What are the best underrated public golf courses in Scottsdale?

Courses like Coronado, SunRidge Canyon, and Orange Tree offer great value, fun layouts, and fewer crowds — making them perfect hidden gems for groups.

Are there budget-friendly golf courses in Scottsdale that aren’t crowded?

Yes, Coronado, Papago, and Silverado are great options with affordable rates and more tee time availability.

What’s the best underrated course for advanced players?

SunRidge Canyon has one of the toughest finishing stretches in the region, with a back nine that’s popular for competitive groups.

Scottsdale

Most Underrated Public Golf Courses in Scottsdale

These underrated public courses in Scottsdale deserve more love. Affordable, fun, and perfect for group trips.

July 22, 2025 • 6 min read

Everyone’s heard of Troon North, We-Ko-Pa, and Grayhawk. But what about the public courses in Scottsdale that quietly deliver amazing rounds without the hype?

This guide highlights the most underrated golf courses in the area, hidden gems that are affordable, well-maintained, and perfect for groups looking to mix things up without blowing the budget.

Quick Answer: Scottsdale’s Best Hidden Gem Courses

Courses like Coronado, SunRidge Canyon, and Orange Tree offer great conditions and layout variety at lower prices, making them perfect additions to your Scottsdale golf itinerary.

Want help picking the right combo? Start with our Golf Trip Quiz or unlock the 3-Day Template for a proven trip plan.

What Makes a Course “Underrated”?

Local favorite but not in national rankings
Better-than-expected conditions for the price
Surprisingly fun or strategic layouts
Great for filling travel days or lighter itinerary slots
Often overlooked in favor of the “big names.”

We’re only listing public-access courses; all of these can be booked directly, no memberships required.

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Most Underrated Public Golf Courses in Scottsdale

1. Coronado Golf Course

South Scottsdale | $

A true locals’ favorite. Coronado is short, scrappy, and affordable, perfect for casual rounds, night golf, or post-party swing sessions.

Great for: Warm-up rounds, beginners, or quick 9 before brunch

2. SunRidge Canyon Golf Club

Fountain Hills | $$

Often overshadowed by We-Ko-Pa and Eagle Mountain, SunRidge delivers one of the most fun back 9s in the region, known as the “Wicked 6.”

Strategic, scenic, and ideal for match play formats

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3. Orange Tree Golf Club

Central Scottsdale | $$

Flat, walkable, and tree-lined, this isn’t your typical desert track. But for mid-handicappers or casual groups, it’s a welcome break with a parkland-style layout.

Often has last-minute availability and reasonable rates

4. Papago Golf Club

Phoenix (near Tempe) | $

While not technically in Scottsdale, Papago offers killer views, strong walkability, and a mellow vibe that’s perfect for laid-back days. It’s often skipped by out-of-towners.

Proximity to ASU and downtown makes it great for combo days

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5. Scottsdale Silverado Golf Club

Central Scottsdale | $$

This one splits the difference between value and challenge. With water, elevation, and walkability, Silverado delivers more than you’d expect for the price.

Location is prime, close to both Old Town and North Scottsdale lodging zones

When to Add Underrated Courses to Your Trip

Arrival Day: Easy to fit in and low-stress
After a High-End Round: Balance the budget
For Group Games: Many of these are ideal for scrambles and skins
Morning Warm-Ups: Good pace, low crowds

Need help pairing these with top-tier courses? Try our Custom Trip Planner or check the Scottsdale Content Hub.

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These hidden gem courses help you save money, play fast, and still experience Scottsdale’s golf magic.

Author

Ryan from 18Away Golf trip designer and editor

I help groups plan unforgettable itineraries across the top golf destinations in the U.S., blending real-golfer feedback with first-hand course research.

About the author · [email protected]

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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