
Location: 2200 Country Club Rd, Williams, AZ 86046
Contact: (928) 635-4935
Website: Visit Website

20. TPC Scottsdale

While often associated with the wildly popular WM Phoenix Open, TPC Scottsdale deserves recognition as more than just a tournament venue. This PGA TOUR property offers two outstanding championship courses that welcome both professional and recreational golfers.

The Stadium Course, designed by Jay Morrish and Tom Weiskopf in 1986, provides the same challenging layout that tests the world’s best players. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the McDowell Mountains, the course blends seamlessly with the rugged Sonoran Desert landscape.

The Champions Course, redesigned in 2007 by Randy Heckenkemper, rivals its more famous sibling in both beauty and playability. This course flows naturally through the desert terrain, taking you between ravines and through picturesque foothills.

You’ll experience the exceptional standards of quality and service typically reserved for TOUR professionals. The club also hosts numerous events throughout the year, from corporate outings to fundraising tournaments, making it a versatile destination for both casual rounds and special occasions.

Rating: 4.7 (2826 reviews)
Location: 17020 Hayden Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Contact: (480) 585-4334
Website: Visit Website