Best Golf Courses in Phoenix

It’s well known that Phoenix, Arizona is a golfer’s paradise. The city boasts 93 golf courses within a 15-mile radius and this post curated the best golf courses in Phoenix for casual players and professionals alike.

Players can access 72 of these courses, though picking the right one needs careful thought. The Papago Golf Club went through an $8 million transformation and has been renovated. The historic Arizona Biltmore Golf Club has hosted U.S. presidents and Hollywood celebrities since 1928. Each course is a chance to experience something special. Players can find everything from stunning downtown Phoenix skyline views to championship-level challenges in this list of top Phoenix golf courses.

Papago Golf Course

Papago Golf Course sits at the base of the iconic Papago Buttes and ranks among Phoenix’s most beloved golf destinations. Built in 1963, this public golf course showcases William Francis Bell’s masterful design. Bell is also known for creating the renowned Torrey Pines in San Diego.

Course Overview

The course lies less than two miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Players enjoy both easy access and a challenging layout. From championship tees, the course stretches 7,419 yards, making it one of Arizona’s longest courses.

The course went through an $8 million renovation in 2008 that boosted its stellar reputation. Arizona State University chose it as the home course for their men’s and women’s golf teams, which proves its championship-caliber design.

The course has:

• Five distinct tee boxes that fit different skill levels
• Undulating greens with strategic bunker placement
• Spectacular views of downtown Phoenix and Camelback Mountain
• Natural desert landscape integration

Course Contact Information

Professional management runs Papago Golf Club to serve both casual players and serious golfers. Players can use practice areas and grab a bite at the trendy Lou’s Bar & Grill.

Arizona Biltmore Golf Club

The Arizona Biltmore Golf Club sits in the shadow of the majestic Phoenix Mountain Preserve. This iconic facility perfectly blends historical prestige with modern excellence and has two distinct courses: the newly renovated Estates Course and the Links Course.

Course Overview

Five-time PGA TOUR champion Tom Lehman designed the Estates Course, which opened in November 2023. This parkland-style course spans 6,669 yards from the championship tees with a par of 71. White sand bunkers and over 400 new trees were added to create stunning visual appeal.

The Links Course, 44 years old, presents a unique challenge with its 6,300-yard layout. The par-3 15th hole stands out with its 80-foot drop to the green. Players can enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the Valley from this spot.

These prestigious courses have welcomed many notable guests over the years:

• U.S. Presidents
• Foreign heads of state
• Hollywood celebrities
• National corporate leaders

Course Contact Information

The Arizona Biltmore Golf Club provides detailed services to members and public players through its professional management team. Players can enjoy post-round refreshments at the Adobe Bar & Grille.

Grand Canyon University Golf Course

The Grand Canyon University Golf Course started its journey as Maryvale Municipal Golf Course. This venue showcases a mutually beneficial alliance between Phoenix city and GCU. The sprawling course covers 7,200 yards of green turf that is available to collegiate athletes and public players alike.

Course Overview

Prominent architect William F. Bell, who designed Torrey Pines, created the original layout in 1961. The course went through a major transformation at the time John Fought redesigned it in 2015. He added 600 yards to the playing distance and enhanced the greens.

The course features:

• Five sets of tee markers ranging from 5,104 to 7,239 yards
• 80 bunkers placed for maximum challenge
• A traditional walking layout surrounded by mature shade trees
• Wide, unbroken fairways complemented by desert waste areas

The championship course has hosted many PGA Tour Phoenix Open qualifiers. The facility includes a 10,000-square-foot clubhouse that houses a restaurant, bar, and second-story practice facility.

Course Contact Information

Players can enjoy both the main course and updated practice facilities daily. The driving range offers two large hitting surfaces for practice sessions.

Raven Golf Club Phoenix

Raven Golf Club Phoenix is a chance to experience golf that’s different from typical desert courses with its Georgia pine-lined fairways. Gary Panks and David Graham designed this spectacular championship course in 1995. The golfing community has given it high praise.

Course Overview

The course spans 7,078 yards with a par 72 layout. Players of all skill levels will find it challenging. Golf Digest awarded it 4.5 stars, and Arizona Magazine ranked it as the “#5 Golf Course in the State”.

The layout features:

• Plush, rolling fairways framed by mature trees
• Multi-tiered greens with TiffDwarf grass
• Course rating of 73.2 and slope of 132
• Expansive practice facility with grass range

South Mountain’s stunning views blend with the Phoenix skyline. This creates an amazing backdrop for every round. The facility has excellent amenities that make the experience even better:

• World-class practice center
• PGA teaching professionals
• Air-conditioned event pavilion
• Full-service dining options

Course Contact Information

Raven Golf Club Phoenix welcomes public players. Their “#1 Guest Service in North America” recognition speaks for itself.

Legacy Golf Club

Legacy Golf Club stands on what used to be the historic 7,500-acre ranch of Dwight B. Heard, who played a key role in Phoenix’s early development. The 18-hole championship course, designed by renowned architect Gary Panks, opened its doors in 1999.

Course Overview

This public golf course spans 6,908 yards with a par 71 layout. The course features five par 3s and rolling terrain that showcases the best elements of desert golf. Golf Digest recognized it as one of the “Top 10 Golf Courses to Play in Phoenix”. The layout preserves many historical elements that add to its charm.

The property’s most unique feature is its original two grain silos from 1902. These structures, which were once Maricopa County’s tallest buildings, now stand as landmarks along the 18th fairway. The course blends modern amenities with its historical character through:

• Elite practice range with Callaway golf balls
• Professional short game complex
• On-course beverage service
• High-quality Callaway rental sets

Players of all skill levels will find the course challenging, with its rating of 72.0 and slope of 127.

Course Contact Information

Legacy Golf Club sits just minutes away from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and offers complete services through multiple facilities.

Aguila Golf Course

The Aguila Golf Course facility sits at the base of South Mountain, showcasing Gary Panks’s design expertise through its two courses. This municipal gem opened in 2000 and features an 18-hole championship course alongside a 9-hole par-3 course.

Course Overview

The championship course spans 7,037 yards with a par 72 layout. It has a slope rating of 128 and a course rating of 72.8. The course design follows a links style, and Aguila (Spanish for Eagle) gives golfers:

• Three lakes affecting five holes
• Native grasses and wildflowers in transition areas
• Continuous cart paths with four tee sets
• Scenic views of downtown Phoenix skyline

Players can practice at the facility’s extensive amenities. The driving range stretches 350 yards with 30 turf and 24 artificial turf teeing stations. A dedicated practice area helps players improve their short game with its sand bunker and putting green.

Course Contact Information

Aguila Golf Course caters to both serious golfers and casual players with its complete facilities. The pro shop stocks everything from apparel to rental clubs. The Nest restaurant provides breakfast and lunch with indoor seating for 50 guests.

Cave Creek Golf Course

Cave Creek Golf Course shines as a trailblazing environmental win among Phoenix’s municipal courses. The championship course emerged from a landfill reclamation project in 1983, showing how creative design can revolutionize spaces.

Course Overview

Jack Snyder’s design spans 6,876 yards with a par 72 layout. The course’s wide fairways and winding creek draw more than 60,000 rounds each year. Tree-lined fairways and rolling terrain create a striking two-toned color effect as seasons change.

Players get great value with:

• Three tee positions ranging from 5,623 to 6,732 yards
• 17 strategically placed sand traps
• Water hazards on 6 holes
• Grass driving range and short game area

Large, undulating surfaces on slightly raised green complexes challenge players at every skill level. The course’s excellent year-round playing conditions make it Phoenix’s most popular municipal facility.

Course Contact Information

Cave Creek Golf Course serves players from dawn to dusk daily. The facility features a well-stocked pro shop and The Cantina restaurant.

Encanto Golf Course

The historic Encanto Golf Course, 88 years old, stands as Arizona’s third oldest golf course. This William P. Bell masterpiece provides players with breathtaking views of the downtown Phoenix skyline from its location in the heart of the historic district.

Course Overview

The championship layout spans 6,404 yards with a par 70 configuration. We designed the course to accommodate average golfers with its wide, level fairways and minimal hazards. A lake creates challenging conditions at the first and second holes.

The course boasts several notable features:

• Full-service practice facility with driving range
• Well-kept putting and chipping greens
• The Encanto Tavern restaurant
• Fully stocked pro shop with rental equipment

Mature palm and salt cedar trees create a peaceful atmosphere that makes the course enjoyable for players at every skill level. Three par 4s stretch beyond 400 yards each in the final four holes, giving players a challenging finish.

Course Contact Information

This public facility operates throughout the year. Its professional staff and well-equipped clubhouse provide complete services.

Arizona Grand Golf Course

Forrest Richardson designed the Arizona Grand Golf Course, a desert links-style facility that has tested golfers’ skills for over 20 decades. The course naturally combines target-style golf with traditional links play to create an exceptional golfing experience at South Mountain’s base.

Course Overview

The par 71 layout extends to 6,300 yards with dramatic elevation changes that reveal stunning mountain views. The course’s excellence earned it the prestigious Four Star Award from Golf Digest and a spot among the magazine’s top 50 “Great Service” golf facilities.

The course’s distinctive features include:

• Five par 3s and five par 5s
• Three par 4s just over 300 yards
• Narrow landing areas with desert transitions
• Elevated tee boxes offering Phoenix skyline views

The course design emphasizes strategic play over power hitting, creating challenges where ball placement matters more than distance. Players experience a mix of resort-style holes with water hazards and desert target golf, leading to an elevated finishing stretch near South Mountain.

Course Contact Information

This public course at the Arizona Grand Resort provides detailed amenities and professional services. Golf carts come included with play since walking isn’t allowed on the course.

Wildfire Golf Club

The Wildfire Golf Club sits deep in the Sonoran Desert, featuring two championship courses crafted by golf legends Nick Faldo and Arnold Palmer. The prestigious facility is part of the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa, located just 16 miles from downtown Phoenix. Golf enthusiasts recognize it as one of North America’s Top 75 Resorts.

Course Overview

The Palmer Signature Course opened its fairways in 1997 and spans 7,145 yards from tournament tees. The Faldo Championship Course joined the club in 2002 and boasts over 100 bunkers in its Australian sand belt-style design.

Notable features of both courses include:

• Generous fairways that forgive off-center shots
• Mini-Verde greens with Bermuda fairways
• Century-old Saguaro cacti throughout the grounds
• Breathtaking McDowell Mountain views

The club’s excellence shows through its awards:

• Top 100 Resort Courses in the United States
• Top 121 Golf Resorts in the World
• Top Five Golf Resorts in Arizona

Course Contact Information

Resort guests and public players can enjoy these courses daily. The club adjusts its schedule during holidays, particularly December 24-25, when final tee times are at 1:00 PM.

Lookout Mountain Golf Club

Lookout Mountain Golf Club sits beautifully in the North Phoenix Mountains and stands out as one of the Valley’s most picturesque courses. Bill Johnston and Forrest Richardson designed this championship course in 1989. Their design blends the natural desert terrain with thoughtful golf elements.

Course Overview

The course extends 6,617 yards with a par 72 layout. Its challenging slope rating of 135 pairs with a course rating of 71.2. The club has got several prestigious awards:

• Nine-time winner of Golf Digest Four Star Award
• Recognition as one of America’s Best Golf Courses by Zagat
• Selected among Arizona’s Top 10 Golf Courses by Arizona Business Magazine readers

The course is famous for its breathtaking mountain views and excellent playing conditions. Players enjoy panoramic views of the Sonoran desert scene. Notwithstanding that, the layout strikes a perfect balance between challenge and playability that suits golfers at every skill level.

Course Contact Information

This public course welcomes players all year round and connects with Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort to provide resort-style amenities. Players can access complete services including professional instruction and practice facilities.

Vistal Golf Club

Vistal Golf Club stands as a testament to modern golf course design after its major renovation in 2001. PGA Tour Design Services led this project with valuable input from Phoenix’s own PGA Tour players Tom Lehman, Billy Mayfair, and Howard Twitty. The club’s roots trace back to 1957 when Johnny Bulla designed it as Thunderbird Country Club. Today, players enjoy its strategic layout and breathtaking views of the city.

Course Overview

The public course spans 7,013 yards with a par 71 layout and boasts a course rating of 72.9. Sports Illustrated named it a “Top 10 New Public Course in the U.S.” right after its reopening. Modern design elements blend seamlessly with traditional desert features throughout the course.

• Over 80 bunkers placed at strategic points
• Four tee box options that suit different skill levels
• Three lakes that come into play on six holes
• Elevated tees with spectacular downtown Phoenix views

Players face diverse challenges on this course, which has hosted two U.S. Open Qualifiers and the 2002 Arizona Women’s Open.

Course Contact Information

Vistal Golf Club sits just minutes away from Sky Harbor Airport and welcomes players daily from 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM. Players have access to complete amenities including a grass range, putting green, and a clubhouse that serves food.

Stonecreek Golf Club

Golf Channel named Stonecreek Golf Club one of Arizona’s “Best Kept Secrets.” This links-style course sits in Phoenix’s heart. The course engages players with stunning mountain views and a strategic layout that ranks among Phoenix’s best golf destinations.

Course Overview

This par-71 championship course spans 6,871 yards and shows the combined design brilliance of several architects. Gary Grandstaff and Roy Dye created the original design in 1983, and Arthur Hills & Associates later modernized it. Golf Digest awarded the layout a prestigious four-star rating.

The course’s distinctive features include:

• Emerald Bermuda fairways with mature tree borders
• Creek beds that come into play on five strategic holes
• Five tee sets that work for every skill level
• Each hole offers panoramic Squaw Peak Mountains views

The course stays in pristine condition throughout the year with Bermuda grass covering fairways and greens. Scratch golfers find the layout challenging yet fair, while players of all skill levels can enjoy their rounds.

Course Contact Information

Stonecreek Golf Club welcomes public players year-round. The club’s amenities include a large golf practice facility and spacious banquet areas.

Club West Golf Club

Club West Golf Club winds through the Sonoran desert foothills of South Mountain and showcases target-style desert golf at its finest. Ken Cavanaugh and Brian Whitcomb built this public course in 1993. Golfers can escape to this peaceful setting just 30 minutes from downtown Phoenix.

Course Overview

The championship layout extends 7,051 yards from the back tees, with four sets of tees reaching down to 4,985 yards. We designed the course to start with a relaxed warm-up, and the difficulty increases as players move through their round.

The course’s distinctive features include:

• Double-green par-3 17th hole with 100-foot elevation drop
• Lake and pond hazards amid desert landscape
• Breathtaking views of South Mountain range
• Carefully guarded yet approachable greens

The Arizona Republic ranked Club West among the top twenty courses in the state. The course earned recognition for its women-friendly design that challenges skilled players too.

Course Contact Information

The beautiful clubhouse, designed by the same architectural firm behind the renowned Boulders clubhouse, provides complete amenities. The property has the Lakeside Grille restaurant that serves breakfast and lunch with a southwestern flair.

Ahwatukee Country Club

Ahwatukee Country Club started a new chapter in Phoenix’s golf scene when golfers took ownership in August 2023. The facility now sports a completely remodeled building and a refreshed golf course.

Course Overview

Arizona golf legend John Bulla designed this championship course that spans 6,713 yards with a par 72 layout. The public course features beautiful tree-lined fairways and well-maintained greens. Players can choose from several tee locations based on their skill level. The course blends naturally with the desert landscape and provides a fair yet challenging experience.

The course sits just minutes away from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, Tempe, and Scottsdale. Players need to watch out for out-of-bounds areas on both sides of the fairways, while some holes run alongside residential areas. The putting greens play fast and add an exciting challenge to every round.

Course Contact Information

The club aims to be the best value public golf destination in greater Phoenix. Players can enjoy the newly renovated clubhouse and its complete amenities.

FAQs on Top Golf Courses in Phoenix, Arizona

Does Phoenix have good golf courses?

Phoenix is home to some of the best golf courses in Phoenix, making it a prime destination for golf enthusiasts. With stunning desert landscapes, well-maintained greens, and a variety of course designs, golfers of all skill levels can find a course that suits their preferences. From championship layouts to beginner-friendly options, the area offers a rich golfing experience.

How many golf courses in Phoenix?

There are over 200 golf courses in the Phoenix metropolitan area, including those in nearby Scottsdale. These courses range from high-end resort options to public and municipal courses, ensuring there’s something for every golfer. The variety makes Phoenix one of the top golfing destinations in the U.S.

Where is the best place to play golf in Arizona?

The best place to play golf in Arizona is often considered to be the Phoenix-Scottsdale area. This region is home to some of the best golf courses in Phoenix Scottsdale area, offering a combination of challenging layouts, luxury amenities, and breathtaking desert scenery. Courses like Troon North and TPC Scottsdale are standout favorites among locals and visitors alike.

Where does the PGA play in Phoenix?

The PGA plays at TPC Scottsdale for the WM Phoenix Open, one of the most exciting events on the tour. The tournament is known for its lively atmosphere, particularly at the iconic 16th hole, which is surrounded by stadium seating and enthusiastic fans.

What is the best time of year to play golf in Arizona?

The best time of year to play golf in Arizona is during the fall, winter, and early spring months, typically from October to April. During these months, the weather is mild, and the desert landscapes are at their most vibrant, making it ideal for enjoying the best public golf courses in Phoenix.

What is the biggest golf tournament in Phoenix?

The WM Phoenix Open is the biggest golf tournament in Phoenix. Known as “The Greatest Show on Grass,” it attracts hundreds of thousands of fans each year. This unique event combines world-class golf with a festival-like atmosphere, making it a must-visit for golf enthusiasts.

How many golf courses are in Phoenix and Scottsdale?

Phoenix and Scottsdale together boast over 200 golf courses, making the region a premier destination for golfers. This includes some of the best value golf courses in Phoenix, offering a mix of luxury resort-style and accessible public options.

How many people go to the WM Phoenix Open?

The WM Phoenix Open draws over 700,000 fans annually, making it one of the most attended golf tournaments in the world. The high-energy environment and unique stadium-style setup at TPC Scottsdale contribute to its immense popularity.

What does a golf course in Phoenix Arizona use an average of 80 million?

A golf course in Phoenix Arizona, uses an average of 80 million gallons of water annually to maintain its greens and landscaping. This high water usage is due to the desert climate, requiring extensive irrigation systems to keep courses in top condition.

Why is golf in Arizona so expensive?

Golf in Arizona is expensive due to the high demand, especially during the peak season when visitors flock to experience the best golf courses in Phoenix area. Additionally, the cost of maintaining lush courses in a desert environment and the premium amenities offered at many facilities contribute to the pricing.

Can you golf year-round in Phoenix?

Yes, you can golf year-round in Phoenix, but the experience varies with the seasons. While winter and spring offer the most comfortable weather, summer golfing is possible for those willing to brave the heat and take advantage of discounted rates at the best golf courses in Phoenix.

How many golfers are in the WM Phoenix Open?

The WM Phoenix Open typically features 132 professional golfers competing over four days. It’s a key stop on the PGA Tour and attracts many of the world’s top players.

How much does it cost to play the Stadium course in Phoenix?

Playing the Stadium Course at TPC Scottsdale costs between $300 and $500 during peak season. The pricing reflects the course’s status as one of the best golf courses in Phoenix Scottsdale area and its role as the home of the WM Phoenix Open.

What is the best public course in the Phoenix area?

The best public course in the Phoenix area is often considered to be Troon North, which offers exceptional desert golf with breathtaking views. Another excellent option is the Stadium Course at TPC Scottsdale, known for hosting the WM Phoenix Open and being among the best public golf courses in Phoenix.

How many public golf courses are there in the Phoenix area?

There are over 50 public golf courses in the Phoenix area, catering to players of all skill levels. These courses provide a mix of affordability and quality, ensuring access to some of the best value golf courses in Phoenix.

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