The Boulders
Luxury resort nestled among 12-million-year-old granite boulders in Scottsdale, offering spa, golf, and unique desert charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps for outdoor fun
The Boulders
Best Time
Pleasant temps for outdoor fun
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Luxury resort nestled among 12-million-year-old granite boulders in Scottsdale, offering spa, golf, and unique desert charm.
"Majestic views, incredible service, and a truly unique desert oasis experience."
🚗 Golf Cart Shuttle Service
Utilize the convenient golf cart shuttle for easy transport around the expansive resort grounds. :electric_plug:
💧 Stay Hydrated in the Heat
Staff often provide free water, but always carry your own, especially during warmer months. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Majestic Boulders
Throughout the resort
Towering 12-million-year-old granite formations create a unique, awe-inspiring desert landscape.
The Boulders Spa
Spa Wing
A sanctuary of relaxation with a renowned gym, sauna, steam rooms, and rejuvenating treatments.
Championship Golf Courses
Golf Club
Two world-class courses offering challenging play amidst stunning Sonoran Desert scenery.
Adobe Casitas
Guest Accommodations
Luxurious and unique accommodations nestled within the natural boulder landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Desert Heat
Book Spa & Golf in Advance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Golf Cart Shuttle Service
Utilize the convenient golf cart shuttle for easy transport around the expansive resort grounds. :electric_plug:
💧 Stay Hydrated in the Heat
Staff often provide free water, but always carry your own, especially during warmer months. :droplet:
🍽️ Consider Off-Site Dining
Some guests suggest exploring dining options outside the resort for variety and potentially lower costs. :forkandknife:
📸 Capture the Views
The unique landscape is perfect for photos; consider a professional shoot to immortalize your stay. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Golf Cart Shuttle Service
Utilize the convenient golf cart shuttle for easy transport around the expansive resort grounds. :electric_plug:
💧 Stay Hydrated in the Heat
Staff often provide free water, but always carry your own, especially during warmer months. :droplet:
🍽️ Consider Off-Site Dining
Some guests suggest exploring dining options outside the resort for variety and potentially lower costs. :forkandknife:
📸 Capture the Views
The unique landscape is perfect for photos; consider a professional shoot to immortalize your stay. :camerawithflash:
🛏️ Book Suites for Best Experience
For ultimate comfort and views, consider booking a suite or casita. :bed:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Guests consistently praise The Boulders Resort & Spa for its breathtaking desert scenery, unique boulder formations, and excellent service. The spa and golf courses are frequently highlighted as major attractions. While most experiences are overwhelmingly positive, a few reviews mention minor maintenance issues or concerns about cleanliness in specific areas.
"Highly recommend this Hotel/Resort. A 7 day stay was $1200. Not bad at all. The valet guys take you to your little piece of paradise in a golf cart. It's amazing waking up to the wildlife every morning and the cactus and amazing views. The guys working there are always checking on people in the heat, handing out lots of free water. Love the service and the lovely scenery.
Hilton does things right."
Sarah Poindexter
"Came here on a company retreat. We stayed 2 days and never wanted to leave! This place is so beautiful. We saw small wildlife on the property which only adds to the charm of this resort. The people here were very nice and accommodating. Our company had an evening taco dinner at one of their outside venues. The staff was wonderful and the food was amazing! Earlier we played pickleball on one of their many courts while some of our other co-workers played golf on their world-class courses. We had a wonderful time and experience here!"
Jason McGee
"Such incredible views all around! The service was excellent all around and the staff went out of their way to make you feel welcomed! The spa had a great gym, sauna, steam rooms, etc. Would highly recommend for a romantic getaway or just to get away and rejuvenate."
Hector Gonzalez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Boulders Resort & Spa is located in Carefree, AZ, just north of Scottsdale. The closest major airport is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), about a 45-minute drive away. Renting a car is the most convenient way to reach the resort and explore the surrounding areas. Ride-sharing services are also available from the airport.
Yes, the resort offers a complimentary golf cart shuttle service to transport guests around the expansive property. This is particularly helpful given the desert terrain and the distances between amenities.
While the resort is a destination in itself, having a car is recommended for exploring Scottsdale and nearby towns like Cave Creek. Ride-sharing services can be used for shorter trips or evenings out.
The Boulders Resort is located in Carefree, AZ, which is about a 30-40 minute drive north of Phoenix and Scottsdale. It offers a more secluded desert experience while still being accessible to city attractions.
Public transportation options directly to The Boulders Resort are limited. It is primarily designed for guests arriving by car or utilizing resort shuttles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Boulders Resort & Spa is a private resort, so entry is typically for registered guests or those with reservations for dining, spa, or golf. Day passes for pool access are not generally available.
The resort itself is accessible for guests at all times. However, specific amenities like the spa, restaurants, and golf courses have their own operating hours, which can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.
Room rates can vary significantly based on the season, room type, and availability. Some guests have reported prices around $1200 for a 7-day stay, while others mention using Hilton Honors points for high-value redemptions.
Yes, The Boulders Spa is a major attraction. Appointments are highly recommended, especially for couples massages or during peak times, to ensure availability. +1
The resort occasionally offers packages that may include dining credits, spa services, or golf rounds. Following their social media or checking their website for promotions is advisable.
🎫 ⛳ Onsite Experience
Guests can enjoy swimming in multiple pools, playing golf on two championship courses, indulging in spa treatments, hiking desert trails, and observing local wildlife. Dining at the resort's restaurants is also a popular activity. +2
The pools are generally heated, making them enjoyable year-round. However, during colder winter months, the water temperature might be cooler.
The resort is situated in the Sonoran Desert and you can often spot various desert wildlife, including birds, lizards, and small mammals.
Absolutely! The unique setting, luxurious amenities, and serene atmosphere make it a popular choice for romantic getaways and couples' retreats.
Complimentary Wi-Fi is typically available for guests throughout the resort, allowing you to stay connected during your stay.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The resort features several dining venues, ranging from casual poolside cafes to more upscale restaurants, offering a variety of cuisines. +1
While prices can be on the higher side, as expected at a luxury resort, some guests found them reasonable, especially for poolside service.
Some room packages or rates may include breakfast. It's advisable to check the specific booking details or inquire about breakfast packages when making your reservation.
Most upscale resorts like The Boulders are accustomed to dietary requests and usually offer vegetarian and vegan options or can prepare them upon request. It's best to check with the restaurant directly.
Room service is typically available at luxury resorts like The Boulders, offering convenience for guests who prefer to dine in their rooms.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic granite boulders themselves, the desert landscape with cacti, the golf courses, and the resort's architecture offer stunning photographic opportunities. The views from higher vantage points are particularly breathtaking. +1
Many guests find it worthwhile to hire a professional photographer to capture the unique desert scenery and family moments, especially given the resort's majestic setting.
Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh due to the desert sun.
Yes, you can photograph the local wildlife, but always maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing the animals.
Drone usage is typically restricted at resorts and private properties for privacy and safety reasons. It's essential to check the resort's specific drone policy before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a casita or suite for more space. While the resort has dining options, packing some kid-friendly snacks or planning for meals that cater to younger palates might be helpful. The golf cart shuttle can also be an exciting way for kids to get around the property.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider booking packages that might include meals or activities, or look for special promotions. While dining at the resort can be pricey, exploring off-site dining options in Scottsdale or Carefree can help manage food costs.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Staying in a private casita offers an intimate experience. The resort's unique architecture and the natural beauty of the boulders provide a sense of seclusion and wonder, making it an unforgettable destination for anniversaries or special celebrations.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Boulders Resort & Spa: A Unique Desert Oasis
The resort is part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, promising a high standard of service and amenities. It's a place where luxury meets the rugged beauty of the Sonoran Desert, making it a memorable destination for relaxation and recreation. The sheer scale of the boulders is a constant reminder of the ancient geological forces that shaped this remarkable area.
Whether you're seeking a tranquil spa retreat, a challenging round of golf, or simply a place to reconnect with nature, The Boulders provides an unparalleled setting. The resort's commitment to integrating with its environment is evident in every aspect, from the design of the rooms to the activities offered.
Activities and Amenities at The Boulders
Beyond golf and spa, the resort features four swimming pools, providing ample space to cool off and soak up the Arizona sun. Hiking trails wind through the property, allowing guests to explore the unique desert flora and fauna up close.
Dining is another highlight, with multiple restaurants offering diverse culinary experiences. From casual poolside dining to elegant evening meals, guests can savor delicious cuisine while enjoying the resort's ambiance.
Navigating Potential Downsides
One significant concern raised by a reviewer involved the discovery of rodent droppings in a room, leading to a less-than-ideal experience. While the resort offered compensation, the presence of such issues, especially if known, was deemed unacceptable.
Despite these isolated incidents, the majority of feedback highlights excellent service, stunning scenery, and a rejuvenating atmosphere. The resort's management appears responsive to feedback, with many guests finding their stays to be exceptional and reflective of a five-star experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit