Best Golf Resorts in Scottsdale: Where to Stay & Play (2025)

Planning a golf trip to Scottsdale becomes remarkably simpler when you choose a resort with golf on-site. Skip the morning drive, walk straight from breakfast to the first tee, and spend your evenings at the 19th hole instead of battling traffic. With over a dozen golf resorts in Scottsdale offering everything from championship courses to luxurious spas, the hardest part is choosing where to book.

Scottsdale golf resorts combine world-class golf with premium accommodations, making them ideal for serious golfers and vacation groups alike. Whether you're targeting a specific course like TPC Scottsdale's Stadium Course or want unlimited access to multiple tracks, these resorts deliver convenience that standalone hotels can't match. Most offer stay-and-play packages that bundle rooms with tee times at discounted rates, often including range balls, club storage, and priority booking during peak season.

Why Choose a Golf Resort in Scottsdale?

The appeal of golf resorts in Scottsdale goes beyond simply having a course next door. These properties understand golfers' needs in ways that traditional hotels don't.

Convenience tops the list. When you're staying where you're playing, there's no rushing through breakfast to make a 7 AM tee time across town. You can practice on the range, grab lunch, and still have time for an afternoon round without checking out. Resort guests typically get priority booking, which matters during February and March when Scottsdale courses fill up months in advance.

Stay-and-play packages save money compared to booking rooms and golf separately. Most Scottsdale golf resorts offer packages that include daily golf, sometimes with cart fees and range balls included. The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, for example, often bundles two rounds on TPC Scottsdale with breakfast and resort credits for less than booking everything separately.

Non-golfers have options too. Resort amenities like spas, multiple pools, and dining variety keep non-golfing partners happy while you're on the course. This makes golf resorts practical for couples trips or family vacations where not everyone shares your enthusiasm for a 6 AM shotgun start.

Top Golf Resorts in Scottsdale

1. Fairmont Scottsdale Princess (TPC Scottsdale)

The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess gives guests access to TPC Scottsdale, home of the WM Phoenix Open and one of the most famous courses in America. The Stadium Course's 16th hole transforms into the wildest scene in golf every February, but the rest of the year it's a challenging test that rewards accuracy over distance.

Golf courses: TPC Stadium Course and TPC Champions Course, both onsite.

Room quality: 649 rooms and casitas spread across a sprawling desert property. Rooms feel traditional luxury, with Spanish Colonial architecture and Sonoran Desert views. The property underwent renovations in recent years, updating rooms while maintaining the resort's classic feel.

Golf course quality: The Stadium Course ranks among Arizona's toughest public tracks. Desert terrain, water hazards, and fast greens demand precision. The Champions Course plays slightly easier but still challenges mid-handicappers. Expect pristine conditions year-round, especially during tournament prep from December through January.

Amenities beyond golf: Six pools including a family pool with water slides, a spa offering desert-inspired treatments, seven restaurants ranging from fine dining to casual poolside, and a large fitness center. The resort hosts regular events like lawn movies and live music.

Price range: Rooms start around $300-400 in summer, climbing to $600-800 during peak season (February-April). Stay-and-play packages typically include one round per night on either course, with Championship Course rounds adding a premium.

2. The Boulders Resort (Boulders Golf Club)

Tucked into the high Sonoran Desert north of Scottsdale, The Boulders Resort delivers the most dramatic desert golf setting in the area. Giant boulders frame both courses, creating holes that feel carved from the landscape rather than built on top of it.

Golf courses: North Course and South Course, both designed by Jay Morrish and winding through massive boulder formations.

Room quality: Adobe-style casitas with private patios, wood-burning fireplaces, and pueblo architecture that blends into the desert. Rooms feel spacious and private, spread across the property rather than stacked in towers. Recent renovations updated interiors while keeping the Southwestern aesthetic.

Golf course quality: Both courses rank among Scottsdale's most scenic layouts. The North Course plays slightly longer and tougher, with dramatic elevation changes. The South Course offers wider fairways but tighter approaches. Conditions stay excellent, though summer overseeding can limit play in late spring.

Amenities beyond golf: Full-service spa built into the boulders, four pools, five restaurants including Palo Verde for upscale Southwest cuisine, hiking trails throughout the property, and a rock climbing area. The resort feels remote despite being 30 minutes from downtown Scottsdale.

Price range: Rooms start around $400-500 in summer, reaching $700-900 in peak season. Golf packages often include unlimited golf on both courses, making multi-round trips particularly cost-effective.

3. The Westin Kierland Golf Club

The Westin Kierland Golf Club sits in North Scottsdale, offering a resort-style course with three distinct nine-hole layouts. The flexibility appeals to groups where some players want 18 holes while others prefer nine and lunch.

Golf courses: Three nines (Ironwood, Acacia, and Mesquite) designed by Scott Miller, with varying difficulty levels.

Room quality: Modern Westin rooms with signature Heavenly Beds, large balconies, and contemporary desert styling. The property feels more modern than traditional desert resorts, appealing to travelers who prefer updated amenities over Southwestern theming.

Golf course quality: The three-nine format lets players mix and match difficulty. Ironwood-Mesquite plays as the championship combination, with tight fairways and water hazards. Acacia-Mesquite suits higher handicappers. Conditions stay consistent, though the course sees heavy play during peak season.

Amenities beyond golf: Adventure water park with a 900-foot lazy river and water slides, full-service spa, seven restaurants and bars, and a tubing hill (seasonal). The resort particularly suits families, with activities that keep kids entertained while parents golf.

Price range: Rooms start around $250-350 in summer, climbing to $500-700 during peak months. Golf packages typically include one 18-hole round per night, with additional rounds available at discounted rates.

4. Camelback Golf Club (JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn)

Camelback Golf Club operates two courses adjacent to the JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn, one of Arizona's most historic luxury resorts. The Ambiente and Padre courses offer desert golf with resort amenities, though they're technically separate from the hotel.

Golf courses: Ambiente Course (formerly Indian Bend) and Padre Course, both accessible to resort guests with discounted rates.

Room quality: Adobe-style casitas with Southwestern decor, private patios, and views of Camelback Mountain or Mummy Mountain. The property maintains its historic 1930s character while offering modern luxury. Rooms feel spacious and secluded.

Golf course quality: The Ambiente Course, redesigned in 2018, plays as the tougher track with water on multiple holes. The Padre Course offers a more traditional desert layout with wider fairways. Both maintain excellent conditions, particularly during peak season when the resort caters to high-end golf groups.

Amenities beyond golf: Extensive spa built into the hillside, six pools, multiple restaurants including Lincoln restaurant for fine dining, and hiking trails accessing Camelback Mountain. The resort emphasizes relaxation and service over activity-heavy programming.

Price range: Rooms start around $350-450 in summer, reaching $700-1000+ during peak season. Golf packages bundle rounds on both courses, often including breakfast and spa credits.

5. Arizona Biltmore Golf Club

The Arizona Biltmore Golf Club operates two courses adjacent to the historic Arizona Biltmore Resort, offering golf access to one of Phoenix's most iconic luxury properties. While technically in Phoenix rather than Scottsdale, the resort sits just minutes from North Scottsdale courses.

Golf courses: Adobe Course and Links Course, both recently renovated with new greens and bunker complexes.

Room quality: Historic Frank Lloyd Wright-influenced architecture with modern renovations. Rooms blend 1920s glamour with contemporary amenities. The property feels grand and classic, appealing to travelers who appreciate architectural history.

Golf course quality: The Adobe Course plays shorter but tighter, with tree-lined fairways unusual for desert golf. The Links Course offers more open desert terrain with dramatic bunkering. Both courses underwent significant improvements in recent years, elevating conditioning and playability.

Amenities beyond golf: Eight pools including a waterslide complex, full-service spa, seven restaurants, and extensive grounds for walking. The resort's history (opened 1929) and architectural significance attract guests beyond golfers.

Price range: Rooms start around $300-400 in summer, climbing to $600-900 during peak months. Golf packages typically include one round per night on either course, with the option to play both.

6. The Phoenician Golf Club

The Phoenician Golf Club provides access to a 27-hole layout at The Phoenician resort, located at the base of Camelback Mountain. The course underwent a complete redesign by Phil Mickelson and design partner in recent years, transforming it into a modern desert experience.

Golf courses: Three nine-hole courses (Oasis, Desert, Canyon) that can be played in any combination for 18 holes.

Room quality: Luxury accommodations with French Provincial styling, mountain views, and extensive recent renovations. Rooms feel elegant and upscale, with large bathrooms and private balconies. The resort targets the high-end market with service to match.

Golf course quality: Phil Mickelson's redesign added significant challenge while maintaining playability for resort guests. Wide fairways contrast with tight green complexes. The three-nine format lets players choose difficulty levels, with Desert-Canyon playing as the toughest combination.

Amenities beyond golf: Nine pools including a mother-of-pearl tiled pool, award-winning spa, eight dining options, and extensive tennis facilities. The resort emphasizes luxury and service over family activities.

Price range: Rooms start around $400-500 in summer, reaching $800-1200+ during peak season. Golf packages often include unlimited golf, making it worthwhile for serious golfers planning multiple rounds.

7. Orange Tree Golf Resort

Orange Tree Golf Resort offers a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing course quality. The resort sits in North Scottsdale, providing easy access to both resort golf and nearby championship courses.

Golf courses: One 18-hole course designed by Johnny Bulla, featuring mature trees unusual for desert golf.

Room quality: Standard resort rooms with basic amenities. Don't expect luxury, but rooms are clean, comfortable, and significantly cheaper than premium golf resorts. The property appeals to golfers prioritizing course access over resort amenities.

Golf course quality: The parkland-style course contrasts with typical Scottsdale desert golf. Tree-lined fairways, water hazards, and good year-round conditions. The course challenges mid-handicappers while remaining playable for higher handicaps.

Amenities beyond golf: Pool, restaurant, and bar. Amenities are minimal compared to luxury resorts, but that's reflected in pricing. The resort works for golf-focused trips where you'll spend most time on the course.

Price range: Rooms start around $150-200 in summer, climbing to $300-400 during peak season. Stay-and-play packages include daily golf at rates that significantly undercut luxury competitors.

8. Mountain Shadows Resort (The Short Course)

Mountain Shadows Resort offers a unique option for golfers who want resort luxury with a par-3 course instead of championship golf. The Short Course provides a fun evening option rather than a full 18-hole test.

Golf courses: An 18-hole par-3 course designed by Forrest Richardson, with holes ranging from 90 to 140 yards.

Room quality: Modern luxury accommodations with floor-to-ceiling windows, contemporary desert design, and views of Camelback Mountain. The resort opened in 2017 with a completely modern feel, contrasting with traditional Southwestern resort architecture.

Golf course quality: The par-3 course plays beautifully under lights for evening rounds. Well-manicured conditions and creative hole designs make it more than a practice course. Perfect for quick rounds, practice sessions, or non-serious golfers in your group.

Amenities beyond golf: Infinity pool with mountain views, full-service spa, multiple dining options including Hearth '61 for wood-fired cuisine, and close proximity to hiking trails. The resort emphasizes relaxation and scenery over golf challenge.

Price range: Rooms start around $300-400 in summer, reaching $600-800 during peak season. The Short Course is included for resort guests, with access to nearby championship courses available through resort partnerships.

9. Gainey Ranch Golf Club

Gainey Ranch Golf Club sits adjacent to multiple resort properties in central Scottsdale, making it accessible to guests at several hotels. The course offers a more traditional Arizona golf experience with lakes and mature landscaping.

Golf courses: Three nine-hole courses (Dunes, Arroyo, Lakes) designed by different architects, offering variety across 27 holes.

Room quality: Multiple resort options nearby, including Hyatt Regency Scottsdale, which offers preferred tee times and packages.

Golf course quality: The Lakes nine features water on most holes, unusual for desert golf. The Dunes nine plays firmer and faster with less water. The Arroyo nine splits the difference. Conditions stay excellent, with the course hosting numerous tournaments.

Amenities beyond golf: Depends on chosen resort. Most nearby properties offer pools, dining, and spa services with golf packages including rounds at Gainey Ranch.

Price range: Golf rates run $100-200 depending on season and nine-hole combination. Resort packages vary by property, with Hyatt Regency Scottsdale offering the most comprehensive stay-and-play options.

Best Golf Resorts by Category

Best for Serious Golfers

Fairmont Scottsdale Princess wins for golfers prioritizing course quality and challenge. Access to TPC Scottsdale's Stadium Course provides a bucket-list experience, while the Champions Course offers variety for multi-day stays. Stay-and-play packages make playing both courses affordable, and resort amenities keep non-golfing partners content.

The Boulders Resort runs a close second, particularly for golfers who value scenery as much as score. The two courses provide enough variety for extended stays, and unlimited golf packages reward players planning multiple rounds per day.

Best for Families

Westin Kierland Golf Club delivers the most family-friendly option among golf resorts. The Adventure Water Park keeps kids entertained for hours, while the three-nine golf format lets parents sneak in quick nine-hole rounds between family activities.

Fairmont Scottsdale Princess also accommodates families well, with multiple pools, kids programs, and enough property to explore. The golf courses challenge serious players while family amenities prevent kids from getting bored.

Best for Couples

The Boulders Resort creates the most romantic setting, with secluded casitas, dramatic scenery, and a quieter atmosphere than larger resorts. The spa, hiking trails, and intimate dining make it ideal for couples where both partners golf or one golfs while the other enjoys spa time.

Arizona Biltmore offers classic luxury and architectural beauty, appealing to couples who appreciate history and elegance alongside golf.

Best Value

Orange Tree Golf Resort provides the best value proposition, offering significantly lower rates while maintaining good course conditions. The tradeoff in amenities makes sense for golf-focused trips where you'll spend minimal time at the resort.

Westin Kierland in summer offers strong value, with modern rooms and extensive amenities at prices well below winter rates. The water park and multiple pools add value for families.

Best for Groups

Fairmont Scottsdale Princess handles large golf groups best, with extensive meeting space, multiple dining options, and two courses to accommodate high volume. The property hosts corporate golf events regularly and understands group logistics.

The Boulders Resort works for smaller groups seeking a more exclusive experience, particularly groups willing to pay premium rates for dramatic scenery and privacy.

What to Look for in a Scottsdale Golf Resort

Course Access and Variety

Consider whether the resort offers one course or multiple options. Single-course resorts work for weekend trips, but multi-day stays benefit from variety. Some resorts like the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess and The Boulders provide two distinct courses, while Westin Kierland and The Phoenician offer three-nine formats that create multiple 18-hole combinations.

Guest priority matters during peak season. Resorts that prioritize guest tee times over public play deliver better value in February and March when courses fill up. Ask whether the resort holds back tee times for guests or operates first-come-first-served booking.

Stay-and-Play Package Value

Compare package pricing against booking rooms and golf separately. Quality packages include daily golf with cart, range balls, and sometimes breakfast or resort credits. Less valuable packages simply discount green fees without adding amenities.

Watch for hidden costs. Some packages quote rates without cart fees, gratuities, or resort fees. Calculate total cost including all fees before comparing resorts.

Off-Course Amenities

Non-golf amenities justify resort rates over budget hotels. Spa services, multiple pools, quality dining, and activities for non-golfers add value if you're traveling with partners who don't golf or want variety beyond 36 holes per day.

Consider location for off-property activities. Resorts in North Scottsdale like The Boulders offer seclusion but require driving to restaurants and nightlife. Central Scottsdale resorts provide easier access to Old Town dining and entertainment.

Seasonal Pricing and Availability

Scottsdale golf resort rates swing dramatically by season. Summer rates (May-September) run 40-60% lower than winter high season (February-March). Spring (October-November) and late winter (December-January) offer moderate pricing with excellent weather.

Book TPC Scottsdale stays well in advance for February. The WM Phoenix Open (late January/early February) creates high demand, with rooms booking 6-12 months ahead and rates reaching premium levels.

Playing Off-Property: Day Trip Options

While resort golf provides convenience, Scottsdale's best courses operate as daily fee facilities separate from hotels. Staying at a golf resort doesn't mean you're limited to on-site courses.

Championship Daily Fee Courses

Troon North Golf Club consistently ranks among Arizona's top public courses. The Monument and Pinnacle courses wind through dramatic boulder fields and desert terrain. Located 20 minutes north of most resorts.

We-Ko-Pa Golf Club offers two excellent tracks (Saguaro and Cholla) on the Fort McDowell Reservation. Both courses provide authentic Sonoran Desert golf with pristine conditions. 30 minutes northeast of Scottsdale resorts.

Grayhawk Golf Club operates Raptor and Talon courses in North Scottsdale, both highly rated and easily accessible from most resorts. Raptor hosts PGA Tour events and challenges scratch players, while Talon offers a slightly easier desert experience.

Packaging Off-Property Golf

Many golf resorts offer packages that include rounds at nearby championship courses. The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess sometimes includes Troon North or We-Ko-Pa in premium packages. Westin Kierland offers access to Grayhawk through golf packages.

Working with a golf package provider can simplify booking multiple courses. Companies like Arizona Golf Adventures and Phoenix/Scottsdale Golf build custom itineraries mixing resort stays with daily fee course access.

Planning Your Stay-and-Play Golf Trip

Best Time to Visit

October through November provides ideal conditions without peak pricing. Temperatures run 70-85 degrees, courses show excellent conditioning, and resort rates drop 30-40% below winter highs. Course availability improves compared to February-March.

February through March delivers perfect golf weather (65-75 degrees) but brings highest demand and pricing. Book 4-6 months ahead for popular resorts. The WM Phoenix Open in late January/early February makes that specific week particularly expensive.

May through September offers the best values, with resort rates dropping significantly. Morning tee times (before 8 AM) provide comfortable golf despite summer heat, and afternoon pool time becomes more appealing than additional rounds.

Booking Strategies

Compare stay-and-play packages against separate bookings. Sometimes booking rooms and golf independently costs less than packages, particularly during slower periods when golf courses discount rates more aggressively than hotels.

Ask about golf credits versus included rounds. Some packages provide daily golf while others offer credits toward green fees. Credits provide more flexibility but may not cover full green fees during peak season.

Check for group discounts on stays of 8+ golfers. Resorts often provide discounted rates, free rounds for organizers, or meeting space for larger golf groups.

What to Pack

Desert golf requires different gear than humid climates. Sun protection matters more than rain gear except during July-August monsoon season. Pack high-SPF sunscreen, wide-brim hat, and UV-protective clothing.

Bring extra golf balls if you're a mid-to-high handicapper. Desert courses punish errant shots with penalty areas, native desert, and rattlesnakes that make ball retrieval inadvisable.

Consider shipping clubs if flying from out of state. Many resorts offer club storage for guests playing multiple days, eliminating the need to haul bags between courses and rooms.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best golf resort in Scottsdale for beginners?

Orange Tree Golf Resort offers the most forgiving course for beginners, with tree-lined fairways that provide aim points and less severe desert penalty areas. Westin Kierland also works well, as the Acacia nine plays shorter and easier than the other nines.

Do golf resorts offer club rentals?

All major Scottsdale golf resorts provide club rentals, typically Titleist, Callaway, or TaylorMade sets. Rental costs run $60-100 per round depending on club quality. Reserve clubs when booking tee times, as availability can be limited during peak season.

Can non-guests play resort courses?

Most Scottsdale resort courses welcome public play, though resort guests receive priority booking and discounted rates. TPC Scottsdale, The Boulders, and Westin Kierland all accept public tee times, typically 3-7 days in advance compared to 60-90 days for resort guests.

Are golf packages refundable?

Refund policies vary by resort and season. Most require 30-72 hours cancellation notice for individual reservations. Group bookings often have stricter policies. Book refundable rates or purchase travel insurance for trips booked far in advance.

What's included in stay-and-play packages?

Standard packages include room, daily golf with cart, and sometimes range balls or breakfast. Premium packages might add resort credits, spa services, or rounds at off-property courses. Always verify what's included before booking, as "stay-and-play" varies by property.

How far in advance should I book a golf resort?

Book 3-6 months ahead for February-March stays, particularly TPC Scottsdale during tournament season. Summer and fall trips can be booked 1-2 months out, though popular weekends fill earlier. Group bookings require 6-12 months advance planning.

Compare Top Scottsdale Golf Resorts

| Resort | Courses | Peak Rate | Summer Rate | Best For | |--------|---------|-----------|-------------|----------| | Fairmont Scottsdale Princess | 2 (36 holes) | $600-800 | $300-400 | Serious golfers, groups | | The Boulders Resort | 2 (36 holes) | $700-900 | $400-500 | Couples, scenery lovers | | Westin Kierland | 3 nines (27 holes) | $500-700 | $250-350 | Families, flexibility | | Camelback Golf Club/JW Marriott | 2 (36 holes) | $700-1000+ | $350-450 | Luxury seekers, history | | Arizona Biltmore | 2 (36 holes) | $600-900 | $300-400 | Classic luxury, architecture | | The Phoenician | 3 nines (27 holes) | $800-1200+ | $400-500 | High-end travelers | | Orange Tree Golf Resort | 1 (18 holes) | $300-400 | $150-200 | Budget-conscious golfers | | Mountain Shadows | Par-3 course | $600-800 | $300-400 | Casual golf, relaxation |

Start Planning Your Scottsdale Golf Resort Stay

Choosing among Scottsdale golf resorts depends on your priorities: championship course access, luxury amenities, family activities, or value pricing. For most golfers, the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess delivers the best combination of course quality, resort amenities, and package value. Serious golfers seeking dramatic scenery should consider The Boulders, while families benefit from Westin Kierland's activity variety.

Whatever resort you choose, book tee times immediately after confirming reservations, particularly for peak season travel. Resort courses fill up quickly, and priority guest access only helps if you use it early.

Ready to book your rounds? Browse our complete guide to Scottsdale golf courses to plan which off-property courses to add to your itinerary, or check out our recommendations for the best public courses in Scottsdale to complement your resort golf.