Best Scottsdale Golf Courses for Early Morning Tee Times
Start your round early with these Scottsdale golf courses known for smooth greens, quiet mornings, and perfect sunrise views.
July 25, 2025 · 6 min read
By Ryan at 18Away
If you're the kind of player who loves crisp air, smooth greens, and finishing before lunch, early morning golf in Scottsdale is the move. You’ll beat the heat, dodge the crowds, and sometimes even grab a discount.
This guide breaks down the best public courses in Scottsdale for early morning rounds, perfect for sunrise tee shots and stress-free pacing.
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Quick Answer: Best Early Morning Rounds in Scottsdale
Papago, Talking Stick (O'odham), and We-Ko-Pa (Saguaro) are three of the top spots for early tee times in Scottsdale thanks to quiet starts, top conditions, and spectacular sunrises.
Why Morning Golf is Better in Scottsdale
- Cooler temperatures: Essential during spring and summer
- Freshly prepped greens: Cut and rolled before most players arrive
- Faster pace of play: Fewer groups and distractions
- Golden hour lighting: Ideal for both photos and visibility
Let’s dive into the best public-access courses that shine in the early hours.
See the courses, hotels, and nightlife we recommend for the perfect 3-day getaway.
Top Public Golf Courses for Morning Tee Times
1. Papago Golf Club
Phoenix | $
One of the best budget-friendly morning rounds around. You’ll catch the sun rising over Papago Buttes, and it’s ideal if you're staying near Tempe or South Scottsdale.
- Early tee times are plentiful
- Fast, wide fairways make for quick play
- Sunrise views of Camelback Mountain
Pro Tip: Grab a breakfast burrito from Lou’s Bar and Grill after the round.
2. Talking Stick Golf Club (O’odham Course)
Central Scottsdale | $$
Flat terrain, walkable layout, and minimal desert brush, a fantastic pace-of-play option in the morning.
- Resort-style greens and great maintenance
- Overlooks the mountains to the east at sunrise
- Often one of the first tee sheets to open
Fun for groups who want to finish early and head to brunch or the pool.
Planning a Scottsdale golf trip? Get the 3-day golf trip itinerary, which includes hotels, courses, nightlife, and more.
3. We-Ko-Pa Golf Club (Saguaro Course)
Fort McDowell | $$$
If you want scenery plus pristine greens, We-Ko-Pa in the early AM is unbeatable.
- Quiet, remote desert vibe at sunrise
- No homes, no traffic, just golf
- One of Arizona’s top-rated public courses
Pro tip: Book a sunrise slot here and thank us later.
4. Grayhawk Golf Club (Raptor Course)
North Scottsdale | $$$
Known for top-tier service and greens that are immaculate first thing in the morning.
- Tee boxes framed with desert blooms
- Great for bachelor trips or upscale groups
- Excellent breakfast options at the clubhouse
5. McDowell Mountain Golf Club
North Scottsdale | $$
One of the best city-owned courses with consistent maintenance and early tee time availability.
- Overlooks the McDowell range
- Affordable compared to nearby resorts
- Often has same-day early slots available
A solid choice for a quick getaway morning round.
Best Times to Book for AM Tee Times
- Summer: Book as early as 5:30–6:00 AM to beat the heat
- Winter: Sunrise starts shift to 7:00–7:30 AM
- Book 5–10 days ahead for top-tier courses in season
Want us to build your schedule? Try the Custom Golf Trip Plan for a tee-time ready itinerary that handles everything for your group.
More Scottsdale Golf Trip Guides
- Best Public Golf Courses in Scottsdale for Groups
- Best Time of Year to Golf in Scottsdale
- Scottsdale Golf Courses with the Best Views
- Scottsdale Golf Courses with the Best Greens
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.
Want to beat the heat and still play epic Scottsdale golf? This guide helps you lock down morning tee times that hit the sweet spot.
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