Best Desert-Style Public Golf Courses in Scottsdale

Looking to soak up the full Arizona experience on your next golf trip? Desert-style golf is what Scottsdale does best, with rocky terrain, cactus-lined fairways, and dramatic elevation changes that make every shot memorable.

Here’s your expert guide to the best public desert-style golf courses in Scottsdale, all of which you can book without needing a private membership.

Quick Answer: Top Desert-Style Public Courses

For pure desert golf, Troon North, We-Ko-Pa, and Quintero top the list. These courses deliver towering saguaros, elevated tee boxes, and unforgettable scenery, making them essential additions to any Scottsdale golf trip.

Need a full itinerary already planned out? Unlock the 3-Day Scottsdale Golf Trip Template for a stress-free, Arizona-style weekend.

What is Desert-Style Golf?

Desert golf is defined by its use of the natural Arizona landscape. Instead of tree-lined fairways and soft green rough, you get:

• Firm turf with fast runouts
• Native vegetation like cacti, creosote, and desert brush
• Expansive waste areas and arroyos
• Strategic elevation changes
• Stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys

If you're coming from the East Coast or Midwest, this style of golf feels like playing on another planet, in the best way.

Top Desert-Style Public Courses in Scottsdale

1. Troon North – Pinnacle & Monument

North Scottsdale | $$$

Troon North is the crown jewel of desert golf. Both the Pinnacle and Monument courses are carved through boulder formations, ravines, and cactus-dotted hillsides, offering a fair but dramatic test of skill.

Highlights:

• Elevated tee shots with sweeping views
• Massive granite formations throughout
• Consistently ranked among the top public courses in the U.S.

Looking for other group-friendly courses? Check out our guide to the Best Public Golf Courses in Scottsdale for Groups.