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.
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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.
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
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.
