Best Times to Golf in Scottsdale

A Seasonal Guide to Sonoran Desert Fairways

By Lauren Wise

It’s easy to see why Scottsdale is considered “The World’s Finest Golf Destination.” The city boasts more than 50 courses within its limits—many of them public—and another 150 in the surrounding area. Combine that with the beauty of the Sonoran Desert, abundant luxury resorts, and more than 300 days of sunshine each year, and Scottsdale becomes a true golfer’s paradise.

One of the most common questions visitors ask local courses is, “When’s the best time to golf in Scottsdale?” While there’s truly no bad time for a golf getaway, the ideal season depends on the type of experience you’re looking for—whether it’s perfect weather, lower prices, or peak course conditions. Below is a season-by-season guide to choosing the best time to hit the fairways.

Winter
Winter in Scottsdale is prime time for golf. With sunny days and highs in the 60s and 70s, the weather is perfect for long rounds followed by a drink or meal on the patio. This is also peak season for visitors escaping colder climates, so courses fill up quickly—especially around the WM Phoenix Open (Feb. 5–8), which brings PGA TOUR excitement to TPC Scottsdale.

During winter, expect mid-morning tee times to offer the best lighting and pace, along with immaculate course conditions. Greens fees are at their highest and tee sheets fill fast, so booking 60–90 days ahead is strongly recommended. This is especially true for top-tier courses like TPC Scottsdale and Troon North, or local under-the-radar favorites such as Silverado Golf Course and Continental Golf Course—both frequently voted Scottsdale’s best budget options. Winter is best for golfers who want unbeatable weather and don’t mind paying premium pricing.

Fall
Fall is an underrated treasure for Scottsdale golf. Some courses close temporarily in October for overseeding, but by November the fairways are lush, refreshed, and in excellent condition. Temperatures sit comfortably in the 70s and 80s, and sunshine remains abundant.

The best fall tee times tend to be early morning, offering ideal temperatures and smooth, newly overseeded greens. Visitor traffic begins increasing as the holidays approach, but crowds are still lighter than in winter. Fall is best for players who want pristine course conditions without peak-season pressure.

Spring
Spring brings stunning desert blooms and ideal playing weather to Scottsdale. March is one of the more expensive months, but April and May offer lower rates and access to deals such as Troon Access, which can provide significant savings.

The best tee times are early to mid-morning while temperatures are still cool. Expect gradually warming days—from the 70s into the low 90s—and lush course conditions, especially before summer maintenance begins. The city’s energy also spikes during MLB Spring Training. Spring is perfect for golfers who want great weather with slightly easier tee-time availability than winter.

Summer
Summer offers Scottsdale’s best golf deals by far. Although temperatures rise, early morning or twilight rounds make play comfortable, and the discounts are unbeatable. This is also the ideal time to pair golf with resort pool relaxation.

The best tee times are before 6 a.m. or later in the day for shorter twilight rounds. Expect deep discounts, flexible tee-time availability, and slightly cooler play at higher-elevation north Scottsdale courses such as Grayhawk, Troon North, and Boulders Club. Summer is ideal for seasoned golfers and bargain hunters unbothered by the heat.