At Sarah Thompson’s Golfista Apparel Co., we’ve had the pleasure of playing some of the most incredible public courses this side of the desert—and then some. Whether you’re teeing off amid this year’s vibrant desert sunrise in Scottsdale or enjoying the surprising greenery among Sedona’s pine-clad fairways, Arizona offers a dazzling array of golfing experiences that suit every level of play.
In this article, we bring you our top 10 picks for must-play public courses in the Grand Canyon State. Expect jaw-dropping desert landscapes, impeccably maintained fairways, and challenging layouts that invite you back round after round.
1. Quintero Golf Club – Peoria
Our number one pick is the dynamic Quintero Golf Club, nestled in the heart of Peoria. Designed by the legendary Rees Jones, this par-72 gem features dramatic elevation shifts, artfully placed bunkers, and water hazards that challenge every shot. The desert scenery, coupled with stunning mountain views, creates an unforgettable playing experience.
Website: www.quinterogolf.com
2. Oak Creek Country Club – Sedona
Set against the backdrop of Sedona’s iconic red rocks, Oak Creek Country Club is a visual masterpiece. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., this course not only tests your skills but also treats you to awe-inspiring views at every turn. Its tree-lined fairways and strategically placed bunkers make each hole a fresh challenge in a naturally dramatic setting.
Website: www.oakcreekcc.com
3. Laughlin Ranch Golf Club – Bullhead City
Along the banks of the mighty Colorado River in Bullhead City lies Laughlin Ranch Golf Club. Crafted by renowned designer David Druzisky, its par-72 layout masterfully blends desert and mountain elements. Prepare for dramatic elevation changes and well-guarded greens that require both power and precision on every hole.
Website: www.laughlinranch.com
4. Troon North Golf Club – Scottsdale
A crown jewel of Arizona golf, Troon North offers not one but two exceptional layouts. The Pinnacle Course, a brainchild of Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish, tests your abilities with its rugged elevation and formidable hazards, while the Monument Course provides a more forgiving yet still exhilarating experience. Both routes capture the spirit of Scottsdale’s desert magnificence.
Website: www.troonnorthgolf.com
5. Whirlwind Golf Club – Chandler
Tucked away in Chandler is the often-overlooked Whirlwind Golf Club—a true hidden treasure. Designed by Gary Panks, this par-72 layout boasts immaculate fairways, lightning-fast greens, and smartly positioned hazards, offering a test of both strategy and execution. Its pristine conditioning makes every round a delight.
Website: www.whirlwindgolf.com
6. We-Ko-Pa Golf Club – Scottsdale
Just beyond the bustle of central Scottsdale, We-Ko-Pa Golf Club stands as an oasis in the desert. Home to two distinct courses— the challenging Saguaro Course by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, and the more accessible Cholla Course—this facility ensures that regardless of your skill level, you’ll enjoy a round amid towering saguaros and rugged terrain.
Website: www.wekopa.com
7. Los Caballeros Golf Club – Wickenburg
Deep in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, Los Caballeros Golf Club offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Designed by Greg Nash and Jeff Hardin, this course integrates natural desert contours with artistic design. High-quality amenities, heartfelt service, and expansive views of the arid landscape come together to create a truly memorable round.
Website: www.ranchodeloscaballeros.com
8. Talking Stick Golf Club – Scottsdale
Situated in the vibrant core of Scottsdale, Talking Stick Golf Club is a premier destination for golf and leisure. With two championship layouts—the North and the South Courses, crafted by Ben Crenshaw and Bill Coore—this resort embraces both challenge and comfort. Luxurious amenities, rejuvenating spas, and exquisite dining complete the experience, making it more than just a round of golf.
Website: www.talkingstickresort.com
9. Elephant Rocks Golf Course – Williams
In the picturesque town of Williams, Elephant Rocks Golf Course offers a unique blend of natural beauty and challenging play. Designed by David Graham, this par-72 course features dramatic rock formations, towering ponderosa pines, and artfully placed hazards that lend every hole its own character. It’s a course where nature and design dance in perfect harmony.
Website: www.elephant-rocks.com
10. Dove Mountain – Tucson/Marana
Rounding out our list, The Golf Club at Dove Mountain is an exclusive resort experience set amid the rugged beauty of the Tucson area. With a 27-hole course designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus and an additional 36-hole layout crafted by Tom Lehman and John Fought, this venue captivates golfers with its pristine fairways, dramatic saguaro silhouettes, and breathtaking mountain vistas.
Website: www.clubsofdovemountain.com
Final Thoughts
Arizona is a golfer’s dream—with its unique blend of arid desert vistas, dramatic elevation changes, and courses that are as challenging as they are beautiful. Whether you’re testing your skills on a meticulously designed desert layout or unwinding in a resort oasis, these 10 must-play public courses promise an unforgettable round. So pack your clubs, embrace the sunshine, and experience the very best that Arizona has to offer.