Caddie's #1 Course Pick -
Grayhawk Golf Club
Grayhawk Raptor #10
Isabella's Kitchen
Phil's Grill
Grayhawk Talon #17
Why Grayhawk Golf Club Is Our #1 Pick
If you're visiting Scottsdale for one golf trip and want the complete Arizona golf experience, Grayhawk Golf Club is our top recommendation.
Few facilities in the country combine world-class golf, exceptional service, premium practice facilities, outstanding food and drink options, and a true Scottsdale atmosphere quite like Grayhawk. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned golf traveler, Grayhawk consistently delivers an experience that exceeds expectations from the moment you arrive.
The club features two championship 18-hole courses—Raptor and Talon—giving golfers 36 holes of immaculate desert golf without ever leaving the property. The conditions are consistently among the best in Arizona, with pristine fairways, fast rolling greens, and attention to detail that is noticeable throughout the facility.
Service is another reason Grayhawk stands above the competition. The staff creates a welcoming atmosphere that feels upscale without being pretentious. Bag attendants, starters, beverage cart staff, and clubhouse personnel all contribute to a seamless experience that keeps golfers coming back year after year.
The practice facilities are among the best in Scottsdale, featuring a spacious driving range, multiple short-game areas, and expansive putting greens that allow players to prepare properly before the round. Whether you're warming up for a bucket-list round or dialing in your game for a multi-day golf trip, Grayhawk has everything you need.
The on-course beverage service is also a favorite among visiting golf groups, and the club has built a reputation for maintaining a fun and energetic atmosphere without sacrificing professionalism.
When the round is over, the experience continues. Grayhawk offers multiple on-site dining options, highlighted by Phil's Grill and Isabella's Kitchen, making it easy to enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner, or post-round drinks without ever leaving the property.
Location is another major advantage. Situated in North Scottsdale near many of the area's premier resorts, vacation rentals, restaurants, and nightlife destinations, Grayhawk serves as an ideal home base for golf travelers.
For golfers looking for the perfect blend of championship golf, Scottsdale scenery, premium service, and overall value, Grayhawk Golf Club remains our favorite public golf destination in Arizona.
Raptor Course
The Raptor Course is Grayhawk's flagship layout and one of Scottsdale's premier championship golf experiences. Designed by Tom Fazio, Raptor offers wider landing areas than many desert courses while still demanding strategic shot placement and smart decision-making.
The course is known for its immaculate conditioning, dramatic bunkering, and fast, true greens. While forgiving enough for higher handicaps to enjoy, Raptor provides plenty of challenge for accomplished players, particularly from the back tees where it stretches beyond 7,000 yards.
Raptor has hosted numerous professional and collegiate tournaments over the years and delivers the polished, upscale golf experience many visitors envision when planning a Scottsdale golf trip. For golfers seeking a championship-caliber round that rewards quality ball striking without excessive punishment, Raptor is difficult to beat.
Talon Course
The Talon Course offers a true Sonoran Desert golf experience and is often considered the more scenic and memorable of Grayhawk's two championship layouts. Designed by David Graham and Gary Panks, Talon incorporates natural desert washes, strategic bunkering, elevation changes, and stunning mountain backdrops throughout the round.
Two of the course's most iconic holes are the par-3 11th and par-3 17th. The 11th features a dramatic suspended bridge leading to the tee box, creating one of the most unique experiences in Scottsdale golf. The 17th challenges players with a picturesque island green that demands both precision and confidence late in the round.
While slightly tighter and more demanding than Raptor, Talon rewards thoughtful course management and accurate ball striking. Combined with Grayhawk's exceptional conditioning, first-class service, and authentic desert character, Talon delivers the Scottsdale golf experience many visitors remember long after their trip ends.
Golfers looking for memorable signature holes, breathtaking scenery, and a true desert-golf challenge often find Talon to be their favorite course at Grayhawk.
Only Playing 18?
If you're only playing one round at Grayhawk, choose Talon for the scenery and unforgettable signature holes. Choose Raptor for pure championship golf and tournament-level conditioning.