Best Golf Courses in Scottsdale: A Complete Guide for Golf Enthusiasts

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Hey there, fellow travelers and golf enthusiasts! If you’ve been following my adventures for a while, you know that I’m always on the lookout for unique experiences, whether it’s a hidden gem restaurant in New York City or a picture-perfect hiking trail in Scandinavia. But today, I’m shifting gears a bit and diving into the sun-drenched fairways of Scottsdale, Arizona. I’ve always found Scottsdale to be a place of beauty, with its striking desert landscapes and year-round warm weather making it the perfect golf destination.

As someone who loves exploring the best a destination has to offer, I couldn’t resist teeing off on some of the most renowned courses in Scottsdale. Whether you’re an avid golfer or just starting to take an interest, this post is for you. Trust me—you’ll want to add Scottsdale to your bucket list after reading about these incredible golf courses!

Introduction: Best Gold Courses in Scottsdale

Scottsdale is a mecca for golfers, and for good reason. With over 200 golf courses nestled within its gorgeous desert landscape, this Arizona city offers some of the most spectacular greens in the world. Whether you’re a scratch golfer or just enjoy a casual round with friends, there’s something about playing in Scottsdale that feels special. Maybe it’s the year-round sunshine, the meticulously maintained courses, or those stunning mountain backdrops that make every hole a picture-worthy moment.

In this post, I’ll guide you through the best golf courses in Scottsdale, highlighting what makes each one unique, and why they should be on every golfer’s radar. So, grab your clubs and get ready for a tour of the finest fairways Scottsdale has to offer!

Best Golf Courses in Scottsdale

TPC Scottsdale – Stadium Course

Famous for hosting the Waste Management Phoenix Open, the Stadium Course at TPC Scottsdale offers the unique opportunity to play like a PGA pro. This championship course is known for its fan-friendly atmosphere during the tournament, but it’s open to the public year-round. The par-3 16th hole is one of the most iconic in golf, with its amphitheater-style setting that can hold thousands of spectators during the Open. Even without the crowd, you’ll feel the thrill of walking in the footsteps of legends.

The Stadium Course is famous for its strategic bunkering, risk-reward holes, and challenging water features. Meanwhile, the Champions Course is slightly less daunting, with more forgiving fairways, making it perfect for golfers of varying skill levels.

Location: 17020 N Hayden Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Courses: Stadium Course and Champions Course
Course Par: Stadium (Par 71), Champions (Par 71)
Cost: $175 – $450 (Stadium Course); $110 – $200 (Champions Course)
Architect: Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish
Famous Hole: The par-3 16th, known for its arena-like setting during the Waste Management Phoenix Open.

Pro Tip: If you’re visiting in the off-season (May – September), you can take advantage of reduced green fees and have the course almost to yourself.

Troon North Golf Club

When you think of Scottsdale golf, Troon North is likely the first name that comes to mind—and for good reason. It’s home to two of the most celebrated courses in the area: the Pinnacle Course and the Monument Course. Both are famous for their challenging layouts, dramatic elevation changes, and breathtaking views of the Sonoran Desert.

What sets Troon North apart is the way its courses blend seamlessly with the natural desert surroundings. Playing here feels like an immersive experience, where you’re not just golfing but connecting with the rugged beauty of the Arizona landscape.

Location: 10320 E Dynamite Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85262
Courses: Pinnacle Course and Monument Course
Course Par: Pinnacle (Par 72), Monument (Par 72)
Cost: $225 – $295 (seasonal rates, higher in peak season)
Architect: Tom Weiskopf
Tee Time: Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal due to Arizona’s heat.

Insider Tip: Try to book your tee time early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the desert heat and catch the most stunning desert sunrises or sunsets.

Grayhawk Golf Club

Another standout in Scottsdale is Grayhawk Golf Club, featuring two elite courses: Raptor and Talon. Raptor, designed by Tom Fazio, offers wide fairways and is perfect for strategic play, while Talon is considered one of Arizona’s most challenging courses with its tricky desert terrain.

One of the reasons I love Grayhawk is that it feels like a true desert oasis. The club also has a fun, laid-back vibe, with great dining options for an après-golf meal. You can easily spend the whole day here—whether you’re on the greens or just enjoying the beautiful Scottsdale weather.

Fun Fact: Grayhawk has hosted several prestigious tournaments, including the PGA Tour’s Frys.com Open and the NCAA Division I Men’s and Women’s Golf Championships.

Location: 8620 E Thompson Peak Pkwy, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Courses: Raptor Course and Talon Course
Course Par: Raptor (Par 72), Talon (Par 72)
Cost: $135 – $295 (seasonal rates)
Architect: Tom Fazio (Raptor), Gary Panks and David Graham (Talon)

Insider Tip: The Raptor Course is slightly more forgiving, making it a great choice if you’re looking for a less demanding round of golf.

We-Ko-Pa Golf Club

For those looking to escape the busier tourist spots, We-Ko-Pa Golf Club is an excellent choice. Located on Native American land, this club offers two exceptional courses—Cholla and Saguaro—which boast wide fairways, minimal housing developments, and breathtaking panoramic views of the McDowell Mountains.

We-Ko-Pa is perfect for golfers who want to feel a bit more connected to nature. The lack of surrounding buildings gives you unobstructed views of the natural desert landscape, making it one of the most serene golf experiences in Scottsdale.

Location: 18200 E Toh Vee Cir, Fort McDowell, AZ 85264 (20 minutes from Scottsdale)
Courses: Cholla Course and Saguaro Course
Course Par: Cholla (Par 72), Saguaro (Par 71)
Cost: $99 – $250 (seasonal rates)
Architect: Scott Miller (Cholla), Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw (Saguaro)

Insider Tip: We-Ko-Pa is known for its exceptional service, so take advantage of the club’s amenities and enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant after your round.

The Boulders Golf Club

If you’re seeking a golf course with some serious wow factor, look no further than The Boulders Golf Club. As its name suggests, this course is set against stunning boulder formations, giving it an almost otherworldly feel. The club has two courses, North and South, each offering a challenging yet rewarding round of golf.

What makes The Boulders stand out is its sense of seclusion and beauty. It’s one of those places where you feel like you’re playing in a natural wonderland, with holes that weave through ancient rock formations and desert flora. Don’t be surprised if you catch a glimpse of local wildlife during your round!

Location: 34631 N Tom Darlington Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85262
Courses: North Course and South Course
Course Par: North (Par 72), South (Par 71)
Cost: $120 – $295 (seasonal rates)
Architect: Jay Morrish
Famous Feature: Stunning boulder formations surrounding the course.

Insider Tip: After your game, unwind at the club’s luxurious spa—it’s the perfect way to end a day of golf.

Tips for Golfing in Scottsdale

To make the most of your golfing experience in Scottsdale, keep the following tips in mind:

1. Plan Ahead

Scottsdale’s golf courses are popular, especially during peak season (November to April). Be sure to book your tee times well in advance to secure your preferred dates and times.

2. Stay Hydrated

The desert climate can be deceivingly dry, and it’s easy to become dehydrated. Make sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your round of golf. If you find yourself dehydrated, try a mobile IV with Revitalize Mobile IV Hydration. They are 100% mobile and are the best mobile IV hydration company in Scottsdale.

3. Dress Appropriately

Most Scottsdale golf courses have a dress code, so be sure to wear appropriate golf attire. This typically includes a collared shirt, golf shorts or pants, and golf shoes.

4. Take Advantage of Practice Facilities

Many of the top courses in Scottsdale offer excellent practice facilities, including driving ranges, putting greens, and short game areas. Arrive early to warm up and get a feel for the course conditions.

5. Respect the Desert Environment

Scottsdale’s golf courses are set in a fragile desert ecosystem. Be mindful of your surroundings, avoid disturbing wildlife, and stay on designated paths to help preserve the natural beauty of the area.

Conclusion: Best Golf Courses in Scottsdale

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, the best golf courses in Scottsdale offer something for everyone. The combination of world-class courses, jaw-dropping scenery, and perfect weather make Scottsdale a bucket-list destination for any golf enthusiast. I hope this guide helps you plan your ultimate golfing getaway to Scottsdale. Trust me, once you’ve teed off in the Arizona desert, you’ll want to come back again and again.

So, which course will you play first?