Arizona is one of the best places in the country to play golf. With more than 300 days of sunshine each year, you can count on warm weather and firm fairways almost anytime. From the desert layouts around Scottsdale to the mountain views near Sedona, there’s a course for every kind of golfer.
Whether you’re planning a weekend round with friends or building a full golf trip, Arizona has public courses that feel every bit as nice as private clubs. Some are known for their scenic holes carved through the desert, while others stand out for fair pricing and great course conditions.
Here’s a look at the best public golf courses in Arizona that you’ll want to add to your tee time list this season.
What Makes a Great Public Golf Course in Arizona?
A great public golf course in Arizona offers more than just a fair test of skill. It combines good design, fair pricing, and a memorable setting. Most golfers look for smooth greens, fairways in good shape, and a layout that’s fun whether you’re a low or high handicap.
What makes Arizona stand out is the variety. You can play desert courses lined with cactus one day, then cool off in the mountains the next. Many of the top courses are designed by well-known names, such as Tom Weiskopf or Phil Mickelson, blending natural desert terrain with playability.
Good value is another big factor. While some resort courses charge high green fees, many public courses around Phoenix, Tucson, and Sedona offer top-level golf at prices that fit most budgets. No matter where you tee it up, Arizona’s public golf scene gives players a lot to enjoy.
Top-Rated Public Golf Courses in Arizona
Arizona is packed with great public courses, but a few stand out for their design, scenery, and overall experience. From Scottsdale’s resort-style layouts to Tucson’s championship tracks, these are the top spots where any golfer would be lucky to play a round.
Troon North Golf Club
- Location: Scottsdale, Arizona
- Yardage: 7,009 yards (Pinnacle Course)
- Par: 71
Troon North is often the first course golfers think of when it comes to public golf in Arizona, and for good reason. Both the Pinnacle and Monument courses wind through the natural desert landscape, framed by huge boulders and mountain backdrops.
The fairways are generous, but accuracy still matters, especially with desert terrain just off the rough. Greens roll fast and true, rewarding smart play. While the rates are on the higher side, Troon North delivers one of the best public golf experiences in the state.
We-Ko-Pa Golf Club
- Location: Fort McDowell, Arizona
- Yardage: 7,225 yards (Saguaro Course)
- Par: 71
We-Ko-Pa Golf Club offers pure desert golf with no homes, roads, or noise, just wide-open views and natural beauty. The club features two award-winning courses, Cholla and Saguaro, both known for excellent conditions year-round.
The Saguaro Course, designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, blends naturally with the land. It favors walking golfers and rewards strategy over power. The Cholla Course, designed by Scott Miller, is a little more target-oriented and visually dramatic.
Both layouts are known for firm fairways, fast greens, and some of the most peaceful golf you can find in the Phoenix area. For many, We-Ko-Pa is the top public golf experience in Arizona.
Grayhawk Golf Club
- Location: Scottsdale, Arizona
- Yardage: 7,135 yards (Raptor Course)
- Par: 72
Grayhawk Golf Club is one of Scottsdale’s premier public facilities, offering two standout courses, Raptor and Talon. The Raptor Course, designed by Tom Fazio, has hosted numerous PGA Tour events and NCAA Championships. It’s challenging but fair, with wide fairways, deep bunkers, and well-protected greens.
The Talon Course, designed by David Graham and Gary Panks, features dramatic desert scenery and several elevated tees that give you long views across the valley. Both courses are kept in top shape and offer a high-end golf experience with a lively clubhouse scene afterward.
Grayhawk is the kind of place where every golfer feels like a pro for a day. It’s scenic, well-run, and worth every penny of the green fee.
TPC Scottsdale
- Location: Scottsdale, Arizona
- Yardage: 7,261 yards (Stadium Course)
- Par: 71
TPC Scottsdale is one of the most famous public golf courses in the country, thanks to the PGA Tour’s Waste Management Phoenix Open. The Stadium Course is best known for its 16th hole, a short par 3 surrounded by stadium seating that turns into golf’s loudest arena every February.
When the grandstands come down, regular golfers can still feel the excitement of playing the same course as the pros. The layout mixes challenging water holes, risk-and-reward par 5s, and plenty of bunkers.
The sister Champions Course is also public and a bit more forgiving, making it a good option for those wanting the TPC experience at a lower price. Both courses feature excellent conditions and are must-plays for anyone visiting the Phoenix area.
The Boulders Golf Club
- Location: Carefree, Arizona
- Yardage: 6,959 yards (South Course)
- Par: 72
The Boulders Golf Club lives up to its name with fairways winding through massive rock formations that make every hole feel unique. The resort offers two courses, North and South, both designed by Jay Morrish. The South Course is the favorite among locals and visitors for its striking views and challenging layout.
Each hole feels tucked into the desert, surrounded by cacti, saguaros, and dramatic boulder backdrops. The fairways are generous, but the approach shots demand precision to reach well-guarded greens.
It’s part of a luxury resort, but both courses are open to the public. If you’re looking for a round that blends natural beauty with top-tier conditioning, The Boulders is a must.
Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club
- Location: Maricopa, Arizona
- Yardage: 7,546 yards
- Par: 72
Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club offers a true championship-level experience. Designed by Fred Couples and Schmidt-Curley Design, the course sprawls across 320 acres of rolling desert land. Wide fairways give you room off the tee, but strategic bunkering and undulating greens demand smart shot placement.
It’s one of the most respected public courses in the state, having hosted top amateur and college events. Despite its length and difficulty from the back tees, the layout remains enjoyable for all skill levels thanks to multiple tee boxes.
The setting is quiet, with no homes lining the fairways, just open desert and mountains in the distance. It’s a pure golf experience that rivals private clubs, yet it’s fully open to the public.
Quintero Golf Club
- Location: Peoria, Arizona
- Yardage: 7,208 yards
- Par: 72
Quintero Golf Club is often ranked among the top public courses in the country, and once you play it, you’ll see why. Designed by Rees Jones, it offers a mix of elevation changes, scenic mountain views, and challenging holes that test every part of your game.
The course features generous landing areas off the tee, but the real test comes around the greens. Deep bunkers and fast putting surfaces reward precise approach shots. Every hole feels like a signature hole, with the layout weaving through the high desert terrain.
It’s about an hour from downtown Phoenix, making it a great day trip for serious golfers. Quintero’s conditions are consistently pristine, and it’s one of those courses you’ll want to play again as soon as you finish your round.
Verrado Golf Club
- Location: Buckeye, Arizona
- Yardage: 7,258 yards (Founders Course)
- Par: 72
Verrado Golf Club sits at the base of the White Tank Mountains, offering a fun and scenic round that mixes desert golf with a traditional layout. The club features two courses, Founders and Victory, both designed by Tom Lehman and John Fought.
The Founders Course is the more established of the two, known for its rolling fairways, quick greens, and wide variety of holes. The Victory Course, built later, adds elevation changes and more dramatic views. Both are praised for friendly staff, fair prices, and excellent playing conditions.
It’s a bit off the beaten path from central Phoenix, but that’s part of the charm. The setting is peaceful, the views are great, and the value is hard to beat for a course of this quality.
Sewailo Golf Club
- Location: Tucson, Arizona
- Yardage: 7,283 yards
- Par: 72
Sewailo Golf Club, designed by PGA Tour professional Notah Begay III and Ty Butler, blends desert and parkland styles for a layout that feels both scenic and playable. The course was built on the land of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe and is part of Casino Del Sol Resort, giving it a resort-quality feel with public access.
The design features rolling fairways, natural desert washes, and several lakes that come into play on key holes. Water is rare on desert courses, but here it adds both beauty and challenge.
Greens are large and receptive, making the course enjoyable for players of all levels. With friendly service and excellent year-round conditions, Sewailo is one of southern Arizona’s best public golf options.
Sedona Golf Resort
- Location: Sedona, Arizona
- Yardage: 6,646 yards
- Par: 71
Sedona Golf Resort might not be the longest course in Arizona, but it’s easily one of the most beautiful. Set among Sedona’s red rock formations, every hole offers views that look straight out of a postcard. The elevation changes create a mix of fun shot-making and photo-worthy moments.
The layout itself is fair and enjoyable. Wide fairways make it friendly for casual players, while well-placed bunkers and sloping greens keep better golfers engaged. The signature par-3 10th hole, which plays downhill toward the red cliffs, is one of the most photographed holes in the state.
With solid course conditions and affordable rates compared to many Scottsdale options, Sedona Golf Resort is a must-play for anyone visiting northern Arizona.
Hidden Gem Public Courses in Arizona
Not every great round in Arizona comes with a high green fee or a big-name designer. Scattered across the state are several lesser-known public courses that deliver excellent golf, friendly service, and fair prices. These hidden gems might not make national rankings, but locals know they’re some of the best values around.
Wickenburg Ranch Golf & Social Club
- Location: Wickenburg, Arizona
- Yardage: 7,059 yards
- Par: 71
Wickenburg Ranch offers a blend of resort polish and small-town charm. The Big Wick course has wide fairways, big elevation changes, and plenty of views across the high desert. Course conditions are consistently top-notch, and the greens are smooth and fast.
It’s a bit of a drive from Phoenix, but well worth it. The combination of great service, scenery, and creative hole design makes it one of the state’s best-kept secrets.
Dinosaur Mountain at Gold Canyon Golf Resort
- Location: Gold Canyon, Arizona
- Yardage: 6,653 yards
- Par: 70
Dinosaur Mountain is a local favorite that often surprises first-time visitors. The course climbs through the Superstition Mountains, offering dramatic elevation changes and sweeping desert views on nearly every hole. It’s one of the most scenic public golf experiences in the Phoenix area.
The layout is fun and full of variety. You’ll find uphill par 4s, downhill par 3s, and plenty of risk-and-reward shots (using one of the best rangefinders will be helpful with the drastic slope). Fairways are generous, and the greens are known for running true.
Despite its quality, the rates stay reasonable compared to many nearby resort courses. If you want great golf with unforgettable views, Dinosaur Mountain deserves a spot on your list.
Papago Golf Club
- Location: Phoenix, Arizona
- Yardage: 7,333 yards
- Par: 72
Papago Golf Club is one of Arizona’s classic public courses. Opened in 1963 and redesigned by Billy Bell, it remains a favorite among locals for its fair layout, affordable rates, and great location just minutes from downtown Phoenix.
The course has hosted top amateur events and serves as the home course for Arizona State University’s golf teams. You’ll find wide fairways bordered by native desert and greens that roll fast but fair.
Papago combines old-school charm with modern touches after a renovation improved bunkers and conditioning. It’s a must-play for anyone looking for a quality round without the resort price tag.
Omni Tucson National Golf Resort
- Location: Tucson, Arizona
- Yardage: 7,262 yards (Catalina Course)
- Par: 73
Omni Tucson National has long been one of southern Arizona’s most respected public courses. The Catalina Course has hosted PGA Tour and college events, known for its tree-lined fairways, water hazards, and smooth, fast greens. It’s a more traditional parkland layout compared to the desert-style courses found elsewhere in the state.
The club also features the Sonoran Course, which offers a more modern design with desert features and wider landing areas. Both are open to the public and kept in excellent shape year-round.
Add in the resort amenities, great practice areas, and beautiful mountain backdrop, and you’ve got one of Arizona’s best all-around golf experiences, even if it doesn’t get as much attention as the Scottsdale names.
Tips for Planning a Golf Trip to Arizona
Arizona’s golf season runs nearly year-round, but timing your trip right can make a big difference in both price and comfort. Here are a few simple tips to help you plan the perfect golf getaway.
1. Pick the right season.
Peak golf season is from November through April when temperatures are mild and courses are in top condition. If you don’t mind the heat, summer brings lower green fees and less crowded tee sheets.
2. Book tee times early.
Popular courses like Troon North and We-Ko-Pa can fill up weeks in advance, especially during winter. Booking online or through a resort package can help you lock in better rates.
3. Stay hydrated and plan for the sun.
Even in cooler months, the Arizona sun can be strong. Pack sunscreen, a golf hat, and plenty of water.
4. Look for stay-and-play deals.
Resorts in Scottsdale, Tucson, and Sedona often offer packages that include rounds at nearby public courses. These can be great value for groups or extended stays.
Map of the Best Public Golf Courses in Arizona
To make it easier to plan your next round, here’s a map showing the locations of all the top-rated and hidden gem public golf courses mentioned in this guide. You can zoom in to see which courses are near where you’ll be staying and get directions right from your phone.
Final Thoughts on the Best Public Golf Courses in Arizona
Arizona’s public golf scene is hard to beat. Between Scottsdale’s resort-style layouts, Tucson’s championship courses, and Sedona’s red rock views, the state offers something for every type of golfer. You can find high-end resort experiences or laid-back local favorites, all with great weather and friendly service.
Whether you’re a single-digit handicap chasing a challenge or a casual player looking for scenic fairways, there’s no shortage of options. From We-Ko-Pa and Troon North to hidden gems like Dinosaur Mountain, every round feels special in the desert.
Grab your clubs, book a few tee times, and see for yourself why Arizona is one of the best golf destinations in the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the #1 public golf course in Arizona?
Most golfers consider We-Ko-Pa Golf Club the best public course in Arizona. With two world-class layouts, no homes on the property, and perfect desert scenery, it delivers one of the purest golf experiences in the state.
What is the most scenic golf course in Arizona?
Sedona Golf Resort takes that title for many players. Its red rock views and dramatic elevation changes make it one of the most beautiful places to play, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Which public golf courses in Arizona are best for beginners?
Courses like Papago Golf Club and Verrado Golf Club are beginner-friendly thanks to their wide fairways, simple layouts, and affordable pricing. Both offer a relaxed atmosphere without heavy desert punishment for missed shots.
What are the best budget-friendly golf courses in Arizona?
For great value, try Dinosaur Mountain, Papago, or Omni Tucson National. They offer excellent course conditions at prices well below many of the big-name resort courses.
When is the best time of year to play golf in Arizona?
The best months for golf are November through April when the weather is cooler, and the courses are in peak shape. Summer offers cheaper rates but much higher temperatures.
Are tee times required at public golf courses in Arizona?
Yes. Most courses require advance tee times, especially during the busy winter season. Booking online or by phone a few weeks ahead is the safest way to secure your spot.
Do public courses in Arizona rent golf clubs?
Almost all major public courses provide club rentals. It’s best to reserve them when booking your tee time to ensure availability, especially at high-end resorts like TPC Scottsdale or Troon North.
Sean’s parents first put a golf club in his hands at the age of 8. He immediately fell in love with the game of golf. Today he’s passing on that love to his own kids.