Best Budget-Friendly Golf Courses in Scottsdale
Discover the top affordable public golf courses in Scottsdale that still deliver great views, conditions, and a memorable round.
July 24, 2025 · 6 min read
By Ryan at 18Away
Scottsdale golf has a reputation for high-end resorts and $300 tee times, but there are plenty of public courses where you can still play an incredible round for under $100 (and sometimes under $50).
If you're planning a Scottsdale golf trip on a budget, this guide breaks down the top value-packed public courses that don’t compromise on scenery, layout, or vibes.
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Quick Answer: Best Cheap Rounds in Scottsdale
Top budget-friendly public courses in Scottsdale include Papago, Continental, Silverbell, Starfire, and Talking Stick (twilight). These offer great layouts, fun desert golf, and rates that won’t wreck the group budget.
Need a done-for-you 3-day itinerary that includes budget and mid-tier options? Unlock the 3-Day Scottsdale Template to save time and money.
What Counts as Budget-Friendly in Scottsdale?
Let’s define some quick pricing tiers for reference:
- $ = $40–$70 (great for casual rounds or second 18)
- $$ = $70–$110 (value for conditions + layout)
- $$$ = $125+ (premium Scottsdale golf experience)
This list focuses on the $ and low $$ options where you can still get a memorable round without overspending, perfect for bachelor groups, buddies’ trips, or second rounds in a day.
See the courses, hotels, and nightlife we recommend for the perfect 3-day getaway.
Best Affordable Golf Courses in Scottsdale
1. Papago Golf Club
Phoenix (10 min from Old Town) | $
A local favorite with rolling desert fairways, Camelback Mountain views, and super walkable routing. Home to ASU golf, but wide open for public play.
- Great pre-flight round
- Solid twilight rates
- Practice area + food options on-site
2. Continental Golf Club
Central Scottsdale | $
Scottsdale’s go-to muni-style course, fun, flat, and perfect for warm-up rounds or casual scrambles. Right in the heart of Old Town.
- Walkable and chill
- Great for mixed skill levels
- Very low green fees
Related: Check out our picks for the Best Walkable Courses in Scottsdale
Planning a Scottsdale golf trip? Get the 3-day golf trip itinerary, which includes hotels, courses, nightlife, and more.
3. Silverbell Golf Course
Just east of Scottsdale | $
Not flashy, but dependable, and often under $50. You’ll find wide fairways and laid-back vibes. Bonus: fast pace of play compared to more crowded spots.
- Great for morning or 2nd round
- Consistent greens
- Usually available same-day
4. Starfire Golf Club
North Scottsdale | $–$$
Arnold Palmer designed three 9-hole loops, offering solid value, especially when booked as 9 or 18 holes of twilight golf. Great mix of open and tree-lined holes.
- Layout variety
- Solid twilight pricing
- Good group atmosphere
Related: Playing a shorter round? Here are the Best 9-Hole and Executive Courses in Scottsdale
5. Talking Stick (O’odham or Piipaash)
Salt River Reservation | $$ (budget twilight)
Normally a mid-tier course, Talking Stick drops into the budget category after 2 PM, and it’s one of the best values in the valley during shoulder season.
- Resort conditions without the price
- Flat desert design with pace-of-play focus
- Great after-lunch tee time
How to Save Even More
- Book Twilight Rounds: Rates drop 30–50% after 2 PM
- Look for Hot Deals: GolfNow and TeeOff often offer day-before savings
- Play 9 Holes: Great for travel days or groups with mixed stamina
- Bundle Tee Times: Courses like Starfire and Papago offer 2-round or 3-pack discounts
More Budget Golf Resources
- How to Split Costs on a Scottsdale Golf Trip
- What Does a Scottsdale Golf Trip Cost?
- Best Twilight Golf Courses in Scottsdale
More Scottsdale Golf Trip Guides
- Best Public Golf Courses in Scottsdale for Groups
- What to Pack for a Scottsdale Golf Trip
- Best Time of Year to Golf in Scottsdale
Planning a Scottsdale Golf Trip?
Still deciding? Take the Golf Trip Quiz to get matched with your perfect trip plan.
Written by Ryan from 18Away, your go-to golf trip planner.
Planning on a budget doesn’t mean settling for second-rate courses; this guide helps you play smart and save big.
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