Palm Springs, California, is considered a golfer’s paradise. Home to some of the best golf courses in the United States, Palm Springs draws thousands of avid golfers each year for its pristine and challenging courses. In this article, we provide an overview of the top 13 best golf courses in Palm Springs for 2023. Each course offers something unique, from gorgeous views to wide fairways and immaculate greens. If you are looking for a golf course to visit for your next round, look no further!
PGA West Stadium Course
PGA West Stadium Course, originally a private course, underwent some controversy due to its challenging nature. Certain professionals even petitioned for its removal, but it has since been reinstated. Designed by the renowned Pete Dye, the course showcases his characteristic rambunctious style. The layout features a thrilling gambling par-5 16th hole known as the San Andreas Fault and a picturesque par-3 17th hole that leads to an island green. It culminates with a formidable par-4 18th hole bordered by water all the way to the green. Over time, this course has matured into an architectural gem, representing the culmination of Dye’s daring middle phase.
Stretching across 7300 yards with a slope rating of 148, the PGA West Stadium Course is a challenging and highly regarded 18-hole layout. Recognized as one of the top courses in the world, it has been consistently ranked in the top 100 for six consecutive years from 2013 to 2018. Inspired by the rugged and dramatic Scottish seaside courses, it boasts a rugged landscape that adds to its allure. With numerous bunkers strategically placed throughout and some long par 3’s requiring shots over water, this course demands a precise game. The meticulously maintained greens and breathtaking vistas further enhance the playing experience. However, it should be noted that this is a highly penal course, testing the skills and resilience of even the most seasoned golfers.
Location: 56-150 PGA Blvd La Quinta, CA 92253
Indian Canyons Golf Resort
Indian Canyons Golf Resort is nestled on the picturesque Agua Caliente Indian Reservation, spanning across 550 acres of stunning natural beauty. As a private club, it offers an unparalleled golfing experience for avid enthusiasts. The course is thoughtfully designed, showcasing wide fairways adorned with palm trees and strategically placed bunkers that add a touch of challenge to each hole. With a par of 72 and stretching up to 6,569 yards, it promises an engaging and rewarding game on its two championship courses.
The original North Course carries a rich legacy, steeped in tradition, while the newer South Course offers a shorter yet more visually captivating journey. Not only does Indian Canyons Golf Resort deliver a remarkable golfing experience, but it also holds a special allure for Hollywood celebrities and former Presidents, who often frequent this prestigious establishment. With fast greens and meticulously maintained fairways, this 36-hole facility offers an engaging and professional setting for golfers of all levels to indulge in their passion.
Location: 1097 E Murray Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92264
The Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa
The Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa is nestled among the picturesque rolling hills, providing guests with breathtaking views of the surrounding desert mountains. The resort boasts two superbly crafted championship courses, each offering a unique experience for golf enthusiasts.
The first is the Pete Dye Resort Course, which spans 6,706 yards at a par 70. With its panoramic views of Rancho Mirage and strategically placed 70 bunkers, it offers both beauty and challenge. Players of all skill levels will appreciate the rolling hills and the opportunity to tackle Dye’s legendary trademark – carrying over water obstacles.
Location: 71333 Dinah Shore Dr, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Desert Willow Golf Resort
Located in Palm Desert, California, just minutes away from Palm Springs, Desert Willow Golf Resort offers an exceptional golfing experience. With its two landscaped public golf courses, the resort provides golfers with stunning vistas and engaging challenges. The Mountain View Course, renowned for its magnificent scenery, features undulating fairways and natural hazards that require strategic play. Bunkers are strategically placed throughout the course, adding an extra layer of difficulty. Recognized as one of Golf Digest’s top 25 courses, Desert Willow Golf Resort combines breathtaking views with well-maintained grounds to create an unforgettable golfing experience.
At Desert Willow Golf Resort, golf enthusiasts can enjoy 36 holes of premier golfing. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting, the resort offers something for everyone. In addition to the captivating courses, the resort provides top-notch amenities. Golf carts come equipped with GPS, ice buckets, ball and club washers, ensuring a convenient and enjoyable round. With reasonable prices for green fees, Desert Willow Golf Resort stands out as a must-visit destination for golfers seeking a professional and engaging golfing experience.
Location: 38-995 Desert Willow Dr, Palm Desert, CA 92260
Indian Wells Golf Resort
Indian Wells Golf Resort is a remarkable 36-hole facility known as ‘Beauty and the Beast.’ Not only has it hosted prestigious events such as the Golf Channel’s Big Break and the PGA’s Skins Game, but it also stands out for its breathtaking mountain views and stunning water features. The well-maintained fairways contribute to the resort’s aesthetic appeal, making it a paradise for golf enthusiasts. Its convenient location, within walking distance from four luxury hotels in Indian Wells, adds to the allure of this golfing destination.
At Indian Wells Golf Resort, players can choose between two distinct courses. The Celebrity Course offers an unmatched experience with its undulating fairways and picturesque water elements like streams, brooks, and split-level lakes. This course is perfect for those seeking a romantic and engaging golfing experience. On the other hand, the Player Course showcases classic American design and features meticulously sculpted bunkers. Here, golfers can fully immerse themselves in the game while enjoying breathtaking views of the San Jacinto mountains. With its world-class facilities and idyllic surroundings, Indian Wells Golf Resort promises an unforgettable golfing experience for players of all levels.
Location: 44-500 Indian Wells Ln, Indian Wells, CA 92210
Classic Club
Located in the picturesque city of Palm Desert, California, Classic Club is a magnificent Arnold Palmer golf course that has gained widespread acclaim. Notably, it gained recognition for hosting the esteemed Bob Hope Chrysler Classic from 2006 to 2008. With its enchanting desert layout, featuring rolling terrain, 30 acres of captivating water features, and an abundance of pine, pepper, and olive trees, it promises a truly captivating golfing experience. The course boasts a challenging 72 par and stretches an impressive 7,322 yards, ensuring that players are put to the test.
Not only does Classic Club showcase a meticulously maintained course with lush fairways and greens set to perfect speed, but it also offers an exceptional clubhouse, providing a haven for golfers to relax and unwind. As you traverse the course, you’ll be captivated by the serene atmosphere and mesmerizing views of the Santa Rosa Mountains that surround you. Among the notable holes, the 14th hole, known as the signature hole, is widely regarded as a must-play, offering a demanding yet unforgettable experience.
Location: 75-200 Classic Club Blvd, Palm Desert, CA 92211
SilverRock Resort
Located amidst the mesmerizing Santa Rosa Mountains, the Arnold Palmer Classic Course at SilverRock Resort offers a truly captivating golf experience. Spanning over 200 acres, this remarkable course is renowned for its natural beauty and breathtaking backdrop. As the longest course in Palm Springs, measuring an astounding 7,578 yards from the tips, SilverRock presents a challenge for even the most seasoned golfers.
With its sprawling layout adorned with native bunkers and picturesque water features, SilverRock has hosted major tournaments like the Bob Hope Classic. Its design incorporates multiple water hazards and strategically placed bunkers, providing a thrilling and demanding round of golf. The course boasts meticulously manicured fairways and greens that are both fast and true, enhancing the overall quality of play. This remarkable destination has earned the well-deserved title of ‘the last great piece of golf property in the Coachella Valley.’
Location: 79179 Ahmanson Ln, La Quinta, CA 92253
Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort
Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort offers an exceptional experience for golf enthusiasts of all levels. With two challenging championship courses, the Resort and Legend, players are greeted with incredible vistas and a variety of unique features. The Legend course provides a more traditional feel, presenting a slightly more challenging gameplay that tests players’ skills. On the other hand, the Resort Course offers a modern desert layout that seamlessly blends with the natural surroundings. With a 72 par and stretching across 6671 yards, both courses captivate players with their beauty, strategic design, and engaging challenges.
To ensure an enjoyable and convenient golfing experience, Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort provides a range of amenities. From practice facilities to fine-tuning skills to club rentals for those traveling light, golfers are fully equipped to maximize their time on the course. Additionally, the pro shop offers a wide selection of quality gear and merchandise, catering to the needs and preferences of every golfer.
Location: 1885 Golf Club Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92264
Escena Golf Club
Located on a sprawling 7175-yard course with 72 par, Escena Golf Club is renowned for its professionally designed layout. Crafted by none other than golf legend Jack Nicklaus, this course offers a challenging experience with undulating fairways and strategically placed bunkers. The fast and sloping greens demand precision shots and strategic thinking, making each round a true test of skill. Escena Golf Club has gained recognition for its exceptional quality, having been named one of the “Best New Courses” by Golf Digest in 2008. It has also hosted several major tournaments, solidifying its status as a top-tier golf destination.
In addition to its remarkable course, Escena Golf Club boasts state-of-the-art practice facilities, providing golfers with ample opportunities to refine their skills. The ultra-cool mid-century modern clubhouse offers a welcoming atmosphere, serving as a hub for both seasoned players and newcomers to the game. Despite its superior amenities and reputation, Escena Golf Club maintains reasonable prices, ensuring that the exceptional golf experience it offers remains accessible to all enthusiasts.
Location: 1100 Clubhouse View Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Bighorn Golf Club
Bighorn Golf Club boasts stunning terrain, offering players a one-of-a-kind golfing experience. With two legendary 18-hole courses, the Canyons courses, this club has made history with its captivating tournaments. These courses have thrilled viewers worldwide as they wind through dramatic fairways framed by majestic mountain vistas and a breathtaking desert landscape. The Canyons Course, in particular, stands out for its fast greens and impeccable layout, showcasing the beauty of the surrounding scenery. Players also enjoy excellent service at the clubhouse, where the staff is known for their fast, friendly, and helpful demeanor. Bighorn Golf Club truly offers an unforgettable golfing experience.
In addition to its extraordinary golf courses, Bighorn Golf Club provides exceptional amenities for its discerning members. Among these is a purified air room, allowing cigars. The club prides itself on maintaining both courses to the highest standards, ensuring flawless playing conditions for avid golfers.
Location: 255 Palowet Dr, Palm Desert, CA 92260
Marriott’s Shadow Ridge Golf Club
Marriott’s Shadow Ridge Golf Club is nestled in the picturesque Coachella Valley, known for its stunning landscapes and an abundance of sunshine. With over 350 days of clear blue skies every year, this beautiful and tranquil valley serves as a perfect setting for golf enthusiasts. Often referred to as the “golf capital of the world,” this outstanding golf club offers an exceptional experience for players of all skill levels.
The course at Marriott’s Shadow Ridge Golf Club boasts its wide fairways that provide ample room for players to showcase their skills. The shallow undulating greens pose an interesting challenge, ensuring an engaging game from start to finish. Golfers will find themselves contending with plenty of deep bunkers strategically placed throughout the course. Putting presents the biggest challenge, as the greens offer unique and unpredictable rolls. The backdrop of the course further adds to its allure, with thick turf and numerous sand traps flanking the greens and lining the fairways, promising an unforgettable golfing experience at Marriott’s Shadow Ridge Golf Club.
Location: 9002 Shadow Ridge Rd, Palm Desert, CA 92211
Cimarron Golf Club
Cimarron Golf Club, with its rigorous links-style courses, offers an exceptional experience for golf enthusiasts of all levels. With two distinct courses, the Long Course and the Short Course, players are presented with versatile options to suit their preferences. Both courses are meticulously maintained, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the club’s staff, ensuring a memorable golfing experience in pristine condition.
For beginners or those looking to hone their skills, the par 3 holes on the course provide a great opportunity to practice and improve. While the challenge lies in avoiding the dry creek bed, the rewarding feeling of keeping the ball in play is well worth it. Additionally, Cimarron Golf Club is renowned for its exceptional greens, considered the best in the entire valley. The Boulder Course, measuring approximately 6,782 yards with a rating of 71.6 and a slope of 122, offers a delightful challenge for seasoned golfers. On the other hand, the Pebble Course is idyllic for couples, juniors, and skins games, making it a favorite amongst many.
Location: 67603 30th Ave, Cathedral City, CA 92234
Shadow Hills Golf Club
Shadow Hills Golf Club is a true gem nestled in the beautiful Indio area. With its affordable rates and well-maintained course, it’s the perfect destination for golf enthusiasts of all skill levels. The course effortlessly blends with the surrounding desert, creating a seamless and elegant landscape. As you make your way through the fairways, you’ll be enthralled by the captivating blend of purples and browns that intertwine with the deep greens of Shadow Hills.
One of the standout features of Shadow Hills Golf Club is its expansive practice facility. Offering two tee levels and a short-game practice area with a true-to-speed green, golfers have ample opportunity to improve their game. Additionally, the private practice area provides the perfect setting for group or one-on-one lessons with the professional staff. The North Course at Shadow Hills is a testament to the club’s commitment to sustainability, utilizing natural plant materials and ecologically-friendly agronomic practices. With its scenic water features and fairway undulations, playing a round at the South Course is an enjoyable yet challenging experience that golfers won’t soon forget.
Location: 80875 Ave 40, Indio, CA 92203
Conclusion
Palm Springs is a renowned golf destination with some of the best courses in the world. With its diverse selection of exceptional courses, this beautiful desert city provides an unforgettable experience for golfers and visitors alike. Next time you’re planning to play a round, why not put these top 13 best golf courses in Palm Springs on your list? You’ll be sure to have an amazing and unforgettable adventure.
