When it comes to desert golf, few destinations rival Scottsdale. With over 200 golf courses packed into the Greater Phoenix area and Scottsdale proper hosting some of the finest layouts in the American Southwest, choosing where to play can feel overwhelming. Whether you're planning a golf vacation, looking for your next home course, or just want to experience championship-caliber desert golf, this guide breaks down the absolute best golf courses in Scottsdale.
From PGA Tour venues like TPC Scottsdale to hidden gems offering incredible value, we've analyzed course conditions, design quality, amenities, reviews, and overall experience to bring you the definitive list of Scottsdale's top golf destinations for 2025.
How We Chose the Best Golf Courses in Scottsdale
Ranking the best golf courses in Scottsdale isn't just about championship pedigree or green fees. We evaluated each course based on these criteria:
Course Condition & Maintenance: Greens quality, fairway conditions, bunker upkeep, and overall playability throughout the year, including post-overseeding seasons.
Design & Layout: Architectural pedigree, strategic interest, variety of holes, and how well the course incorporates the Sonoran Desert landscape.
Amenities & Service: Practice facilities, clubhouse quality, pace of play management, pro shop, and customer service standards.
Value for Money: Not just the cheapest courses, but those offering the best experience relative to green fees. This includes both premium experiences and budget-friendly options.
Player Ratings: Real reviews from thousands of golfers across multiple platforms to gauge consistent performance and guest satisfaction.
With that framework, here are the 12 best golf courses in Scottsdale.
1. TPC Scottsdale
Why it made the list: Home to the PGA Tour's WM Phoenix Open (formerly Waste Management Phoenix Open), TPC Scottsdale isn't just famous—it's an absolute bucket list experience. The Stadium Course hosts the most attended golf tournament in the world, and playing the same fairways as the pros is unforgettable.
TPC Scottsdale features two championship layouts: the Stadium Course and the Champions Course. The Stadium Course is what most golfers dream about, with its iconic par-3 16th hole—the infamous stadium hole that seats 20,000+ fans during tournament week. Playing it during a regular round, you'll find a surprisingly approachable yet strategic desert course that rewards precision over pure power.
The Champions Course offers a slightly more forgiving experience while still maintaining TPC's high standards for conditioning and design. Both courses showcase pristine Bermuda fairways, well-protected greens, and stunning views of the McDowell Mountains.
Expect impeccable service, world-class practice facilities, and the kind of course maintenance that keeps PGA Tour professionals happy. Yes, green fees are premium (especially in peak season), but the experience, bragging rights, and quality justify the cost.
Best for: Bucket list players, PGA Tour fans, tournament-caliber conditions, visitors wanting the ultimate Scottsdale golf experience.
2. Troon North Golf Club
Why it made the list: Troon North consistently ranks among the top public courses in America, and for good reason. With two Tom Weiskopf-designed layouts—the Monument and Pinnacle courses—carved into the raw Sonoran Desert at the base of Pinnacle Peak, Troon North delivers pure desert golf at its finest.
The Monument Course is the more famous of the two, featuring dramatic elevation changes, massive boulder formations, and some of the most memorable holes in Arizona golf. The Pinnacle Course offers equally spectacular scenery with a slightly different routing that many locals actually prefer for its variety and playability.
What sets Troon North apart is the authenticity of the desert experience. Unlike some courses where desert areas are largely cosmetic, here you're playing through genuine Sonoran landscape with saguaros, ocotillos, and natural washes integrated into the strategic design. Miss the fairway, and you're genuinely in the desert.
Course conditioning is exceptional year-round, the service is top-tier, and the practice facilities are some of the best in the region. Troon North also features excellent stay-and-play packages if you're planning a multi-day golf trip.
Best for: Serious golfers seeking championship conditions, desert golf purists, photographers, players who value natural beauty as much as course design.
3. We-Ko-Pa Golf Club
Why it made the list: Located on the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation, We-Ko-Pa offers two of the most highly-rated daily-fee courses in the United States: the Cholla Course (designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw) and the Saguaro Course (designed by Scott Miller).
The Cholla Course is the crown jewel—a minimalist masterpiece that works with the natural desert terrain rather than against it. Wide fairways encourage aggressive play, but the green complexes demand precision and creativity. It's consistently rated among Golf Digest's Top 100 public courses and has developed a cult following among architecture enthusiasts.
The Saguaro Course provides a different but equally compelling experience with more dramatic elevation changes and bolder visual features. Both courses feature exceptional turf conditions, thoughtful design that rewards strategy, and a sense of seclusion despite being a public facility.
We-Ko-Pa's practice facility includes a short-game area that rivals private clubs, and the service strikes the perfect balance between professional and welcoming. Green fees are premium but competitive with similar quality courses, and the pace of play is generally excellent.
Best for: Golf architecture fans, strategic players who value course design, anyone seeking consistently excellent conditions, Phoenix/Scottsdale locals looking for a regular high-quality experience.
4. Grayhawk Golf Club
Why it made the list: Grayhawk offers two championship courses—Talon and Raptor—that consistently deliver exceptional value and conditions. The Talon Course, designed by Tom Fazio, is the more dramatic of the two with massive elevation changes and spectacular views.
The Raptor Course, designed by Tom Lehman, is the more playable option while still offering plenty of challenge for low handicappers. It's hosted numerous professional events and showcases excellent strategic variety. Many locals consider Raptor the better "everyday" course because it's both fun and fair.
What makes Grayhawk particularly appealing is the overall experience beyond just the golf. The practice facility is extensive, the clubhouse offers excellent dining, and the service is consistently professional. The course conditioning rivals any resort in Scottsdale, with fast, true greens and pristine fairways.
Grayhawk also tends to offer better value than some ultra-premium courses while maintaining championship-caliber quality. The variety between the two courses means you can play both in one trip and have distinctly different experiences.
Best for: Mid-to-low handicappers, visitors wanting resort quality without resort pricing, groups seeking variety, anyone prioritizing consistent conditions.
5. Talking Stick Golf Club
Why it made the list: Another gem on the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, Talking Stick features two Ben Crenshaw and Bill Coore designs—the North Course and South Course—offering pure desert golf with strategic depth.
The North Course is more open and links-influenced, with wide playing corridors that encourage creative shotmaking. The South Course is tighter and more target-oriented, demanding accuracy off the tee. Both courses showcase the design philosophy of working with natural contours and creating risk-reward opportunities.
What Talking Stick does exceptionally well is provide championship-caliber golf at prices that won't destroy your budget. Green fees are notably lower than Troon North or TPC while the conditions remain excellent. The practice facility is solid, the service is friendly, and the pace of play is generally well-managed.
The courses can play firm and fast, especially in summer, which adds an extra dimension of strategy. If you appreciate classic course architecture and want exceptional value, Talking Stick delivers.
Best for: Value-conscious golfers, architecture enthusiasts, players who enjoy strategic variety, locals seeking a strong regular course.
6. The Boulders Golf Club
Why it made the list: The Boulders Resort & Spa offers two Jay Morrish-designed courses—North and South—set among massive granite boulder formations that create one of the most visually stunning golf settings in Arizona.
The South Course is the more photographed and dramatic, weaving through and around the ancient boulders that give the resort its name. Several holes are absolutely jaw-dropping, including the par-3 5th that plays through a corridor of boulders. The North Course is equally well-conditioned but offers a more traditional desert experience.
As a resort course, The Boulders provides the full luxury experience: impeccable service, pristine conditions, excellent dining, and a relaxed pace of play. It's perfect for a golf vacation where you want both championship golf and a full resort amenity package.
Green fees reflect the resort experience, but the overall value—especially if you're staying on property—is excellent. The practice facilities are comprehensive, and the short-game area is one of the best in Scottsdale.
Best for: Resort guests, golf vacation planners, couples where one person doesn't golf, photographers, anyone seeking a luxury golf experience.
7. Scottsdale National Golf Club
Why it made the list: Scottsdale National is a private equity club that offers limited public access through stay-and-play packages, making it one of the most exclusive experiences on this list. The single 18-hole course, designed by Jay Blasi and remodeled by the team at Coore & Crenshaw, is consistently ranked among the top courses in Arizona.
The course features a minimalist design aesthetic with wide fairways, dramatic green complexes, and strategic bunkering. It plays firm and fast, rewarding creative shotmaking and demanding precision around the greens. The conditioning is absolutely pristine—possibly the best in Scottsdale.
What makes Scottsdale National special is the overall experience: limited tee times mean uncrowded rounds, the service is exceptional, and the views of the McDowell Mountains are stunning. It feels like playing a top-tier private club because, essentially, you are.
Access is limited and green fees are premium, but if you have the opportunity and budget, it's one of the finest golf experiences in the Southwest.
Best for: Serious golfers seeking the ultimate experience, architecture enthusiasts, players who value exclusivity and pristine conditions, special occasion rounds.
8. Quintero Golf Club
Why it made the list: Rees Jones designed Quintero to be a championship-caliber desert course, and it delivers on that promise. Located slightly north of Scottsdale proper near Peoria, Quintero features a traditional desert layout with strategic bunkering, well-protected greens, and excellent risk-reward opportunities.
What stands out at Quintero is the consistency: the conditioning is always excellent, the service is professional, and the course presents a fair but challenging test for all skill levels. The layout incorporates natural desert washes and elevation changes without being overly penal.
The practice facility is excellent, including a large putting green and short-game area. Pace of play is generally good, and the clubhouse offers solid dining options. Green fees are reasonable for the quality, especially compared to ultra-premium options.
Quintero has hosted numerous professional and amateur championships, which speaks to the quality of the design and maintenance standards. It's a course that rewards accuracy and course management while still being enjoyable for mid-handicappers.
Best for: Players seeking traditional championship golf, groups wanting consistent quality, locals looking for a reliable home course option, tournament-level conditions.
9. Papago Golf Course
Why it made the list: Papago is the best municipal golf option in the Scottsdale area, offering excellent value without sacrificing course quality. Designed by William P. Bell and updated over the years, Papago features a classic desert parkland layout with tree-lined fairways and elevation changes.
What makes Papago special is the accessibility: green fees are a fraction of resort courses while the conditions remain very good for a municipal track. The course winds through Papago Park, offering unique red rock formations and views of Scottsdale's iconic Hole in the Rock.
Don't expect resort-level amenities, but the course itself is solid: well-maintained greens, decent fairways, and a fun layout that emphasizes accuracy over length. The practice facility is basic but functional, and the starter keeps pace of play moving.
Papago is perfect for locals who want to play regularly without breaking the bank, visitors on a budget who still want a quality round, or anyone looking to squeeze in a twilight round at a great price.
Best for: Budget-conscious golfers, locals seeking an affordable regular course, beginners and mid-handicappers, twilight players.
10. The Westin Kierland Golf Club
Why it made the list: Kierland offers three nine-hole courses (Acacia, Ironwood, and Mesquite) that can be combined into different 18-hole configurations, providing excellent variety and strategic interest. Designed by Scott Miller, the courses feature traditional desert design with numerous water features and well-bunkered greens.
As a resort course at The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa, you get the full luxury experience: excellent service, pristine conditions, and access to resort amenities. The course is challenging enough for low handicappers while remaining playable for mid- and high-handicappers.
The practice facility is comprehensive, and the Phil Mickelson-designed short-game area is particularly noteworthy. Pace of play is well-managed, and the clubhouse offers excellent dining options.
Green fees are premium but competitive for resort golf in Scottsdale. The three-course setup means you can play multiple rounds and have different experiences each time.
Best for: Resort guests, players wanting variety, groups with mixed skill levels, anyone seeking a full amenity golf resort experience.
11. Camelback Golf Club
Why it made the list: Camelback Golf Club offers two contrasting courses at the JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa. The Padre Course, designed by Red Lawrence and updated by Arthur Hills, features traditional parkland-style golf with tree-lined fairways and water hazards. The Ambiente Course, designed by Jack Snyder, offers a more open, desert-style experience.
What makes Camelback appealing is the resort setting combined with solid golf. The Padre Course has hosted numerous professional and amateur championships, and the conditioning is consistently good. The Ambiente Course provides a more relaxed experience while still offering strategic interest.
The practice facilities are excellent, the service is top-notch, and the resort amenities are comprehensive. It's a great option for golf groups or couples where golf is part of a larger vacation experience.
Green fees are in line with other resort courses, and the overall value—especially for resort guests—is strong. Both courses are well-maintained and offer enjoyable rounds for all skill levels.
Best for: Resort guests, golf groups seeking variety, couples combining golf with spa/resort amenities, mid-handicappers.
12. Eagle Mountain Golf Club
Why it made the list: Eagle Mountain, designed by Scott Miller, features a dramatic layout carved into the foothills north of Scottsdale. The course is known for significant elevation changes, stunning views, and memorable holes that incorporate natural rock formations and desert vegetation.
What stands out at Eagle Mountain is the visual appeal: this is one of the most photogenic courses in Arizona, with numerous holes offering panoramic views of the valley and mountains. The course presents a good challenge without being overly difficult, and the conditioning is consistently good.
The practice facility is solid, and the service is friendly and professional. Green fees are reasonable for the quality, especially during off-peak times. Pace of play can be an issue during busy times, but overall the experience is very positive.
Eagle Mountain is particularly appealing in late afternoon when the lighting enhances the desert scenery. It's a great option for visitors who want memorable golf without ultra-premium pricing.
Best for: Photographers, visitors seeking scenic golf, mid-handicappers, players wanting challenging but fair golf at reasonable prices.
Quick Comparison: Best Golf Courses in Scottsdale
| Course | Signature Feature | Difficulty | Green Fee Range | Best Season | |--------|------------------|------------|-----------------|-------------| | TPC Scottsdale | PGA Tour venue, 16th hole | Championship | $$$$ | Jan-Apr | | Troon North | Pure desert golf, twin courses | Very Challenging | $$$$ | Oct-May | | We-Ko-Pa | Architectural masterpiece | Challenging | $$$$ | Oct-May | | Grayhawk | Talon + Raptor variety | Challenging | $$$ | Oct-May | | Talking Stick | Strategic Coore-Crenshaw design | Moderate-Challenging | $$ | Oct-May | | The Boulders | Massive rock formations | Moderate | $$$$ | Oct-May | | Scottsdale National | Ultra-exclusive, pristine | Very Challenging | $$$$$ | Oct-May | | Quintero | Championship conditioning | Challenging | $$$ | Oct-May | | Papago | Best value, municipal | Moderate | $ | Year-round | | Westin Kierland | Three-course variety | Moderate | $$$ | Oct-May | | Camelback | Resort experience, dual courses | Moderate | $$$ | Oct-May | | Eagle Mountain | Dramatic elevation, views | Moderate-Challenging | $$ | Oct-May |
Green Fee Guide:
- $ = Under $100
- $$ = $100-$175
- $$$ = $175-$300
- $$$$ = $300-$500
- $$$$$ = $500+
Note: Green fees vary significantly by season, time of day, and booking method. Peak season (January-April) commands premium pricing.
When to Play Golf in Scottsdale
Peak Season (January-April): Perfect weather with highs in the 70s-80s, but expect premium green fees and crowded courses. Book well in advance, especially for top courses like TPC Scottsdale and Troon North.
Shoulder Season (October-December, May): Excellent conditions with more affordable rates. October and May can be warm but are generally very pleasant for golf. November and December offer some of the best overall value.
Summer (June-September): Extreme heat (100°F+) but deeply discounted green fees—sometimes 50-70% off peak rates. Early morning tee times are essential. Many courses overseed in June, so check conditions.
Overseeding Period (typically late May-early June): Courses transition from winter Bermuda to summer ryegrass. Course conditions can be less than ideal during this 2-3 week period. Ask about overseeding status before booking.
Tips for Booking the Best Golf Courses in Scottsdale
Book Early for Peak Season: Top courses like TPC Scottsdale, Troon North, and We-Ko-Pa fill up months in advance during January-March. Book 2-3 months ahead for premium tee times.
Consider Twilight Rates: Many courses offer significant discounts for afternoon/twilight tee times, often 30-50% off morning rates. You might not finish 18 holes in winter, but the value is excellent.
Look for Stay-and-Play Packages: Resort courses often offer better rates when combined with hotel stays. Compare package rates vs. booking separately.
Use Dynamic Pricing Apps: Services like GolfNow, TeeOff, and Supreme Golf occasionally offer hot deals on premium courses, especially for last-minute tee times.
Join Email Lists: Many courses send exclusive discounts and promotions to email subscribers. Sign up for your target courses months before your trip.
Play Multiple Courses: Several management companies (like Troon Golf) offer multi-round packages with discounts when you play multiple courses in their portfolio.
Planning Your Scottsdale Golf Trip
For a comprehensive Scottsdale golf vacation, consider mixing premium experiences with value plays:
Budget-Conscious Itinerary (3 rounds):
- Papago Golf Course
- Talking Stick Golf Club
- Eagle Mountain Golf Club
Mid-Range Itinerary (3 rounds):
- Grayhawk Golf Club (Raptor)
- Quintero Golf Club
- Talking Stick Golf Club
Premium Itinerary (3 rounds):
- TPC Scottsdale (Stadium Course)
- Troon North (Monument Course)
- We-Ko-Pa (Cholla Course)
Ultimate Itinerary (4 rounds):
- TPC Scottsdale (Stadium Course)
- Troon North (Pinnacle Course)
- Scottsdale National
- We-Ko-Pa (Saguaro Course)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the #1 rated golf course in Scottsdale?
Scottsdale National Golf Club consistently ranks as the #1 course in Scottsdale, though access is limited to members and select resort packages. Among fully public courses, We-Ko-Pa's Cholla Course and Troon North's Monument Course regularly earn top honors from Golf Digest and Golf Magazine.
How much does it cost to play golf in Scottsdale?
Green fees in Scottsdale range dramatically based on the course and season. Municipal courses like Papago cost $50-$90, mid-range courses like Talking Stick run $100-$175, and premium courses like TPC Scottsdale and Troon North charge $300-$500 during peak season. Summer rates (June-September) are often 50-70% lower.
When is the best time to golf in Scottsdale?
The best overall time is November through April when weather is ideal (70s-80s), though January-March commands premium pricing. For the best value-to-conditions ratio, consider October-November or late April-early May when weather is still excellent but rates are lower.
What should I wear to golf in Scottsdale?
Standard golf attire applies: collared shirts, golf shorts or pants, and golf shoes. Many premium courses have stricter dress codes prohibiting denim, cargo shorts, and athletic wear. In summer, bring sunscreen, a hat, and extra water—desert sun is intense.
Can beginners play Scottsdale golf courses?
Absolutely. Courses like Papago, the Westin Kierland, and Camelback Golf Club are beginner-friendly while still offering quality experiences. Most resort courses have multiple tee boxes that allow players to choose appropriate yardage. Avoid championship-level courses like Troon North or We-Ko-Pa until you have solid fundamentals.
Do I need to rent a car to play golf in Scottsdale?
Yes, a rental car is highly recommended. Golf courses are spread throughout the Scottsdale area, and rideshare costs add up quickly. Having a car also gives you flexibility for early tee times and allows you to explore multiple courses.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Golf Course for You
Scottsdale's reputation as a premier golf destination is well-earned. From PGA Tour championship venues to architect-designed masterpieces and excellent value municipal courses, there's truly something for every golfer and budget.
If you're planning your first Scottsdale golf trip, start with the classics: TPC Scottsdale for the bucket list experience, Troon North for pure desert golf, and We-Ko-Pa for architectural brilliance. If budget is a concern, Talking Stick and Papago offer exceptional value without sacrificing the essential Scottsdale golf experience.
For locals establishing a regular rotation, consider memberships or punch cards at courses like Grayhawk, Quintero, or Talking Stick, which offer loyalty programs and local rates.
No matter which courses you choose, you'll experience the unique beauty of desert golf: towering saguaros, dramatic elevation changes, pristine conditions, and the kind of sunshine that makes golf in January feel like a dream.
Ready to start planning? Explore our detailed course guides for each of these top Scottsdale golf courses, including insider tips, hole-by-hole breakdowns, and current rates.
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