Overview
Looking for authentic desert golf just north of Scottsdale? Rancho Manana Golf Club delivers solid golf in Cave Creek's high-desert landscape. This par-70 layout features significant elevation changes, panoramic mountain views, and desert target golf that rewards strategic shot-making over raw distance.
Originally a 1940s dude ranch, Rancho Manana has been transformed into a modern golf facility while maintaining its rustic desert character. Part of the Arizona Hideaway Collection, the course sits at the base of Black Mountain with sweeping views of Camelback Mountain and Tonto National Forest - a scenic backdrop that sets it apart from Scottsdale's resort courses.
Desert Championship Golf in Cave Creek
Course Layout & Design
Rancho Manana Golf Club plays as a par-70 championship course with dramatic elevation changes throughout. The desert-style layout features target golf through natural Sonoran terrain, with native vegetation and arroyos defining playing corridors. Strategic bunkering and elevated greens reward accuracy and course management.
The course sits at the base of Black Mountain, providing constant views of rugged desert peaks and the Tonto National Forest. Unlike many Scottsdale courses built on flat desert floor, Rancho Manana's topography creates visual variety and shot-making challenges on nearly every hole.
What Makes It Desert Golf?
This is authentic high-desert golf. Native saguaros, chollas, and palo verde trees frame fairways. Desert washes (arroyos) come into play on several holes. Wildlife sightings - including javelina, coyotes, and numerous desert birds - are common throughout your round.
The elevation changes are significant. Approach shots to elevated greens require one to two extra clubs compared to flat conditions. Downhill tee shots offer visual drama but require careful club selection to avoid running through landing areas.
Pros
- Dramatic elevation changes and mountain views
- Authentic desert golf experience
- Less crowded than major Scottsdale resort courses
- Historic property with modern amenities
- On-site dining at Tonto Bar & Grill
- Strategic layout rewards smart play
Cons
- Green fees not published online (must call)
- Desert terrain less forgiving than resort courses
- Limited practice facility information
- Cave Creek location farther from central Scottsdale
- Elevation changes may challenge walking players
Green Fees & Booking
Rancho Manana Golf Club does not publish daily green fees online. Rates vary seasonally and by tee time.
To book and check current rates:
- Online: TeeItUp Booking System
- Phone: (480) 488-0398
Club Rentals: $60/round (Ping or Mizuno sets available)
Amenities & Facilities
Dining Options
Tonto Bar & Grill
- Hours: Monday-Sunday, 11 AM - 8 PM
- Full-service restaurant with bar
- Post-round dining with mountain views
The Oasis
- Hours: 6 AM - 4 PM daily
- Breakfast and lunch service
- Quick options for early tee times
Beverage Cart
- Service starts one hour after first tee time
- Available until 6 PM
Best Time to Visit Rancho Manana
Peak Season (January-April): Perfect desert golf weather (65-80°F). Course conditions at their best. Expect highest green fees but ideal playing conditions. Book well in advance for weekend tee times.
Shoulder Season (October-December, May): Excellent weather (70-85°F) with less crowded conditions. November and early December offer sweet spot pricing before peak season. May can be warm but offers good value.
Summer (June-September): Extreme heat (95-115°F) but lowest green fees. Book first available tee times (6:00 AM start) to finish before mid-day heat. Bring extra water and sun protection.
Cave Creek Location Advantages
Why Cave Creek Golf?
Cave Creek offers a different desert golf experience than central Scottsdale. The town maintains its Western heritage character with fewer resort developments. Higher elevation provides slightly cooler temperatures and more dramatic topography.
Rancho Manana sits in a less-developed area, offering authentic desert scenery without the residential encroachment common at many Scottsdale courses. Mountain views remain unobstructed, and wildlife sightings are frequent.
Getting to Rancho Manana
Address: 5734 E Rancho Manana Blvd, Cave Creek, AZ 85331
From Scottsdale (20-30 minutes):
- Take Scottsdale Road north to Cave Creek Road
- Continue north on Cave Creek Road
- Turn right on Rancho Manana Boulevard