Best Public Golf Courses in Arizona: Top 10 Picks

If you consider hitting the links your idea of a dream vacation, then identifying the right course is crucial when planning your getaway. For those who do not have exclusive connections for private tee times, Arizona boasts fantastic public golf courses that offer challenging and beautifully designed 18-hole experiences.

Pinnacle Course at Troon North Golf Club

Located in Scottsdale, this club features two 18-hole courses that navigate through Arizona’s Sonoran Desert, complemented by stunning views of foothills, ravines, and granite boulders, with the iconic Pinnacle Peak gracing the background of each green.

Troon North Golf Club, 10320 E Dynamite Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85262. Phone: 480.585.7700.

Saguaro Course We-Ko-Pa Golf Club

This course, designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, caters to golfers who prefer walking over riding in a cart. Each tee is conveniently located close to the previous putting green, facilitating a seamless transition to the next hole.

We-Ko-Pa Golf Club, 18200 East Toh Vee Circle Fort McDowell, AZ 85264. Phone: 480.836.9000.

Cholla Course at We-Ko-Pa Golf Club

If you are a golfer prone to a wicked slice, the 7,225-yard layout designed by Scott Miller will be perfect for you. This 18-hole course is free of surrounding residences, allowing wayward shots to simply drift into scenic views of Superstition Mountain.

We-Ko-Pa Golf Club, 18200 East Toh Vee Circle Fort McDowell, AZ 85264. Phone: 480.836.9000.

Monument Course at Troon North Golf Club

Initially designed in 1989 by Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish, the 7,039-yard course at Troon North is widely regarded as the signature course. Its lush setting and well-maintained greens make it a favorite among both locals and visitors. Notably, the par-5 “Monument” hole challenges players to navigate around a massive boulder positioned in the fairway.

Troon North Golf Club, 10320 E Dynamite Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85262. Phone: 480.585.7700.

Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club

This expansive 320-acre course is the result of a collaboration between legendary golfer Fred Couples and Schmidt-Curley Design, Inc. Almost every hole ranges from 5,100 to over 7,500 yards from the tee, favoring players who can hit long drives for a better chance at par.

Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club, 48456 AZ-238, Maricopa, AZ 85139. Phone: (480) 367-8949.

Talon Course at Grayhawk Golf Club

Located in northern Scottsdale, this 6,973-yard course designed by Gary Panks and U.S. Open champion David Graham features multi-tiered greens with daily-changing pin positions, presenting a constant challenge that merits repeated play.

Grayhawk Golf Club, 8620 East Thompson Peak Parkway, Scottsdale, AZ 85255. Phone: 480.502.1800.

Quintero Golf Club

This course, set amidst the desert, features numerous water hazards to keep golfers alert. Renowned architect Rees Jones designed this par-72, 18-hole layout conveniently located just north of Phoenix and Scottsdale.

Quintero Golf Club, 16752 W State Route 74 Peoria, Arizona 85383. Phone: (928) 501-1500.

Saguaro and Tortolita Courses at The Club at Dove Mountain

The club features 27 holes, with the Saguaro and Tortolita courses among the highlights. The blend of natural surroundings and rolling fairways creates a formidable challenge for even the most skilled players. Designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus, this club has hosted the WGC Accenture Match Play Championship for many years.

The Club at Dove Mountain, 6501 Boulder Bridge Pass Marana, AZ 85658. Phone: 520-572-3500.

Dinosaur Mountain Course at Gold Canyon Golf Resort & Spa

This 18-hole, 6,653-yard course wraps around Dinosaur Mountain, offering players sweeping views of the surrounding desert from nearly every tee box. For budget-conscious golfers, the club provides “Dynamic” pricing based on demand, allowing early reservations to enjoy significant savings.

Gold Canyon Golf Resort & Spa, 6100 S Kings Ranch Rd, Gold Canyon, AZ 85118. Phone: (480) 982-9449.

The South Course at Boulders Resort & Spa

The South Course at Boulders is perfect for players seeking guidance in navigating tricky lies. The club has established a “Caddiemaster” program, pairing golfers with experienced caddies for assistance on the intricate Jay Morrish-designed course.

Boulders Resort & Spa, 34631 North Tom Darlington Drive, Carefree, AZ 85377. Phone: (480) 488-9009.