by Robert Borges on March 21, 2024
What’s the first state that comes to mind when considering the best places to retire for golf? If Arizona immediately popped into your head, you’re certainly not alone. With a climate and landscape desired by many active adults, and the year-round opportunity to hit the links, Arizona golf communities feature some of the country’s best courses.
And while golf takes center stage here, you’ll find life-enhancing amenities and something for everyone in these featured best golf communities in Arizona.
Desert Mountain- Scottsdale, AZ
A unique collection of six Jack Nicklaus Signature golf courses set in the spectacular High Sonoran Desert make this easily among the best golf communities in Arizona. Aside from access to some of the best golf courses in Arizona, residents of this member-owned community have full use of the golf performance center and an array of other club amenities including tennis, swimming, and fitness facilities. The development borders the rugged landscape of Tonto National Forest, with easy access to Scottsdale and downtown Phoenix and convenient to restaurants, shopping and nightlife in the Scottsdale, Cave Creek and Carefree areas.
Encanterra- San Tan Valley, AZ
This Arizona golf community features an award-winning desert golf course designed by PGA Tour legend Tom Lehman. In addition, La Casa, the 60,000-square-foot Mediterranean-style clubhouse and recreation center, includes private tennis, fitness and spa facilities, plus three swimming pools, four restaurants, a large outdoor amphitheater and a full suite of resort services. Then there’s The Algarve, an 8,000 square foot clubhouse on a 2.5 acre parcel in the community, complete with resort poolside dining, demonstration kitchen, artisan studio, indoor and outdoor concert area, eight pickleball courts, and bocce ball. No “best of Arizona golf communities” list would be complete without Encanterra.
Victory at Verrado- Buckeye, AZ
A modern Arizona golf community with a small-town feel, The Victory Club is spread across a high plateau, offering views of the Four Peaks mountains and Phoenix skyline. The Victory Course—designed by Tom Lehman—is designed for players of all skill levels and is the second course within the Verrado Golf Club. Along with the amenities of Victory, residents have access to Verrado’s Founders Course, parks, trails, and clubs for a variety of interests.
Trilogy at Verde River- Rio Verde, AZ
Following the natural terrain of the Sonoran Desert, the 18-hole championship golf course highlights this Arizona golf community. The course was designed by Ken Kavanaugh, with enhancements by Lehman Design Group led by professional golfer and 1996 British Open Champion, Tom Lehman. The clubhouse includes a signature restaurant & bar, Alvea Spa, Market Place, resort pool, fitness center, culinary studio, event center, and expansive outdoor sports complex.
Explore the full list of Arizona golf communities featured on PCR here!
