If you adore golf like I do you need to visit the beautiful state of Arizona, in particular the Phoenix regional area. With over 320 sun filled days a year and more than 300 golf courses in the area this is truly a golf lover's paradise. Many PGA pros even call Phoenix home. The famous golf club maker PING is also located here in Scottsdale.

Now to the point, if you come to Phoenix in the summer you won't believe how inexpensive green fees can be. Did I hear you say I must be insane! Well, maybe a little, but at that time of year would you believe you can get on some courses, with cart, for $10 bucks!! With the current economical state of affairs in our Country, especially in Phoenix, there is alot of rivalry between golf courses. I have actually played Springfield Lakes in Chandler a number of times this summer for $12.50. That's 18 holes with a cart and I have heard them offering deals for $8.00!

The trick to playing Phoenix golf in the summer months is fairly apparent… tee off EARLY. July, August and September are the hottest months here. Try and get a tee time for 5:30am or 6 at the latest. Be aware that some courses do not allow tee times earlier than 6am. The advantages to getting on the course early are as follows: 1) Cheap golf, what more do I need to say. 2) Hopefully, you are the first one or group on the course for the day. That means there is no one in front of you. 3) In addition to number 2, if you are the first one on the course and tee off at 5:30am you're finished by 9am before it gets unbarebly hot.

Depending on the course, expect to pay anywhere from 15 to 75 dollars for a round. Keep in mind that golf courses such as Dinosaur in Gold Canyon and Troon in Scottsdale can be well over $200 per round in the winter. Now you can see why it's hard to beat summer golf here!

If you are coming from out of state this is also the cheapest time of year for both resorts/hotels and air fare. You can typically book rooms in a resort hotel at half the price you would pay in the winter. After golf you relax in the pool with your preferred cocktail.

Let me leave you with a few other summer golfing words of advice. Bring a lot of water and stay hydrated, dehydration can sneak up on you fast. Wear plenty of 30spf sunscreen and a wide brimmed hat is also suggested. Shades are also a must. I hope to see you on the course!