Best Scottsdale Golf Courses for Scenic Sunset Rounds
Sunset golf in Scottsdale is next-level. These courses offer breathtaking views, golden hour vibes, and perfect twilight tee times.
August 2, 2025 · 6 min read
By Ryan at 18Away
Scottsdale is famous for desert sunsets, so why not line that up with your last tee time of the day?
Whether you're chasing golden-hour lighting or planning a relaxed late-day round, these public courses deliver wide-open views, west-facing holes, and unbeatable twilight vibes.
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Quick Answer: Best Courses for Sunset Golf in Scottsdale
Courses like Troon North, Grayhawk, Papago, and Eagle Mountain are known for their west-facing views and sunset-worthy back nines. If you're booking a twilight round, these are where you'll want to be as the sky lights up.
Why Sunset Golf Hits Different in Scottsdale
You’re not just getting cooler temps and cheaper twilight rates — you’re getting a visual experience. Think silhouettes of saguaros, long shadows across the fairway, and a glowing Sonoran sky behind every shot.
Here’s what makes sunset golf in Scottsdale a must:
- Golden hour lighting for every hole
- Less crowded pace near day’s end
- Cooler desert temps after 4 PM
- Epic post-round patio and drink potential
Let’s break down where to tee off as the sun dips behind the McDowell Mountains.
See the courses, hotels, and nightlife we recommend for the perfect 3-day getaway.
Top Public Golf Courses for Sunset Rounds
1. Troon North – Monument Course
North Scottsdale | $$$
Monument is famous for its camera-ready desert views, but the sunset over Pinnacle Peak? Unmatched. Holes 14 through 18 wind through scenic desert corridors with views that pop at twilight.
Best time: Tee off around 3:30–4:00 PM to catch sunset on the back nine.
2. Grayhawk – Talon Course
North Scottsdale | $$–$$$
Grayhawk Talon’s final holes face west toward the mountains and often frame the sun as it sets. The clubhouse patio at Isabella’s is a perfect post-round drink spot.
Pro tip: Book a 9-hole twilight rate and enjoy the golden hour without committing to a full round.
Planning a Scottsdale golf trip? Get the 3-day golf trip itinerary, which includes hotels, courses, nightlife, and more.
3. Papago Golf Club
Papago Park (Phoenix) | $
Papago’s flat layout and wide views make it one of the best sunset experiences close to Scottsdale. Hole 17 gives you a wide-open view of the Papago Buttes lit by evening light.
Why it’s great: Affordable rates and big-sky desert sunset views with less traffic.
4. Eagle Mountain Golf Club
Fountain Hills | $$
Elevated tee boxes and rolling desert hills give Eagle Mountain some of the best sky views at dusk. Twilight rounds here feel cinematic, especially in late fall and spring.
Best time: March through May or October for clear sunset skies and crisp air.
5. McDowell Mountain Golf Club
Central Scottsdale | $$
The back nine faces west toward the city, with broad valley views and mountain silhouettes. It’s playable and open enough to keep a good twilight pace.
Sunset vibe: Wide fairways, purple mountain backdrops, and less course congestion.
Tips for Booking Sunset Tee Times
- Twilight = savings: Most twilight rates start between 2–3 PM, with super twilight after 4 PM.
- Fall and spring are peak: Crisp skies and fewer clouds mean next-level sunsets.
- Bring the right gear: A light jacket and a couple of extra balls (in case dusk sneaks up).
Looking for more savings tips? Check out our guide to the Best Twilight Golf Deals in Scottsdale.
More Scottsdale Golf Trip Guides
- Scottsdale Golf Courses with the Best Views
- Best Desert-Style Public Golf Courses in Scottsdale
- What to Pack for a Scottsdale Golf Trip
- Best Walkable Golf Courses in Scottsdale
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.
Plan smarter tee times and enjoy better Scottsdale rounds, no matter when you visit.
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