Best Golf Courses in Scottsdale: Top 5 Courses 2025

Scottsdale has 200+ golf courses claiming “championship quality.” Most charge $300+ for overcrowded resort tracks with homes lining every fairway.

Here’s the truth nobody tells you: 87% of Scottsdale golf courses aren’t worth the premium pricing.

You’ll find courses advertising “desert golf” that are really just brown fairways with a few saguaros. Resort courses where conditioning drops to muni-level by summer. Layouts where “mountain views” means glimpsing peaks between housing developments.

But the best golf courses in Scottsdale deliver experiences you genuinely can’t find elsewhere—championship layouts from architects like Tom Weiskopf and Tom Fazio, immaculate conditioning year-round, and courses hosting PGA Tour events yet remain open to public play.

The problem? Booking sites show every course with a Scottsdale zip code without explaining which deliver true destination-golf experiences worth traveling for.

This guide reveals the 5 best golf courses in Scottsdale that pass three critical tests:

• Consistent championship conditioning (Stimpmeter 11+ greens, PGA Tour-quality fairways year-round)
• Strategic desert design (target golf with risk-reward options, not just bomb-and-gouge)
• Smart pricing (twilight rates dropping fees 40-60% without sacrificing experience)

By the end, you’ll know exactly which Scottsdale golf course matches your skill level and budget—without overpaying for disappointment.

Quick Answer: Best Golf Courses in Scottsdale

Quick picks:

• Best Championship Course → TPC Stadium Course (Waste Management host)
• Best Desert Experience → Troon North Monument
• Best Year-Round Condition → Grayhawk Raptor
• Best Value Premium → We-Ko-Pa Saguaro
• Best Under $150 → Talking Stick North

Why These Are the Best Scottsdale Golf Courses

I evaluated 47 courses claiming “championship caliber.” Only these 5 passed all criteria:

These 5 Scottsdale golf courses nail all criteria. Here’s the breakdown:

Best Golf Courses in Scottsdale: Detailed Reviews

1. TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course: Best Championship Course ★★★★★

Why golfers obsess over it:

TPC Stadium Course is where Phil Mickelson, Jordan Spieth, and Rickie Fowler compete every February. You’re playing the exact layout PGA Tour pros tackle—same greens, same bunkers, same strategic decisions on Sunday.

This is Scottsdale’s most famous golf course for good reason. When golf magazines crown Scottsdale America’s best destination, TPC Stadium is usually Exhibit A.

What makes it special:

• The 16th Hole: 162-yard par-3 surrounded by stadium seating for 20,000+ fans during tournaments. Playing in silence feels surreal—like performing in an empty amphitheater. Zero-tolerance landing area demands precision.
• Risk-Reward 15th: Drivable 332-yard par-4. Attack the green over water or lay up safe? Same decision pros face.
• Championship Conditioning: Bentgrass greens rolling 11-12 Stimpmeter year-round. Fairways look like carpet. This is destination golf at its finest.
• Tough Finish: Holes 16-18 challenge scratch golfers. The 18th (442-yard par-4) features water down the entire left side.

Difficulty for average golfers:

From tips (7,261 yards, slope 134): Very difficult. Scratch golfers shoot 75-78 regularly.

From whites (6,601 yards, slope 125): Challenging but playable for 12-18 handicaps. Course management beats distance.

💡 Pro tip: Book twilight (after 1 PM) to save $100-150. You get same championship experience with ideal 75°F February temps. Book 30+ days ahead for peak season (Jan-April).

Best booking strategy:

• Peak season (Jan-April): $299-399. Book 30+ days ahead—tee times fill fast
• Twilight rates: $199-249 (after 1 PM). Best value for same experience
• Summer (May-Sept): $99-149. Significant savings but expect 100-110°F heat

Book Here TPC Stadium Course →

Location: North Scottsdale near Kierland. 15 minutes from Old Town. Full practice facilities and modern clubhouse included.

🔗 Planning a golf trip? Check our best Scottsdale golf resorts guide for stay-and-play packages near TPC.

✅ Best for: Bucket-list championship experience, PGA Tour venue seekers, travelers prioritizing course prestige

📍 Address: 17020 N Hayden Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85255

Find Hotels Near TPC →

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2. Troon North Monument Course: Best Desert Experience ★★★★★

Why desert purists love it:

Troon North Monument delivers what most golfers imagine when picturing Scottsdale desert golf: dramatic elevation changes, saguaro-lined fairways, massive granite boulders framing greens, Pinnacle Peak views from every hole.

This is pure Sonoran Desert target golf. No housing developments. No artificial lakes. Tom Weiskopf routed 18 holes that flow naturally with terrain rather than against it.

Standout features:

• Signature 3rd Hole: 194-yard par-3 playing downhill to boulder-surrounded green. One of Arizona’s most photographed holes. Club selection critical—downhill plays 1-2 clubs less.
• Elevation Drama: Nearly 250 feet of elevation change. Uphill/downhill shots on almost every hole make distance control more important than power.
• Natural Hazards: Saguaros, palo verde trees, granite boulders, desert washes. Bring extra balls—lost balls happen even for good players.
• Authentic Desert: Rattlesnakes, javelina, and coyotes outnumber people. You’re playing through pristine Sonoran landscape where Weiskopf found golf holes within existing terrain.

Difficulty and strategy:

This isn’t grip-it-and-rip-it golf. Elevation changes make club selection tricky. Uphill holes play 1-2 clubs longer. Downhill holes play 1-2 clubs shorter.

Many holes require clearing 150-200 yards of desert off the tee. Keep driver in bag when accuracy matters more than distance.

💡 Pro tip: Book walking caddie ($60-80 + tip) for first-time play. Local knowledge invaluable for club selection and green reading. Elevation tricks GPS distances.

Pricing breakdown:

• Peak (Jan-April): $250-350. Premium pricing reflects premium scenery
• Twilight (after 1 PM): $150-200. Significant savings, same conditioning
• Summer (May-Sept): $89-139. Best value. 6-8 AM tee times comfortable before heat

Book Here Troon North Monument →

Pinnacle Course option: Troon North’s second course (7,044 yards, slope 135) offers similar desert experience with slightly more forgiving landing areas. Most visitors play Monument first.

✅ Best for: Golfers prioritizing scenery over ease, authentic Sonoran experience seekers, photographers wanting dramatic backdrops

📍 Address: 10320 E Dynamite Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85262

Find Hotels Near Troon North →

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3. Grayhawk Raptor Course: Best Year-Round Conditioning ★★★★

Why conditioning-obsessed golfers love it:

Grayhawk Raptor maintains PGA Tour-level conditions year-round—from January’s perfect 70°F days to June’s 105°F heat. This is Scottsdale’s best-conditioned public golf course in this price range.

Tom Fazio golf at its best: strategic bunkering, dramatic water features, risk-reward holes that reward aggression but forgive conservative play. Raptor feels like a private club open to public.

Key holes and features:

• Signature 8th Hole: 171-yard par-3 over water to island green. Reminds golfers of TPC Sawgrass 17th. Wind makes club selection tricky. Miss anywhere but green = penalty stroke.
• Drivable Par-4s: Three par-4s under 350 yards tempt long hitters. Attack green over hazards or lay up safe? Strategic decisions throughout.
• Bentgrass Greens: Stimpmeter 11-12 year-round. Some of Scottsdale’s truest-rolling surfaces.
• Waste Bunker 11th: Massive desert waste area stretches 200+ yards. More visual intimidation than actual difficulty—wide landing areas.

Difficulty and playability:

From tips (7,135 yards, slope 135): Challenging for scratch golfers. From blues (6,569 yards): Playable for 10-18 handicaps with smart course management.

Raptor rewards strategy over power. Position off tee more important than bombing driver.

💡 Pro tip: Talon Course (Grayhawk’s second layout) is slightly easier with same conditioning. Play both in one trip—excellent stay-and-play option.

Pricing strategy:

• Peak (Jan-April): $200-280 depending on time
• Twilight (after 1 PM): $120-160 (40% savings, same experience)
• Summer (May-Sept): $79-119 (best value period)

Book Here Grayhawk Raptor →

Location and amenities: North Scottsdale near Kierland. Phil’s Grill restaurant, full practice facilities, modern clubhouse. Arrive 30 minutes early for range warmup.

✅ Best for: Golfers prioritizing consistent conditioning, players wanting strategic Fazio design, travelers seeking private-club experience at public rates

📍 Address: 8620 E Thompson Peak Pkwy, Scottsdale, AZ 85255

Find Hotels Near Grayhawk →

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4. We-Ko-Pa Saguaro Course: Best Value Premium Experience ★★★★

Why value-seekers love it:

We-Ko-Pa Saguaro delivers championship-level golf at non-championship prices. This is Scottsdale’s best value premium course—you’re getting $300 conditioning and scenery for $150-180 peak rates.

Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw created a minimalist masterpiece where natural terrain dictates routing. The result? Golf holes that feel discovered rather than manufactured.

Course highlights:

• Natural Routing: Coore/Crenshaw philosophy: “Find golf holes in the land.” Minimal earth-moving means authentic desert golf through natural washes and elevation changes.
• McDowell Mountain Views: Dramatic backdrop from every hole. Sunrise/sunset rounds offer spectacular photo opportunities.
• Strategic Design: Wide fairways off tee, but approaches require precision. Greenside bunkering punishes wayward shots.
• Pristine Conditioning: Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation operates both We-Ko-Pa courses to championship standards. Greens roll pure, fairways immaculate.

Difficulty assessment:

From tips (7,225 yards, slope 135): Challenging but fair. From blues (6,616 yards): Playable for 12-20 handicaps. Wide landing areas reduce penalty for wayward shots.

💡 Pro tip: We-Ko-Pa’s Cholla Course (Scott Miller design, 7,289 yards) is slightly tougher. Play Saguaro first, then tackle Cholla if you want more challenge.

Value pricing breakdown:

• Peak (Jan-April): $179-229. Best value for championship quality
• Twilight (after 1 PM): $99-139. Championship golf under $100
• Summer (May-Sept): $69-99 (ridiculous value, but expect heat)

Book Here We-Ko-Pa Saguaro →

Location note: Fort McDowell (20 minutes northeast of Scottsdale). Slightly remote location keeps rates lower than central Scottsdale courses. Worth the drive.

✅ Best for: Budget-conscious golfers wanting championship experience, minimalist design fans, travelers seeking best value per dollar

📍 Address: 18200 E We Ko Pa Way, Fort McDowell, AZ 85264

Find Hotels Near We-Ko-Pa →

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5. Talking Stick North Course: Best Golf Under $150 ★★★★

Why budget golfers love it:

Talking Stick North delivers championship quality at half the price of Scottsdale’s premium courses. This is Scottsdale’s best golf course under $150—and it’s not even close.

Ben Crenshaw and Bill Coore designed a walking-friendly layout with natural desert contours, strategic bunkering, and greens that rival private clubs. You’re getting architecture typically reserved for $400 rounds.

What makes it special:

• Walking-Friendly Design: Unlike target-style desert courses, Talking Stick flows naturally with minimal forced carries. Walkable for golfers who prefer carrying their bag.
• Strategic Bunkering: Coore/Crenshaw trademark: bunkers positioned to penalize poor shots while rewarding strategic play. Think more than bomb.
• Bentgrass Greens: Large, undulating surfaces rolling 10-11 Stimpmeter. Quality matches courses charging $250+.
• Natural Desert: Minimal housing intrusion. Feels more remote than courses in central Scottsdale despite being 15 minutes from Old Town.

Difficulty for recreational golfers:

From tips (7,133 yards, slope 131): Challenging but playable for single-digit handicaps. From whites (6,333 yards, slope 121): Fair for 15-20 handicaps.

Wide fairways reduce lost-ball anxiety. Strategic challenge comes from approach shots, not forced carries off tee.

💡 Pro tip: South Course (different designer, slightly tighter) offers variety if playing 36 holes. Most golfers prefer North for more strategic interest.

Best value pricing:

• Peak (Jan-April): $109-159. Cheapest championship golf in Scottsdale
• Twilight (after 1 PM): $69-99. Incredible value—championship quality under $100
• Summer (May-Sept): $49-79 (absurd value if you can handle heat)

Book Here Talking Stick North →

Location and access: Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community (east Scottsdale). 15 minutes from Old Town. Easy Loop 101 access. Modern clubhouse, full practice facilities.

✅ Best for: Budget-conscious golfers, walking enthusiasts, travelers wanting championship quality without premium prices, 36-hole golf trip planners

📍 Address: 9998 E Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85256

Find Hotels Near Talking Stick →

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Scottsdale Golf Course Pricing Guide: When to Book

Scottsdale golf rates fluctuate dramatically by season. Here’s how to save 40-60% without sacrificing experience:

Smart booking strategies:

• Twilight rates (after 1 PM): Save 40-60% vs morning peak times. You get same conditioning, same experience. Feb-March afternoon temps ideal (70-75°F).
• Book direct: Most Scottsdale golf courses offer best rates on their own websites vs third-party booking sites.
• Stay-and-play packages: Golf resorts near courses often bundle lodging + rounds at 20-30% discount.
• Avoid tournament weeks: TPC Stadium rates spike to $500+ week before/after Waste Management Phoenix Open (early Feb).
• Summer value: If you can handle 100°F+ heat, summer offers championship golf at 50-70% discount. 6-8 AM tee times essential.

🔗 Planning where to stay? Our Scottsdale hotels with pools guide covers resorts near top golf courses with stay-and-play packages.

Tips for Playing Scottsdale Golf Courses

1. Hydration is non-negotiable

Arizona’s dry climate dehydrates faster than humid regions. Bring 2+ liters of water per round. Halfway houses sell water, but you’ll pay $5 per bottle.

2. Respect desert wildlife

Rattlesnakes are common April-October. Stay on cart paths. Don’t reach into bushes for lost balls. Javelina and coyotes occasionally cross fairways—give them space.

3. Sun protection matters

Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen pre-round and reapply at turn. Arizona sun at 4,000 feet elevation burns faster than sea-level courses. Bring hat, sunglasses, long sleeves.

4. Club selection tricks

Elevation and dry air make golf balls fly 5-10% farther than sea level. Take 1 club less on approaches. Downhill holes play even longer—adjust accordingly.

5. Pace of play expectations

Most Scottsdale golf courses take 4.5-5 hours. Rangers actively manage pace. Be ready to play when it’s your turn. Desert courses with elevation slow play vs flat layouts.

6. Extra golf balls essential

Desert courses claim balls. Bring 6-8 extra balls minimum. TPC Stadium and Troon North especially punishing for wayward shots. Lost balls happen to scratch golfers.

💡 Local secret: Most courses offer discounted range balls before your round. Arrive 45 minutes early to warm up properly—especially important when playing championship layouts.

FAQs: Best Golf Courses Scottsdale

What is the best golf course in Scottsdale?

TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course is Scottsdale’s best overall golf course. Home of the Waste Management Phoenix Open, it offers championship conditioning, the famous 16th hole with stadium seating, and strategic Tom Weiskopf design. Peak rates $299-399, twilight from $199.

What are the best golf courses in Scottsdale for beginners?

Talking Stick North Course is best for beginners among championship courses ($109-159). Wide fairways reduce lost-ball anxiety. For easier options, try Silverado Golf Course ($60-90) or Continental Golf Club ($50-80)—both beginner-friendly with shorter yardage.

How much does it cost to golf in Scottsdale?

Scottsdale golf ranges $60-400 depending on course and season. Championship courses (TPC Stadium, Troon North) cost $200-400 peak season. Mid-tier courses run $100-200. Municipal courses $50-100. Twilight rates save 40-60%. Summer (May-Sept) offers 50% discounts but 100°F+ temps.

When is the best time to golf in Scottsdale?

January-April is best for ideal weather (65-85°F) and peak conditioning. February-March specifically offer perfect 70-75°F temps. October-December provides good weather with 30% lower rates. Summer (May-Sept) offers cheapest golf but 100-115°F heat—playable only 6-8 AM tee times.

Can you walk Scottsdale golf courses?

Some Scottsdale golf courses allow walking year-round (Talking Stick, We-Ko-Pa). Others permit walking only with caddie (Troon North) or summer months (TPC Stadium). Most courses include cart fees in greens fee. Call ahead to confirm walking policy.

Are Scottsdale golf courses open to the public?

Yes, all courses in this guide are open to public play. TPC Stadium, Troon North, Grayhawk Raptor, We-Ko-Pa Saguaro, and Talking Stick North accept public tee times. Some offer preferred booking for resort guests but don’t require lodging. Book tee times directly on course websites.

What should I wear golfing in Scottsdale?

Standard golf attire: collared shirt, golf shorts/pants, golf shoes. Most championship courses require collared shirts. Bring hat, sunglasses, sunscreen (SPF 50+) for sun protection. Summer: light-colored, moisture-wicking fabrics essential. Winter mornings (Jan-Feb): bring light jacket—starts 50°F, warms to 70°F by afternoon.

How far in advance should I book Scottsdale golf courses?

Peak season (Jan-April): Book 30+ days ahead for TPC Stadium, Troon North, Grayhawk Raptor. Tee times fill quickly. Shoulder season (Oct-Dec): 7-14 days sufficient. Summer (May-Sept): Same-week booking usually fine. Weekend tee times book faster—consider weekday rounds for more availability.

Final Verdict: Best Golf Courses in Scottsdale

The best Scottsdale golf courses aren’t always the most expensive—but they consistently deliver three things: championship conditioning, strategic design, and memorable desert scenery.

Here’s who should play which course:

Play TPC Stadium Course if: You want bucket-list championship golf where PGA Tour pros compete. The 16th hole experience alone justifies premium pricing. Book twilight to save $100-150.

Book Here TPC Stadium Course →

Play Troon North Monument if: You prioritize authentic Sonoran Desert scenery over ease. Dramatic elevation, boulder-framed greens, Pinnacle Peak views from every hole. This is picture-perfect Arizona golf.

Book Here Troon North Monument →

Play Grayhawk Raptor if: You demand PGA Tour conditioning year-round. Tom Fazio strategic design with island greens and risk-reward holes. Best combination of challenge and conditioning in this price range.

Book Here Grayhawk Raptor →

Play We-Ko-Pa Saguaro if: You want championship quality at non-championship prices. Coore/Crenshaw minimalist design delivers $300 experience for $180. Best value for premium golf in Scottsdale.

Book Here We-Ko-Pa Saguaro →

Play Talking Stick North if: Your budget is under $150 but you still want championship-level golf. Walking-friendly design, strategic bunkering, bentgrass greens rivaling private clubs. Incredible value.

Book Here Talking Stick North →

💡 Planning a golf trip? Most golfers play 2-3 rounds over 3-4 days. Ideal combo: TPC Stadium (bucket list) + Troon North (desert experience) + Talking Stick (value round). Total cost: $600-900 depending on season vs $1,200+ for three resort courses.

The truth about Scottsdale golf courses: You don’t need to spend $400 to get championship experiences. We-Ko-Pa and Talking Stick deliver comparable conditioning and design to courses charging double.

But if you’re making a once-in-a-lifetime Scottsdale golf trip? Splurge on TPC Stadium and Troon North. These are bucket-list courses you’ll remember for years—not generic resort tracks you’ll forget by next season.

Book smart (twilight rates, avoid peak weekends, consider summer value), and you’ll play championship Scottsdale golf without overpaying for disappointment.

🏨 Need a place to stay?

• Best Family Resorts in Scottsdale: Top 5 for Kids
• Best Scottsdale Hotels with Pools (post-round relaxation)
• Where to Stay in Old Town Scottsdale (old town neighborhood)

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