Sedona offers a diverse mix of golf courses ranging from scenic public layouts to exclusive resort experiences.
If you're wondering where to tee off, the five best options are Seven Canyons, Oakcreek Country Club, Sedona Golf Resort, Canyon Mesa, and Coyote Trails—each catering to different budgets, skill levels, and play styles.
Keep reading for a breakdown of what makes each course worth your time.
Seven Canyons Golf Club – Sedona’s Private Gem with a Stay-and-Play Twist
Seven Canyons Golf Club stands apart from Sedona’s other courses not just for its exclusivity, but for how it blends luxury, high-level shotmaking, and red rock vistas into a memorable playing experience.
While it’s a private course, there are reliable ways for non-members to gain access—if you know how to plan ahead.
How to Access Seven Canyons Without a Membership
You can’t just walk on to Seven Canyons—it’s a private club—but you can book a Stay-and-Play package through Enchantment Resort or select rentals on Sedona.org.
Both offer limited guest access with overnight accommodations.
To secure your round:
- Book a 2–3 night stay at Enchantment Resort (or approved Sedona.org property). Availability fluctuates, so aim for at least 3–4 months out, especially during Sedona’s busiest months—April and October.
- Each adult guest typically receives one round of golf per night, breakfast included, along with use of the practice park and driving range.
- Shuttle transfers to and from the course are part of the package, making it a seamless experience from resort to fairway.
What the Stay-and-Play Package Includes
These packages are more than a tee time—they’re a complete golf immersion.
Expect:
- One round of golf per adult, per night
- Daily breakfast
- Unlimited access to the newly expanded short-game park and two-tiered driving range
- Transportation between resort and course
- Priority access to clubhouse dining and facilities
It’s ideal for golfers looking to combine refined resort comfort with exclusive golf access.
A Closer Look at the Course: “Core Golf” by Tom Weiskopf
Designed by Tom Weiskopf, the course showcases a “core golf” philosophy—walkable routing with no residential development, focused entirely on play.
You’ll face:
- Par-71 layout stretching close to 7,000 yards
- Compact, multi-tiered greens that demand short-game precision
- Several risk-reward holes where bold tee shots can yield birdies—or blowups
- Constant shot-shaping decisions, with trees, canyons, and tight landing areas influencing club choice
This is a course that rewards smart play over brute strength, with natural terrain and narrow corridors shaping your every decision.
Playing at Elevation: What to Expect
At roughly 4,600 feet above sea level, your ball will fly a bit farther, but don’t let that trick you. The elevation does add carry distance, but Sedona’s unpredictable winds and sudden gusts—especially between canyon walls—can wreak havoc on club selection.
Greens are perched and small, and several holes feature cliffside runoffs where anything offline is lost. Plan on bringing:
- A rangefinder or GPS unit. Club selection isn’t just important here—it’s everything.
- Extra attention to wind direction and slope, especially on second shots into elevated greens
Practice Before You Play: Range and Short-Game Park
Seven Canyons recently upgraded its practice facilities, making them a valuable warm-up tool—and a learning opportunity.
What’s available:
- A 7,500-square-foot short-game park, complete with bunker play and multiple chipping surfaces
- A 20,000-square-foot two-tiered driving range, perfect for dialing in distance at altitude
- Open access for resort guests before each round
Because greens on the course are small and fast, it’s worth spending time rehearsing bunker-to-green shots and distance control wedges.
Many scoring opportunities—and mistakes—hinge on those 40–80 yard approaches.
When to Book and Why It Matters
Sedona sees its highest golf demand in April and October, when weather is dry, sunny, and mild.
Seven Canyons books up fast because of its limited availability—there are only so many Stay-and-Play packages released.
You’ll want to:
- Lock in your reservation 3–4 months ahead
- Consider midweek stays for slightly better availability
- Be flexible with dates if aiming for holiday weekends or event weeks
Gear Tip: Don’t Skip the Tech
Because of the course’s elevation, tight landing areas, and natural hazards, using a GPS unit or laser rangefinder is practically non-negotiable.
Eyeballing distances won’t cut it—especially on holes with hidden drop-offs or doglegs that require precise layup shots.
Also, bring:
- Spikeless shoes or soft spikes for better footing on uneven canyon terrain
- At least one extra sleeve of balls—this course penalizes anything off-line
Dining and Relaxation: Seasons and the Fireside Lounge
After your round, don’t rush out—Seven Canyons features one of the area’s more refined club dining options.
You’ll find:
- Seasons, the on-site restaurant serving upscale American cuisine with rotating local ingredients
- A cozy fireside lounge, ideal for a post-round drink and relaxing with a curated wine list or craft cocktail
- Outdoor seating with views of the red rock canyon walls, best timed with sunset
If you’re staying at Enchantment Resort, the dining extends well beyond the course—but for golfers, Seasons delivers the perfect post-round experience without having to leave the club.
Oakcreek Country Club – Classic Semi-Private with Challenge and Charm
Oakcreek Country Club blends traditional course design with a relaxed, semi-private vibe that makes it one of the more approachable golf options near Sedona.
It's open to the public but still offers a country club feel—making it a great fit for golfers who want challenge without the exclusivity hurdles.
Smart Booking: Timing Your Tee Time for Price and Pace
If you're planning a round at Oakcreek in the spring—especially between March and May—it pays to book at least a month or two in advance.
This is one of Sedona’s most popular public-access courses, and spring is peak golf season.
Weekends can fill up quickly, so flexibility with dates will improve your chances of getting a preferred time.
That said, weekday twilight tee times starting around 2 PM often offer the best value.
You’ll likely pay $110–$130, which is a notable drop from peak morning rates, and you'll also avoid the early-day crowds.
Just keep an eye on daylight—if you’re playing 18, pace will matter.
Choosing the Right Tee for Your Game
Oakcreek’s layout stretches from 4,419 to 6,824 yards depending on tee selection, and picking the right distance can make or break your round.
The “Gold” tees come in at around 5,600 yards, striking a great balance—especially for mid-handicappers or those unfamiliar with desert conditions.
They offer enough length to stay challenging but reduce the strain on long par-4s and water-protected approaches.
If you’re playing in a mixed-skill group or with family, these tees allow everyone to stay competitive while still enjoying the full rhythm of the course.
Course Flow and Key Moments: Watch the 13th
Oakcreek offers a well-paced, walkable flow that gradually builds challenge—saving its most memorable hole for later in the round. The par-3 13th is a standout: a scenic but demanding hole where a stream protects the front of the green and catches short or spin-heavy wedge shots.
Getting this hole right can shift momentum in your favor, but you’ll want to spend some time on wedge practice beforehand. Precision, not power, is the name of the game.
Prepare for Fast Greens and Thick Rough
While Oakcreek appears laid-back on the surface, it can bite back.
The greens are fast, especially in the dry spring months, and the rough tends to be thick and grabby, punishing errant approaches or aggressive chips.
To give yourself the best shot at a clean scorecard:
- Wear soft spikes or spikeless shoes—traction helps with downhill lies and uneven green complexes.
- Plan to arrive early for a 15–20 minute putting session. This simple warm-up can save you from three-putts in the opening holes.
Many visiting players skip this and regret it when they realize just how quick the pace is on the greens.
On-Site Amenities: Practice and Post-Round Atmosphere
Before your round, Oakcreek gives you access to a full driving range, putting green, and a dedicated short-game area.
It's a great space to work on feel shots or simply loosen up before teeing off.
After the round, head to Peddler’s Biergarten & Haus—Oakcreek’s go-to for a cold drink and casual fare.
The post-round vibe is relaxed, often with live music and shaded outdoor seating. It’s more down-to-earth than some resort spots, and that’s exactly why players keep coming back.
Maximize Value: Play the Twilight Window
Oakcreek offers strong value if you time your round right.
Booking a weekday twilight time (after 2 PM) during March through May often knocks 15–25% off standard rates, making it one of the more budget-friendly ways to play quality golf in the Sedona area.
If you prefer a more leisurely pace and want to enjoy the surroundings without feeling rushed, midweek afternoons are ideal.
You’ll still finish 18 if you start close to 2 PM in spring, and the sun-drenched fairways make for a great setting as the shadows stretch across the red rocks.
Sedona Golf Resort – Stunning Views with Public Access and Flexibility
Sedona Golf Resort delivers exactly what many travelers to Sedona are hoping for: panoramic red rock views, a forgiving layout, and full public access without sacrificing quality.
Whether you’re a casual golfer, first-timer, or looking to refine your game with a lesson, this course offers flexible ways to get the most out of your round.
The Iconic 10th Hole: Play It Like a Local
If there's one photo you're taking during your round, it’s at Hole 10.
This 210-yard par-3 sits high on a plateau, with Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock in the background creating a dramatic visual backdrop.
But beyond the scenery, the hole itself demands your full attention.
The tee shot plays slightly downhill, but elevation can be deceptive—don’t under-club.
In most conditions, you’ll want to pull a hybrid or long iron, depending on the wind.
The green is exposed and tends to firm up during the day, so a high, soft landing shot works best.
Missing short leaves a tough up-and-down, while going long brings desert scrub into play.
Course Layout for All Skill Levels
The course offers a par-71 layout that’s both playable and visually rewarding.
Here’s how the tees break down:
- Blue Tees: 6,646 yards (70.8/129 rating)
- White Tees: 6,127 yards (68.3/123)
- Gold & Red Tees: Shorter, beginner-friendly options with family groups in mind
This makes Sedona Golf Resort one of the more accessible courses in the area, ideal for mixed-skill groups or new players who still want to enjoy a full 18-hole round.
The fairways are generally wide, with generous landing zones, but precision matters more on the approach—especially on back-nine holes where elevation and hazards get trickier.
Rental Gear and Instruction Options
If you’re traveling without clubs or just want to try higher-end gear, Sedona Golf Resort has you covered.
Rentals include Titleist or Callaway clubs, FootJoy shoes, and a 6-pack of balls—available for both 18 holes ($55) and 10 holes ($35).
This makes it easy to drop in for a round without much prep.
For those looking to sharpen their skills, the course offers PGA-certified clinics and private lessons.
These range from swing tune-ups to short-game drills and are hosted on-site, making them easy to pair with a same-day round.
Building a Lesson + Round Package
If you're serious about improving while also enjoying the course, the resort’s lesson-and-round package (~$200) is an excellent value. It typically includes:
- Private instruction
- Club rental
- 18-hole round with cart
This combo works especially well for:
- Beginners easing into the game with expert guidance
- Players adjusting to elevation and desert conditions
- Travelers who want an efficient, all-inclusive experience
It’s also one of the few structured ways to integrate coaching into your travel golf plans—and you don’t need to be a resort guest to book it.
Food, Drinks, and On-Course Convenience
You won’t need to leave the property for a solid meal or snack.
The Juniper Bar & Grille, open daily from 8 AM to 3 PM, serves breakfast and lunch with a casual but well-curated menu.
Seating offers views of the course and surrounding cliffs, making it a popular stop before or after a round.
During your game, a roaming F&B cart makes regular rounds—especially during mid-morning and early afternoon tee times.
You can grab lunch or refreshments without leaving the fairway, which helps maintain pace of play.
Shot Management on Hole 17
One of the most tactical holes on the course, the par-4 17th features a water hazard that’s easy to underestimate.
It’s not a long hole, but the second shot is what gets people. Six clubs short can leave you with no margin for error.
To play it smart:
- Prioritize hitting the center or left side of the fairway to improve your angle
- Use a conservative club off the tee if necessary to avoid bunkers or landing zones that flirt with trouble
- On approach, take enough club—short shots will find water, and there’s minimal bailout room
It’s a classic risk-reward scenario that often decides the final score swing of the day.
Best Time to Play: Early Morning Advantage
For optimal course conditions and fewer interruptions, aim for an 8 to 10 AM tee time.
Wind tends to be calmest in the morning, and course maintenance is fresh—so greens are smooth and bunkers are well-raked.
This window also offers:
- The fastest pace of play
- Better access to roaming food and beverage service
- A chance to finish your round before Sedona’s afternoon heat or weekend crowds build up
It’s a good idea to book 1–2 months in advance, especially in spring, to secure those earlier start times.
Canyon Mesa Country Club – Short-Game Playground in a Scenic Setting
Canyon Mesa Country Club is one of the most approachable golf experiences in the Sedona area—short, affordable, and unintimidating, yet surprisingly technical.
It’s the kind of course that rewards finesse over power and makes a perfect stop for golfers looking to sharpen their short game or squeeze in a quick round without committing half the day.
Course Layout: Compact, Scenic, and Short-Game Focused
Canyon Mesa’s layout is mostly par-3 holes, with a single par-4 mixed in, averaging around 140 yards per hole.
The design isn’t meant to challenge your driver or long-iron play—instead, it hones in on what many golfers struggle with most: accuracy inside 150 yards.
Despite its shorter format, the course isn’t a pushover.
Narrow greens, subtle slopes, and light bunkering force you to commit to each shot.
There’s not much room to recover from an offline wedge or lazy chip, so precision counts.
It’s a walking-friendly course tucked into the scenic surroundings of Village of Oak Creek, and although it’s only nine holes, many players loop it twice when they have time.
Still, even a single round takes only about 90 minutes—making it incredibly easy to fit into a morning schedule.
Ideal for Practice, Beginners, and Time-Crunched Golfers
Canyon Mesa is an especially good fit if:
- You’re a beginner learning the game in a less pressured environment.
- You want to focus on short irons, wedges, and putting without paying a full-course rate.
- You're limited on time but still want quality golf in a condensed format.
The relaxed atmosphere is another draw.
It’s less about keeping pace with the group ahead and more about taking your time to experiment with different shots.
That’s what makes it valuable for seasoned players too—it’s not uncommon to see locals using it as their dedicated wedge and putting practice circuit.
High Value with Rentals Included
Affordability is a big selling point.
Canyon Mesa is one of the most budget-friendly courses in the area, especially when you consider that club rentals and cart are included in most green fee options.
This makes it a smart pick for travelers who didn’t bring their own gear but still want to squeeze in a quick round.
Whether you're flying in with family or just stopping through Sedona, you won’t need to budget much time or money to make it happen.
If you're golfing solo or teaching someone new to the game, this low-cost, low-pressure setup really stands out compared to full-length courses that can feel overwhelming.
Accuracy Training Ground: Dial in Your Wedges
The narrow greens at Canyon Mesa don’t give you much margin for error, and that’s exactly the point.
If you want to improve your accuracy with wedges and short irons, this is the perfect proving ground.
Approach shots from 80 to 140 yards will make up the bulk of your round, so there’s plenty of opportunity to dial in distances, practice controlling ball flight, and work on soft landings.
Several holes include bunkers or sloped surrounds that punish imprecise shots—valuable feedback if you're preparing for more advanced courses later in your trip.
In essence, it’s a live-fire short game practice facility disguised as a golf course.
Combine Golf with Other Activities for a Half-Day Outing
Because a round here takes under 90 minutes, it’s easy to build a half-day itinerary that includes other activities.
Right next to the course are tennis and pickleball courts, which are open to the public and often available without a wait.
An ideal routine could look like this:
- Early morning tee time (first group out, if possible)
- Quick nine holes, focusing on wedge and green work
- Switch to pickleball or tennis for an hour or two
- Wrap with brunch at one of the nearby spots in Village of Oak Creek
It’s an efficient way to blend fitness, practice, and leisure—especially for couples or families traveling together.
Great Location for Food and Scenic Relaxation
The course sits just minutes from the heart of Village of Oak Creek, one of Sedona’s more laid-back neighborhoods.
After your round, you’re within walking or short driving distance to a number of casual brunch spots, coffee shops, and local cafes.
The area also tends to be quieter than uptown Sedona, making it ideal if you’re looking to unwind after golf without the tourist bustle.
Whether you’re headed to Red Rock Café for pancakes or just grabbing a smoothie post-round, the convenience and calm of the location are part of what make Canyon Mesa feel like a hidden gem.
Coyote Trails Golf Course – Full-Length Public Option Just Outside Sedona
Coyote Trails Golf Course offers a solid full-length public golf experience just south of Sedona, ideal for those willing to make a short drive in exchange for lower rates and a more relaxed setting.
Tucked into the outskirts of Cottonwood, this course delivers variety, scenery, and enough elevation changes to keep things interesting all round long.
Getting There: Planning for the Drive and Time Commitment
Located about 18 miles south of Sedona, Coyote Trails sits in Cottonwood, a growing town that’s part of the Verde Valley.
The drive usually takes around 25 minutes, and while it’s a quick hop by local standards, it’s smart to factor in a 2+ hour block just for the round—plus additional time if you’re grabbing lunch nearby or stopping at a winery afterward.
For golfers staying in Sedona proper, this course makes the most sense when you're planning a longer outing rather than trying to squeeze in a quick nine.
The extra travel is well worth it if you’re looking for more course length, fewer crowds, or an easygoing day with friends.
A Closer Look at the Layout: Mountain Meets Desert
Coyote Trails plays as a par-72 layout, with tees ranging from 4,800 to 6,700 yards, depending on your preferred level of challenge.
The design combines mountainous elevation shifts with open desert-style fairways, mixing strategic bunkering with sweeping views across the Verde Valley.
This blend of terrain gives the course a nice rhythm.
Some holes test your elevation control, especially on downhill tee shots where rollout becomes unpredictable, while others rely on smarter positioning to set up a second shot.
The bunkers aren’t just cosmetic—they’re placed to challenge decision-making rather than just punish misses, particularly on par-5s and long par-4s.
What makes Coyote Trails stand out is how it manages to feel both laid-back and challenging—you can play aggressively if you want, but the course rewards restraint and smart angles.
Facilities and Convenience: What You’ll Find On-Site
Coyote Trails has all the basics covered:
- A full-service cart path system makes walking optional, though the terrain encourages riding for most.
- Practice range and short-game areas are available for warmups or tune-ups before your round.
- A modest but well-stocked pro shop handles check-ins and any gear needs.
- Rental clubs are available for those not traveling with equipment.
It’s not a luxury resort, but it’s functional, efficient, and very golfer-friendly.
For group outings or traveling players on a budget, that simplicity works in your favor.
Great for Group Play and Laid-Back Outings
This course fits perfectly into a casual group outing.
It’s long enough to satisfy better players and forgiving enough to keep beginners from getting overwhelmed.
The manageable pace, wide fairways, and scenic surroundings make it a strong pick for full-day play without the pressure of elite-level setups.
It also helps that weekend group rates are often available.
Whether you're planning a family golf day, a bachelor weekend stop, or just want a low-stress round with friends, Coyote Trails gives you a value-for-money setting that doesn’t require formal planning or resort coordination.
Smart Booking Tips and Twilight Value
Public green fees tend to sit in the mid-$80s range, especially on weekends or midday slots.
But one of the easiest ways to stretch your budget is to take advantage of their twilight rates, which usually drop to around $50–$60 depending on season and day.
To book smart:
- Check ahead for group rate options if you’re bringing multiple players.
- Look for afternoon slots, especially on Fridays or Sundays when the course tends to be quieter.
- Call directly if you’re hoping to arrange a more customized outing or need multiple cart rentals.
Given the full-length design, you’ll want to allow enough time to finish 18 before dusk, but the setting sun often creates some of the most beautiful lighting on the back nine.
Pair Your Round with Local Dining or Wine Tasting
If you’re making the trip down to Cottonwood, it’s worth turning your round into a full-day experience.
The town is home to a growing number of casual lunch spots, craft breweries, and wine tasting rooms, many of which are within minutes of the course.
Popular options include:
- Lunch at Crema Craft Kitchen or Colt Grill
- Post-round wine tastings along the Verde Valley Wine Trail
- A short detour through Old Town Cottonwood for boutique shopping or espresso
These add-ons make the course even more appealing, especially for couples or groups with non-golfers tagging along.
Planning Your Sedona Golf Trip – Booking Windows, Gear Tips, and Value Picks
Planning a golf trip to Sedona goes beyond just picking a course—you’ll want to consider timing, gear, value, and how to build your day around the round.
With each course offering a different type of experience, a little prep can go a long way toward getting the most out of your time (and budget) on the fairways.
Know When to Book: Timing by Course
The best tee times—especially in Sedona’s peak seasons of April and October—get picked over quickly.
Booking windows vary depending on course access, popularity, and exclusivity:
- Seven Canyons: Since access is only available via stay-and-play packages through Enchantment Resort or Sedona.org, plan 3–4 months in advance. Availability is limited, and packages often sell out during peak weather months.
- Oakcreek Country Club & Sedona Golf Resort: These semi-private and public options are easier to reserve but still busy during spring and fall. Booking 4–8 weeks ahead is a safe window to secure morning or twilight slots, particularly for weekends.
- Canyon Mesa Country Club: Much more flexible—same-day reservations are often available, especially on weekdays. Even walk-ons are sometimes accommodated during slower hours.
Being proactive with your booking—especially for multi-course trips—can also help you stagger start times and build in space for meals, practice, or other activities.
Rentals and Gear: What to Bring vs. What to Borrow
Not every course in Sedona requires you to bring a full golf kit, but knowing what’s available (and what’s recommended) can make your trip smoother.
Sedona Golf Resort offers the most complete rental setup—premium Titleist or Callaway clubs, FootJoy shoes, and a pack of balls are available for day use.
If you’re traveling light or introducing someone to the game, this is the most plug-and-play option.
That said, for courses like Seven Canyons and Sedona Resort, bring a rangefinder or GPS unit if you have one.
Both layouts involve tight fairways, elevation changes, and blind shots where accurate distances matter. These tools are especially helpful at altitude, where club selection becomes trickier.
As for footwear, stick to spikeless or soft-spike shoes.
Sedona’s courses often involve hard-packed soil and natural terrain where traction matters more than you might expect.
Best Course Picks by Playing Style and Value
Not every golfer is looking for the same thing.
Some want challenge, others prefer casual vibes, and many just want a great view with solid play.
Here’s a breakdown of the best course fit based on what you value most:
- Scenic + Challenging:
- Sedona Golf Resort hits the sweet spot for visual impact and shot variety—especially with holes like the iconic 10th and water-guarded 17th.
- Short-Game Focus:
- Canyon Mesa Country Club offers a compact layout perfect for wedge work, short rounds, or beginners easing into the game.
- Luxury + Privacy:
- Seven Canyons delivers an exclusive private-club experience through resort access, complete with refined dining and world-class practice facilities.
- Classic Full-Round Experience:
- Oakcreek Country Club provides a traditional 18-hole round with a nice mix of difficulty and amenities, all wrapped in a semi-private feel.
- All-Day Outing Option:
- Coyote Trails in Cottonwood is ideal if you're looking to combine a full-length round with local dining, wine tasting, or group play away from crowds.
Combine Golf with Activities: Build a Full Day
One of the best parts of golfing in the Sedona area is how easily it pairs with other local experiences.
If you're designing a day around your tee time, consider these combo options:
- Canyon Mesa + Tennis or Pickleball: Start with a quick nine holes (~90 mins), then walk next door to public courts. It’s a great way to stay active and mix up the pace.
- Sedona Golf Resort + Lesson: Book a private lesson and follow it with a round—great for golfers looking to improve while still enjoying the full resort feel.
- Oakcreek Country Club + Lunch: After your round, head to Peddler’s Biergarten for drinks and casual fare. The setting is perfect for a post-game wind-down with friends or family.
Conclusion
Sedona offers a variety of golf experiences, from quick short-game rounds to full-length resort play with iconic views.
With smart planning around booking, gear, and course fit, you can build a trip that suits your style and schedule.
Whether you're after scenery, challenge, or convenience, there's a course here worth your time.
