Best Golf Courses in Scottsdale: We-Ko-Pa, TPC Scottsdale & Quintero
Scottsdale, Arizona is one of the premier golf destinations in the United States. With desert mountain backdrops, tour-level conditioning, and year-round sunshine, it’s no surprise golfers constantly search for the best golf courses in Scottsdale.
If you’re planning a Scottsdale golf trip, these three courses consistently rise to the top: We-Ko-Pa Golf Club, TPC Scottsdale, and Quintero Golf Club. And for something different, we’re adding two of the best par-3 experiences in the area.
Here’s where to play golf in Scottsdale if you want the best.
We-Ko-Pa Golf Club
Located just outside Scottsdale in Fort McDowell, We-Ko-Pa Golf Club is often ranked among the top public golf courses in Arizona.
What makes We-Ko-Pa special is its untouched desert landscape. There are no homes lining the fairways, just pure Sonoran desert. This is a personal favorite.
Why We-Ko-Pa Is One of the Best Golf Courses in Scottsdale
Two championship courses: Saguaro & Cholla
True desert golf with dramatic elevation
Consistently ranked among Arizona’s best public courses
Incredible mountain views
If you want pure Scottsdale desert golf, We-Ko-Pa delivers.
TPC Scottsdale (Stadium Course)
You can’t talk about the top golf courses in Scottsdale without mentioning TPC Scottsdale.
Home of the PGA Tour’s WM Phoenix Open, the Stadium Course is one of the most recognizable layouts in golf. Really a bucketlist course because WM Open… Others on this list are better prices for better courses in my opinion.
Why TPC Scottsdale Is a Must-Play
Host of the WM Phoenix Open
Famous 16th hole stadium par-3
Tour-level conditions
Bucket list experience
Playing TPC Scottsdale gives you a taste of tournament golf in the heart of Scottsdale.
Quintero Golf Club
About 45 minutes from Scottsdale, Quintero Golf Club is consistently rated one of the best golf courses in Arizona — and many argue it’s the most complete test in the region.
Designed by Rees Jones, Quintero offers dramatic elevation changes and pristine conditioning.
Why Quintero Belongs on Any Scottsdale Golf Trip
Rees Jones championship design
Remote, scenic desert setting
Elite conditioning
Demanding but fair layout
For serious golfers ranking the best golf in Scottsdale, Quintero is often at the very top.
Bonus: Best Par-3 Golf in Scottsdale
Scottsdale also offers standout short-course experiences that are perfect for afternoon rounds or group trips.
Mountain Shadows (Short Course)
Mountain Shadows in Paradise Valley offers one of the most scenic par-3 courses in the country.
18-hole par-3 layout
Perfect for casual rounds
Incredible Camelback Mountain views
Great for groups
It’s ideal for bachelor parties, corporate outings, or relaxed afternoon golf.
Grass Clippings Rolling Hills (Lighted Par-3)
For something completely different, Grass Clippings Rolling Hills offers a lighted par-3 experience just outside Scottsdale.
Night golf under the lights
Fun, social atmosphere
Unique Scottsdale golf experience
It’s one of the most fun and accessible golf experiences in the Scottsdale area.
Planning a Scottsdale Golf Trip
If you’re visiting Scottsdale for golf:
October through April offers peak weather
Book tee times well in advance
Consider staying central for access to TPC and nightlife
Rent a car for We-Ko-Pa and Quintero. Turo for car renting is excellent and will save you money for a sick ride.
Scottsdale offers a mix of PGA Tour venues, desert championship layouts, and fun short courses — making it one of the most complete golf destinations in the country.
Final Thoughts: What Are the Best Golf Courses in Scottsdale?
If you’re ranking the best golf courses in Scottsdale, these three headline courses consistently stand out:
We-Ko-Pa
TPC Scottsdale
Quintero
And if you want something unique, Mountain Shadows and Grass Clippings add unforgettable short-course options.
Whether you’re planning a Scottsdale golf trip or just looking for where to play golf in Scottsdale, these courses represent the best of Arizona desert golf.
