What is the cheapest public golf course in Scottsdale?

Continental Golf Club and Papago are often the most affordable public courses in the area, especially for early or twilight rounds.

Is it possible to play Scottsdale golf on a tight budget?

Yes, there are several high-quality public courses under $70, especially if you book twilight times or midweek tee times.

Are there budget options near Old Town Scottsdale?

Yes, Continental Golf Club and Papago Golf Club are both close to Old Town and offer budget-friendly rates.

Scottsdale

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

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.

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.

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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

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3. 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

4. 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

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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

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Planning on a budget doesn’t mean settling for second-rate courses; this guide helps you play smart and save big.

Author

Ryan from 18Away Golf trip designer and editor

I help groups plan unforgettable itineraries across the top golf destinations in the U.S., blending real-golfer feedback with first-hand course research.

About the author · [email protected]

About This Scottsdale Guide

Every 18Away guide is independently written and updated by real golfers. We evaluate public access, group-friendly value, and proximity to top courses, referencing thousands of verified reviews, rate data, and on-site experience. Guides are refreshed regularly as conditions & pricing change over time.

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