11 Best 5 Star Hotels in Scottsdale

‘The West’s Most Western Town’ of Scottsdale is the more freewheeling alternative of the capital Phoenix, which is just a few miles west of it. This desert town has evolved into a laidback luxury sanctuary in the last few years, with majestic hiking trails, top-tier golf courses, and a slew of luxe spa resorts and hotels. That’s why when we went looking for the perfect 5-star hotel in Scottsdale, we were surprised to find a whole variety of lodging options. They ranged from sprawling spa resorts in the cacti-studded Sonoran scenery to urban-chic five-stars offering opulence and sumptuousness in the very heart of Urbania. Moreover, they all boasted the slickest and sleekest of amenities, including everything from mountain-facing infinity pools to some of the best spas in the state.

However, they all had one thing in common: they all amplified Scottsdale’s culinary scene, outdoor beauty, and taste for adventure. To that end, here are the most luxurious five stars for a memorable stay in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Hotel Adeline Scottsdale

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We begin the list with Hotel Adeline Scottsdale, where those craving perfection and true luxury will love staying, as they are the pillars of the party. This fantastic hotel was the perfect gateway for us as we wanted to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Sonoran Desert. Hotel Adeline welcomed us to unforgettable moments with its eclectic and colorful décor to its exciting activities. So, all we did during our two-day stay here was immerse ourselves in fun and feel the good vibes.

On bright sunny days, we’d spend our day swimming at the inspiring pool area, followed by a lounge on the daybeds or cabanas. It was the centerpiece of the property, surrounded by lawn games, loungers, and cabanas. So, it was very easy to lose a day here! Aside from the 24-hour fitness center, we loved that there were two restaurants, including a poolside one that doled out casual fare and cocktails. Plus, we’d enjoy aperitifs and nightcaps at the bar.

The thoughtful guest rooms and suites invited us to soak in the memorable vacation moments and were designed with comfort and style in mind. Besides, all rooms come with elegant furniture, unique artwork, and classic touches. We even had a seating area to relax and unwind after a busy day.

The Global Ambassador

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Decadent luxury meets boutique style meets decadent luxury at this jewel of a hotel, the Global Ambassador. While technically in Phoenix, it lies where Paradise Valley, Scottsdale, and Phoenix meet, so why not include the place where we’ve had one of the best luxury staying experiences? That’s because this was one of the region’s most hotly anticipated new luxury hotels, and has lived up to the hype since it opened at the end of 2023.

We were awestruck from the minute we stepped into the hotel, whether it was the spectacular rooftop, the Barbiecore pool, or the polished lobby. Dining is a highlight here with five restaurants on the property, including a swanky lobby bar, an upscale French steakhouse, and a casual French bistro-inspired lobby market. The best of them all is the rooftop bar and restaurant, a sun-kissed space with a gorgeous outdoor bar, an elevated Mediterranean menu, and a DJ spinning tunes frequently. Of course, the pool and its beachy bar were our other favorite, as was the Augustinus Bader spa that’s exclusively offered only in the state. While there’s a USD 35 resort fee, it includes in-room perks like nightly turndown and Dyson hairdryers, fitness center and classes, pool use and towels, and Wi-Fi.

While rooms and suites differ mostly by views, we stayed in the king room with direct views of Camelback Mountain and a balcony larger than the usual rooms. We loved the minibar with creative, ready-to-drink cocktails and high-end Supergoop and Augustinus Bader products. A marble bathroom with Byredo bath products, original artwork, and hardwood floors rounded up the room.

Adero Scottsdale Resort, Autograph Collection

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We wanted to take advantage of the fact that the Sonoran Desert has some of the darkest skies in the state. What better place to do that than at Adero Scottsdale Resort? The luxury resort boasts a splendid Dark Sky Experience, as it’s the only Autograph Collection Resort in a certified Dark Sky Zone. As outdoor enthusiasts, we loved that this luxurious hotel was the perfect base for biking and hiking in neighboring Adero Canyon. That, combined with spectacular views of the McDowell Range and Four Peaks, made this one of our favorite abodes in Scottsdale.

The setting is quite stunning; a white stucco exterior overlooking 17 acres of tiered oasis of waterfalls, swimming pools, desert plants, and lush grassy areas, complete with sweeping mountain views. After a glass of bubbly at check-in, the staff offered us complimentary binoculars — we were in a Dark Sky Reserve, after all. What’s more, there were telescopes stationed at key points all over, from where we could spy magical views of the night sky over the Sonoran Desert. Two swimming pools, one adult-only, a hot tub, and The Spa at ADERO were perfect for indulging in laidback wellness and unwinding. The outdoors is also well-used, with the golf club next door and pickleball and tennis courts on the property. Free bikes, concierge service, a 24-hour fitness center, and two restaurants and bars make up the rest of the amenities.

We loved that all rooms and suites here came with private balconies, thus affording mountain views on both sides. Contemporary decor, pillowtop beds, Keurig coffeemakers, and denim blue chairs make for a wonderful stay.

Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows

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If there’s an Andaz outpost in the city, it has to be on the list of luxury hotels, doesn’t it? Welcome to Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows, a fun-filled and funky Paradise Valley abode with unobstructed views of the Camelback. We loved the offbeat Palm Springs-meets-Santa Fe minimalist architecture and decor, which also drew on local talent.

If there was ever a live demo of ‘the ‘hype,’ it would be at this property. The staff is very evidently jazzed about the Andaz brand, which was apparent right from the minute we stepped into the resort. They even offered us complimentary beverages as we checked in informally in a living room-like area. A 24-hour fitness center is in focus, but the winner for us was the lovely Palo Verde Spa & Apothecary. We chose the signature massage, which even concocted the ideal aromatherapy oils for us using an app. Finally, the Weft & Warp Art Bar + Kitchen served all meals, including cocktails and drinks.

The architecture of the 201 ‘casitas’ here was inspired by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s design, whose winter home, Taliesin West, is one of the top things to do in Arizona. Other highlights of the casitas include magnificent marble showers, local art, Eero Saarinen furniture, and fantastic terraces.

Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia

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Most romantic. Next on the list of the city’s best hotels is the Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia, a 5-star hotel in Scottsdale, Arizona, with a twist. Romance was the name of the game at this fabulous resort, which was akin to a charming Andalusian village, but with the sleekest and finest modern amenities imaginable. Tucked in the heart of the picturesque Paradise Valley, this Omni outpost boasted a practically storybook setting.

With bricked terraces, trellised walkways, arched porticos, spindly palm trees and lush vegetation, winding walkways, and fire pits juxtaposed against the handsome red rock, the resort brimmed with romance and character. Besides uncomplainable five-star service, it was the amenities that took our breath away. When we wanted to unwind, we’d enjoy a swim in one of the 3 swimming pools before lounging with a cocktail poolside in one of the 23 cabanas. While there was a 24-hour fitness center, we wanted to pamper ourselves to the hilt at the Moroccan-inspired spa Joya, which we did. The outdoor spaces were amazing for indulging in unique versions of yoga and exercise. Finally, four drinking and dining establishments were all culinary destinations, and they even had a café and a market.

With jewel-hued textiles, well-sticked minibars, plush beds, and marble bathrooms, the rooms and suites here were the epitome of luxury, especially since they were spacious too. Some quarters, like our ground-floor suite, not only offered us easy access to the pool but also had a private patio with splendid views of the idyllic landscape. It was the perfect place to kick back with a cup of joe or a glass of wine.

Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

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Best family-friendly hotel. The upscale mega-resort of Fairmont Scottsdale Princess occupies a city center location in North Scottsdale, just off the busy main north-south thoroughfare. We loved the design of this Sonoran Desert oasis, with smooth pathways meandering around Spanish Colonial-inspired buildings with arched doorways and lush manicured grounds. Even the grounds enhanced the indoor/outdoor design, with flaming fire pits, colorful gardens, and babbling lagoons.

While the two golf courses were the main draw here, the resort also boasted as many as six swimming pools. Of them, one had two waterslides and two of them were adult-only. The Trailblazers Kids Club was especially a highlight since the kids were kept engaged with themed adventures, life-sized Pac-Man, virtual reality games, sports, crafts, and whatnot. Meanwhile, we enjoyed some quiet time at the Well & Being Spa, which, as the name suggests, takes care of every aspect of your well-being. Four boutiques and a basketball court aside, there were five restaurants and bars, a mock western town for parties, and a Princess Navigator App that helped us get around the property. Not for nothing is this Fairmont outpost the largest and longest-running AAA Five Diamond property in Arizona!

With 750 rooms and suites, accommodation choices here abound, especially since all have Nespresso machines, marble bathrooms with bespoke bath products, and superb views. Our one-bedroom suite with a patio overlooking the lush grounds and had views of not just the pools but also the mountains in the distance.

Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, A Gurney’s Resort & Spa

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Best local vibe. There’s a lot to love about the Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, which sits in a coveted and enviable location on the side of Camelback Mountain. So, it afforded us unparalleled views of both the neighboring mountain ranges and the valley below. We especially loved the namesake cosseting calm of this resort.

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The aesthetic of the resort is California desert modernism-meets-traditional Southwest style, which is evident in the minimalistic decor, statement desert vegetation and shrubbery, and excellent service. Kudos to the front desk staff and the golf cart driving guides who made check-in a seamless process, especially since we’d had an arduous travel time. Outdoor activities were endless — pickleball courts, secluded tennis courts, biking and hiking on nearby trails, yoga and meditation, and whatnot. We especially loved the high-up infinity pool, the largest of many tiered pools and hot tubs sprinkled across the property. Three restaurants and bars also offered poolside service and in-room dining. Finally, we spent a good amount of time at the aptly-named Sanctuary spa, which was tucked away in a gorgeous garden and incorporated local ingredients into its many treatments.

With just 110 suites, casitas, and 8 private mountain villas, staying here was as intimate as it was exclusive. Even the entry-level standard casitas were generously spacious and had oversized soaking tubs in glam bathrooms. Our one-bedroom suite, however, was luxurious to boot, with an outdoor bathtub, while others also had outdoor showers or glass rock fireplaces. For larger groups or those who want to spend, the massive apartment-sized Mountain Casitas with private terraces and Camelback views are worth it.

JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa

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Time stands still at the sprawling JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa, a destination desert resort whose origins go back to 1936! Paradisiacal views, approachable luxury, and a superb service experience were what made our stay at this chic desert resort and spa so memorable.

Rejuvenation of the mind, body, and spirit is tantamount at this resort. That’s why the resort is home to the Spa at Camelback Inn, which is also one of the Southwest’s first destination resort spas. Since we’d scheduled more than 30-minute treatments, the spa fee was waived for us. Besides outdoor terraces, relaxation lounges, a whirlpool, dry and wet saunas, a boutique, and a fitness center, it also had an adults-only pool. This is apart from the main swimming pool, of course, where we unwound on the daybeds with views of the mountains. Moreover, the five restaurants here are all culinary destinations, especially the Lincoln Steakhouse, where we enjoyed pre-dinner drinks with stupendous views. A golf course, lots of lush playgrounds, and landscaped gardens make up the rest of the resort, all in tip-top shape.

“We loved our stay at this luxurious JW desert oasis, and didn’t feel like stepping out at all!”

WOW Travel

Rooms and suites were subtly luxurious, blending Old West with new; think a contemporary-chic southwest design, plush fabrics, desert hues, wet bars, and balconies/patios. That, along with marble bathrooms, slippers, cotton robes, and deep-soaking tubs certainly make this place the lap of luxury.

The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician, A Luxury Collection Resort

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Are you surprised to see the same resort mentioned twice? That’s because The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician, A Luxury Collection Resort, is a “resort-within-a-resort” for discerning luxury travelers. This exclusive boutique desert enclave is the exact opposite of the Phoenician; the vibe becomes more tranquil and time seems to slow down. Hence, it’s one of the best boutique hotels in Phoenix, AZ.

We were plied with celeb-worthy perks from the moment we arrived — greetings by name, priority reservations at all Phoenician restaurants, and welcome gifts. There were a bunch of complimentary perks, like tennis equipment and bicycle rentals, and provision-stocked backpacks for hikes. We even rode a turbo golf cart on a golf course safari at sunrise! Moreover, there are even evening helicopter rides for seeing birds-eye views of Camelback Mountain. We had the fun of choosing from seven pools to swim in and lounge beside and enjoyed playing games at the Athletic Club. Aside from the restaurant and bar, we also indulged in wine-tasting and mixology classes. massages. Did we mention the amazing massages and body treatments at The Phoenician Spa? Yep. 

We loved that all rooms and suites here had comfy patios overlooking either the golf course, the mountains, or the pools. The vibe was a blend of contemporary sensibilities and the beauty of the Sonoran Desert, with plush beds, locally sourced art, and sleek bathrooms. Additionally, our one-bedroom Canyon Suite was a seriously stylish space with a huge 55-inch flatscreen TV, marble bathrooms, and gorgeous mountain views from a huge furnished terrace.

The Phoenician, A Luxury Collection Resort

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Sitting at the base of the Camelback Mountain, The Phoenician, A Luxury Collection Resort, is a sepia-hued, cactus-peppered retreat. We loved the thoroughly Sonoran Desert oasis vibe, with sprawling lush lawns, native plants, palm trees, spouting statue fountains, and lots of curvy pools, like the Necklace Lake. Hence, it was truly an oasis in every sense of the word. It’s easy to love the Phoenician!

We could feel the luxury from the minute we entered, right from the Italian white marble in the lobby and gilded ceilings to the mother-of-pearl tiles in the serenity pool. What’s more, the down-to-earth staff was very warm and friendly and took care of our every need and whim. Moreover, the 250-acre grounds were our favorite, with colossal fountains and waterfalls, sculpted rock gardens with desert botanical plants, and an immaculate landscape of lush verdant lawns. When we wanted to unwind, the three-tiered Phoenician pools were perfect, complete with recreational pools on either side. Families will especially love the addition of the huge treehouse and kids’ splash pad with a water slide. The Phoenician golf course, athletic club, and spa, along with six amazing restaurants and bars, round up the amenities here.

Even entry-level rooms here measured 600 sq ft and boasted Frette linens, marble bathrooms, and balconies, while the suites felt like livable apartments. The latter even had hand-carved travertine fireplaces and magnificent mountain vistas. However, the pinnacle is the two/three-bedroom villas, Phoenician Residences, with private spas and plunge pools.

Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North

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Most luxurious. The Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North is, undoubtedly, the most luxury hotel in Scottsdale, AZ. Tucked in the foothills of Pinnacle Peak in northern Scottsdale, this sophisticated property was perfect for the relaxing Sonoran Desert vacation that we were looking for. Surrounded by the beauty of the Sonoran Desert, we felt far away from the bustle at this chic retreat.

There was no dearth of specially curated and locally inspired luxurious experiences here, like wild jeep tours in the Sonoran desert or private helicopter/hot air balloon rides over the Sedona Desert. What’s more, it was a veritable mecca for golfers, as we got priority tee times at the two golf courses in Troon North, considered among the world’s very best. After a day of exploring, we’d decompress at The Spa or enjoy a swim in the gorgeous outdoor pool, which boasted a very tranquil and private setting with daybeds, cabanas, and a pool bar. So, it’s not surprising that it’s one of the best hotel pools In Scottsdale. They even had a fleet of Mercedes-Benz cars ready to whisk us wherever we wanted to go! Wrapping things up was the amazing flagship restaurant, the steakhouse, as well as the pool bar, and the separate bar and lounge.

We had the choice of 218 casitas and suites, all of which embraced the Arizonian indoor/outdoor lifestyle. Of them, 100 had patios with flatscreen TVs, 19 had private pools, 20 had outdoor showers, and 3 even had fire pits for enjoying sunset toasts. However, they all had sleek bathrooms with L’Occitane bath products, thick robes, and custom Four Seasons beds with choices for toppers and pillows.

Our Verdict!

Scottsdale has come a long way in the last decade, with the proliferation of luxurious hotels in the city. While we loved all the options on the list, here are a few with specialized features:

• Most romantic: Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia
• Best family-friendly hotel: Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
• Best local vibe: Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, A Gurney’s Resort & Spa
• Most luxurious: Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North

Where to Stay in Scottsdale?

Even though it’s much smaller than Phoenix, Scottsdale is still a large city with lots of accommodation options. Since there are many neighborhood options in the city, the trick is to find the right one that best fits one’s style and budget.

Those who are visiting Scottsdale for the first time will love the Old Town area. It’s a lively and buzzing tourist district with fantastic restaurants and bars, a great art scene, and even some amazing museums. Nothing beats Downtown Scottsdale when it comes to Arizona’s nightlife. This neighborhood, which sits just north of Old Town, is filled to the brim with trendy restaurants and hip cafes. What’s more, it’s also great for shopping aficionados, as it’s home to the largest shopping mall in Arizona, Fashion Square. Finally, those who want to splurge on outdoor activities will love South Scottsdale.

Which 5 stars offer views of the Camelback Mountain from the rooms?

The Global Ambassador, the Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, and The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician all have rooms offering Camelback views.

Which Scottsdale 5-star is perfect for adults?

JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa, with its adults-only pool and spaces, is a fantastic option.

What is the best part of Scottsdale to stay in?

The Old Town Scottsdale is the overall best neighborhood to stay in for all kinds of travelers, as it’s a mixture of everything.