Best Golf Resorts in Phoenix-Scottsdale
Arizona’s “Valley of the Sun” stretching from Phoenix to Scottsdale and the area beyond is one of winter’s most sought-after golf destinations. Golfers have choices galore where to play and where to stay. To make things easy, we’ve compiled the 10 of the best golf resorts in Phoenix-Scottsdale. These places are great because they’ve got endless choices for golf, entertainment and dining.
Four Seasons Scottsdale at Troon North, Scottsdale
This intimate 210-room property is adjacent to the 36-hole Troon North Golf Club. All of its casitas open to private balconies/patios with stirring desert views. The vibe at Proof, the onsite canteen is decidedly casual, but still serving five-star fare.
Westin Kierland Resort & Spa, Scottsdale
Not far from TPC Scottsdale, Kierland offers golfers the chance to play 27 holes using a Segway, golf bike, GolfBoard, four-seater golf cart or the Kierland TurfRiders (essentially a motorcycle for the fairways). The chance to take a caddie and listen to bagpipes at sunset proves this is no ordinary round of golf. The Scotch Library at the resort has more than 250 labels.
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, Scottsdale
Renovated in 2015, this AAA Five-Diamond property is a prime candidate as one of the most luxurious and best golf resorts in Phoenix-Scottsdale and is the center of the golf universe during the Waste Management Phoenix Open held at the 36-hole TPC Scottsdale next door. Golfers who visit before the tournament in January can play inside the “Stadium” bleachers on the Stadium course. Don’t leave the sprawling Fairmont campus without dining at La Hacienda or relaxing at the Well & Being Spa.
Talking Stick Resort, Scottsdale (pictured above)
Talking Stick, another AAA Four Diamond property, has grown into a hub of entertainment with a 496-room hotel, spa, casino, 650-seat Showroom, 36 holes of championship golf designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, and a TopGolf facility.
The Phoenician Resort, Scottsdale
The course is currently closed during a renovation that will turn a tight 27-hole routing into 18 more spectacular holes. Beyond the main resort, the Canyon Suites are an even more glamorous option if guests really want their privacy.
Wigwam Resort, Litchfield Park
Not all of the best golf resorts are in Phoenix-Scottsdale. In the West Valley, Wigwam, home to 331 casitas and suites, is a historic charmer that’s aligned with the Historic Hotel of America. With 54 holes, it’s the largest golf resort in Arizona.
The Boulders Resort & Spa, Carefree
This resort seemingly away from it all blends seamlessly into its Sonoran Desert surroundings. It’s a tough decision whether to play all 36 holes by Jay Morrish or sneak away for a treatment at one of Arizona’s best spas. Much of the resort was upgraded during a 2015 renovation and now stands as a strong contender for one of the best golf resorts in Phoenix-Scottsdale. Boulders Golf Club is semi-private but guests of the hotel can secure tee times to the North and South courses.
We-Ko-Pa Resort and Conference Center, Fort McDowell
The rebranded We-Ko-Pa Resort & Conference Center — formerly a Radisson — has transitioned nicely into a more luxurious AAA Four Diamond option for golfers playing the highly regarded Cholla and Saguaro courses at We-Ko-Pa Golf Club across the street.
Gold Canyon Golf Resort & Spa, Gold Canyon
With only 85 rooms, Gold Canyon feels more like home than a big chain hotel. Dramatic elevation changes highlight the Dinosaur course, while the Sidewinder course generally gets good reviews as well.
JW Marriott Camelback Inn Resort and Spa, Scottsdale
Some of the pet-friendly casitas and suites boast their own private pools. They’re good for soaking after playing 36 holes at the Camelback Golf Club or hiking the nearby mountain trails.