Where to Play Par 3 Golf in Scottsdale: Best Short Course Options
These are the best Par 3 and short courses in Scottsdale for quick rounds, beginners, and fun twilight golf.
September 22, 2025 · 6 min read
Jump to Section
Not every round needs to be a 5-hour championship slog. Whether you're short on time, warming up for the weekend, or looking for a relaxed intro to desert golf, Scottsdale has a handful of excellent public-access Par 3 and short courses worth playing.
These layouts are ideal for beginners, groups looking to sneak in a quick 9, or anyone who just wants to sharpen their short game.
Quick Answer: Best Par 3 Courses in Scottsdale
The Mountain Shadows Short Course, Continental Golf Club, and Coronado Golf Course offer the best mix of scenery, walkability, and affordability for Par 3 and short-course golf in Scottsdale.
For a full trip built around flexible rounds like these, Unlock the 3-Day Scottsdale Template and get a done-for-you plan that blends quick golf, nightlife, and rest.
Why Play Par 3 or Short Courses on Your Scottsdale Trip?
- Faster rounds (60–90 minutes)
- More forgiving for casual golfers or mixed-skill groups
- Affordable twilight and weekday rates
- Often walkable, low-stress layouts
- Ideal for early arrivals, recovery days, or one more round of energy
These courses are also perfect if you're traveling light or leaving the driver at home.
Want to see a full Scottsdale golf weekend? This 3-day itinerary shows where to stay, where to play, and how the days flow.
Best Par 3 and Short Golf Courses in Scottsdale
1. Mountain Shadows Short Course
Paradise Valley | $$ |
This luxury short course punches way above its weight. Designed by Forrest Richardson, it offers 18 unique par-3 holes set against the backdrop of Camelback Mountain.
- Elevated tee shots, creative green complexes
- Resort-level conditions
- Ideal for early mornings or post-lunch golf
Tip: Pair with brunch or pool time at the Mountain Shadows Resort.
2. Continental Golf Club
South Scottsdale | $ |
Technically a full-length executive course (par 60), but with plenty of short holes that play like a Par 3 loop. Flat, walkable, and right near Old Town.
- Great for casual groups and beginners
- Affordable twilight rates
- Can finish in under 2 hours
Related: What Does a Scottsdale Golf Trip Cost?
3. Coronado Golf Course
Old Town Scottsdale | $ |
Scottsdale’s OG Par 3 course. This 9-hole track has been serving up casual desert golf for decades. Walk it in flip-flops if you want.
- Easygoing, flat layout
- Club rentals available
- Ideal for hangover rounds
Also featured in: Best 9-Hole and Executive Golf Courses in Scottsdale
4. The Short Course at Mountain Shadows (Bonus Highlight)
Technically the same property as Mountain Shadows, but deserves a second shout for its design quality. Think of this as the Bandon Preserve of Scottsdale.
- Walkable with a drink in hand
- Pure, creative Par 3 golf
- Great for low-key evenings with the crew
Best Times to Play Par 3 or Short Courses
- Weekday mornings or twilight: Low crowds, cooler temps
- Arrival days: Perfect warm-up if your flight lands before check-in
- Sunday departures: Great for squeezing in one last round before heading out
- Summer months: Shorter courses mean less time in the heat
Planning a Scottsdale Golf Trip?
- Take Golf Trip Quiz → Get tailored destination ideas for your group
- Get 3-Day Template → Follow a proven, ready-to-book itinerary
- View Golf Trip Bundles → Save more when planning multiple trips
- Start Custom Plan → Have your entire weekend planned for you
More Scottsdale Golf Trip Guides
- Best Public Golf Courses in Scottsdale for Groups
- Where to Eat After Golf in Scottsdale
- Best Time of Year to Golf in Scottsdale
- Hidden Gem Public Golf Courses in Scottsdale
- Scottsdale Golf Trip Mistakes to Avoid
For casual days, hangover golf, or a quick warm-up, these Par 3 and short courses offer a relaxed way to play in Scottsdale.
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.
Related guides
18Away
18Away
18Away
18Away
18Away
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.
