Looking for a quick round without the four-hour commitment? Royal Palms Golf Course in Mesa delivers exactly that - a walkable 9-hole, par 30 layout that lets you squeeze in golf before work or finish in time for dinner.
This family-run course has been welcoming golfers since 1976 with a simple philosophy: make golf accessible, affordable, and enjoyable. It's one of the most budget-friendly options near Scottsdale. At just 1,453 yards, Royal Palms Golf Course proves you don't need championship length to create interesting golf.
Course Overview
Royal Palms Golf Course occupies a unique niche in the Mesa golf scene. Designed by David Gill and opened in 1976, this 9-hole layout features water and bunkers on six of nine holes - more hazards than you might expect from a "short course."
The layout includes:
- 9 holes, par 30
- 1,453 yards from white tees (1,247 from red tees)
- Three par-4s, six par-3s
"Have you tried Royal Palms in Mesa? Nice short course," notes one local golfer on Reddit, recommending it as a good option for low-key walking rounds.
Pros
- Very affordable green fees ($25-40)
- Walking friendly layout
- Good for beginners and practice
- Well-maintained fairways and greens
- Driving range and practice facilities
- Quick 9-hole rounds under 2 hours
Cons
- Only 9 holes (not a full 18)
- Limited yardage at 1,453 yards
- Can be difficult to book as twosome in peak season
- Hours may vary - call ahead to confirm
Green Fees and Booking
Current Rates
| Rate Type | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Walk Rate | $31.95 | Per player, 9 holes |
| Hot Deal | $25.43 | Prepaid online booking |
| Standard | $25-$40 | Varies by day/time |
Lowest rates typically fall Monday through Thursday and during twilight hours.
Course Layout and Playing Strategy
The Par-4 Challenge
Three par-4 holes anchor the layout, providing the main scoring challenges. Narrow fairways mean accuracy matters more than distance.
Six Par-3s: Short Game Laboratory
The six par-3 holes create an excellent short game practice opportunity. Water and bunkers guard six of the nine holes, so hazard avoidance becomes part of your strategy.
Facilities and Amenities
Practice Facilities:
- Driving range
- Pitching and chipping area
- Putting green
Services:
- Golf cart rentals available
- Club rentals
- Golf lessons from teaching professional
- Event hosting (weddings, birthdays, corporate events)
- Walking permitted
Best Time to Play
Peak Season (January - April): Best weather conditions but hardest to book tee times.
Summer (May - September): Easier booking, lower rates possible, early morning tee times essential due to heat.
Fall/Winter (October - December): Excellent weather returns with moderate crowds.