15 of the Best Golf Courses in Scottsdale

1. Score the 16th Hole at TPC Scottsdale – Stadium Golf Course

Home to the famous Waste Management Phoenix Open, the Stadium Golf Course at TPC Scottsdale is one of the most iconic courses in the world. Known for its stadium-like atmosphere, this course is as much about the experience as it is about the game itself.

Designed by Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish, the course features wide fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and large greens that demand precision and skill. The 16th hole, often referred to as the “loudest hole in golf,” is surrounded by grandstands and is a true spectacle during the Phoenix Open.

Golfers can expect challenging par-3s, doglegs, and water features that keep the action exciting. Whether you’re watching the pros or playing the course yourself, TPC Scottsdale offers an unforgettable golfing experience.

2. Elevation Change at Troon North Golf Club – Pinnacle Course

Troon North Golf Club is renowned for its stunning desert scenery and impeccably maintained courses.

The Pinnacle Course, designed by Tom Weiskopf, stands out with its challenging layout and breathtaking views of Pinnacle Peak. The course is known for its dramatic elevation changes, meandering fairways, and strategically placed bunkers that test golfers of all levels.

The par-4 10th hole, with its elevated tee box and sweeping views of the desert, is one of the signature holes. The course’s design highlights the natural beauty of the desert landscape, with saguaro cacti and rocky outcrops adding to the challenge. For golfers looking to experience Arizona’s desert golf at its finest, the Pinnacle Course is a must-play.

3. Play Seamlessly at We-Ko-Pa Golf Club – Saguaro Course

Set against the backdrop of the stunning Four Peaks Mountains, We-Ko-Pa Golf Club’s Saguaro Course is a true desert masterpiece. Designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, this course is known for its natural, rugged beauty, blending seamlessly into the Arizona desert.

The layout offers wide fairways, large greens, and strategically placed bunkers, making it a joy for golfers who love shot-making and risk-reward decisions. The par-3 9th hole, which plays downhill to a green surrounded by desert, is one of the most photographed holes. With no homes or distractions nearby, the Saguaro Course offers a serene and challenging golf experience that immerses players in the raw beauty of the desert.

4. Get A Mix of Wide and Tight at Quintero Golf Club

Located in the foothills of the Sonoran Desert, Quintero Golf Club offers one of the most private and exclusive golfing experiences in Scottsdale. Designed by Rees Jones, this course is consistently ranked among the top golf courses in Arizona.

The layout is characterized by wide fairways, elevated greens, and dramatic elevation changes, offering both a challenge and a scenic beauty that golfers will never forget. The signature hole, the par-3 17th, is set against the backdrop of rolling desert hills and offers a testing shot over water. Quintero’s secluded location and commitment to providing a world-class experience make it a bucket-list course for serious golfers.

5. Strategy Challenge at Grayhawk Golf Club – Raptor Course

For golfers looking for a dynamic and challenging layout, Grayhawk Golf Club’s Raptor Course delivers in spades. Designed by Tom Fazio, the Raptor Course is known for its demanding tee shots, well-protected greens, and strategic risk-reward holes.

The course features natural desert landscaping, with cacti, rocks, and native flora creating a beautiful and challenging environment. The 4th hole, a dogleg-left par-5 with a green that’s well-guarded by water, is one of the standout challenges. As a former host of PGA Tour events, Grayhawk remains a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering a true test of skill.

6. Rock Gaming at The Boulders Golf Club – North Course

Nestled in the foothills of the Sonoran Desert, The Boulders Golf Club offers two courses that challenge golfers with breathtaking views and unique obstacles. The North Course, designed by Jay Morrish, is particularly famous for its natural beauty, featuring towering boulders and desert terrain that make it both visually stunning and difficult.

The course offers a variety of holes with varying levels of difficulty, but the real standout is the par-4 11th, where golfers must hit their shots over large boulders and rocky ravines to reach the green. This course is a true desert challenge and a favorite for golfers seeking a unique experience.

7. Luxury at The Phoenician Golf Resort Club

Located within the luxury Phoenician Resort, the Phoenician Golf Resort Club offers an upscale golfing experience with a scenic, challenging layout. Designed by Ted Robinson and renovated by Phil Smith, the course features tight fairways, elevated greens, and strategically placed bunkers.

The layout winds its way through the resort’s sprawling property, offering stunning views of Camelback Mountain. One of the standout holes is the par-3 3rd, where golfers must hit over a deep ravine to reach the green. The Phoenician course blends challenges with beauty, providing an upscale, memorable golfing experience in Scottsdale.

8. Test Your Skills and Patience at Desert Mountain – Outlaw Course

Exclusive and private, Desert Mountain’s Outlaw Course is one of the most challenging courses in Scottsdale. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, the Outlaw Course offers a challenging layout with steep elevation changes, narrow fairways, and well-protected greens.

The course blends traditional golf design with desert elements, creating a unique golfing experience. The 7th hole, a long par-4 that requires a precise tee shot over a canyon, is one of the standout features of this course. With its exclusive atmosphere and challenging design, the Outlaw Course is ideal for golfers looking for a test of their skills in a stunning desert setting.

9. Classic Desert at Southern Dunes Golf Club

Located just outside of Scottsdale, Southern Dunes Golf Club is an acclaimed desert course that offers one of the most challenging layouts in Arizona. Designed by Schmidt-Curley, the course features dramatic elevation changes, well-placed water hazards, and expansive bunkers that keep golfers thinking strategically.

The par-5 11th hole, which plays downhill with water guarding the green, is one of the most memorable holes on the course. Southern Dunes blends natural desert beauty with a challenging course design that offers a true test of skill for players at every level.

10. Relax and Play at The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess – Golf Club

Set within the grounds of the luxurious Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Resort, this golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus is perfect for those looking for a world-class experience.

The course features wide fairways, large greens, and strategically placed bunkers. While it’s not as difficult as some of the other Scottsdale courses, it still provides a challenge, particularly on holes that require precision approaches over water. The scenic views of the surrounding desert and the luxury amenities available at the resort make this a top choice for golfers looking to relax and enjoy a round of golf in style

11. Fazio and Nicklaus Courses at The Golf Club at Desert Ridge – Wildfire Golf Club

The Wildfire Golf Club at Desert Ridge is a standout in Scottsdale, offering golfers two distinct courses: the Fazio Course and the Nicklaus Course. The Nicklaus Course, named after the legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus, offers a challenging yet fun layout, with wide fairways, elevated greens, and strategic water hazards.

The Wildfire course is characterized by its beautiful desert surroundings and well-designed holes that will test golfers of all levels. The 16th hole, a long par-3 over water, is one of the course's most iconic challenges. Perfect for both serious golfers and those just looking to enjoy a scenic round, Wildfire promises a memorable experience.

12. Great Value at Apache Wells Golf Club

For golfers seeking a relaxed, semi-private course with great value, Apache Wells Golf Club provides a welcoming environment. Set in a quiet corner of Scottsdale, this well-maintained course offers challenging holes with a mix of water features, strategically placed bunkers, and fast greens.

Though not as famous as some of Scottsdale's elite courses, Apache Wells has earned a reputation for its friendly staff, beautiful setting, and welcoming atmosphere. The par-3 4th hole, with its water hazard and elevated green, is a favorite among regulars. A great choice for golfers looking for an enjoyable round without the high costs.

13. Tough and Rewarding at The Raven Golf Club

Located in the heart of the Valley, The Raven Golf Club offers one of the most exciting and picturesque courses in the Scottsdale area. Designed by Gary Panks, the course features dramatic elevation changes, narrow fairways, and challenging water features that provide a tough yet rewarding challenge.

The 18th hole, a long par-5 with water wrapping around the green, offers an exciting finish to the round. The Raven is also known for its beautiful greens, exceptional customer service, and welcoming atmosphere. The combination of challenging play and scenic beauty makes The Raven a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

14. Be A Champion at The J.W. Marriott Desert Ridge Resort Golf Club

The J.W. Marriott Desert Ridge Resort Golf Club is one of Scottsdale’s most beloved luxury courses, offering both a world-class golfing experience and exceptional resort amenities. The Champions Course is known for its combination of desert beauty and strategic design, with a layout that incorporates numerous water features, strategically placed bunkers, and undulating greens.

The course offers multiple tee boxes to cater to golfers of all skill levels. A particularly memorable feature is the par-5 13th hole, with an elevated tee shot that offers stunning views of the surrounding desert. This course provides a perfect blend of challenge and relaxation, ideal for golfers seeking both great golf and the luxury of the Marriott Resort.

15. Tranquility at The Legacy Golf Resort

Located in the southeastern part of Scottsdale, The Legacy Golf Resort offers golfers a more tranquil and affordable option without sacrificing quality. Designed by renowned architect Gary Panks, the course is set among beautifully landscaped grounds and features wide fairways, water features, and challenging greens.

The Legacy Course is known for being fair but demanding, requiring a mix of strategy and precision on nearly every hole. The par-4 7th, with its narrow fairway and challenging green placement, is a standout hole. Perfect for golfers of all skill levels, The Legacy Golf Resort offers an enjoyable round with excellent views and an inviting atmosphere.

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Categories: Scottsdale, Arizona