Scottsdale, Arizona, is a golfer's paradise, boasting some of the finest public courses in the country.
Based on our research, the top five public golf courses in Scottsdale for 2024 are Troon North, Grayhawk, TPC Scottsdale, The Boulders, and We-Ko-Pa.
Keep reading for a detailed look at what makes each of these courses exceptional.
Troon North Golf Club
Troon North Golf Club is a crown jewel in Scottsdale's golfing landscape, offering two world-renowned courses that provide a quintessential desert golf experience.
Nestled in the rugged foothills of Pinnacle Peak, Troon North combines stunning natural beauty with top-tier golfing facilities, making it a must-visit for any golf enthusiast.
Overview of Troon North Golf Club
Located in North Scottsdale, Troon North Golf Club is celebrated for its pristine conditions and challenging layouts.
Designed by the legendary duo Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish, the club features two distinct 18-hole courses: Monument and Pinnacle.
Both courses meander through striking desert landscapes, dotted with natural washes, giant saguaro cacti, and impressive boulder formations.
The club is known for its meticulous maintenance and commitment to providing an exceptional golfing experience.
Monument Course
The Monument Course is a masterpiece of golf course design, known for its unique challenges and breathtaking scenery.
One of the most iconic features of this course is the massive boulder situated in the middle of the par-five 3rd hole, which requires strategic play to navigate around.
- Unique Design Elements: The course is a blend of artistry and challenge, with natural desert terrain seamlessly integrated into the design. The strategic placement of bunkers and the undulating greens test players’ precision and skill.
- Notable Features: Besides the famous boulder on the 3rd hole, players will encounter dramatic elevation changes and panoramic views of the surrounding desert.
- Playing Tips and Strategies: Focus on accurate shot placement to avoid the numerous natural hazards. Pay special attention to the greens, which are known for their speed and subtle breaks.
Pinnacle Course
The Pinnacle Course offers a similarly challenging and visually stunning golfing experience.
This course is characterized by its rolling fairways, steep elevation changes, and panoramic vistas.
- Design Highlights and Natural Beauty: Designed to harmonize with the rugged desert environment, the Pinnacle Course features narrow fairways and well-protected greens. The natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert is on full display, providing a picturesque backdrop for each hole.
- Key Challenges and Memorable Holes: The course requires precise shot-making, especially on holes with significant elevation changes. Memorable holes include the par-3 6th, which offers a breathtaking view and a challenging tee shot over a desert ravine.
Amenities at Troon North
Troon North is not just about great golf; it also offers a range of amenities to enhance the overall experience.
The pro shop is well-stocked with the latest golf equipment and apparel, and the practice facilities include a driving range, putting greens, and short game areas to help golfers hone their skills.
- Clubhouse: The clubhouse at Troon North provides a luxurious setting to relax before or after a round. It features excellent dining options, including a restaurant that serves a variety of delicious dishes, making it a perfect place to enjoy a meal with stunning views of the golf course.
- Customer Service and Overall Experience: The staff at Troon North is dedicated to providing top-notch service, ensuring that every aspect of the visit is memorable. From the moment you arrive until you leave, you can expect friendly and professional service that enhances the overall golfing experience.
Grayhawk Golf Club
Grayhawk Golf Club is a premier golfing destination in Scottsdale, known for its dynamic courses and vibrant atmosphere.
With two meticulously designed courses, Raptor and Talon, Grayhawk provides a top-tier golfing experience set against the stunning desert landscape.
Overview of Grayhawk Golf Club
Situated in North Scottsdale, Grayhawk Golf Club offers two distinct 18-hole courses that cater to a wide range of skill levels.
The club is renowned for its superb course conditions and welcoming environment.
Designed by legendary architects, the courses at Grayhawk blend seamlessly with the natural desert terrain, providing a challenging yet enjoyable golfing experience.
Raptor Course
The Raptor Course, designed by Tom Fazio, is known for its large fairways, undulating greens, and strategic layout.
This course offers a mix of challenge and playability, making it suitable for golfers of all skill levels.
- Course Characteristics: The Raptor Course features generous fairways that encourage aggressive play off the tee, while the greens are well-protected by bunkers and water hazards, demanding precision on approach shots. The undulating greens add an extra layer of complexity, requiring careful reading and putting.
- Tips for Playing Raptor: To score well on the Raptor Course, focus on accurate drives to take advantage of the wide fairways. Approach shots should be strategically placed to avoid bunkers and water hazards, and extra attention should be given to the speed and breaks of the greens. Practice on the putting greens before your round to get a feel for the undulations.
Talon Course
The Talon Course, designed by David Graham and Gary Panks, is celebrated for its dramatic desert landscapes and strategic challenges.
This course requires thoughtful shot-making and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding desert.
- Unique Desert Landscapes and Strategic Challenges: The Talon Course winds through the Sonoran Desert, incorporating natural features such as arroyos, saguaros, and rugged terrain into its design. Strategic bunkering and water hazards are prevalent, demanding precise shot placement and course management.
- Playing Tips for Talon: Successful play on the Talon Course involves careful planning and execution. Tee shots should be placed to avoid desert hazards, and approach shots need to be accurate to navigate the strategically placed bunkers and water hazards. Pay close attention to the wind, as it can significantly affect shot trajectory and distance.
Amenities at Grayhawk
Grayhawk Golf Club offers a range of amenities designed to enhance the overall golfing experience.
The clubhouse is a lively hub featuring a well-stocked pro shop and top-notch dining options.
Phil's Grill, named after PGA Tour star Phil Mickelson, provides a casual dining atmosphere with a diverse menu that caters to all tastes.
- Clubhouse Features: The clubhouse at Grayhawk is equipped with modern facilities, including locker rooms, lounges, and meeting spaces. It's a great place to relax and socialize before or after a round of golf.
- Phil's Grill Restaurant: Known for its friendly atmosphere and delicious food, Phil's Grill is a popular spot for golfers to unwind. The menu offers a variety of dishes, from hearty burgers to fresh salads, making it a perfect place to refuel after a game.
- Practice Facilities: Grayhawk boasts excellent practice facilities, including a driving range, putting greens, and short game areas. These facilities are ideal for warming up before a round or working on specific aspects of your game.
Overall Atmosphere and Services
Grayhawk Golf Club is known for its welcoming and lively atmosphere.
The staff is dedicated to providing exceptional service, ensuring that every visitor has a memorable experience.
Whether you're enjoying a round of golf, dining at Phil's Grill, or practicing your swing, Grayhawk offers a comprehensive and enjoyable golfing experience that keeps players coming back.
TPC Scottsdale
TPC Scottsdale is a legendary golfing destination, renowned for hosting the Waste Management Phoenix Open and offering two world-class courses.
Nestled in the heart of Scottsdale, this club provides a unique blend of professional-level golfing and stunning desert scenery.
Overview of TPC Scottsdale
Located in North Scottsdale, TPC Scottsdale is a prominent name in the golf world, famous for its challenging courses and major tournaments.
The club is a regular stop on the PGA Tour, attracting top professionals and avid golfers alike.
With the iconic Stadium and Champions courses, TPC Scottsdale is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience golf at its finest.
Stadium Course
The Stadium Course, co-designed by Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish, is celebrated for its strategic design and memorable holes.
It's most famous for the par-3 16th hole, known as “The Coliseum,” which transforms into a vibrant amphitheater during the Waste Management Phoenix Open.
- Design and Layout: The course features a mix of challenging holes, with strategically placed bunkers and water hazards. The layout requires precise shot-making and thoughtful course management.
- The Coliseum (Par-3 16th Hole): This hole is legendary for its stadium-like atmosphere during tournaments. Surrounded by grandstands, it provides a unique and thrilling experience for both players and spectators.
- Strategies for Navigating the Stadium Course: To excel on this course, focus on accuracy and control. The fairways are generous, but the approach shots need to be well-placed to avoid hazards. On the 16th, embrace the pressure and aim for the center of the green to give yourself a birdie opportunity.
Champions Course
The Champions Course, designed to complement the Stadium Course, offers a slightly less challenging but equally enjoyable round of golf.
It features beautiful views of the McDowell Mountains and a layout that appeals to a wide range of golfers.
- Design Elements and Scenic Views: The Champions Course is characterized by its rolling fairways and elevation changes. The design incorporates natural desert elements, providing a picturesque and serene golfing environment.
- Playing Tips and Notable Holes: Key holes include the par-5 18th, which offers a risk-reward opportunity with water guarding the green. Focus on positioning off the tee to set up easier approach shots, and take advantage of the wider fairways to play aggressively when appropriate.
Amenities at TPC Scottsdale
TPC Scottsdale offers a range of amenities designed to enhance the overall golfing experience.
The clubhouse provides a luxurious setting with a variety of services to ensure comfort and convenience.
- Clubhouse: The spacious clubhouse features elegant décor, comfortable lounges, and locker rooms. It's an ideal place to relax before or after a round of golf.
- Pro Shop: The pro shop is well-stocked with the latest golf equipment and apparel, offering everything you need to enhance your game.
- Practice Areas: TPC Scottsdale boasts comprehensive practice facilities, including a driving range, putting greens, and short game areas. These facilities are perfect for warming up or working on specific aspects of your game.
- Restaurant: The on-site restaurant offers a variety of dining options, from casual fare to gourmet meals. Enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in views of the course and surrounding mountains.
Experience During the Waste Management Phoenix Open
The Waste Management Phoenix Open, held annually at TPC Scottsdale, is one of the most exciting events in golf.
Known for its lively and fan-friendly atmosphere, the tournament transforms the Stadium Course into a hub of activity.
The 16th hole, in particular, becomes a spectacle with thousands of cheering fans creating an electrifying environment.
Attending this event provides a unique opportunity to see top professionals compete while experiencing the festive and energetic ambiance that makes this tournament special.
The Boulders Golf Club
The Boulders Golf Club offers a unique golfing experience set amidst the stunning backdrop of ancient rock formations and the serene Sonoran Desert.
Known for its dramatic scenery and challenging courses, this club is a favorite among golfers seeking both beauty and a test of skill.
Overview of The Boulders Golf Club
Located in the Sonoran Desert foothills of Carefree, Arizona, The Boulders Golf Club is celebrated for its breathtaking natural setting.
The club features two distinct 18-hole courses, both designed by the renowned architect Jay Morrish.
The courses wind through striking boulder formations and pristine desert landscapes, providing a truly memorable golfing experience.
North Course
The North Course at The Boulders is renowned for its dramatic elevation changes and unique layout.
Designed by Jay Morrish, this course integrates the natural terrain seamlessly, offering golfers a challenging and picturesque round.
- Design and Layout: The North Course features significant elevation changes that require precise club selection and shot placement. The fairways are lined with natural desert vegetation, and the greens are well-protected by bunkers and natural rock formations.
- Tips for Playing the North Course: Focus on accuracy rather than distance, as the elevation changes can affect shot distances. Pay attention to the wind, which can be unpredictable due to the terrain. Utilize the practice facilities to get a feel for the course conditions before your round.
South Course
The South Course offers a different set of challenges, with water hazards and strategically placed bunkers adding complexity to the round.
This course also showcases the stunning boulder formations that the club is named after.
- Water Hazards and Challenging Holes: The South Course features several water hazards that come into play on key holes, requiring careful shot planning and execution. The layout emphasizes strategic play, with many holes demanding well-placed shots to avoid trouble.
- Key Strategies for a Successful Round: When playing the South Course, take extra care with your tee shots to avoid water and bunkers. Approach shots need to be precise to land on the small, well-guarded greens. Familiarize yourself with the course layout to plan your strategy effectively.
Amenities at The Boulders
The Boulders Golf Club offers a range of high-quality amenities designed to enhance the overall golfing experience.
The club is known for its exceptional service and well-maintained facilities.
- Service Quality: The staff at The Boulders is dedicated to providing top-notch service, ensuring that every aspect of your visit is enjoyable. From the moment you arrive, you can expect friendly and professional assistance.
- Clubhouse Facilities: The clubhouse features modern amenities, including locker rooms, a pro shop, and dining options. The pro shop is well-stocked with the latest golf equipment and apparel, and the dining facilities offer a variety of delicious meals and refreshments.
- Practice Areas: The practice facilities at The Boulders are excellent, featuring a driving range, putting greens, and short game areas. These facilities are ideal for warming up before your round or working on specific aspects of your game.
Overall Golfing Experience Amidst Ancient Boulders
Golfing at The Boulders Golf Club is not just about the game; it's about the entire experience.
The stunning scenery, challenging courses, and top-notch amenities combine to create a truly unique and memorable golfing adventure.
Whether you're navigating the dramatic elevation changes of the North Course or the strategic water hazards of the South Course, you'll be surrounded by the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert and ancient boulder formations.
The Boulders Golf Club offers a perfect blend of challenge, beauty, and luxury, making it a must-visit for any golf enthusiast.
We-Ko-Pa Golf Club
We-Ko-Pa Golf Club is a premier golfing destination located on the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation land, offering two exceptional courses that provide a true desert golf experience.
With its serene environment and top-notch facilities, We-Ko-Pa is a must-visit for golfers seeking a blend of challenge and natural beauty.
Overview of We-Ko-Pa Golf Club
Situated on the scenic Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation land, We-Ko-Pa Golf Club boasts an untouched desert landscape, free from residential development.
This setting provides a peaceful and immersive golfing experience, allowing players to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert.
The club features two renowned 18-hole courses, the Saguaro and Cholla, each offering a unique set of challenges and stunning views.
Saguaro Course
The Saguaro Course, designed by the acclaimed duo Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, is known for its walking-friendly layout and harmonious integration with the natural terrain.
- Design and Layout: The Saguaro Course is designed with walking golfers in mind, featuring shorter green-to-tee distances and a layout that encourages walking. The course seamlessly blends with the desert landscape, showcasing natural washes, native vegetation, and scenic vistas.
- Natural Beauty: The course offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and desert, providing a picturesque backdrop for a round of golf. The design takes full advantage of the natural topography, with fairways winding through the undulating terrain.
- Tips for Navigating the Saguaro Course: To play well on the Saguaro Course, focus on precision and strategy rather than power. The natural terrain and strategic bunkering require careful shot placement. Take the time to appreciate the views and the thoughtfully designed layout, which rewards accuracy and thoughtful play.
Cholla Course
The Cholla Course, designed by Scott Miller, offers a classic target-style desert golf experience.
This course challenges golfers with its demanding layout and stunning desert scenery.
- Design and Challenges: The Cholla Course is known for its dramatic elevation changes and strategically placed hazards. The design emphasizes target-style golf, where precision and accuracy are key to navigating the fairways and greens.
- Desert Golf Experience: The course features narrow fairways, desert vegetation, and natural arroyos, providing a true desert golf experience. Each hole presents a unique challenge, requiring careful planning and shot execution.
- Playing Strategies for the Cholla Course: Success on the Cholla Course hinges on precise shot-making and course management. Pay attention to the elevation changes, which can affect club selection and shot distance. Use the practice facilities to familiarize yourself with the course conditions, and focus on accuracy over distance to avoid the desert hazards.
Amenities at We-Ko-Pa
We-Ko-Pa Golf Club offers a range of amenities designed to enhance the overall golfing experience.
The clubhouse, practice facilities, and dining options are all top-notch, reflecting the club's commitment to quality and service.
- Cultural Architecture of the Clubhouse: The clubhouse at We-Ko-Pa features architecture that reflects the cultural heritage of the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation. The design incorporates traditional elements and offers a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere for golfers.
- Practice Facilities: The club provides excellent practice facilities, including a driving range, putting greens, and short game areas. These facilities are ideal for warming up before a round or honing your skills.
- Restaurant with Terrace Views: The on-site restaurant offers a variety of dining options, with a terrace that provides stunning views of the surrounding desert and mountains. It's a perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal or drink after a round of golf.
- Overall Service: The staff at We-Ko-Pa is known for their exceptional service, ensuring that every aspect of your visit is enjoyable. From the moment you arrive, you can expect attentive and friendly service that enhances the overall experience.
Conclusion
We-Ko-Pa Golf Club offers a truly unique and immersive desert golfing experience with its beautifully designed Saguaro and Cholla courses.
The stunning natural landscape, combined with top-notch amenities and exceptional service, makes it a standout destination for golfers.
Whether you're seeking a challenging round or a serene escape, We-Ko-Pa delivers on all fronts.
