The Best Golf Resorts in Phoenix

Upon making the turn onto the long, windy drive to the main building at Boulders Resort & Spa, it’s easy to slip away into a dreamy reverie. Between the off-the-beaten-path location, the gorgeous desert landscape, and natural boulder formation where adventurous sorts can climb with the help of a skilled guide, Boulders is a true Arizona wonder.

Casitas are spacious at 550 square feet and styled in rich earth tones. Settle into one of the leather chairs and relish in the quiet, but do venture out to one of the two award-winning golf courses, designed by Jay Moorish. If tired muscles need some attention, be sure to schedule a massage at the spa, and leave time to hang by the adults-only pool, where you can grab a wrap or salad for lunch before checking out the new yoga and golf gear in the boutique. 

Service at the Boulders ties everything together, and the wonderfully gracious staff is all too happy to help transport you around the expansive property. Early risers need only a good pair of walking shoes to appreciate the sunrise views atop an accessible boulder near the casita.

Luxury Collection bed, Frette linens, rooms have private balconies or patios, bike rental (part of the resort fee), craft beer tasting (also factored into daily resort charge)

The Phoenecian continues to draw visitors to its sprawling grounds. Regardless of whether golf is the main purpose of the trip, a stay at this iconic property simply must include an afternoon at the recently renovated spa where helpful staff makes you feel immediately at ease. If you want a peaceful escape from your family, though, head to the spa pool rather than the main pool area.

Hotel rooms, casitas, and luxury suites have everything you might need for a relaxing stay, including the option to order room service 24/7. Views of Camelback Mountain are especially appealing from the greens. These too were newly designed: four sets of player-friendly tees ranging from 4,594 yards to 6,518 yards for a more expert set. Post-game, a 19th hole is a fine option for a cold beer and light pre-dinner snacks. Speaking of which, The Phoenecian has many tempting options, from prime cuts at J&G Steakhouse to modern American fare at Mowry & Cow.

Heavenly bed, in-room massages available, Adventure Water Park, Yoga and mindfulness classes

A Sonoran Desert experience that the whole family can enjoy is what The Westin Kierland is all about. The resort’s convenient location in the Kierland Commons means easy access to the OdySea Aquarium where kids can embark on a shark tour. Scottsdale architect Scott Miller designed the golf course, which can be explored via Segways, golf bikes, golf boards, and TurfRiders, if you need a fun break from walking or regular old golf carting.

Like nearly every resort in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area, The Westin Kierland features a rejuvenating, full-service spa at Agave. Couples massages, body scrubs, and a scalp and hair treatment are just a few of the possibilities for pampering. But the option to indulge in a massage in the privacy of your own room is also possible. Thanks to warm, neutral tones and a minimalist aesthetic, the idea is quite appealing. 

Once you’ve rested, off to Nellie Cashman’s Monday Night Club you go for cocktails and beef from an Arizona ranch. After the kids are fast asleep, a visit to the Scotch Library may be in order, whether you’re just getting into the spirit of a true aficionado.

JW Luxury Bedding Package, Aromatherapy Associates bath amenities, fitness center, heated outdoor pool and Whirlpool hot tub, adults-only spa pool for guests receiving spa services

The hotel’s transformation—to the tune of $12.5 million—culminated in new stylish guest room designs, a reimagined lobby that still prominently displays the 1930s original brick adobe walls that were handmade on the property nearly 100 years ago. In addition, visit the gussied-up restaurants like Lincoln Steakhouse and Bar for prime cuts of meat that are best paired with an ice-cold gin martini. 

Back in the room, views of Mummy Mountain or your casita’s personal pool (there are 26 such suites) are on display, while many of the generously-sized bathrooms star a beautiful bathtub. Start your day with breakfast at Acacia, followed by a round of golf on one of the resort’s two championship courses: the Jason Straka-designed 18-hole, 7,221-yard, par 72 Ambiente Course and 6,903-yard, par 72 Padre Course. The challenging terrain, largely due to altitude changes, makes a visit to The Spa at Camelback Inn, a practically mandatory pursuit.

Adults-only outdoor pool, patio fire pits included in some room categories, many complimentary resort events and activities, Paradise Pool’s waterslide

An iconic property with the highly reputable Biltmore Golf Club, the Arizona Biltmore has been delivering desert glamor to travelers for decades. The building’s architecture pays homage to the great Frank Lloyd Wright who spent a large portion of his life working and living at Taliesin West. In spite of the resort’s large size (over 700 rooms), staff goes out of their way to give each and every guest excellent, tailored service. 

When a golf break is needed, you’d do well to visit the Tierra Luna Spa for a full-body massage followed by a visit to the relaxing Sol Garden where an outdoor hot tub and cold plunge pool await. Golfers who also enjoy tennis or pickleball will be delighted to find these options at the Biltmore as well. 

For dining, there are a plethora of offerings, from Renata’s Hearth (get the crispy slow-cooked pork belly roast for the table) to McArthur’s, named after the resort’s architect, Albert Chase McArthur. Or indulge in in-room dining, especially appealing if you’ve splurged on one of the Biltmore cottages or sprawling villas.

Basketball court, barbecue area for guess, bocce ball, golf training facility, fitness center

Legacy Golf Resort is a no-frills, serviceable resort with one championship 18-hole golf course (designed by architect Gary Panks), an outdoor pool, multiple hot tubs, and a handy kids’ play area near the barbecue grills. Families and golf veterans alike appreciate Legacy’s commitment to guest satisfaction, and although some guests note tired, dated rooms, others praise the hotel’s spacious accommodations as well as the ability to connect rooms or block off a section for large groups traveling together. 

Easy access to hiking, a solid on-site restaurant and bar (the golf club has a very good happy hour), and not-to-be-missed sunset views over the greens all enhance a stay at this Phoenix golf resort.

Handmade art by Huichol Indians, Lather bath products, iHome alarm clock, two on-site boutiques, Mercedes Benz test drive program

World-class golf, luxury accommodations, and a bevy of activities like mountain biking, a dedicated children’s pool, and weekly beverage demonstrations to suit all non-golfers in your party make staying at the Four Seasons a safe bet. Day trips to Sedona can be arranged by a gracious staff, while the hotel itself can pair guests with guides for a desert tour or guided hike. 

The hotel’s suites are top tier and huge at 2,000 or 3,000 square feet, but a two-bedroom suite, complete with a private plunge pool and firepit for those chilly desert nights, can easily accommodate families. Talavera, a modern steakhouse, is recommended, as is an aperitif and small plates (timed with the sunset) at the Onyx Bar and Lounge.