The Rebirth of Scottsdale Country Club

Scottsdale CC is the first golf course ever built in Scottsdale. For more than seven decades, it has been part of the fabric of the Scottsdale community — evolving alongside the city as it has grown into one of the world’s most beloved golf destinations.

What began in December 1953 as Sundown Ranch

A sprawling ranch with stables, horseback riding, winter cottages, and tee times for $2 - gradually became a full country club as Scottsdale developed around it. In 1959 Sundown Ranch was purchased by new owners, who renamed it Scottsdale Country Club. Additional holes were built in the 1980s, neighborhoods developed nearby and - following an ownership change in 1999 - the club transitioned into the public course that until 2026 was called Starfire.

Today the property is truly unique: the best-located club in one of the world’s best golf destinations. Welcoming players of every level, it hosts more junior and family golf rounds than almost any course in the country and sits at the heart of several historic Scottsdale neighborhoods.

In 2024, Swing First Golf acquired the property with a simple goal: restore the club to a standard worthy of its history. As Scottsdale natives who grew up playing here, we view ourselves as stewards of a place that has been part of the community for generations. As part of this effort, we are returning the club both to its roots and to its historic name: A place where the spirit of a country club exists, but where everyone is welcome. Scottsdale CC: The People’s Country Club.

The Championship Course

Play the oldest golf club in Scottsdale. Originally established in 1953, our 18-hole track preserves rich desert heritage with a classic, highly playable layout.

The Shooter

Fast, accessible, and packed with personality. A playful 10-hole short course designed by Forrest Richardson, featuring named holes and Arizona’s only par-2 putting hole.

The Bandana Putting Course

25,000 square feet of pure, unpretentious fun. Winding through a native rock garden, The Bandana is a free 9-hole putting course built for casual play and evening hangouts. No reservations needed—just grab a cocktail and play.

The Range & Kostis Academy

Perfect your swing at our premier public practice facility. Featuring covered hitting bays equipped with full TrackMan technology alongside elite coaching from the Kostis Academy.

A New Chapter

After a year of planning, in late 2025 we began a long-term effort to modernize and improve the property in time for its 75th anniversary. Working with some of the country’s most respected golf visionaries —architects and contractors — we’re transforming the club into a vibrant community destination while preserving its character.

Brand 53

The Cowboy Cool Bar & Patio

Coming in late 2026 or 2027, Doug Fredrikson Architects (Izzy’s at Grayhawk, Lou’s at Papago, Adobe Grill at the Biltmore) will completely transform the current Scottsdale CC grill into the most welcoming hangout spot in Central Scottsdale. Come out and enjoy the vibe and views.

The Robin’s Nest

Making The Turn

Opened in March 2026, the Robin’s Nest is an Airstream coffee shop and beer garden near the clubhouse — a shaded, casual outdoor gathering place for golfers, neighbors, and visitors.

These improvements will continue until the master plan has been completed. The goal is singular: transform Scottsdale CC into a beautiful, sustainable Scottsdale golf destination while improving the views and experience for the surrounding community. A place where neighbors gather, families learn the game, and golfers of all levels feel welcome. For the next 75 years.