The Top 5 Courses to Play in Arizona During Winter

Golfing Paradise: The Top 5 Courses to Play in Arizona During Winter

Escape the winter chill and discover Arizona's premier golf destinations. From Scottsdale's luxurious resorts to Sedona's high desert gems, we guide you through five must-play courses that offer perfect playing conditions during the cold months. Whether you're planning a golf getaway or seeking to improve your game in ideal weather, these carefully selected venues promise unforgettable rounds under the warm Arizona sun.

While much of the country battles freezing temperatures and snow-covered fairways, Arizona's golf courses remain in pristine condition throughout winter. With average daytime temperatures hovering around 70°F (21°C) between December and February, the Grand Canyon State becomes a haven for golfers seeking year-round play.

The combination of desert climate, world-class course design and exceptional maintenance standards creates perfect conditions for winter golf. Let's explore five exceptional courses that showcase the best of desert golf during the winter season.

TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course – Home of the People's Open
As the host of the WM Phoenix Open, TPC Scottsdale's Stadium Course stands as Arizona's premier winter golf destination. Drawing the largest crowds in professional golf, this masterful collaboration between Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish is perhaps best known for its legendary par-3 16th hole.
During tournament week, this signature hole transforms into golf's most energetic amphitheater, where up to 20,000 passionate fans create an atmosphere more reminiscent of a football game than a traditional golf tournament.
The course's strategic bunkering, undulating greens and desert landscape challenge players while offering stunning views of the McDowell Mountains. Winter conditions are particularly impressive, with perfectly manicured fairways and lightning-fast greens that rival any championship venue in the country.

We-Ko-Pa Golf Club (Saguaro Course) – Pure Desert Golf Experience
Located on Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation land, the Saguaro Course offers one of the most natural desert golf experiences in Arizona. Designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, this walking-friendly layout weaves through ancient saguaro cacti and desert terrain.
Popular prediction sites often feature this course in their top rankings, and it's easy to see why. The absence of residential development creates an unspoiled backdrop, while the strategic layout rewards thoughtful shot-making rather than raw power. The course's commitment to preserving the natural desert environment makes it a standout among Arizona's golf offerings.

The Boulders South Course – Dramatic Desert Landscape
Set against a backdrop of 12-million-year-old granite boulder formations, this Jay Morrish masterpiece delivers a truly unique golfing experience. The South Course at The Boulders Resort combines challenging golf with breathtaking desert scenery. Winter visitors particularly appreciate the course's sheltered location, which provides protection from cooler winds.
The signature par-5 fifth hole plays alongside an enormous boulder stack, creating one of the most photographed golf holes in Arizona. The resort's world-class practice facilities and instruction programs make it an ideal destination for golfers looking to improve their game.

Troon North (Monument Course) – Desert Golf at its Finest
The Monument Course at Troon North stands as a testament to modern desert golf architecture. This Tom Weiskopf design incorporates massive granite boulders, desert washes and native vegetation into a challenging yet fair layout.
Winter conditions showcase the course's overseeded ryegrass fairways and pristine bentgrass greens. The elevation changes throughout the course provide spectacular views of Pinnacle Peak and the surrounding Sonoran Desert landscape. The club's exceptional service and attention to detail ensure a memorable experience for every golfer.

Seven Canyons Golf Club – Sedona's Crown Jewel of Desert Golf
Set against the backdrop of Sedona's iconic red rock formations, Seven Canyons Golf Club offers one of Arizona's most spectacular winter golf experiences. This Tom Weiskopf masterpiece is nestled within a 200-acre preserve surrounded by the Coconino National Forest. The par-70 layout features bent grass greens and bluegrass fairways, providing superior playing conditions year-round.
At an elevation of 4,600 feet, the course offers cooler temperatures than Phoenix-area venues, while the stunning rock formations create unique shot-making challenges. The signature par-3 4th hole, playing between massive red rock formations, exemplifies the course's perfect blend of natural beauty and strategic design.

Planning Your Winter Golf Escape
The key to maximizing your Arizona winter golf experience is advance planning. Tee times at these premier venues are in high demand during peak season (January through March). Consider booking packages that include multiple rounds at different courses, and remember that early morning tee times often provide the best playing conditions.
Many courses offer twilight rates that can provide significant savings, though you'll want to ensure you can complete your round before sunset. Most courses offer excellent practice facilities, so plan to arrive early to warm up and acclimate to the desert conditions. You could also hire a local caddie who can provide valuable course knowledge and help you navigate the unique challenges of desert golf.

Essential Tips for Desert Winter Golf
When planning your Arizona winter golf adventure, pack accordingly for the desert climate's temperature variations. Early mornings can be cool, but afternoons warm up significantly. Layered clothing is essential, as is sun protection, including sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.
Bring plenty of golf balls, as desert courses can be unforgiving in their native areas. Most courses offer top-quality rental clubs if you prefer not to travel with your own, but advance reservations are recommended during peak season.

Accommodation and Transportation
Many of these courses are associated with luxury resorts offering stay-and-play packages that can provide excellent value. The Phoenix-Scottsdale area has numerous high-end accommodations within easy reach of multiple courses.
Consider renting a car, as courses can be spread out across the region. Most resorts offer shuttle services to their respective courses, but having your own transportation provides more flexibility to explore different venues and local attractions between rounds.

Making the Most of Your Visit
Beyond golf, the Arizona winter season offers numerous attractions and activities. Schedule some time to explore the desert landscape, visit local restaurants and experience the vibrant Southwest culture.
Many courses offer excellent dining options, and the clubhouse patios provide perfect settings for post-round refreshments while watching the desert sunset. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended golf vacation, Arizona's winter golf scene provides an unforgettable experience for players of all skill levels.



Article Author: Toni Juarez, freelance writer. Views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this article belong solely to the author, and not to Where2Golf.com, its writers or editors. The author is speaking solely for him/herself, not for the company or as a formal representative of the company.