ARCHITECTS
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Course Report
The South Course is world-famous for its play through ancient, house-sized granite boulders, with wildlife like bobcats, coyotes, and javelinas often spotted during a round.
About
The Boulders Golf Club (South Course) in Carefree, Arizona, is a Jay Morrish-designed par 71 course opened in 1992, renowned for spectacular desert scenery, giant granite boulder formations, and strategic routing through the high Sonoran landscape. Its layout offers dramatic elevation changes, elevated tees, and memorable photo opportunities. The South Course is known for being both scenic and challenging.
Caddie Tip
Aim for the middle of greens and avoid getting greedy on the risk-reward par 4s, as stray shots quickly find desert waste areas. On uphill approach shots around the massive boulders, consider taking an extra club, and be aware that putts often break more than they appear.
The Main Challenge
The layout's biggest challenge is navigating the forced carries and tricky angles created by the rugged desert and imposing boulder outcrops. Errant shots are often penalized by thick desert, while greens are well-protected and feature subtle breaks. Elevation changes and swirling wind can also add difficulty.
The Good
Golfers rave about the spectacular boulder formations that define the South Course, with dramatic scenery at nearly every turn and truly unforgettable holes tucked among the rocks. The combination of strategic variety, pristine desert landscape, and luxury resort amenities makes the experience feel unique and special.
The Not So Good
Some guests mention pace of play can slow during busy resort periods, especially weekends. Because the course is highly photogenic, searching for errant balls among the rocks and desert plants can create delays. Greens can also be firm and tricky to hold during peak season, posing a challenge for average players.
Signature Hole:
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5
Hole 5 is a memorable par 3 where the green is dramatically shaded by a massive rock outcropping. The hole plays slightly uphill, framed tightly by iconic boulders and native desert vegetation, creating a visually stunning and intimidating tee shot, often regarded as the signature image of the course.
Clubhouse
Amenities include a recently renovated clubhouse with indoor and alfresco dining, an upscale bar, lockers, showers, and access to the resort's luxury spa, tennis garden, and pools. Guests benefit from first-class service, well-appointed locker rooms, and panoramic views of the Sonoran Desert.
Practice Facilities
The Boulders offers a full grass driving range, large practice putting greens, short-game area with bunkers, and professional golf instruction from PGA and LPGA staff. A golf shop carries premium merchandise and rental clubs. The teaching academy is highly regarded for all levels.
Dress Code:
Standard
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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