Best Golf Courses in Phoenix

Updated February 2024 to update booking information.

Phoenix.  It’s the Mecca of golf on the west coast and that’s one of the reasons I’m so thankful to call it home.  Every time I fly back into Sky Harbor airport, I’m taken aback by the sprawling lush, green fairways that adorn the entire valley. 

It’s hard to fathom that I’ve lived here for so long and haven’t even come close to playing all the courses in the area.  I have played more than my share, however.  And at this point, I feel pretty confident in my assessment of the best ones you can play next time you come for spring training or a break from the cold winters up north.

So, let’s get down to business and I’ll try not to get too excited.

 

The Raven Golf Club offers golfers a bold and scenic desert-style course in the Phoenix area, providing stunning views and beautifully maintained fairways and greens. Lie close to the arid beauty of Arizona, this course offers a unique golfing adventure, blending the rugged desert scene with well-designed holes that cater to players of all skill levels.

Located near Phoenix and Scottsdale, the Raven Golf Club boasts a prestigious reputation, and rightfully so. Notably, the golf course has garnered attention for its exceptional quality and has even hosted a PGA Tour event. The allure of playing on the same course that has tested the skills of golfing legends such as Tiger Woods is undeniable.

The Raven Golf Club’s impeccable amenities and service enhance the overall experience, making it a top choice for golf followers visiting the Phoenix area. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer seeking a challenging round or a novice looking to take in the breathtaking desert views while improving your game, the Raven Golf Club promises a memorable golfing event.

 

As you explore the golfing options in Phoenix, the transition from the demanding yet stunning Raven Golf Club naturally leads you to the equally captivating Papago Golf Club.

Situated near the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and Arizona State University, this municipal course offers affordable green fees and stunning views of Papago Park. Recent renovations have further enhanced the golfing adventure, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.

Designed by renowned architect William Bell, the course provides a bold yet enjoyable layout for golfers of all skill levels. Its convenient location and reasonable rates make it easily accessible for those in the Phoenix and Scottsdale area.

Papago Golf Club’s appeal extends beyond its scenic beauty and affordability. Notable golfers like Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson have played here, and former PGA Tour Champions President Miller once called it ‘the best course in the state.’ Its proximity to notable courses like Whisper Rock Golf Club, Grayhawk Golf Club, and Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf adds to its allure, making it a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts seeking a memorable experience in the Phoenix area.

Take shelter within the breathtaking desert landscape of Phoenix, Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club offers an unmatched playing adventure for golf fans. This renowned golf course stands out for several reasons:

• Challenging Yet Enjoyable: Ak-Chin Southern Dunes provides a demanding yet enjoyable golfing experience, catering to both skillful golfers and beginners.
• Stunning Desert Landscape: The golf club boasts a stunning desert landscape, offering a beautiful backdrop for a memorable round of golf.
• Impressive Course Design: Known for its impressive course design and well-maintained facilities, Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club ensures a top-quality golfing adventure.

Whether you’re a local resident or visiting Phoenix, adding a round at Ak-Chin Southern Dunes to your itinerary is a must for an unforgettable golfing event. The combination of the beautiful desert scenery and the well-crafted course design makes this golf club a standout destination for golfers seeking the best courses in Phoenix, Arizona.

If you’re passionate about golf, Ak-Chin Southern Dunes should definitely be on your radar when planning your next golfing adventure.

Discover the allure of McCormick Ranch Golf Club, a premier golf destination in Phoenix offering two stunning 18-hole courses and pleasant landscapes.

The club’s Palm Course, designed by renowned architect Scott Miller, is a favorite among golfers for its strategic layout and beautiful water features. Nestled in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, McCormick Ranch Golf Club provides players with a unique golfing adventure, combining challenging fairways, small greens, and breathtaking mountain vistas.

Both the Palm and Pine courses have garnered recognition from prestigious entities like the PGA Tour and Golf Digest, solidifying the club’s reputation as a top-tier golfing destination.

Whether you’re a trained golfer or just starting out, the club’s well-maintained facilities and scenic surroundings make it an ideal choice for a round of golf. With its convenient location and excellent amenities, McCormick Ranch Golf Club beckons golf enthusiasts to savor the beauty of the desert while enjoying a memorable day on the greens.

Looking for a golfing experience surrounded by stunning desert landscapes and demanding courses? Las Sendas Golf Club is a must-visit destination for golf fans. Here’s why you should consider teeing off at this top course:

• Scenic Desert Setting: Las Sendas Golf Club offers a picturesque and unique golfing event amidst beautiful mountain views and the striking desert scenery of the Phoenix area.
• Challenging Course Layout: The new PGA-designed course at Las Sendas presents an exciting challenge for golfers of all levels, focusing on strategic shot placement and skillful execution.
• Exceptional Practice Facility: The club provides an outstanding practice facility for honing your skills, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to improve their game.

Las Sendas Golf Club stands out as one of the top public-access courses in Arizona, offering a combination of breathtaking scenery and a demanding course layout that caters to golfers looking for a memorable and rewarding golfing adventure.

What makes Ahwatukee Country Club a standout destination for golfers of all levels?

Ahwatukee Country Club, located in the charming Valley of the Sun in Phoenix, is a top contender among the best golf courses in the area. The 18-hole course offers a bold yet enjoyable encounter, with stunning views of South Mountain. As you navigate the tight fairways, tackle water hazards, and strategically placed bunkers, you’ll find that the course provides a test for every skill level. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, Ahwatukee Country Club has something to offer.

The club takes pride in its excellent practice facilities, including a well-equipped driving range, chipping area, and putting green, allowing you to hone your skills before hitting the course. Moreover, the clubhouse exudes a welcoming atmosphere, providing a comfortable setting for relaxation and dining after a satisfying round of golf. Known for its friendly staff and exceptional customer service, Ahwatukee Country Club promises a memorable and enjoyable golfing event.

Lie against amidst the stunning desert landscapes of Phoenix, Lookout Mountain Golf Club offers a challenging and rewarding golfing adventure that showcases panoramic views of the area. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced golfer, this course is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique desert golfing adventure in Phoenix.

Here are a few reasons why Lookout Mountain Golf Club stands out:

• Scenic Layout: The course is known for its well-maintained and beautiful layout, providing a tranquil and visually appealing environment for your game.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Enjoy a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely round of golf with friends or family.
• Affordable Rates: Lookout Mountain Golf Club offers affordable rates, making it an accessible choice for golf lovers looking for a memorable event without breaking the bank.

Lookout Mountain Golf Club has also gained recognition as a PGA Tour playoff sponsor and has been visited by prominent figures in the golfing world, including President Miller and Paul Azinger. Conveniently located near Sky Harbor airport, booking a tee time at Lookout Mountain Golf Club promises an unforgettable golfing adventure in Phoenix.

Conveniently located near Lookout Mountain Golf Club, The Legacy Golf Club offers an equally captivating and bold golfing experience, boasting stunning desert scenery and well-manicured fairways. This Phoenix gem has garnered recognition as one of Golfweek’s best courses you can play, and it’s not hard to see why.

The Legacy Golf Club’s layout features large, undulating greens and strategic bunkering, providing a test for golfers of all skill levels. As you navigate the course, you’ll be treated to picturesque views of South Mountain and the Phoenix skyline, adding to the allure of the golfing event.

The Legacy Golf Club has a rich history in the Phoenix golf scene and has even been a playoff sponsor for the PGA Tour. Designed by renowned architect Gary Panks, this course has attracted top golfers, including Phil Mickelson. The club’s amenities and exceptional service further elevate the overall experience, making it a must-visit destination for golf fans.

Whether you’re a local resident or visiting the area, The Legacy Golf Club promises a memorable and rewarding round of golf.

 

Nestled in the picturesque city of Phoenix, the Cave Creek Golf Course offers an affordable and laid-back environment for golfers of all skill levels. The course is a public option, providing access through daily green fees.

Here are some key points about the Cave Creek Golf Course:

• Panoramic Views: Golfers can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city while navigating the well-maintained fairways and small greens of the course.
• Budget-Friendly: With its affordable rates, Cave Creek Golf Course is an attractive option for golf lovers looking for a wallet-friendly golfing event in Phoenix.
• Casual Play: The course provides a good golfing adventure for beginners and casual players, making it a popular choice for those seeking a relaxed round of golf.

When exploring the golfing options in Phoenix, Cave Creek Golf Course stands out as a welcoming and accessible choice. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned player, the course’s inviting atmosphere and scenic beauty make it a top contender in the city’s golf scene.

A true links-style course, Foothills Golf Club will test you from the first tee to the 18^th green.  Built into the surrounding rocky terrain, this course places a premium on accuracy off the tee. 

Even though the course is demanding, five sets of tees give players plenty of options to choose from. 

The practice facilities give you ample room and plenty of targets to work on every shot in your bag. 

For a unique experience at a great value, be sure to add Foothills Golf Club to your list.

Conclusion

There’s no shortage of golf in the Valley of the Sun.  I keep discovering new gems every year but the list above features some of my perennial favorites.  What I love about golf in Phoenix aside from the array of options, is the variety in course design and experience.  Whether you want to experience desert golf, or prefer more traditional parkland layouts, there’s no shortage of top-notch choices in Phoenix. 

Until next time, I’ll be deciding between work and the weekly skins game at Papago.