Rancho Manana Golf Club

Location: Cave Creek, Arizona | Style: Desert Championship | Length: ~6,004 yards | Par: 70 | Designer: Bill Johnston | Founded: 1989

Nestled in the rugged foothills of the Sonoran Desert just north of Scottsdale and Phoenix, Rancho Mañana Golf Club blends dramatic natural beauty with strategic golf design. Set on the historic grounds of a 1940s dude ranch, this scenic 18-hole, par-70 championship layout rises through undulating desert terrain punctuated by towering saguaros, natural washes, and panoramic views of Camelback Mountain, Mummy Mountain, and the Tonto National Forest.

Designed by architect Bill Johnston and opened in 1989, Rancho Mañana rewards accuracy and thoughtful shot-making over brute length, with tight fairways, dramatic elevation changes, and a balance of risk-reward opportunities that make it an engaging challenge for golfers of all skill levels. Its moderate length belies the strategic demands of its design, ensuring every round here is as visually captivating as it is competitive.

Course highlights

• Spectacular desert scenery – Elevated tees and fairways offering wide views of surrounding mountains and desert vistas.
• Strategic shot values – Narrow fairways, well-placed bunkers, and elevation changes reward precision.
• Historic setting – Course set on the site of a former dude ranch, now home to the clubhouse.
• Recognized course – Rated four stars on GolfPass and named one of Golf Digest’s Top 50 Courses for Women.

Clubhouse & amenities

Rancho Mañana offers a welcoming clubhouse environment with a well-stocked golf shop, practice facilities including a driving range and putting green, and the Tonto Bar & Grill restaurant, which provides dining with sweeping views of the course and desert landscape.

Signature hole

While golfers often highlight several standout holes due to the layout’s variety, the par-3s on the front nine - notably holes 7 and 9 - feature dramatic downhill tee shots with expansive views and elevation changes that both challenge and reward thoughtful club selection.

Post Round

After your round, relax at the Tonto Bar & Grill adjacent to the clubhouse - a popular spot to enjoy a meal or drink while taking in desert views and recounting the day’s highlights.

Nearby activities

Located near historic Cave Creek and close to Scottsdale and Phoenix, golfers can explore desert hiking, art galleries, western-themed shops, and local dining, making it an excellent addition to any Arizona golf itinerary.

Did You Know?

The course sits on land once home to a bustling 1940s ranch, lending the property its name and a unique historical charm that distinguishes it from many other desert layouts.