Ever wondered where you can play three different Arnold Palmer-designed nine-hole courses at one facility in Scottsdale? Starfire Golf Club offers exactly that - 27 holes of traditional, tree-lined golf that you can mix and match for endless variety.
Located in central Scottsdale at 11500 N Hayden Rd, Starfire Golf Club has been serving golfers since 1988 with three distinct nine-hole layouts: The King (par 36), The Hawk (par 34), and The Squire (par 34). Add The Mulligan Nine (par 28) short course, and you have one of the most versatile public golf facilities in the Phoenix area.
The Three Nine-Hole Courses
The King Course: Starfire's Signature Nine
The King Course represents the best nine holes at Starfire Golf Club. This par 36 layout stretches across tree-lined fairways with strategic water features. With three par 3s, three par 4s, and three par 5s - all three par 5s are reachable in two for long hitters - The King provides the most traditional golfing experience.
The Hawk Course: Scenic and Strategic
The Hawk Course (par 34) is characterized by scenic water features and picturesque desert landscaping. The King/Hawk combination is the most popular 18-hole option at Starfire, creating a par 70 layout that measures 6,106 yards from the Palmer (black) tees with a 68.8 rating and 124 slope.
The Squire Course: Traditional Scottsdale Golf
The Squire Course rounds out the 27-hole facility with narrower fairways and a traditional layout. At par 34 and 2,782 yards from the back tees, The Squire carries a 34.5 rating and 122 slope.
The Mulligan Nine: Scottsdale's Best Short Course
Beyond the three regulation nines, Starfire features The Mulligan Nine - a par 28 short course with eight par 3s and one par 4. Perfect for beginners, practicing your short game, playing with kids, or quick nine holes when you don't have time for 18.
Pros
- 27 holes plus short course offer exceptional variety
- Arnold Palmer design pedigree at affordable rates
- Forgiving layout suitable for all skill levels
- Excellent practice facilities including 300-yard range
- Summer pass ($99) provides incredible value
- Multiple tee box options accommodate different abilities
- Generally flat terrain, walkable for those who prefer it
Cons
- Course conditions can vary seasonally (Bermuda dormancy in winter)
- Not as dramatic or scenic as desert target courses
- Can get crowded during peak season (Jan-April)
- Surrounded by residential areas, not desert views
- Older facility compared to newer Scottsdale courses
- Limited dining options (Starfire Grille breakfast/lunch only)
Tee Time Information and Green Fees
Starfire Golf Club operates as a daily-fee public course. Typical green fees range from $80-120 depending on season, day of week, and tee time.
Summer Pass Special
The standout value: $99 for May through September, then just $15 per round. Valid Monday-Friday anytime, and weekends/holidays after 10 AM. If you live in the Phoenix area or visit frequently during summer, this represents exceptional value for Arnold Palmer-designed golf.
Course Details: King/Hawk Combination (Most Popular)
| Tee Box | Yardage | Rating (Men) | Slope (Men) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Palmer (Black) | 6,106 | 68.8 | 124 |
| Regular (Blue) | 5,630 | 66.9 | 114 |
| Middle (Green) | 5,084 | 64.4 | 110 |
| Forward (Red) | 4,467 | 61.2 | 102 |
Practice Facilities
- 300-yard driving range: North-facing orientation means you won't be hitting into the sun
- Putting green: Practice your speed control on Bermuda surfaces
- Pitching and chipping area: Dial in your short game before the first tee
- Golf instruction: Teaching pros available
- Club rentals: If you're flying into Scottsdale
Best Time to Play
Peak Season (January - April): Perfect weather (70-85°F), ideal course conditions, higher green fees. Book tee times well in advance.
Shoulder Season (October - December, May): Best balance of value and playable conditions. Green fees typically drop 20-30%.
Summer (June - September): Brutally hot (100-115°F) but incredible value, especially with the $99 summer pass. Early morning tee times essential.
Common Misconceptions
Is Starfire the ASU Golf Team's Home Course?
No. This is a common misconception. Arizona State University's golf teams use the Thunderbird Golf Complex at Papago Golf Course. Starfire Golf Club operates independently as a daily-fee public course with no ASU affiliation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of Starfire Golf Club?
How much does it cost to play at Starfire Golf Club?
Does Starfire Golf Club have two courses?
Can you walk Starfire Golf Club?
Is Starfire Golf Club open to the public?
Does Starfire have a driving range?
What course does the ASU golf team play?
Is Starfire Golf Club a Public Course?
Yes, Starfire Golf Club is fully open to the public. You don't need a membership or hotel reservation to book a tee time here.
Located near Scottsdale Community College on Hayden Road, Starfire offers 27 holes across three nines: the King, Squire, and Knight courses. The layout gives you three different 18-hole combinations to keep things fresh.
Green fees at Starfire run well below the Scottsdale resort course average, making it one of the more affordable options in the area. It's a solid choice for golfers who want a quality round without the $200+ price tags you'll find at the bigger-name courses.
The practice facilities include a driving range and putting green, and the on-site grill is a local favorite for post-round food.