Discovering Arizona: A Golf Paradise as Recommended by Mr & Mrs Golf
First, let us apologize, there are over 370 courses in Arizona, there’s no way we could name them all! We’ll do another blog post with our 10 favorite Arizona golf courses or something like that soon – Photo above is the driving range at Papago Golf Course in Phoenix, this is one of our favorites!
We’re on a mission to play golf together in all 50 States, and since our first state was Arizona, we’re a little biased! Oh and if you’re reading this and have some recommendations for courses to check out in other states, please email us and let us know!
Arizona. A Golf Paradise
Nestled in the southwestern United States, Arizona is a golf paradise and stands as a beacon for golf enthusiasts worldwide, beckoning them with its exquisite landscapes, diverse terrain, and a plethora of world-class golf courses. Referred to as a golfing mecca by many aficionados, Arizona’s allure lies not just in its stunning natural beauty but in the quality and variety of golfing experiences it offers.
So as Mr & Mrs Golf, are we the world renowned connoisseurs of golf courses? Not yet 😉 So far we’ve played golf in seven states and 2 countries. We consistently sing the praises of Arizona as an ultimate golfing destination though. Our recommendations often echo the sentiment that Arizona boasts an unparalleled fusion of challenging courses, stunning vistas, and a climate that allows for year-round play, Afterall, it’s the reason why Mrs moved from Illinois to Arizona!
One of the most captivating aspects of golfing in Arizona is its diverse topography. From the lush greens of Scottsdale to the desert landscapes of Phoenix and the high-country courses in Flagstaff, the state offers a remarkable range of settings. Scottsdale, in particular, stands out as a hub for golfing excellence.
Renowned for its luxurious resorts and championship courses like TPC Scottsdale, home of the PGATour Waste Management Phoenix Open and where Mr was the Official Photographer for a decade we both volunteer at. The LPGA hosts a tournament at the Superstition Mountain Golf & Country Club, which you guessed it, we also volunteer at. Finally thrown in the iconic Troon North Golf Club, which magnetizes golfers seeking both challenge and refinement.
Furthermore, the Phoenix metropolitan area houses an impressive array of courses that cater to golfers of all skill levels. Courses like The Boulders, known for its breathtaking rock formations. Papago Golf Course showcases the desert buttes in the middle of the city, Grass Clippings Rolling Hills is Arizona’s first lighted golf course to play all day and all night and home to our sold out Couples Night Golf Scramble. Then you have amazing courses like We-Ko-Pa Golf Club, Whirlwind Golf Club at Wild Horse Pass, Los Caballeros Golf Club, Quintero Golf Club, and so many more all featuring panoramic views of the desert, exemplify the diversity and beauty that make golfing in Arizona a unique experience.
While the southern part of the state is marked by the desert’s raw beauty, The Golf Club at Dove Mountain is an extraordinary place to stay, play and live, or go all the way down to the border of Arizona and Mexico and checkout Tubac Golf Resort and Spa and play the same course as made famous in Tin Cup.
Northern Arizona introduces a different facet to the golfing landscape. The cooler climate and elevation bring about courses in Flagstaff like Forest Highlands and Flagstaff Ranch Golf Club. These courses not only offer an escape from the desert heat but also provide a challenging yet serene golfing experience amidst pine forests and mountainous backdrops. A couple of our favorites include, Bison Golf Club and sister course, Birdie Ranch and Oak Creek Country Club, home of the Arizona Golf Association Mixed Stix event we’re so fond of.
What sets Arizona apart from other golfing destinations is its commitment to excellence in course design and maintenance. Many courses have been designed by the biggest names in golf architecture, including Jack Nicklaus, Tom Fazio, Pete Dye, and Robert Trent Jones Jr. The meticulous design, featuring strategically placed hazards, undulating greens, and awe-inspiring views, elevates the golfing experience to an art form.
Moreover, the state’s dedication to preserving the natural beauty of the surroundings enhances the overall golfing atmosphere. Pristine fairways winding through rugged canyons, emerald greens contrasting against the red-rock backdrop, and breathtaking sunsets painting the skies—these are the moments that make golfing in Arizona really is a golf paradise and a truly unforgettable experience.
The climate in Arizona deserves a special mention. With over 300 days of sunshine annually, the state welcomes golfers year-round, and yes, we do play in the summer months. While summer months can be hot, many courses offer early morning tee times to beat the heat, and the fall, winter, and spring seasons provide perfect weather for enjoying the game comfortably.
For Mr & Mrs Golf, Arizona’s charm extends beyond the golf courses themselves. The state’s hospitality, luxurious accommodations, vibrant culinary scene, and an abundance of off-course activities such as hiking, spa treatments, and cultural exploration further enrich the overall experience for golf enthusiasts and their companions alike.
In conclusion, Arizona stands as a true haven for golfers, drawing them in with its captivating landscapes, diverse courses, and a commitment to providing a golfing experience that transcends mere sport. Whether seeking a challenging round amid desert terrain or a serene game nestled in pine-covered mountains, Arizona’s golfing offerings, recommended by Mr & Mrs Golf, are undeniably a golfer’s paradise waiting to be explored.