15 Best Golf Courses in Phoenix

With nearly 200 golf courses in Phoenix and the surrounding area, it can be taxing to narrow down your options. At the same time, many experienced golfers and golf fans want to play iconic or challenging courses like TPC Scottsdale. Many courses in Phoenix and Scottsdale are public, enhancing the region’s reputation for having the nation’s most accessible golf. Read on to discover 15 golf courses grouped according to fame, difficulty, scenic quality, and price.

Similar to buying real estate, your experience golfing in Phoenix will differ based on the time of year. Generally, prices are lowest in June through August, when daytime temperatures reach triple figures in Phoenix. But if you’re in town for the summer, you can avoid the brunt of the weather by teeing off at sunrise — and be done in time for lunch by the pool.

On the other hand, November through April is the peak season for golf in Phoenix. In anticipation, many courses close in October to transition grass from Bermuda to rye. Golf fervor reaches fever pitch in early February when the Waste Management Phoenix Open brings raucous crowds and top professionals to town.

Greater Phoenix arguably has the nation’s best collection of public courses. Here are three of the most famous.

Eagle Mountain Golf Club is a public 18-hole course in Fountain Hills. Considered by some to be the best public course in Phoenix, the course features dramatic elevation changes, contoured fairways, and challenging greens that make for an exciting round. Eagle Mountain’s rugged terrain and strategic bunkering offer a superb playing experience against the backdrop of the McDowell Mountains.

Mountain Shadows Short Course is a public, 18-hole par-3 course perfect for those seeking a fun, casual round with friends. This course provides a scenic setting with its location at the base of Camelback Mountain, and the layout, designed by Forrest Richardson, pays homage to the original course from the 1960s. The holes range in length from 54 to 193 yards, requiring precision and creativity on every shot.

TPC Scottsdale is home to the Stadium Course, which hosts the annual WM Phoenix Open, one of the PGA Tour’s most popular events. This 18-hole championship course is famous for its “stadium-style” hole 16, offering a unique and exciting atmosphere. Golfers can also enjoy the Champions Course, known for its dramatic elevation changes and strategic bunkering.

Golfers with low handicaps will appreciate the difficulty level of these dynamic courses.

We-Ko-Pa Golf Club, located on the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation, is a premier destination for experienced golfers. It features two courses, the Cholla and Saguaro, which wind through the Sonoran Desert and offer challenging play amid stunning natural landscapes. The Cholla Course provides dramatic elevation changes and rugged terrain, while the Saguaro Course offers strategic bunkers and multi-tiered greens.

Grayhawk Golf Club offers two 18-hole courses, Talon and Raptor, both designed to challenge even the most skilled golfers. The Talon Course demands precision with its rugged terrain and water hazards, while the Raptor Course is known for its strategic bunkering and undulating greens. Each course provides stunning desert vistas and carefully crafted fairways that test accuracy and shot-making ability.

Troon North Golf Club is a highly regarded golf destination offering two 18-hole courses: the Monument and the Pinnacle. These courses wind through the striking Sonoran Desert and feature stunning views of Pinnacle Peak. The Monument Course is known for its rugged desert landscape and challenging boulder formations, while the Pinnacle Course offers undulating fairways and natural rock outcroppings. Both provide pristine conditions and an unforgettable playing experience.

These three courses deliver a high level of quality for relatively modest greens fees.

Continental Golf Course is an affordable 18-hole option in Scottsdale that caters to beginners and seasoned players. The par-60 executive course offers wide fairways and forgiving greens while presenting enough challenges to keep the round interesting. With water hazards and bunkers strategically placed, it provides a great value round at less than $40.

Coronado Golf Course is a popular public 9-hole course known for its approachable design and budget-friendly rates. The course offers flat terrain and open fairways, making it perfect for those seeking a quick and enjoyable round. With greens fees lower than $50, Coronado is ideal for those looking to refine their skills without breaking the bank.

Papago Golf Club is a historic public course that has been a favorite among golfers since 1963. The 18-hole course features wide fairways, challenging bunkers, and scenic desert landscapes that create a fun yet challenging round. Its central location makes Papago Golf Club accessible for locals and visitors alike. The course is a bargain at less than $80 per round.

Phoenix and the surrounding area bloom with desert flora, water features, and mountains everywhere you look. Check out the views at these three courses.

Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club is a scenic gem that combines challenging play with incredible desert views. The 18-hole course was designed by Brian Curley and Fred Couples, offering expansive fairways, fast greens, and rugged bunkers. The surrounding landscape provides a tranquil atmosphere that enhances the overall golfing experience.

Verde River Golf & Social Club provides a striking layout with its dramatic elevation changes and scenic vistas of the Tonto National Forest. The 18-hole course features wide fairways and challenging green complexes that appeal to a range of skill levels. With its pristine conditions and unparalleled views, Verde River offers a peaceful yet challenging round.

Desert Canyon Golf Club is known for its stunning views of the Four Peaks and Red Mountain, creating a picturesque setting for your round. The 18-hole course presents a mix of elevation changes, narrow fairways, and strategic bunkers that demand accurate shot-making. The rugged desert terrain enhances the beauty and challenge of this scenic gem.

Golfers can save on greens fees by playing these exceptional courses in late mornings or afternoons.

Silverado Golf Course is a mid-length 18-hole course perfect for a relaxing afternoon round. The course's gently rolling terrain and forgiving fairways provide a casual yet enjoyable challenge. The friendly atmosphere, affordable rates (afternoon tee times for less than $50), and convenient Scottsdale location make it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

McDowell Mountain Golf Club, designed by Randy Heckenkemper, offers wide fairways and stunning views of the McDowell Mountains. The 18-hole course provides a fair challenge with its strategic bunkers, multi-tiered greens, and water hazards. The scenic setting and approachable layout make it an ideal choice for an afternoon round (for less than $100).

Boulders Club, located at the Boulders Resort & Spa, offers two 18-hole courses that wind through dramatic boulder formations and lush desert landscapes. The South Course provides sweeping views and challenging greens, while the North Course is known for its elevation changes and water hazards. You can sometimes find afternoon tee times for less than $180.

If you're considering exploring the local real estate market near these exceptional golf courses, reach out to Roger Banning. With his deep understanding of Phoenix's golfing lifestyle and dedication to client satisfaction, Roger can help you find a home that meets your needs. Contact Roger Banning today to discover the best of Phoenix golf and living.