Mesa Country Club

Golf Course Description

This desert course, built on the natural terrain, features some rolling hills and a few trees that can affect your shots. In addition, many of the greens are guarded by deep bunkers. Jack Snyder redesigned the course in 1986. This club hosted a PGA Sectional Tournament in 1993.

In the pantheon of Arizona private golf, there are a few classic city clubs – Arizona Country Club, Phoenix Country Club, Paradise Valley Country Club, Tucson Country Club, and, of course, Mesa Country Club. All constructed at nearly the same time in the mid-1940’s, these five courses exemplified innovation when they were first built, and they define classic now approaching seven decades later.

Located along the borders of Tempe and Scottsdale in northwest Mesa, Mesa Country Club is a traditional gem in every sense. A completely core layout set among towering eucalyptus and pines, the holes move left and right on this 6,800-yard, par-72 routing (view our Photo Gallery to see the course). Instead of defending itself strictly through length, the course challenges players’ strategic abilities with its subtle movements and lightning-fast postage stamp greens. While the William “Billy” Bell design is perhaps best known for its dramatic 10th tee reminiscent of the opening hole at Riviera Country Club in Los Angeles (another Bell project under the guidance of George Thomas), many remember the course for its four distinct “road holes” which add a charm not seen in modern clubs.

Unlike its relatively flat brethren, Mesa Country Club skirts up and down the plateau from which the city got its name, creating dramatic elevation changes throughout the twists and turns of the course. This topography – combined with a club campus which includes three dining options, six lighted tennis courts, a junior Olympic pool, spa, and golf practice facilities – makes Mesa Country Club the home for discerning players from Mesa, Scottsdale, Tempe, Phoenix, Gilbert and Chandler.

Mesa Country Club is a Member owned and operated private facility with access limited to Members and guests of Members. Equity, Junior, Seasonal, Sports, Social, and Corporate Members are currently being accepted. The Club is also available for weddings, banquets, or other private events for both Members and non-Members. To learn more about Mesa Country Club please browse the site, and then be sure to contact us at [email protected] or 480-964-1797 to arrange a tour.

Created in 1948, Mesa Country Club was designed by legendary golf architect William “Billy” Bell. Bell is best known for his work in San Diego at the Torrey Pines South Course and La Jolla Country Club, however his portfolio extended into Arizona at both Mesa Country Club and the renowned original design of Papago Park. In the 1970’s long-time head golf professional and respected architect Richard “Dick” Turner made numerous enhancements to the original Bell design at Mesa, including adding length to several holes and moving bunkers to be in play for longer hitters (Turner performed similar work at Pinnacle Peak Country Club in Scottsdale).

The 60+ year history of the Club is evidenced by the stunning mature trees that line every fairway. The course is reminiscent of other great designs of that era, with holes that move both left and right, par-3’s of a variety of lengths and orientations, and reachable risk/reward par-5’s that bring eagles and “others” into play.

In addition to the towering eucalyptus which frame the course, the most notable features are the elevation changes enabled by the plateau which divides the upper and lower holes and the four “road holes” that cross the entryway to the Club. Some of the smallest greens in the state protect the course from low scores, particularly on holes like 8, 9, and 13 where the back-to-front slopes are substantial.

Beyond just independently interesting golf holes, Mesa Country Club is a compelling golf course – a story that unfolds with every new tee shot and approach. Furthermore, the course is what many others are not these days – eminently walkable. Short distances from green to tee help to keep a pace of four hours or better at all times, and the location of the clubhouse means you can play 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, or 18 holes depending on how much time you have.

If private club membership is something you are considering, we can assure you that the financial commitment will not prohibit you from becoming part of Mesa Country Club. Fundamental to our Club’s sustainability has been its affordability, and we are confident you will be pleasantly surprised to learn just how accessible private club life can be.

Mesa Country Club is a Member owned and operated private facility with access limited to Members and guests of Members. To learn more about which membership might be right for you, contact us at [email protected] or 480-964-1797 to arrange a tour.