When people think about golf destinations in the U.S., Scottsdale is always near the top of the list. With more than 200 courses spread across the Valley, sunshine almost every day, and a social scene that flows easily from the fairway into the city, Scottsdale has earned its place as a bucket-list stop for golfers everywhere. Whether you are planning a trip with friends, escaping the winter cold, or simply looking for a perfect desert round, this city delivers.
The Best Golf Courses in Scottsdale
Scottsdale is home to some of the most iconic courses in the country, each offering a distinct experience. TPC Scottsdale is perhaps the most famous, thanks to its Stadium Course and the raucous 16th hole during the WM Phoenix Open. Playing there feels like stepping onto a PGA Tour stage. For those craving a true desert round, Troon North delivers with wide fairways framed by massive boulders and cactus-filled landscapes. Grayhawk offers not just two championship layouts but also a lively clubhouse that makes it a favorite for groups who want to mix competition with a social atmosphere.
Closer to the center of the city, The Phoenician blends Camelback Mountain views with five-star resort amenities and is ideal if you want golf and a spa day in the same trip. Other local favorites include Talking Stick, We-Ko-Pa, and Desert Mountain, all combining thoughtful design with dramatic desert backdrops. No matter your playing style, Scottsdale has a course that fits.
Beyond the Scorecard
Golf in Scottsdale is about more than what happens on the course. The city has built its reputation on what comes after the round. Sunset cocktails, dinners at world-class restaurants, poolside afternoons, and nights in Old Town all add to the experience.
The hotel scene is just as much a part of the lifestyle. The Global Ambassador, Scottsdale’s newest luxury property, has quickly become a social hub with its European-inspired design, rooftop views of Camelback, and restaurants that feel busy and buzzing every night. In Paradise Valley, Mountain Shadows mixes mid-century modern design with a fun par-3 course on property, while Sanctuary Camelback Mountain leans into privacy, wellness, and spa experiences that turn a golf weekend into a true retreat. The Phoenician remains a classic for its combination of luxury and golf, while the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is a family-friendly resort with multiple pools and strong golf packages. Each has its own personality and brings something unique to your stay.
When to Visit
Timing your Scottsdale golf trip is part of the fun. Fall through spring is prime season, with clear skies, cool mornings, and the desert at its most inviting. Summer is hot but offers dramatic drops in green fees, which makes early morning tee times one of the best values in golf. February brings the WM Phoenix Open, a tournament that feels more like a festival than a golf event. If that is on your list, be sure to book hotels and tee times well in advance.
What to Wear
Packing for Scottsdale requires variety. Days start cool and warm quickly, so lightweight fabrics and easy layers are essential. The local style is sporty yet social, and you will want outfits that look polished on the course and work for dinner afterward.
A few Jayebird staples stand out here. The Sara Skort is a piece you can wear again and again. The Kit Top is breathable and easy to style. For crisp desert mornings, the Scottie Pullover is the perfect layer. The Robbie Pant offers polish and comfort for days that flow from tee time to evening plans. Add SPF, a visor or hat, and golf shoes or sneakers that can handle desert terrain, and you are set.
Things to Do Off the Course
Even the most dedicated golfers need a break, and Scottsdale makes it easy. Sunrise hikes on Camelback Mountain, Pinnacle Peak, or in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve offer some of the best views in Arizona. Shopping ranges from high-end at Scottsdale Fashion Square to unique finds in Old Town boutiques. Food lovers can jump from tacos at Diego Pops to cocktails at Century Grand, while wellness seekers have their pick of spas, sound baths, and poolside afternoons.
Why Scottsdale Stands Out
What makes Scottsdale special is the way it blends everything together. The golf is world-class, the desert landscapes are unforgettable, and the social energy keeps going long after the last putt drops. Whether you are here for a quick weekend or a long escape, Scottsdale makes golf feel bigger than the game itself.
