Best Time of Day to Golf in Scottsdale by Season
Tee time planning is seasonal in Scottsdale; this guide shows the best time of day to play in every season, from winter mornings to summer twilight rounds.
July 26, 2025 · 6 min read
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Planning tee times in Scottsdale is an art, and it changes with the season. Whether you’re chasing cool mornings or golden-hour views, this guide breaks down the best time of day to golf in Scottsdale by season, so you can get the most out of every round.
Quick Answer: When’s the Best Time of Day to Golf in Scottsdale?
October to May: early morning is ideal (7–9 a.m.) for perfect temps and smooth greens.
June to September: go early (sunrise tee times) or take advantage of twilight deals after 3 p.m.
Fall and spring: mid-morning sweet spot (8:30–10 a.m.) offers great light and tempo.
Use this guide to match your golf plans to the time of year, especially if you're building a custom itinerary or using the 3-Day Scottsdale Template.
Winter (December to February): Crisp Mornings, Prime Conditions
- Best time to tee off: 8:00–10:00 a.m.
- Why it works: The sun warms things up quickly, and conditions are ideal. Expect lush overseeded fairways and fast greens.
Tip: This is high season in Scottsdale, so book 60–90 days ahead. For top picks, check Best Public Golf Courses in Scottsdale for Groups
Spring (March to May): Peak Golf Season Energy
- Best time to tee off: 7:30–9:30 a.m.
- Why it works: The weather is still cool in the mornings, and courses are in top shape after winter overseeding.
Bonus: Morning tee times let you beat spring break crowds and still enjoy lunch, pool time, or a second nine.
Summer (June to September): Heat Hacks and Twilight Rounds
- Best time to tee off:
- Early bird: 5:30–7:00 a.m. (sunrise golf)
- Twilight rounds: after 3:00 p.m. for huge discounts and sunset vibes
Morning rounds in summer are magical if you don’t mind the alarm clock. By 10 a.m., it’s 90+ degrees. Twilight rounds come with lower green fees and stunning desert skies; just stay hydrated.
Explore the Best Summer Golf Deals in Scottsdale to save big during this window.
Want to see a full Scottsdale golf weekend? This 3-day itinerary shows where to stay, where to play, and how the days flow.
Fall (October to November): Transition Season Perfection
- Best time to tee off: 8:00–9:30 a.m.
- Why it works: The heat starts to ease, courses reopen post-overseed, and rates are better than peak winter.
Watch out for overseed closures in September–October. Some courses stagger their reopening schedules, so book accordingly.
Use our Last-Minute Tee Time Guide if you're visiting during this transitional season.
What About Golden Hour Golf?
If your group values aesthetics over performance, golden hour tee times (around 4 p.m. in spring/fall) can make for epic sunset rounds. Just know pace may be slower, and you might not finish 18.
Additional Tips for Choosing Tee Times in Scottsdale
- Groups of 8+? Lock in early mornings to avoid slow play
- Bachelor parties? Consider a mid-morning start after a night out
- Couples or spa/golf combos? Mix early rounds with late spa bookings
More ideas: Scottsdale Golf Resorts with the Best On-Site Courses
Planning a Scottsdale Golf Trip?
- Take Golf Trip Quiz → Get tailored destination ideas for your group
- Get 3-Day Template → Follow a proven, ready-to-book itinerary
- View Golf Trip Bundles → Save more when planning multiple trips
- Start Custom Plan → Have your entire weekend planned for you
More Scottsdale Golf Trip Guides
- Best Time of Year to Golf in Scottsdale
- Scottsdale Golf Courses with the Best Twilight Rates
- What to Pack for a Scottsdale Golf Trip
Plan smarter tee times and enjoy better Scottsdale rounds, no matter when you visit.
About This Scottsdale Guide
Every 18Away guide is independently written and updated by real golfers. We evaluate public access, group-friendly value, and proximity to top courses, referencing thousands of verified reviews, rate data, and on-site experience. Guides are refreshed regularly as conditions & pricing change over time.
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