Southern Dunes Offers Unmatched Playability and Impeccable Course Conditioning
History
The championship Australian Sand Belt-style golf course sits on 320 acres of land that was once a part of Ak-Chin’s original May 1912 reservation before it was removed by Presidential Executive Order in late 1912. Nearly 100 years later, in 2010, the Community recovered its sacred land when it purchased the Brian Curley and Fred Couples designed facility after it was originally developed as a private club. The course currently boasts several coveted accolades that include Golfweek’s list of the “Top 100 Resort Courses,” “Best Courses You Can Play,” and “Top Casino Courses,” as well as Golf Magazine’s list of “Top 100 Courses You Can Play.”
Evolution
This world-class, Troon-managed club offers impeccable course conditioning, unmatched playability and superlative customer service, thus ensuring an unparalleled round of extraordinary golf. A 2014 renovation transformed Ak-Chin Southern Dunes into a more player-friendly venue while maintaining the integrity of the game at this championship-level course. During this renovation, Ak-Chin Southern Dunes set out to create “Golf’s version of a bunny slope,” a fun, welcoming venue to learn the game or hone your short game skills. The driving range was completely renovated and within the “floor” of the practice area, six tees were created along with six target greens built to USGA specifications. The club named the course #miniDunes and in keeping with the theme to appeal to a younger audience, while increasing social media awareness, might just be the first course in the country to incorporate a hashtag in its name.
Play
A true testament to its greatness, Ak-Chin Southern Dunes has proudly played host to numerous major tournaments and events. Since its celebrated opening in 2002, serving as an annual U.S. Open qualifying site, The PING Southwest Section PGA Section Championship, several top collegiate Men’s and Women’s golf tournaments and home of early stage Korn Ferry Tour Qualifying School. Simply stated, Ak-Chin Southern Dunes doesn’t just offer golf; it presents golfers of all skill levels and abilities with the very best of golf in the desert.
Good Eats
Don’t forget about Arroyo Grille, which offers traditional club favorites combined with modern twists on Ak-Chin’s traditional fare. Rotating evening chef specials make Arroyo Grille one of the region’s most popular dining venues. Even if you don’t take in a full meal, the Grille is worth the stop for happy hour libations or to take in a stunning desert sunset while enjoying specialty craft beers.
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