Just east of Phoenix, Scottsdale is a prime location for American golf. Beyond its perpetual sunshine, Scottsdale is well known for its luxurious desert resorts and its world-class golf courses. Below is a breakdown of the area’s best public and private golf courses.

We-Ko-Pa is one of the best courses in Arizona. It’s especially unique because it’s not bordered by condos, houses, or other buildings. It sits on Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation land and will remain unique among Scottsdale area golf courses. There are two courses at We-Ko-Pa: the award-winning Cholla, and the recently built Saguaro. Both are packed with exciting challenges and feature unbeatable views of the McDowell Mountains, Red Mountain, Four Peaks, and the Superstitions. The course’s clubhouse is also award-winning and offers unparalleled customer service. Its design was intended to pay homage to the desert surroundings—and it was successful. It’s a worthwhile addition to a lifetime of memorable golf experiences.

Troon North prides itself on being a “True Desert Classic,” and its reputation precedes it. Troon’s landscaping is stunning, peppered with desert boulders, cacti, and foothills. As you play on either one of the two courses, you feel immersed in the desert’s natural beauty and will notice how naturally the course compliments its surroundings. Troon provides a challenging and rewarding experience for players of all abilities. Before or after playing, be sure to check out Dynamite Grille—Troon North’s jewel of an on-site restaurant. Spicy margaritas and flavorful fish tacos are just two of the delicious offerings you’ll find at this local favorite.

 

This impressive course is part of the TPC network, which comprises over 30 courses around the country. TPC Scottsdale is home to both the Stadium Course and the Champions Course. The Stadium Course is the site of the Waste Management Phoenix Open, which draws thousands of spectators each year. Stadium is the course’s darling, thanks to the 16th hole, “The Coliseum.” Throughout the year, players flock here to follow in the steps of their favorite professional golfers. The Champions Course, while not as famous, is also impressive. It uses the area’s natural terrain to create holes that will challenge players of all skill levels.
 

After playing, you have two options when it comes to dining: The Champions Patio Bar and the Toro Restaurant & Rum Bar. Grab a cocktail at the Champions Bar and reflect on the beauty of the 9th green. For a Pan-Latin experience, brought to you by the renowned Chef Richard Sandoval, head to Toro, where the rum list has over 150 options.

At Talking Stick, the aim is for players to put aside their daily concerns and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert. The O’odham Course features broad, angular holes, while the Piippash brings challenging elements, like the tree-lined fairways and raised greens. Talking Stick encourages players to build their skills and offers a Player Development Program with this goal in mind. You may also wish to enroll in the Vision54 Coaching program, or LaBauve lessons, taught by competitive golfers, Mike and Sandy LaBauve. Afterward, enjoy a southwestern meal to remember at The Wildhorse Grille.

Boulders Resort & Spa is part of the Curio Collection by Hilton and features two award-winning, Jay Morrish-designed courses— each paying tribute to the beautiful desert surroundings. As a club member, you’ll have access to the club’s pool, fitness center, and tennis garden, as well as a range of other perks. Members and non-members alike can opt for lessons, taught by the renowned instructor, Donald Crawley. As you improve your game, appreciate the serenity that this course, and its amenities, have to offer. After a game, enjoy drinks and a meal at any one of the resort’s acclaimed restaurants, including Spotted Donkey, the Club Pool, and the Discovery Lounge.

 

Quintero has been voted the #1 course in Arizona and has been called the purest golf experience in the Southwest. It’s a lush, secluded course, where players aren’t distracted by anything except the beauty of their surroundings. The course is known for having the finest playing surfaces, and the best multi-level bentgrass greens of any golf course in the Phoenix-Scottsdale area, which is why so many golfers aspire to play here. In addition to lessons, free play, and events, Quintero also offers players the ability to stay in one of the club’s exclusive rentals, and treat every day as an opportunity to up your game. As a renter, you’ll have access to the club’s excellent amenities and activities, including hiking, biking, swimming, and even boating at the Lake Pleasant Marina or Scorpion Bay Marina. Quintero offers a well-rounded getaway, with golf at its core.

 

Ak-Chin is known for its approachable atmosphere, and ranking as one of the must-play courses in the state of Arizona. The course aims to be laid-back and encourages players to really soak in the panoramic views of the desert. It’s run by the Troon family, so you can rest assured you’re in good hands. Play the full course, or practice your game on the new #miniDunes—a short, six-hole course designed for players of all ages and abilities to perfect their game. The club’s Arroyo Grille is also a hit, thanks to its delicious food and fun events. Enjoy Sunday Funday with five-dollar mimosas, or the five-dollar “Early Bird” breakfast special. Ak-Chin is a fun place to hang out, learn, and golf near Scottsdale.

Whether you’re looking to explore what Scottsdale has to offer full-time, or you’re ready to invest in a vacation property near this golfer’s paradise, The Schrand Team has the experience and know-how to make your Scottsdale real estate search a fun and exciting one.