Best Scottsdale Golf Courses for High-Handicappers
New to the game or bringing beginners? These Scottsdale public courses are ideal for high-handicappers and casual rounds.
July 20, 2025 · 6 min read
By Ryan at 18Away
Scottsdale might be known for its championship tracks and Tour-level conditioning, but not every course needs to beat you up. If you're planning a golf trip that includes newer players, high-handicappers, or just want a more relaxed round, this guide is for you.
We've rounded up the most beginner-friendly public golf courses in Scottsdale, ones that are playable, scenic, and still deliver that Arizona golf vibe.
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Quick Answer: Most Forgiving Courses in Scottsdale
Continental Golf Club, McDowell Mountain Golf Club, and Talking Stick O’odham are three of the best public courses for high-handicappers in Scottsdale. Each offers wide fairways, playable layouts, and a fun pace for newer golfers.
Seeking an itinerary that strikes the perfect balance between fun and challenge? Unlock our 3-Day Scottsdale Template, built for groups of all skill levels.
What Makes a Course Beginner-Friendly?
High-handicap and beginner golfers thrive on layouts with these features:
- Wide fairways that reduce penalty shots
- Shorter overall length or multiple tee options
- Minimal forced carries over desert, water, or canyons
- Generous landing zones off the tee
- Less penal, rough, and fewer hazards
These courses won’t eliminate the challenge, but they allow more room to enjoy the round instead of hunting for golf balls.
See the courses, hotels, and nightlife for the perfect 3-day getaway.
Best Public Golf Courses in Scottsdale for High-Handicappers
1. Continental Golf Club
Old Town Scottsdale | $ Budget-friendly
If you're staying near Old Town, Continental is your go-to warm-up course. It’s flat, walkable, and doesn’t overwhelm new players with tricky shots.
Why it’s great for high-handicappers:
- Straightforward layout with few forced carries
- Wide open fairways and short par 4s
- Affordable green fees and casual atmosphere
Pro tip: Great for arrival day or the morning after a big night out in Old Town.
2. McDowell Mountain Golf Club
North Scottsdale | $$
This course was redesigned with player enjoyment in mind. It’s one of the most playable courses in the area, and it still features beautiful desert backdrops.
Why it’s great for high-handicappers:
- Wide, inviting fairways with a low intimidation factor
- Multiple tee options with smart yardage spacing
- Excellent pace-of-play management for groups
Pro tip: If your crew includes both beginners and solid players, this is the course to satisfy both.
Planning a Scottsdale golf trip? Get the 3-day golf trip itinerary, which includes hotels, courses, nightlife, and more.
3. Talking Stick Golf Club – O’odham Course
Salt River | $$
Talking Stick has two great public courses, and the O’odham Course (formerly North) is the flatter, more forgiving of the two.
Why it’s great for high-handicappers:
- Open fairways and minimal desert carry
- Easy to walk and intuitive routing
- Resort-like feel without high prices
Pro tip: Add this one to your itinerary if you’re staying at Talking Stick Resort; the post-round pool and casino access are a bonus.
4. Silverado Golf Club
Central Scottsdale | $$
Silverado is fun, straightforward, and lively. The course is short by modern standards but offers an enjoyable day without crushing the scorecard.
Why it’s great for high-handicappers:
- Fun layout with forgiving landing areas
- Centrally located and easy to access
- Affordable and playable for mixed-skill groups
Pro tip: Great first-round course to kick off a golf weekend.
5. Orange Tree Golf Club
Paradise Valley | $$
A more traditional parkland-style layout tucked into Paradise Valley, Orange Tree skips the desert intimidation factor and replaces it with a relaxed, tree-lined setting.
Why it’s great for high-handicappers:
- No desert carries or dramatic elevation changes
- Flat terrain and straightforward design
- Older course feels that it’s comfortable and familiar
When to Schedule These Courses
- Arrival Day: Shake off the travel without stressing over the score
- First Round: Build confidence before playing tougher layouts
- Group Scramble Day: Let everyone contribute without pressure
- Final Day: End the trip on a fun, lighthearted note
If you want the full experience built for your crew, our 3-Day Scottsdale Itinerary includes budget-friendly, beginner-friendly, and bucket-list courses all in one plan.
More Scottsdale Golf Trip Guides
- Best Public Golf Courses in Scottsdale for Groups
- Scottsdale Golf Trip Mistakes to Avoid
- Best Places to Stay for a Scottsdale Golf Trip
- What to Pack for a Scottsdale Golf Trip
- Scottsdale’s Best 9-Hole and Executive Golf Courses
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.
Bringing beginners on your next Scottsdale golf trip? These courses keep it fun, scenic, and low-pressure so everyone in your group enjoys the round.
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