The Best Public Golf Courses to Play in Arizona

The Best Public Golf Courses to Play in Arizona

Arizona is a paradise for golf enthusiasts, boasting a wide variety of public courses that offer breathtaking landscapes, challenging layouts, and world-class amenities. Whether you’re visiting for a golf vacation or a local looking for a new course to try, here’s a rundown of some of the best public courses in the state that you’ll want to add to your list.

Top Public Golf Courses in Arizona

Quintero Golf Club

Quintero Golf Club
Often ranked as one of Arizona’s premier courses, Quintero Golf Club offers stunning desert views and challenging elevations. The fairways and greens are kept in pristine condition, making it a true treat for players seeking both beauty and a challenge.

Wickenburg Ranch Golf & Social Club

Wickenburg Ranch Golf & Social Club
Located in Wickenburg, this semi-private club has an 18-hole course known as “Big Wick” and a shorter 9-hole course called “Li’l Wick.” Each offers unique challenges with scenic mountain views. Its laid-back, friendly vibe makes it a must-play.

We-Ko-Pa Golf Club

We-Ko-Pa Golf Club
This golf club in Fort McDowell is home to two courses, Cholla and Saguaro, both offering spectacular views of the surrounding Sonoran Desert. The courses are known for their natural beauty, undisturbed by any residential development.

Troon North Golf Club

Troon North Golf Club
Scottsdale’s Troon North is home to two premier courses, Monument and Pinnacle. Known for challenging layouts, rugged desert landscapes, and iconic saguaros, Troon North offers one of the most authentic Arizona golf experiences.

Camelback Golf Club

Camelback Golf Club
Camelback Golf Club features the Padre and Ambiente courses. Padre is lush and forgiving, while Ambiente is more challenging with a rugged desert style. Both provide scenic views and a laid-back atmosphere.

Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club

Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club
A top course for serious golfers, Ak-Chin Southern Dunes is known for its links-style layout and challenging bunkers. This Troon-managed course offers exceptional service and quality for a true Arizona golf experience.

Papago Golf Club

Papago Golf Club
Located near downtown Phoenix, Papago offers fantastic city and mountain views and a challenging yet accessible layout. The recent renovations have made it a go-to for locals and visitors alike.

Grayhawk Golf Club

Grayhawk Golf Club
Home to the Talon and Raptor courses, Grayhawk offers challenging play with beautiful desert views. Known for hosting several professional tournaments, it’s an excellent choice for golfers looking for a bit of prestige.

The Boulders Golf Club

The Boulders Golf Club
This club in Carefree offers two courses, North and South, with stunning rock formations that make it a truly unique Arizona golf experience. The resort atmosphere and surrounding desert scenery enhance the ambiance.

Dinosaur Mountain Golf Course

Dinosaur Mountain Golf Course
Located at Gold Canyon, Dinosaur Mountain offers two courses with dramatic elevation changes and unforgettable mountain views. It’s a thrilling experience for golfers who enjoy challenging terrain.

TPC Scottsdale

TPC Scottsdale Stadium and TPC Scottsdale Champions
The home of the Waste Management Phoenix Open, the Stadium course is iconic but can be underwhelming outside of tournament time. Playing with the stands up is a unique experience, but the Champions course offers a more enjoyable layout for a casual round.

Verrado Golf Club

Verrado Golf Club
Verrado’s Founders and Victory courses are nestled in the White Tank Mountains, offering challenging play with fantastic desert and mountain views. It’s a great choice for a scenic Arizona golf round.

The Phoenician Golf Club

The Phoenician Golf Club
Known for its central location and picturesque desert landscaping, The Phoenician is a beautifully designed course in Scottsdale. With a mix of playability and challenge, it’s perfect for golfers of all skill levels.

Wildfire Golf Club

Wildfire Golf Club
Located at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge, Wildfire features courses designed by Arnold Palmer and Nick Faldo. With stunning desert surroundings and top-notch amenities, it’s a great destination for both locals and visitors.

Personal Favorites: Top Picks for an Unforgettable Round

For those seeking a premier golf experience, here are some of my personal favorites:

• Dinosaur Mountain
  Nestled at Gold Canyon, Dinosaur Mountain is a thrilling experience with dramatic elevation changes and views that make every hole memorable. It’s perfect for those who love a challenging, scenic course.

• Troon North
  A bit of personal bias here—Troon North holds a special place in my heart, as it’s where I got married. With rugged desert terrain, breathtaking views, and its signature Monument and Pinnacle courses, it’s an unforgettable spot to play.

• Quintero
  Known for its pristine conditions and impressive elevation changes, Quintero is a must-play for anyone looking to experience one of Arizona’s highest-ranked courses. It’s challenging yet rewarding and delivers some of the best views around.

Explore Arizona’s World-Class Golf Courses

With so many fantastic public courses to choose from, Arizona is truly a golfer’s paradise. From luxury resorts to rugged desert layouts, there’s a course to suit every preference and skill level. And we haven’t even scratched the surface of what lies north in Flagstaff or south in Tucson! Whether you’re planning a golf trip or just looking for a new local course to try, feel free to reach out for personalized recommendations or assistance with your Arizona real estate needs. We’re here to help make your Arizona golf dreams a reality.