Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club in Maricopa is one of the most distinctive golf experiences within driving distance of Scottsdale. Designed by Brian Curley and Fred Couples, this Australian Sand Belt-style championship course sits on 320 acres of sacred Ak-Chin land and plays unlike anything else in the Phoenix valley.
“Ak-Chin Southern Dunes is a hidden gem. The natural features create a visually stunning and challenging course. Our group enjoyed the diverse layout it provided, being unique for the desert.” – Lisa H.
The course opened in 2002 and has since served as an annual US Open qualifying site, hosted several top NCAA golf tournaments, and welcomed Korn Ferry Tour Qualifying School. The championship layout earned its Top 100 ranking from Golf Magazine through sheer quality of design and conditions, not marketing. Wide corridors and natural sand belt bunkering reward aggressive play while leaving room for strategic layups. Fast, true greens complete a course that plays fair for all skill levels.
The history behind the property adds to the experience. The land was originally part of the Ak-Chin Community’s 1912 reservation before being removed by Presidential Executive Order later that year. Nearly 100 years later the Community reclaimed it, and today Ak-Chin Southern Dunes stands as both a world-class golf facility and a testament to that perseverance.
Why Groups Choose Ak-Chin Southern Dunes
Ak-Chin Southern Dunes is the course that surprises groups. Most arrive expecting a good round and leave having played one of the best courses of their trip. The combination of Top 100 conditions, unique Australian Sand Belt design, and value pricing makes it a smart addition to any Scottsdale golf itinerary. It pairs well with TPC Scottsdale Stadium and Talking Stick for groups building a multi-day trip that mixes prestige with value.
For corporate groups, Ak-Chin Southern Dunes handles large outings with ease. Shotgun starts, caddie services, and the on-site Arroyo Grille make it a smooth operation for groups of 40 to 60 players.
Book Ak-Chin Southern Dunes for Your Golf Trip
At 45 minutes from Scottsdale, Ak-Chin requires a little planning on the logistics side. Golf Scottsdale Arizona handles transportation coordination, tee time access, and builds it seamlessly into your full itinerary so your group doesn’t have to think about it. Get a quote here or call 480-716-4994.
