Scottsdale, Arizona, is widely recognized as one of the premier golf destinations in the United States. Nestled in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, the city boasts stunning desert landscapes, world-class resorts, and meticulously designed golf courses. From championship layouts to family-friendly public greens, Scottsdale caters to golfers of every skill level and budget.
Scottsdale offers it all: challenging courses for seasoned golfers, easy options for beginners, and fun outdoor spots the whole family can enjoy. The city’s golf courses combine scenic desert beauty, strategic course design, and top-notch amenities, creating memorable experiences both on and off the greens.
Explore Scottsdale’s top golf courses, grouped by luxury, mid-range, budget, and beginner-friendly options. Get insider tips, seasonal insights, and practical advice to plan your next golf outing with ease. By the end, you’ll know exactly where to tee off in Scottsdale, perfectly matched to your budget and skill level.
Luxury Golf Courses in Scottsdale
1. Troon North Golf Club
Location: 10320 E. Dynamite Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85262
Troon North Golf Club is a desert masterpiece, often ranked among the best courses in Scottsdale. It features two championship courses, the Pinnacle and the Monument, each offering dramatic vistas of the McDowell Mountains. The Monument course is known for its strategic bunkering and flowing fairways, challenging golfers to plan each shot carefully. Pinnacle, on the other hand, combines elevation changes with long par-4 holes that test precision and power.
The club itself offers world-class amenities, including a luxurious clubhouse, a fully stocked pro shop, and fine dining options. Even casual golfers are drawn to Troon North for the scenic beauty alone, as each hole frames the desert landscape perfectly. Sunset tee times are especially magical when the desert glows in golden hues. For avid golfers seeking both challenge and visual splendor, Troon North is a must-play destination.
2. Grayhawk Golf Club
Location: 8620 E. Thompson Peak Pkwy, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Grayhawk Golf Club is another luxury destination with two signature courses: the Talon and the Raptor. The Talon course is a championship-level layout, with tight fairways, water hazards, and elevated greens that require precision. Raptor offers a slightly less intense challenge but still rewards strategic play and careful shot planning.
Beyond the greens, Grayhawk shines for its amenities and atmosphere. The clubhouse provides a full-service experience, from locker rooms to casual and fine dining options. Practice facilities are top-notch, allowing players to hone their swing or warm up before their round. Golfers often recommend early morning tee times for a quieter experience and cooler temperatures. With its combination of challenge, scenery, and luxury, Grayhawk is perfect for those seeking a refined Scottsdale golf experience.
3. The Boulders Golf Club
Location: 34631 N. Tom Darlington Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85262
The Boulders Golf Club is truly one of Scottsdale’s most visually striking courses. Set among massive rock formations and native desert flora, it offers two 18-hole courses that blend natural beauty with challenging design. Both the North and South courses feature dramatic elevation changes, strategic hazards, and carefully contoured greens.
The courses are designed to test the skills of advanced golfers, yet the spectacular scenery makes every hole enjoyable for casual players as well. Beyond golf, The Boulders provides resort-style amenities, including luxury accommodations, a spa, dining, and concierge services. Many visitors spend the day golfing, then relax at the clubhouse to soak in the desert views. It’s a perfect combination of world-class golf and immersive natural beauty, making it a standout choice for luxury golfers visiting Scottsdale.
Mid-Range Golf Courses in Scottsdale
1. McDowell Mountain Golf Club
Location: 10600 E. McDowell Mountain Ranch Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
McDowell Mountain Golf Club is a beautifully designed public course that balances challenge and accessibility. Nestled at the base of the McDowell Mountains, the 18-hole layout features rolling fairways, strategic bunkering, and well-maintained greens that appeal to both beginner and intermediate golfers. The desert surroundings add a sense of serenity, with natural flora and distant mountain vistas creating a scenic backdrop for each round.
The clubhouse offers a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, complete with a pro shop, casual dining options, and practice facilities. McDowell Mountain is also known for its family-friendly environment, welcoming juniors, and first-time golfers. Tee times in the late afternoon are particularly enjoyable, with cooler temperatures and soft evening light enhancing the beauty of the desert course. With affordable rates and a balanced layout, McDowell Mountain is a perfect mid-range option for Scottsdale golfers seeking quality without luxury pricing.
2. Starfire Golf Club
Location: 18200 N. 75th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Starfire Golf Club is ideal for golfers who want a casual, budget-friendly experience without sacrificing course quality. The wide fairways and open greens make it especially beginner-friendly, while intermediate players can still enjoy the strategic layout of the 18 holes. Surrounded by desert terrain, the course provides a scenic escape with views of nearby mountains and natural landscapes.
Amenities at Starfire are practical and accessible, including a small clubhouse, snack bar, and driving range. Many local golfers and families frequent Starfire for weekend outings, taking advantage of its welcoming environment. Morning tee times are perfect for avoiding crowds and enjoying cooler temperatures. Starfire Golf Club strikes a balance between affordability and enjoyable play, making it a favorite among casual Scottsdale golfers.
3. Talking Stick Golf Club
Location: 9800 E. Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85256
Talking Stick Golf Club is a mid-range gem that combines desert beauty with resort-style amenities. The club features two 18-hole courses, the O’odham and Piipaash, each offering challenging fairways, water hazards, and carefully sculpted greens. Golfers will appreciate the variety of holes, from long, strategic par-5s to shorter, risk-reward par-3s that test precision.
The course is complemented by full-service facilities, including a pro shop, practice range, and dining options. While suitable for intermediate and advanced players, the layout is also accessible for beginners who want to experience a scenic Scottsdale course. Many golfers enjoy early morning tee times to catch the sunrise over the desert, which adds an extra layer of visual enjoyment. Talking Stick is a perfect choice for golfers looking for quality, challenge, and value in one location.
These three mid-range courses offer great options for players who want well-maintained greens, beautiful desert scenery, and fair challenge levels without the premium pricing of luxury resorts. They are ideal for weekend golfers, families, and visitors seeking a high-quality Scottsdale golf experience that fits a moderate budget.
Budget-Friendly & Public Golf Courses
1. Chaparral Country Club
Location: 5001 E. Camelback Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Chaparral Country Club is a historic and approachable public course that offers a classic Scottsdale golf experience without premium pricing. The 18-hole layout features gentle desert terrain, moderate elevation changes, and well-maintained greens that appeal to beginners and intermediate golfers alike. Water hazards and strategically placed bunkers add interest and challenge to the course without being overly intimidating.
The clubhouse provides a friendly, casual atmosphere, complete with a pro shop and snack bar, making it easy for golfers to grab refreshments before or after their round. Chaparral is a community favorite, especially for locals who want quality golf at an affordable rate. Early morning tee times are ideal, offering cooler temperatures and soft morning light over the desert landscape. For golfers seeking value, accessibility, and a classic Arizona golf vibe, Chaparral Country Club is a top choice.
2. Continental Golf Club
Location: 8700 E. Via de Ventura, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Continental Golf Club is a friendly, beginner-focused course that delivers a fun and relaxed golf experience at a budget-friendly price. With wide fairways and open greens, golfers of all skill levels can enjoy the 18-hole layout without feeling pressured by tricky hazards or overly long holes. The desert surroundings provide a scenic backdrop, with cacti, native plants, and distant mountains adding to the charm.
The clubhouse is modest but functional, featuring a small pro shop, practice greens, and a snack bar. Continental Golf Club is particularly popular with families and casual golfers who want to practice their game or enjoy a round with friends. Midweek tee times are less crowded and often come with discounted rates, making it one of the best budget-friendly golf options in Scottsdale.
3. Vista del Camino Golf Club
Location: 8008 E. Shea Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Vista del Camino Golf Club is perfect for families and beginners, offering a smaller 9-hole layout that’s easy to navigate but still provides a sense of accomplishment. The course is designed to be less intimidating, with shorter holes and fewer hazards, making it ideal for those new to the game or golfers looking for a casual outing.
The club provides a welcoming atmosphere, with practice areas, rental clubs, and a small clubhouse to grab refreshments. Its location in Scottsdale makes it convenient for locals and visitors, and its affordability ensures that families can enjoy a full day of golfing without overspending. Vista del Camino also offers opportunities for junior programs and lessons, making it a great choice for introducing young golfers to the sport.
4. Desert Canyon Golf Club
Location: 8300 E. Camelback Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Desert Canyon Golf Club is a casual public course that combines affordability with enjoyable play. The course features gentle desert fairways and open greens, allowing beginners and casual golfers to focus on improving their swing without feeling overwhelmed. Natural desert scenery and moderate elevation changes create a pleasant environment for a full round of golf.
The clubhouse offers basic amenities, including a small pro shop, snack bar, and practice facilities. Many golfers visit Desert Canyon to enjoy a relaxed round, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are more comfortable. For those seeking budget-conscious golf with scenic desert views, Desert Canyon is an excellent option.
These budget-friendly and public courses provide accessibility, affordability, and a welcoming environment for Scottsdale golfers of all ages and skill levels. They are perfect for first-time visitors, families, and casual players looking for a full day of golf without the luxury price tag.
Planning Your Scottsdale Golf Getaway
Scottsdale fully earns its reputation as one of the country’s premier golf destinations, offering a wide spectrum of courses that cater to different skill levels and travel budgets. Players can start with accessible municipal layouts like Coronado Golf Course and Continental Golf Club, progress to popular mid-range options such as McCormick Ranch Golf Club and Silverado Golf Club, or experience championship-level play at renowned venues like Troon North Golf Club and TPC Scottsdale.
What sets Scottsdale apart is the seamless blend of dramatic desert scenery, refined clubhouse amenities, and thoughtfully designed layouts that challenge and inspire golfers across experience levels. With year-round playing conditions and diverse course styles spread throughout the region, the city supports both focused golf itineraries and relaxed leisure-driven trips.
Travelers organizing a golf-focused stay can explore Scottsdale vacation rental options through Good Life Vacations, where different neighborhoods, property styles, and proximity to major courses can be compared in one place. From resort-adjacent communities to quieter residential settings ideal for post-round relaxation, the platform helps align accommodation choices with overall trip goals and playing schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much does it cost to play golf in Scottsdale?
A. Rates range from about $30 at public courses to over $500 at luxury resorts like TPC Scottsdale. Prices peak in winter and drop in summer.
Q. What is the best time of year to golf in Scottsdale?
A. The best months are October through April for cooler weather and top conditions. Summer is hot, but it offers lower rates and early tee times.
Q. Which is the most famous golf course in Scottsdale?
A. The Stadium Course at TPC Scottsdale is the most famous, known for the Waste Management Phoenix Open and its iconic par-3 16th hole.
Q. Are there beginner-friendly golf courses in Scottsdale?
A. Yes. Coronado, Silverado, and Starfire Golf Clubs are great for beginners, with shorter layouts, wide fairways, and affordable rates.
Q. Can you golf in Scottsdale in the summer?
A. Yes, but it’s very hot. Many courses offer sunrise tee times and discounted summer rates, making it budget-friendly.
Q. Do Scottsdale golf courses rent clubs?
A. Most do. Rentals typically cost $40–$70 per set and often include premium brands like Callaway or TaylorMade.
Q. Are Scottsdale golf courses pet-friendly?
A. Generally, no. Pets aren’t allowed on courses, though some may allow dogs on practice areas with prior approval.
Q. What should I wear to golf in Scottsdale?
A. Most courses require standard golf attire: collared shirts and slacks/shorts for men; polos, skirts, or shorts for women. Breathable fabrics work best in the desert.
