Best Time Not to Golf in Scottsdale: When to Avoid the Heat, Crowds, and Closures
Avoid the wrong timing. Learn when Scottsdale golf gets too hot, too crowded, or too closed for comfort.
July 25, 2025 · 6 min read
By Ryan at 18Away
Scottsdale is a year-round golf destination, but not every season is ideal. If you're planning a trip, knowing when not to go can be just as important as knowing when to book.
Here’s when to skip your Scottsdale golf getaway (and why), plus smarter timing alternatives that’ll still deliver a great experience.
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Quick Answer: When to Avoid Golf in Scottsdale
Late June through early September is the most challenging time to golf in Scottsdale. Temperatures soar past 110°F, some courses close for summer maintenance, and tee times slow to a crawl after 10 a.m. Avoid overseeding, transition weeks in late September to mid-October, too, when many courses are partially closed or in rough shape.
What Makes Summer So Brutal for Golf?
From mid-June through early September, Scottsdale enters extreme heat territory. While prices plummet, so does playability.
- Temps regularly hit 105–115°F
- Morning rounds must finish early
- Midday rounds are borderline unsafe
- Twilight golf is nearly empty (for a reason)
Most locals stop playing midday altogether during this stretch. If you're visiting, you’ll either need to book sunrise rounds or skip the summer altogether.
Related: If you are planning a summer trip, don’t miss our guide to Best Summer Golf Deals in Scottsdale
See the courses, hotels, and nightlife for the perfect 3-day getaway.
Course Closures During Overseed
Most desert courses in Scottsdale close for 2–3 weeks between late September and late October to overseed rye grass and prepare for winter.
Here’s what to expect:
- Closures rotate, so some courses stay open
- Playing on overseeded turf right after reopening = soggy, slow greens
- Tee boxes and fairways can be patchy or roped off
- Cart path only rules have been standard for several weeks
Overseed also means a reduced pace of play and fewer playable holes at some facilities.
Key Dates to Watch
Overseed Season
- Sept 20 - Oct 15 (most closures, rough conditions)
- Oct 15 - Nov 1 (reopening phase, cart path only)
- Nov 1 onward (excellent conditions return)
Tip: Book your Scottsdale trip after November 1 to guarantee top-tier playing conditions.
Need a hand planning it all? We’ll design your custom golf trip, from tee times to nightlife, with zero stress.
When Is Scottsdale Golf the Most Crowded?
The January through April peak season is when Scottsdale golf is at its busiest. That doesn’t mean it’s bad — just know what you're getting into.
- Tee times book out 30–90 days in advance
- Hotel and Airbnb prices spike
- Courses run at max capacity
- The pace of play can slow down
If you’re going during peak season, lock in your trip 60–90 days early. You’ll avoid frustration and score better tee times and lodging rates.
Related: Use our Scottsdale Golf Cost Breakdown to plan your budget during the busiest months
Wind, Rain, and Other Wildcards
While heat and overseeding are the big challenges, here are some less obvious times to watch out for:
- Late July – Early August: Monsoon season, with flash storms and course closures
- Early January: Frost delays are common on early tee times
- Late October: Some courses are still recovering from overseeding
Most of the year is playable, but these small windows can disrupt your round if you’re not prepared.
Better Timing Alternatives
If your schedule is flexible, here’s when to go instead:
- Mid-November to Mid-December: Ideal pre-holiday window, great conditions
- Late April to Mid-May: Prices dip, weather still mild
- Early March: Before the major spring break crowds hit
Each of these offers excellent playability, open tee sheets, and fewer headaches.
Related: Read our full guide on Best Time of Year to Golf in Scottsdale
More Scottsdale Planning Guides
- How to Plan a Last-Minute Golf Trip to Scottsdale
- Best Public Golf Courses in Scottsdale for Groups
- Scottsdale’s Most Forgiving Golf Courses
- Where to Eat After Golf 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.
Want a headache-free trip? Avoid these dates and your Scottsdale golf weekend will be unforgettable.
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