Overview
JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa is a large desert resort on the western edge of Tucson, and its golf is played at The Club at Starr Pass. The club has three nine-hole courses, all designed by Arnold Palmer, set against Sonoran Desert scenery with mountains rising behind the fairways.
The three nines are the Gambler (3,490 yards, par 36), the Palmer (3,241 yards, par 35) and the Pioneer (3,512 yards, par 36). The resort invites golfers to play all three nines, each with its own character. The club has a clubhouse, a driving range, a putting green, rental equipment, a golf school and lessons.
Off the course the resort is built for longer stays. The Hashani Spa offers massages, facials, body treatments and a saline lap pool, and there is a fitness center for guests aged 18 and over. Families head for the water collection, which includes the Starr Canyon lazy river, the Monsoon Falls water slide and the reflection pools, with private cabanas to rent. Guests can also hike and bike the desert trails around the property.
Tees & scorecard
| Tee | Yards | Par |
|---|---|---|
| Gambler nine | 3,490 | 36 |
| Palmer nine | 3,241 | 35 |
| Pioneer nine | 3,512 | 36 |
The resort lists one length and par for each of its three nine-hole courses; it does not say which tee the lengths are measured from or publish ratings.
Source: official scorecard
Facilities
Good to know
Golf is part of the resort offer: hotel guests can book rounds, and the resort day pass for non-staying visitors also lists golf among its activities. Tee times run from 6:00am to 6:00pm.
Tee times are booked through The Club at Starr Pass, at 3645 W. Starr Pass Boulevard, by phone on +1 520-900-8210 or through the resort's booking link.
The resort is on the west side of Tucson, near the University of Arizona, Saguaro National Park and Old Tucson. Tucson Estates Golf Course and El Rio Golf Course are both about 5 km away.
History & highlights
All 27 holes carry Arnold Palmer's name as designer, so every combination you play is a Palmer layout.
Creosote Sonoran Kitchen & Cocktails serves New Sonoran cooking with a modern American twist, with panoramic views of the golf course.
The resort runs daily Sonoran Desert traditions, from a Native American morning ceremony and a guided desert hike to a tequila toast at sunset.
Tips for first-timers
- Tee times begin at 6:00am and the last are at 6:00pm, so you can choose an early start or a late-day round.
- Ask for a room with a golf view if you are staying; some rooms have a patio or balcony facing the course.
- Travelling light is easy: the club rents equipment and offers lessons and a golf school.
- After golf, the Hashani Spa needs an appointment, so book treatments when you book your tee time.
Map & location
The Club at Starr Pass is at 3645 W. Starr Pass Boulevard, Tucson, AZ 85745, next to the resort. Tucson Estates Golf Course and El Rio Golf Course are both about 5 km away.
FAQ
How many holes are there at Starr Pass?
27, in three nine-hole courses: the Gambler, the Palmer and the Pioneer.
Who designed the Starr Pass courses?
Arnold Palmer designed all three nines.
How long are the nines?
The Gambler is 3,490 yards (par 36), the Palmer 3,241 yards (par 35) and the Pioneer 3,512 yards (par 36).
What are the tee time hours?
Tee times are available from 6:00am to 6:00pm.
Is there a driving range and practice area?
Yes. The club has a driving range and a putting green, plus lessons, a golf school and rental equipment.
Where can I eat near the course?
Creosote Sonoran Kitchen & Cocktails has panoramic golf course views. The resort also has Signature Grill, Salud, Passaggio, Plunge Poolside Dining and the JW Market coffee house.
Sources
Facts checked 23 October 2026. We only list details we could confirm on the sources above; anything else is left out.