Best Public Golf Courses in Scottsdale for Groups
Find out which Scottsdale public golf courses are best for groups, with insider details on price, vibe, and group fit.
July 7, 2025 · 8 min read
Scottsdale is packed with public golf courses that make planning a group trip simple. The desert scenery, year-round sunshine, and after-golf nightlife combine to create one of the best golf destinations in the U.S. The key is knowing which public courses actually work for groups, since not every layout or price point is right for bachelor parties or buddies trips.
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Quick Answer: Best Public Golf Courses in Scottsdale for Groups
The top public golf courses in Scottsdale for groups include TPC Scottsdale for the full PGA Tour experience, Troon North for desert golf at its finest, and Talking Stick for casual, casino-adjacent fun. We-Ko-Pa is unbeatable for pure desert scenery, Papago and Orange Tree are budget-friendly and forgiving, and Quintero is a bucket-list out-of-town option that rewards serious golfers. Together, these picks cover every type of group trip, from high-end bachelor parties to relaxed buddies weekends.
Why Is Scottsdale So Good for Group Golf?
Scottsdale boasts over 200 golf courses within driving range, with weather that stays playable nearly 330 days a year. According to the Arizona Office of Tourism, Scottsdale welcomes more than 9 million visitors annually, many of them traveling for golf getaways.
- The combination of dry desert air and flawless course conditioning makes planning simple, whether you visit in January or June.
- Off-course energy is unbeatable: Old Town’s rooftop bars, casino nights at Talking Stick Resort, and spring training season turn every trip into an event.
- Golf Digest and Golfweek consistently list multiple Scottsdale public courses among the top 100 U.S. resort layouts, proof that quality here runs deep.
Best if: You want destination golf with built-in nightlife and easy planning logistics.
See the courses, hotels, and nightlife we recommend for the perfect 3-day getaway.
What Are the Best Public Courses in Scottsdale for Groups?
TPC Scottsdale – Stadium Course
TPC Scottsdale is the ultimate bachelor party course, home of the Waste Management Phoenix Open, and one of the most famous public tracks in the country.
- The Stadium Course stretches to 7,261 yards, with the rowdy par-3 16th hole offering a one-of-a-kind group photo op.
- Green fees usually range from $250 to $450, higher during peak season, but twilight deals offer ways to save.
- Location is just 15 minutes from Old Town, making it easy to pair golf with nightlife and dining.
- Groups love the big-time feel, from Tour-level conditions to a lively clubhouse scene.
Course breakdown
- Pros: Iconic PGA Tour host, central location, bucket-list energy.
- Cons: Expensive, pace can slow on busy days.
Want to build a full weekend around it? Here’s how to plan a Scottsdale bachelor party golf trip.
Troon North – Monument and Pinnacle
Troon North is desert golf at its absolute best, with two courses winding through towering rock formations and saguaros.
- Monument is slightly more forgiving, while Pinnacle is a true ball-striker’s test, both stretching over 7,000 yards.
- Rates range from $180 to $300, depending on season, with group packages available for 8+ players.
- Its elevated tee boxes and postcard views create memorable moments for bachelor or buddies trips.
- Troon North also has one of the best pro shops and on-site practice areas in Scottsdale.
Course breakdown
- Pros: Pure desert setting, two-course variety, group packages.
- Cons: Premium pricing, longer drives between holes.
Looking for a Scottsdale stay and play? Get matched with a curated course lineup plus the perfect hotel or golf house in seconds.
Talking Stick Golf Club – O’odham and Piipaash
Talking Stick is built for groups, thanks to its 36-hole layout, wide fairways, and connection to Talking Stick Resort.
- Green fees range from $100 to $170, with value twilight rates available.
- O’odham is flatter and more walkable, while Piipaash adds water and strategy.
- On-site casino and pool scene make it easy to slot into a bachelor weekend itinerary.
- Night golf at the par-3 course offers a fun bonus option for groups.
Course breakdown
- Pros: Multiple courses, resort access, night golf.
- Cons: Flat desert setting lacks the drama of Troon or We-Ko-Pa.
We-Ko-Pa Golf Club – Saguaro and Cholla
We-Ko-Pa is what many golfers imagine desert golf should be: no houses, just mountains and cacti as far as you can see.
- Saguaro plays 6,966 yards and is known as one of the most walkable desert courses.
- Cholla stretches over 7,200 yards and plays tougher, ideal for low-handicap groups.
- Rates range from $160 to $250, with discounts available through stay-and-play partners.
- The clubhouse has one of the best patios in Arizona for post-round drinks.
Course breakdown
- Pros: Pure desert scenery, no homes, two elite layouts.
- Cons: Slightly farther from nightlife, premium cost.
Planning a Scottsdale golf trip? Get the 3-day golf trip itinerary, courses, bookings, nightlife, and more.
Papago Golf Course
Papago is one of the best values in Scottsdale, with a central location and a laid-back feel perfect for casual rounds.
- Yardage tops 7,300 from the tips, but the wide fairways make it playable for beginners.
- Green fees typically run $75 to $120, making it a strong early-arrival or Day 3 option.
- Located near Old Town, it is easy to pair with nightlife and restaurants.
- Excellent practice facility makes it a warm-up round before tackling tougher desert layouts.
Course breakdown
- Pros: Affordable, close to Old Town, strong practice setup.
- Cons: Less dramatic scenery, busy on weekends.
Quintero Golf Club
Quintero is not technically in Scottsdale, but it’s worth the hour-long drive for serious groups.
- Elevation changes create jaw-dropping views and unique shot values.
- Yardage plays up to 7,200 yards with a slope rating of 147, making it challenging for scratch players.
- Green fees run $180 to $300, depending on season and availability.
- Groups often make it a “final day splurge” round before heading home.
Course breakdown
- Pros: Unforgettable views, serious golf test.
- Cons: Distance from Scottsdale requires planning, and it is expensive.
Orange Tree Golf Club
Orange Tree offers a different vibe, a flat, tree-lined layout that is easy to walk and perfect for casual rounds.
- Yardage is 6,775 from the tips, with generous landing areas.
- Rates usually range from $60 to $110, making it one of the most affordable group options.
- Its central location is convenient for pairing with local dining or nightlife.
- Often overlooked, which makes tee times easier to find for larger groups.
Course breakdown
- Pros: Walkable, budget-friendly, good for beginners.
- Cons: Less dramatic setting, traditional rather than desert style.
Not sure which destination fits your crew? Take our 30-second Golf Trip Quiz and get matched instantly.
What Should Groups Look for in a Scottsdale Course?
Can you book tee times in advance?
Most public courses in Scottsdale allow booking 60–90 days ahead. For groups of 8+, call the pro shop directly or work with a planner.
Are group discounts available?
Yes, some resorts like Troon North, We-Ko-Pa, and Talking Stick offer packages or multi-round deals. Always ask.
Are rental clubs available?
Yes, and many Scottsdale clubs offer high-end rentals like Callaway or TaylorMade sets, perfect for fly-in groups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the easiest public course to play with beginners in Scottsdale?
A: Papago and Orange Tree are great picks; they offer forgiving layouts and a casual vibe.
Q: Can I play TPC Scottsdale without a resort stay?
A: Yes! TPC is a public course, and prices vary depending on the time and season. Book early.
Q: Which Scottsdale courses are closest to nightlife and hotels?
A: Papago, Talking Stick, and TPC Scottsdale are all within 15–20 minutes of Old Town.
Q: What’s the best public course for a bachelor party round?
A: TPC Scottsdale is the ultimate showpiece, but Talking Stick works well, too.
Q: Are there twilight deals or ways to save?
A: Yes, most courses offer twilight rates, especially in shoulder seasons (May and September).
Need a hand planning it all? We’ll design your custom golf trip, from tee times to nightlife, with zero stress. Explore custom trips.
More Scottsdale Golf Trip Guides
- Best Scottsdale Golf Trip Itinerary for Groups
- Best Places to Stay for a Scottsdale Golf Trip
- How to Split Costs on a Scottsdale Golf Trip
Planning a Scottsdale Golf Trip?
- Unlock the 3-Day Scottsdale Template
- View Top Places To Stay in Scottsdale
- 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.
Whether you’re booking a bachelor party or a casual weekend with the crew, these public courses in Scottsdale are built for great vibes, incredible views, and zero stress.
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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