If you want to play a unique golf course at a special resort with great stories behind it, Tubac Golf Resort is your destination. Built on the historic 1789 Otero Ranch, the Tubac Golf Resort & Spa is still a working ranch, albeit with 27 holes of fabulous golf on it. And if that history, which is evident throughout the 500-acre property wasn't enough, much of the classic comedy "Tin Cup" movie, starring Kevin Costner, was filmed there. Many of the movie scenes are clearly pointed out throughout the course, too, so golfers can put themselves in the golf shoes of lead character Roy McAvoy (Costner) was, for example, when as a caddie on a dare, he hit the green in two on the par-5 fourth hole on the Rancho Nine at Tubac. More than that, though, Tubac is an enjoyable ride from start to finish. With a great variety of holes, this parkland layout is framed by the the Santa Rita and Tumacacori mountain ranges. Established The ranch was the first Spanish Land Grant in the Southwest and now it provides a relaxing retreat for golfers and guests while preserving its history as a ranch and movie location. As for the course, Lawrence designed the original 18 holes in 1959 around the Santa Cruz River, while another nine (eight holes designed by Ken Kavanugh) were added in 2006. The Otero and Anzo nines are around 3,200 yards from the tips, and there are four sets of tees on each hole. The Rancho nine is more than 3,600 yards from the back set of tees. Unlike most courses in Arizona, Tubac isn't a desert course at all, with plenty of ponds, streams, trees and bunkers on a rolling terrain. The resort offers a well-stocked golf shop with plenty of golf supplies, logoed apparel and gifts. Tubac also has terrific practice facilities and lesson programs. And dining throughout the resort, which includes the rustic, western-themed Stables Ranch Grille, is top notch.
