Which Scottsdale golf courses are best for match play?

Papago, TPC Scottsdale Champions, Kierland, McDowell Mountain, Lookout Mountain, and Grayhawk Raptor are top public-access courses for match play in Scottsdale. Each layout offers risk-reward holes, birdie chances, and dramatic finishing stretches that fit competitive formats.

Why are some Scottsdale golf courses better for side bets?

Courses with short par 4s, reachable par 5s, and tricky greens create scoring volatility that keeps side bets exciting. Scottsdale’s desert layouts also feature dramatic finishing holes, which make wagers swing on the final stretch.

Can large groups play match play and side games in Scottsdale?

Yes, many Scottsdale public courses like Kierland and Talking Stick have multiple 18s or 27-hole layouts that accommodate large groups running match play formats, skins, or team games. Calling ahead for group bookings ensures smooth play.

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Best Scottsdale Golf Courses for Match Play and Side Bets

These Scottsdale golf courses set the stage for epic match play, skins battles, and on-course wagers, with risk-reward holes, dramatic finishes, and plenty of side-action vibes.

August 27, 2025 · 6 min read

By Ryan at 18Away

If your golf group thrives on trash talk, close matches, and on-the-line wagers, Scottsdale delivers the perfect lineup of public courses that dial up the competitive tension. These layouts are made for match play, skins, and side bets, with birdie chances, big numbers lurking, and final-hole drama that can flip the match.

Whether you’re betting closest to the pin, Nassau formats, or just good ol’ fashioned stroke play with a twist, these are the top public courses in Scottsdale where money changes hands and pride is on the line.

Quick Answer: Best Scottsdale Golf Courses for Match Play and Side Bets

The top Scottsdale public golf courses for match play and side bets are Papago, TPC Scottsdale Champions, Kierland, McDowell Mountain, Lookout Mountain, and Grayhawk Raptor. These courses deliver risk-reward holes, dramatic finishing stretches, and plenty of scoring swings that make skins games, Nassau formats, and side bets more exciting.

What Makes a Great Match Play Golf Course?

For groups that love competition, match play–friendly courses have a few common traits:

Risk-reward holes where players can make bold decisions (or pay the price)
Short par 4s that tempt the big stick off the tee
Strategic greens and runoffs that reward smart play over brute force
Dramatic closing holes where the match can swing
Walkable or social layouts that keep the group banter flowing

Scottsdale's desert-style terrain and world-class public access make it an ideal destination for spirited formats.

1. Papago Golf Club

A city-run gem just outside Old Town, Papago is one of the best spots in the Valley for match play. The wide fairways encourage aggressive play, but the real test comes around the greens.

Big, undulating putting surfaces create make-or-break moments
The reachable par-5 18th offers a classic match-finishing setup
Affordable tee times make it great for recurring bets or replays

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2. TPC Scottsdale Champions Course

Often overshadowed by the Stadium Course, the Champions layout is tailor-made for group formats. Its risk-reward par 5s, tight driving lanes, and diverse green complexes create swing holes throughout the round.

The 9th and 18th both invite birdies or doubles
Excellent conditions year-round without the Stadium Course price
Set up to walk, which keeps the match energy flowing

3. Kierland Golf Club

Kierland’s 27 holes allow for plenty of rematches and side-game creativity. Each nine has its own personality, but they all reward bold shot-making and short-game finesse, both perfect for match play showdowns.

Large greens keep matches alive with long-range drama
Great for team games (2v2 best ball, alternate shot, etc.)
The patio at the clubhouse is a prime post-round celebration zone

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4. McDowell Mountain Golf Club

With elevation shifts, short par 4s, and scorable par 5s, McDowell Mountain sets up perfectly for competitive formats. It's a course that allows for birdies and blowups on almost every hole.

Great mix of hole lengths makes handicapping easy
Several drivable holes that create big swings in skins games
Always in solid shape, especially in shoulder seasons

5. Lookout Mountain Golf Club

This course rewards players who shape shots and control spin, perfect for pressure situations in a one-on-one format. It’s a true sleeper pick for side-action golfers.

Several holes offer risk-reward decisions off the tee
Strategic bunkering punishes careless plays
Affordable green fees mean lower stakes feel bigger

6. Grayhawk Golf Club (Raptor Course)

If your group wants a premium course for a high-stakes round, Grayhawk’s Raptor delivers the drama. It’s long and tough, but well-suited for competitive formats, especially if you’re betting on par 3s or long drives.

Fast greens and tricky approaches create mental tests
Excellent closing stretch, including the par-5 18th
Ideal for “big money” final rounds

Tips for Running Great Group Games

If you’re building a trip around match play and side bets, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Rotate partners daily to keep things fresh
Use a shared digital scorecard app (like Golf GameBook or 18Birdies)
Keep wagers friendly, but don’t forget the payout rules!
Choose courses where score variance is likely (not just birdie fests)

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Written by Ryan from 18Away, your go-to golf trip planner.

Scottsdale’s course density, year-round golf weather, and resort flexibility make it the Golf Capital of the Southwest, no contest.