: Top 7 Destinations for Your Next Golfing Getaway
Looking for the perfect golf resort in Arizona? Here's a quick overview of the 7 best options:
- Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
- We-Ko-Pa Resort
- Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain
- JW Marriott Desert Ridge
- The Phoenician
- The Boulders Resort & Spa
- Omni Tucson National
These resorts offer world-class golf courses, luxurious amenities, and stunning desert landscapes. Let's compare their key features:
| Resort | Best For | Standout Feature | Peak Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fairmont Scottsdale Princess | PGA Tour experience | TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course | Jan-Apr |
| We-Ko-Pa Resort | Desert golf | No homes on courses | Nov-Apr |
| Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain | Luxury stay | Hosts WGC Match Play Championship | Jan-Apr |
| JW Marriott Desert Ridge | Families | Kids Golf-4-Free program | Jan-Apr |
| The Phoenician | Central location | Recently redesigned course (2018) | Jan-Apr |
| The Boulders | Scenic views | 12-million-year-old rock formations | Nov-Apr |
| Omni Tucson National | Course variety | Parkland and desert-style courses | Jan-Apr |
Tips for choosing:
- Book early for winter stays
- Consider your priorities: course type, location, amenities, and budget
- Expect crowds from January to April
- Green fees range from $80 in summer to over $150 in peak season
Whether you're after a PGA Tour-level challenge or a family-friendly resort, this guide will help you find the perfect Arizona golf getaway.
Related video from YouTube
1. Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
Amenities
The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess offers a range of amenities for different guests:
-
Well & Being Spa:
- Daily access to fitness classes and relaxation areas
- Unique classes like aerial hammock yoga for all fitness levels
-
Dining options:
- Bourbon Steak: High-end restaurant with quality food
- Toro: Sushi and cocktails overlooking TPC Scottsdale golf course
- Ironwood American Kitchen: Mix of healthy and indulgent dishes
Accommodation
The resort has new Sunset Beach rooms with:
- Local interior designer touches
- Stylish tile work
- Separate double sinks
- Private terraces with sunrise views over the Sunset Beach pool
Standout Features
Sunset Beach Pool:
- Sandy beach area
- Cabanas
- Activities for kids and adults
- Dive-in movies
- Summer evening taco stand
The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess caters to various guests:
- Golfers
- Food enthusiasts
- Spa-goers
- Families
- Couples on romantic trips
Its setting captures the southwestern desert look, making it a good backdrop for guest activities.
2. We-Ko-Pa Resort & Conference Center
Golf Courses
We-Ko-Pa Resort offers two golf courses:
-
Cholla Course
- Designed by Scott Miller
- Known for dramatic design and forgiving fairways
- Challenging closing hole: 285-yard tee shot with a pond
-
Saguaro Course
- Ranked No. 1 public golf course in Arizona by Golfweek Magazine
- Follows natural land topography
- Promotes walking
Course Features
| Feature | Cholla Course | Saguaro Course |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Dramatic elements | Natural topography |
| Views | Sonoran Desert vistas | Unobstructed desert views |
| Opening hole | Not specified | 443-yard par 4 dogleg left |
| Development | No residential buildings | No houses in sight |
Location and Amenities
- 30 minutes from downtown Phoenix
- Seven dining options, including:
- Buffet
- Fine dining restaurant
Guest Experience
- Combines modern luxury with warm hospitality
- Ideal for golf vacations
- Offers a remote feel despite proximity to Scottsdale
"We-Ko-Pa Resort provides an authentic desert golf experience with modern amenities," says a resort spokesperson.
Key Advantages
- No residential development on golf courses
- Focus on preserving natural desert environment
- Variety of dining options on-site
- Convenient location near Phoenix
3. Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain
Course Overview
The Golf Club at Dove Mountain features a Jack Nicklaus Signature design with three nine-hole courses:
| Course | Yardage (from tips) |
|---|---|
| Saguaro | 3,894 yards |
| Tortolita | 3,955 yards |
| Wild Burro | Not specified |
The course's slope rating ranges from 125 to 147, offering a challenge for golfers of all skill levels.
Key Features
- 114 soft sand bunkers
- Rolling fairways and undulating greens
- Water hazards on only 3 holes
- GPS system in each cart for accurate distance information
Awards and Recognition
The Golf Club at Dove Mountain has received several awards:
- Golfweek "Best Resort Golf Courses" (2012)
- Golfweek "Best Courses You Can Play – Arizona" (2010)
- GOLF "Best New Public Courses" (2009)
- Audubon International Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary (2009)
Professional Tournament Host
The course hosts the annual WGC Accenture Match Play Championship, featuring the top 64 golfers in the world. This event showcases the course's ability to challenge elite players.
Facilities
| Amenity | Details |
|---|---|
| Clubhouse | Pro shop, dining area, lounge, meeting rooms |
| Locker Rooms | Equipped with showers |
| Practice Areas | Targeted grass range, short game area, putting greens |
Setting
The Golf Club at Dove Mountain is set in the high Sonoran Desert, offering players views of lush mountainside terrain. The course design aims to blend with the natural landscape, providing a golf experience that highlights the beauty of the Arizona desert.
4. JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa
Golf Courses
The JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa offers two 18-hole golf courses:
| Course | Designer | Yardage | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Faldo Championship Course | Nick Faldo | 6,846 yards | 108 sand bunkers, 174-acre site |
| Palmer Signature Course | Arnold Palmer | 7,145 yards | Expansive fairways, undulating greens |
Faldo Championship Course Highlights:
- 18th hole features 10 bunkers
- Offers views of the Desert Ridge Resort Hotel
- Designed for players of all skill levels
Palmer Signature Course Recognition:
- Listed among Top 100 Resort Courses in the U.S.
- Known for its desert vistas and challenging layout
Resort Amenities
| Amenity | Details |
|---|---|
| Pools | 5 pool areas with lazy river and water slide |
| Spa | Full-service Revive Spa |
| Fitness | Fully-equipped center |
| Sports | Tennis courts, 17 pickleball courts |
| Golf Practice | All-grass driving range, putting and chipping greens |
| Dining | 10 restaurants including Tia Carmen, Twenty6, Meritage |
Accommodation
- 865 guest rooms and suites
- High occupancy rates, even in summer
- Frequent sell-outs reported
Special Programs
Kids Golf-4-Free:
- Children 15 and under play free after 3 p.m.
- Must be with a full-paying adult
Wildfire Golf Club
- Hosts nearly 300 group golf events yearly
- Named one of the "100 Best Golf Shops in America" by Golf World Magazine
Guest Experiences
"The Palmer course is in excellent condition," reported a recent guest, highlighting the quality of the golf facilities.
Another visitor noted:
"The course was in great shape for the most part. Greens were a little rough. Seemed like they could've used a little more sand when top dressing. Greens were shaggy and slow."
These comments show the varying experiences guests may have, depending on the timing of their visit and ongoing course maintenance.
Location Benefits
- Near Desert Ridge Marketplace for additional shopping and dining
- 30 minutes from downtown Phoenix
The JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa combines top-tier golf with a wide range of amenities, making it a popular choice for golf enthusiasts visiting Arizona.
sbb-itb-8228eff
5. The Phoenician Resort
Golf Course
The Phoenician Golf Club offers an 18-hole course that was redesigned in 2018. The $10 million renovation, led by Phil Smith, improved the course's playability and aesthetics.
Key features:
- 6,518 yards from back tees
- Par 71
- 63 sand bunkers
- Water hazards on 5 holes
- 4 tee options for different skill levels
The course's slope ratings range from 129 to 105 for men and 138 to 122 for women, depending on the tee box chosen.
Course Details
| Tee | Yardage | Men's Rating/Slope | Women's Rating/Slope |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summit | 6,518 | 71.8 / 129 | 78.0 / 138 |
| Junction | 6,003 | 69.6 / 124 | 75.7 / 134 |
| Switchback | 5,350 | 68.2 / 119 | 74.5 / 131 |
| Trailhead | 4,594 | 63.2 / 105 | 68.0 / 122 |
Resort Amenities
The Phoenician Resort offers a wide range of facilities:
- Three-tiered pool complex
- 40,000 square-foot spa with over 24 treatment rooms
- 4,600 square-foot fitness center
- Seven tennis courts
- Five restaurants and bars
- Kids' activities (splash pad, waterslide, Kids Club)
- 160,000 square feet of event space
Accommodation
The resort provides various lodging options:
- 643 rooms, including casitas and suites
- Standard rooms start at 600 square feet
- All rooms have large balconies or patios
- The Canyon Suites (60 rooms) offer a more private experience
Unique Features
- Two-acre Cactus Garden with 250 species
- Golf carts with touch-screen displays and "Shark Experience" technology
- Spa rooftop pool with panoramic views
- Imported Carrera marble flooring in the main lobby
- Mother-of-pearl tiles worth $1 million in one of the pools
Pricing and Availability
- Green fees: Over $150 per round in peak season (January-April)
- Summer rates: About half the peak season price
- High occupancy rates, especially during peak times
"The new Phoenician offers an enjoyable day on the course, perfect for travelers, families, and handicappers of all numbers." - Sports Illustrated
The Phoenician Resort combines top-quality golf with luxury amenities, making it a popular choice for both golf enthusiasts and leisure travelers visiting Arizona.
6. The Boulders Resort & Spa
Golf Courses
The Boulders Resort & Spa offers two 18-hole golf courses:
| Course | Par | Yards | Slope | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North | 72 | 6,811 | 137 | 72.6 |
| South | 71 | 6,726 | 140 | 71.9 |
Both courses feature:
- Six sets of tees for different skill levels
- Natural desert terrain
- 12-million-year-old boulder formations
Golf Academy
- Led by Don Crawley, PGA Director of Instruction
- Two-time Southwest PGA Teacher & Coach of the Year
- Offers 30-minute quick-fix lessons and 60-minute private video lessons
Accommodation
The resort provides various lodging options:
- Adobe casitas
- Executive suites
- One-, two-, and three-bedroom villas
- Larger haciendas
- Five-bedroom villa retreat
Amenities
| Amenity | Details |
|---|---|
| Spa | 33,000 sq ft Golden Door Spa with 24 treatment rooms |
| Pools | Multiple pools, whirlpools, and jacuzzis |
| Fitness | Fully-equipped center |
| Activities | Rock climbing, hiking, biking, tennis, pickleball |
| Dining | Six venues serving Southwestern cuisine |
Location and Setting
- 1,300 acres of Sonoran Desert
- 33 miles north of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
- Features 12-million-year-old boulder formations
Recognition
- Golf Magazine's Gold Medal Award winner every year since 1988
- 2021 Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice award recipient
- Listed in "1,000 Places to See Before You Die" by Patricia Schultz
Unique Experiences
- Desert Photo Tour
- Desert Jeep Adventure
- Hot Air Balloon Flight
Best Times to Visit
The busiest golf times are:
- First three weeks of November
- March and April
"The Boulders offers an enjoyable day on the course, perfect for travelers, families, and handicappers of all numbers." - Sports Illustrated
7. Omni Tucson National Golf Resort
Golf Courses
The Omni Tucson National Golf Resort offers two 18-hole courses:
| Course | Type | Length | Par | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Catalina | Traditional parkland | 7,262 yards | 73 | Flat terrain, 8 lakes, 5 par-5 holes |
| Sonoran | Target-desert | 6,529 yards | 70 | Narrow fairways, desert landscaping |
The Catalina Course, dating back to 1963, has hosted over 30 PGA Tour events. The Sonoran Course, designed by Tom Lehman in 2006, offers a more challenging layout.
Resort Amenities
- Mobil four-star spa
- Pool area with private cabanas
- Bob's Steak & Chophouse
- Legends sports bar
- Full-service golf club
Accommodation
| Room Type | Number | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Guest Rooms | 128 | Recently upgraded |
| Hacienda Suites | 23 | Full kitchens |
A $30 million renovation in recent years has improved guest rooms, public areas, and added new dining and meeting facilities.
Pricing
| Season | Rack Rate | Guest Discount |
|---|---|---|
| Peak (Spring/Fall) | $220 | 20% off |
| Summer | $80 | $60 |
Rates include cart, range balls, and water.
Golf History
The resort has a rich golf history:
- Hosted the Tucson Open from 1945 to 2006
- Current venue for the Cologuard Classic since 2015
- Chosen by pro golfers like Padraig Harrington and Ryo Ishikawa during PGA Tour events
Expert Opinion
Brent Newcomb, Director of Golf at Omni Tucson National Resort, says:
"Visitors really should avail themselves of the vastly different experiences that the Catalina and Sonoran offer."
This highlights the diverse golfing options available at the resort, catering to different skill levels and preferences.
Good and Bad Points
To help you choose the best Arizona golf resort for your needs, let's compare the strengths and weaknesses of each:
| Resort | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Fairmont Scottsdale Princess | • TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course (PGA Tour venue) • Well & Being Spa with aerial yoga • 5 pools, including Sunset Beach |
• High rates during Phoenix Open (Feb) • Busy during peak winter season |
| We-Ko-Pa Resort | • Saguaro Course: #1 public course in AZ (Golfweek) • No homes on courses • Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation cultural experiences |
• 30-min drive from Scottsdale • Limited on-site dining |
| Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain | • 27 holes by Jack Nicklaus • Hosts WGC Match Play Championship • 253 rooms, 44 suites |
• Higher prices • 25 miles northwest of Tucson |
| JW Marriott Desert Ridge | • Two 18-hole courses (Faldo & Palmer) • 5 pools, lazy river • Kids Golf-4-Free program |
• Large resort (950 rooms) • Can feel crowded in peak season |
| The Phoenician | • 2018 course redesign ($10M) • 3-tier pool complex • Central Scottsdale location |
• Single 18-hole course • Green fees over $150 in peak season |
| The Boulders | • Two Jay Morrish courses • 12-million-year-old rock formations • Casita-style rooms |
• 33 miles north of Phoenix airport • Some facilities need updating |
| Omni Tucson National | • Catalina Course: 30+ PGA Tour events • Sonoran Course: target-style desert golf • $30M recent renovation |
• Less luxurious than some competitors • Limited on-site dining |
Key Takeaways:
-
Course Variety: We-Ko-Pa and The Boulders offer pure desert golf, while Omni Tucson National provides both parkland and desert styles.
-
Location: The Phoenician is ideal for those wanting to be near Scottsdale's amenities, while We-Ko-Pa and The Boulders suit those seeking a more secluded experience.
-
Family-Friendly: JW Marriott Desert Ridge stands out with its Kids Golf-4-Free program and multiple pools.
-
Budget: The Phoenician and Ritz-Carlton tend to be pricier, while Omni Tucson National often offers more competitive rates.
-
Peak Season: All resorts get busy from January to April. Book early and expect higher rates during this time.
When choosing, consider your priorities: course style, location, amenities, and budget. Each resort has its strengths, so pick the one that best aligns with your golfing goals and travel preferences.
Wrap-up
Arizona's golf resorts offer a range of options for players of all skill levels. Here's a quick comparison of the top resorts:
| Resort | Best For | Standout Feature | Peak Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fairmont Scottsdale Princess | PGA Tour experience | TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course | January-April |
| We-Ko-Pa Resort | Desert golf | No homes on courses | November-April |
| Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain | Luxury stay | Hosts WGC Match Play Championship | January-April |
| JW Marriott Desert Ridge | Families | Kids Golf-4-Free program | January-April |
| The Phoenician | Central location | Recently redesigned course (2018) | January-April |
| The Boulders | Scenic views | 12-million-year-old rock formations | November-April |
| Omni Tucson National | Course variety | Parkland and desert-style courses | January-April |
Key points to remember:
- Book early for winter stays (January-April) to get better rates and tee times.
- Consider your priorities: course type, location, amenities, and budget.
- Peak season crowds are common at all resorts from January to April.
- Green fees can vary widely, from $80 in summer at Omni Tucson National to over $150 in peak season at The Phoenician.
Tips for choosing:
- For PGA Tour-level courses: Pick Fairmont Scottsdale Princess or Omni Tucson National.
- For a secluded desert experience: Try We-Ko-Pa Resort or The Boulders.
- For family trips: JW Marriott Desert Ridge is a good choice with its kid-friendly programs.
- For a mix of golf and city amenities: The Phoenician's central Scottsdale location is ideal.
