Las Vegas may be known for its glitz, high-stakes action, and desert nightlife—but golfers know it for something else entirely: its unbeatable courses. From lush fairways tucked into the desert landscape to public greens that feel like private retreats, top ranked Las Vegas golf courses offer a world-class experience. Whether you're looking to improve your swing, soak in mountain views, or just play a round under clear Nevada skies, Sin City has a course with your name on it.
Below, we break down the top ten golf courses in Las Vegas—both public and private—and explain why they deserve a spot on your bucket list.
1. Shadow Creek: A Legendary Experience
Shadow Creek isn't just a course—it’s an experience. Designed by Tom Fazio and originally built as a private oasis in the Mojave Desert, this ultra-exclusive destination tops nearly every list of top ranked Las Vegas golf courses. What makes it stand out?
- Limited access (guests must stay at an MGM Resorts property)
- Personalized caddie service
- Immaculate landscaping with waterfalls, streams, and pines
It’s not easy to get on, but if you can—this is the Vegas course that will spoil you for life.
2. Cascata: Luxury in Boulder City
Cascata, just 30 minutes from the Strip, is a public course that plays like a private escape. A par-72 Rees Jones design, Cascata delivers sweeping mountain views and dramatic elevation changes. What sets it apart?
- On-site clubhouse waterfall
- First-class service
- Challenging yet fair layout
For players who want luxury without the exclusivity of Shadow Creek, Cascata is one of the best public golf courses in Las Vegas.
3. Wynn Golf Club: Vegas Luxury on the Strip
Smack dab on the Strip, Wynn Golf Club is unique among the top ten golf courses in Las Vegas for its location and level of luxury. Redesigned by Tom Fazio in 2019, it features:
- Lush, tropical landscaping
- Signature 18th hole waterfall
- Professional-level conditions
This is one of the few resort courses where you can go from poker to putting in 10 minutes flat.
4. TPC Summerlin: Home of the Shriners Open
TPC Summerlin is best known as the host of the PGA Tour’s Shriners Children’s Open, but it also caters to those looking for a challenge. As a private course, you’ll need an invite, but it's worth the effort. Key features include:
- Lightning-fast greens
- Precision-required fairways
- Rich tournament history
It’s no surprise this course is always mentioned when discussing top ranked Las Vegas golf courses.
5. Paiute Golf Resort – Wolf Course
The Paiute Golf Resort features three award-winning Pete Dye-designed courses, but the Wolf Course is the crown jewel. It's the longest course in Nevada and delivers:
- Dramatic desert views
- Strategic bunkers and water hazards
- Perfect playing conditions year-round
If you're ranking the best public golf courses in Las Vegas, Paiute’s Wolf Course earns a top-five spot—every time.
6. Bears Best Las Vegas
Bear’s Best offers a unique twist—it’s a compilation course featuring 18 handpicked holes from Jack Nicklaus’s favorite designs across the West. It's fun, creative, and undeniably memorable. Golfers love:
- Great condition and pace of play
- Excellent practice facilities
- Memorable par-3s and par-5s
Ideal for both mid-handicappers and low scorers looking for variety, this one ranks among the top ten golf courses in Las Vegas year after year.
7. Rio Secco Golf Club
Built into the foothills of the Black Mountains, Rio Secco combines desert terrain with traditional course design. The Rees Jones layout features:
- Unforgettable elevation changes
- Signature holes like the par-3 16th
- One of the best golf academies in Nevada
It’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike, particularly those who appreciate a strategic challenge.
Looking for A Stay & Play Deal?
If you wish to enjoy scenic desert views in the Arizona-Nevada area, make sure to check out Laughlin Ranch Golf Club's stay and play partners for the one of the best accommodation and golf experiences.
8. Las Vegas National Golf Club
You don't always need glitz to find greatness. Las Vegas National is one of the city’s most historic courses—it hosted the 1967 Tournament of Champions and was once a favorite of Frank Sinatra. Its key qualities?
- Central location near the Strip
- Walkable layout
- Reasonable rates for all skill levels
This course is often overlooked but holds its own among the best public golf courses in Las Vegas.
9. Bali Hai Golf Club
Bali Hai brings the South Pacific to the heart of Las Vegas. This themed course delivers:
- Thousands of palm trees and tropical plants
- White sand bunkers
- Unmatched convenience for Strip-goers
It’s popular for corporate outings and casual rounds, but don’t let the pretty backdrop fool you—it plays with bite.
10. Angel Park Golf Club
Angel Park rounds out the top ten golf courses in Las Vegas by delivering solid value, great views, and variety. Featuring two Arnold Palmer-designed courses (Palm and Mountain), Angel Park is ideal for:
- Golfers of all skill levels
- Scenic desert play
- Affordable tee times and night golf
For players who want a laid-back but high-quality experience, this public course ticks all the boxes.
Why Laughlin Ranch Is Worth the Short Drive
Beyond the top ranked Las Vegas golf courses
While these Las Vegas spots are legendary, there’s one course that deserves to be part of the conversation—Laughlin Ranch Golf Club. Just 90 minutes south of Vegas, Laughlin Ranch delivers:
- Award-winning golf with panoramic Mojave views
- Spa in Laughlin and dining amenities to match any resort
- Affordable rates with a public-welcome feel
If you're planning a golf trip to Vegas, carve out a day for the drive. Laughlin Ranch stands tall among the best public golf courses in the region—with the bonus of less traffic and more relaxation.
Final Thoughts
Where desert golf meets high-end experiences
Whether you're a weekend golfer or a scratch player chasing challenges, the top ranked Las Vegas golf courses offer something for everyone. From Shadow Creek’s exclusivity to Angel Park’s accessibility, there’s a course in Vegas that matches your vibe, your skill, and your budget.
And don’t forget—great golf doesn’t stop at the city limits. Just down the road, Laughlin Ranch is ready to welcome you with championship fairways, warm hospitality, and a view that rivals any skyline in Vegas.
So pack your clubs, check your tee times, and get ready to experience desert golf at its finest.