St. George, Utah isn’t just about sandstone cliffs, slot canyons, and sunny hikes. If you know where to look, it’s also a golfer’s paradise. Whether you’re here for a long weekend or lucky enough to call Southern Utah home, the area’s golf scene is something special. We’re talking year-round sunshine, red rock backdrops that look like they were hand-painted, and courses that rival any you’d find in Arizona or Palm Springs. For travelers wondering about the best things to do in St. George, Utah, a round of golf should be high on the list. And not just any round, this part of the state is loaded with options that range from luxury resort experiences to relaxed, public-access courses with unforgettable views.
The goal of this guide is simple. We’re going to walk through three of the top golf courses in St. George, Utah. We’ll give you a feel for the vibe of each one, what makes them special, and a few tips for making the most of your time on the tee box. No fluff. Just real insights into golfing in Southern Utah, and how to book your spot without stress.
Entrada at Snow Canyon: Private Access, Premium Experience
If you’ve spent any time researching the best golf courses in Southern Utah, Entrada comes up fast. It’s not just the name recognition, it’s the experience. Nestled right at the edge of Snow Canyon State Park, Entrada’s dramatic lava rock landscape makes it feel more like a fantasy film set than a typical golf course. This is not a public course, so you’ll need to be a member or book a stay at the Inn at Entrada to gain access. For many golfers, it’s worth the splurge. Think of it like an all-inclusive day pass to a bucket-list course.
Entrada is known for its pristine conditions, exceptional service, and a layout that keeps you guessing from start to finish. Designed by Johnny Miller and Fred Bliss, it combines strategic challenges with moments that feel like pure magic. The dark volcanic rock contrasts sharply with the emerald fairways, giving every hole a sense of drama. It’s not the most forgiving course in terms of rough, and if you miss the fairway, don’t expect to get lucky. But that’s part of the fun. It forces you to focus, to think, and to appreciate every shot, even the bad ones.
There’s a level of peace here that’s hard to describe. You’re surrounded by quiet desert, with canyon walls in the distance and a course layout that never feels rushed. Entrada isn’t just about a good round. It’s about being fully immersed in your environment. That alone makes it one of the most memorable golf experiences in the state.
Sand Hollow Resort: The Desert’s Greatest Hits Album
If Entrada is elegance, Sand Hollow is adrenaline. Located about 25 minutes from downtown St. George, Sand Hollow has carved out its place as one of the best golf destinations in the Southwest. And it’s not just hype. This place is visually outrageous. The Championship Course plays like a guided tour of red rock wonder, especially once you reach the back nine. Designed by John Fought, the layout flows naturally through the desert terrain, blending elevation, exposure, and endless views into something unforgettable.
The front nine starts strong, but the back nine is where the magic happens. Hole 11, in particular, might ruin all other golf holes for you. It hugs a cliff’s edge with nothing but open air to your right and a view that stretches into forever. The fairways are generous, but that doesn’t mean you can swing blind. Wind is a major factor, especially in the afternoons. Shot placement matters, and the greens will challenge you even when you land them perfectly. Bring extra balls. Not because the course is unfair, but because you’ll be too busy gawking at the scenery to care where your last shot ended up.
Sand Hollow also offers a Links Course, which is flatter, more traditional, and great for those who want to play a second round without pushing the stamina limits. It’s especially good for walking, and while it’s not as flashy as the Championship layout, it still offers views and variety. Both courses are public, though advanced booking is a must if you want a decent tee time during peak season.
Coral Canyon: Playable, Public, and Picture-Worthy
For a course that’s consistently good and extremely accessible, Coral Canyon hits the mark. Located in Washington, just a few minutes off I-15, this course is the easiest to reach from most of the hotels in St. George. It doesn’t rely on shock-and-awe design. Instead, it offers a well-rounded golf experience that’s perfect for beginners, returning players, and those who want a beautiful course without too much drama.
Coral Canyon was designed by Keith Foster and features wide fairways, challenging greens, and a few creative hazards that keep things interesting. The desert scenery is still very much part of the experience, but it doesn’t distract from playability. The par-3 sixth hole is a local favorite, requiring a shot across a ravine to a green framed by sandstone cliffs. It’s just enough pressure to make you nervous without ruining your confidence for the rest of the round.
Coral Canyon also stands out for its friendly pricing and solid practice facilities. The range, putting green, and chipping area are all well maintained, making it easy to show up early and actually warm up. The staff is laid-back, the pace of play is usually good, and the overall vibe is casual but professional. For travelers who want to squeeze in a round between sightseeing, it’s a fantastic option.
How to Book Tee Times and Avoid Frustration
Golfing in Southern Utah isn’t a secret anymore, which means you’ll need to plan ahead. The best tee times, especially in spring and fall, can fill up days or even weeks in advance. Entrada, as mentioned, requires a stay at the Inn or membership. Sand Hollow and Coral Canyon are both public, but that doesn’t mean you can just show up. Your best bet is to book online directly through each course’s website. Some third-party apps offer discounts, but they often have fewer time slots available.
If you’re flexible, twilight rounds can be a smart move. Not only are they usually cheaper, but they also give you that golden hour lighting that makes the courses feel even more cinematic. Just make sure you’re moving at a good pace so you don’t get stuck finishing in the dark.
Also, don’t underestimate the summer heat. July and August rounds should be played early in the morning. Expect discounts during those months, but bring water, sunscreen, and maybe even a cold towel if you want to stay comfortable. Winter, on the other hand, can be a hidden gem. Mornings can be chilly, but the afternoons are usually perfect for golf. Less traffic, lower prices, and a different kind of quiet.
Why St. George Golf Should Be on Your Travel Radar
For travelers looking for things to do in St. George, Utah beyond the hiking and sightseeing, golf offers a slower pace with high visual payoff. The mix of public and private options means you can design your trip around your budget and skill level. Whether you’re the kind of player who keeps a spreadsheet of every stroke or someone who just wants to swing a club with a good view, you’ll find your sweet spot here.
And the best part? These courses aren’t just great in the context of Utah. They hold their own on a national level. Entrada, Sand Hollow, and Coral Canyon regularly appear in rankings of the best courses in the West, and for good reason. They don’t just play well, they stay with you. You’ll find yourself thinking about that one tee shot at sunset, or the way the red cliffs lit up behind the green, long after your trip is over.
Southern Utah’s golf scene is just getting started. As more players discover the region, new courses, updated facilities, and higher levels of service continue to roll out. But for now, these three stand as the core of what makes golfing in St. George worth the trip. So grab your clubs, book a tee time, and experience one of the most scenic and surprising golf destinations in the country.
