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Golf courses

Any opinion on golf courses Ocotillo and San Marcos. I believe they are in Chandler but not much on their forum. We are staying in Scottsdale and have golfed on many courses there.

Ocotillo Golf Club and San Marcos Golf Resort are both located in Chandler, Arizona, which is about a 20–30 minute drive from Scottsdale. They offer different experiences compared to the high-end Scottsdale courses, and both are well-regarded for their unique layouts and affordability.

Ocotillo Golf Club:

Ocotillo is a public course designed by Phil Smith and offers a desert-style layout with well-maintained fairways and challenging greens. It is known for its scenic desert views and rolling terrain. The course is approachable for mid-handicap players but still offers challenges for lower handicaps.

  • Strengths: Well-maintained, friendly staff, desert scenery, reasonably priced.
  • Challenges: Some narrow fairways and water hazards on a few holes.
  • Best for: A relaxed round with some strategic holes that are fun but not overly difficult.

San Marcos Golf Resort:

San Marcos is an older, historic course in Chandler with a classic layout and mature landscaping. It offers a more traditional parkland-style experience compared to Scottsdale’s desert courses. The greens are usually fast and require good putting skills.

  • Strengths: Historic charm, wide fairways, affordable green fees.
  • Challenges: Some areas may feel dated, but maintenance is generally good.
  • Best for: Players who enjoy a relaxed pace and classic course aesthetics.

Additional Considerations:

  • Both courses are generally quieter than the Scottsdale resorts, making them a good choice for a less crowded round.
  • If you’re staying in Scottsdale and want to explore courses outside the typical tourist circuit, these Chandler courses are worth considering.
  • Booking tee times in advance is recommended, especially during peak season in spring or fall.

In summary, Ocotillo provides a slightly more modern desert-style challenge, while San Marcos offers historic charm and a classic layout. Both are good options for a day trip from Scottsdale, particularly if you’re looking for a change of pace from the higher-profile courses.

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