Best Golf Courses in Scottsdale for Fast Rounds
Need a quick 18 in Scottsdale? These public golf courses are perfect for fast rounds without sacrificing the experience.
September 23, 2025 · 6 min read
By Ryan at 18Away
Not every round in Scottsdale needs to be a five-hour epic. Whether you're squeezing in a game before a flight or prefer faster-paced golf, the city has public courses that deliver efficient, enjoyable rounds without sacrificing the scenery.
This guide highlights Scottsdale-area courses with a strong pace-of-play reputation, smart routing, and lighter congestion, perfect for groups trying to keep things moving.
Jump to Section
Quick Answer: Where to Play a Fast Round in Scottsdale
Courses like Talking Stick, Eagle Mountain, and Papago are known for quick rounds thanks to wide fairways, less crowding, and walkable layouts. For an even faster option, check out Mountain Shadows or the executive tracks covered in our guide to Scottsdale’s Best 9-Hole and Executive Golf Courses.
What Makes a Golf Course Fast in Scottsdale?
When we talk about fast rounds, we're looking at a few key factors:
- Good pace-of-play enforcement
- Wide, forgiving layouts that reduce search time
- Walkability and short distances between holes
- Less crowded tee sheets or efficient scheduling
- Twilight flexibility for faster evening play
Let’s dive into the best Scottsdale public courses for players who value speed and efficiency.
See the courses, hotels, and nightlife we recommend for the perfect 3-day getaway.
Best Public Golf Courses in Scottsdale for Fast Rounds
1. Talking Stick Golf Club – O’odham Course
Central Scottsdale | $$ |
With a wide, links-style layout and excellent marshaling, the O’odham Course at Talking Stick is perfect for golfers who want to keep up the pace. It’s flat, easy to walk, and rarely overly crowded compared to other top-tier resort courses.
Why it’s fast:
- Flat terrain and straightforward holes
- Efficient check-in and starter coordination
- Excellent cart paths and routing
2. Papago Golf Club
Phoenix (Tempe-adjacent) | $ |
A Phoenix city course just minutes from Scottsdale, Papago is wide-open and well-managed. It’s affordable, easy to get on, and a local go-to for quick rounds. Tee off mid-morning or late afternoon to avoid slow groups.
Why it’s fast:
- Straightforward routing
- Large greens and generous landing areas
- Efficient twilight pace and easy access
Lock in a golf-ready Vrbo near TPC & Troon, hot tub, spacious bedrooms, and easy parking.
3. Eagle Mountain Golf Club
Fountain Hills | $$ |
Known for great views and a relatively quick front nine, Eagle Mountain is built for players who want a fun, moderately challenging round that doesn’t take all day. Avoid peak weekends for best results.
Why it’s fast:
- Quick-moving weekday tee times
- Smoother back nine transitions
- Less traffic than the mega-resort courses
4. Continental Golf Club
Old Town Scottsdale | $ |
If you're staying in or near Old Town, this is your spot. Continental is walkable, casual, and a perfect option for beginners or groups looking to hit the course before lunch.
Why it’s fast:
- Shorter layout (par 60)
- Super easy to walk
- Always a laid-back, quick-play vibe
Want this exact Scottsdale weekend? Get the 3-day golf trip itinerary, courses, bookings, nightlife, and more.
5. Mountain Shadows
Paradise Valley | $$ |
This is a short-course gem with 18 par-3 holes that can be played in under 2 hours. It’s boutique, beautifully maintained, and excellent for post-brunch or pre-dinner golf with the crew.
Why it’s fast:
- Par-3 only, less than 2-hour rounds
- Stylish desert design
- Near luxury hotels and Old Town nightlife
For more short-round gems, check out our Best Par 3 Golf Courses in Scottsdale guide.
When Should You Tee Off for Speed?
- Mid-Morning (9:30–10:30 AM): Early groups are done, and you beat the heat.
- Late Twilight (after 3 PM): Discounted and typically uncrowded.
- Weekdays: Always faster than weekends, especially Tuesday–Thursday.
More Scottsdale Golf Trip Guides
- Where to Eat After Golf in Scottsdale
- Scottsdale Golf Courses with the Best Twilight Rates
- Best 9-Hole and Executive Golf Courses in Scottsdale
- What to Pack for a Scottsdale Golf Trip
Planning a Scottsdale Golf Trip?
- Unlock the 3-Day Scottsdale Template
- View Top Scottsdale House Rentals
- View Scottsdale Content Hub
- Start a Custom Golf Trip Plan
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.
Want a quick game without sacrificing desert beauty? This guide will help you tee off fast and finish strong.
Other Destinations:
Unlock the ultimate 3-day itinerary that blends championship golf, dayclub debauchery, and iconic Vegas nightlife.
Discover a 3-day itinerary that combines iconic Lowcountry golf, beach bar crawls, and a nightlife scene that punches way above its weight.
This 3-day itinerary blends legendary championship courses with oceanfront views, fresh coastal cuisine, and California wine country vibes.
This 3-day itinerary delivers legendary Donald Ross designs, longleaf pines, rolling fairways, and an atmosphere that is historic and laid-back.
This 3-day itinerary blends iconic desert courses with stylish eats, vintage-chic nightlife, and enough sunshine for everyone.
