Embrace the essence of Palm Springs, California, as you discover the ultimate golfing experience. This destination is a golfer’s paradise with its idyllic setting of mountain ranges and desert landscapes.
We’ve handpicked the top ten best golf courses in Palm Springs that will capture your heart and challenge your skills.
- Indian Canyons Golf Resort — Best for Scenic Views
- Desert Willow Golf Resort — Best for Challenging Play
- PGA West Stadium Course — Best for Precision Golf
- Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort — Best for Casual Golfers
- Classic Club — Best for Serenity
- La Quinta Resort & Club — Best for Luxurious Experience
- The S at Rancho Mirage — Best for Modern Golfing
- Mission Hills Country Club — Best for Tournament Play
- Shadow Ridge Golf Club — Best for New Golfers
- Escena Golf Club — Best for Skilled Golfers
From the rolling fairways of the PGA West Stadium Course to the stunning views of the Desert Willow Golf Resort, every course on our list is a testament to the beauty and splendor of this desert oasis.
So, pack your bags, grab your clubs, and get ready to immerse yourself in the world of golfing excellence. These are the top Palm Springs golf courses!
10 Best Golf Courses In Palm Springs, California
1. Indian Canyons Golf Resort — Best for Scenic Views
- Website: https://www.indianwellsgolfresort.com/
- City, State: Palm Springs, CA
- Overall Rating: 4.4/5
- Fun Rating: 4.2/5
- Design Rating: 4.3/5
- Par: 72
- Length: 6,569 yards
- Price: ???
William F. Bell’s masterpiece, Indian Canyons Golf Resort, boasts two 18-hole courses catering to all golfers.
With breathtaking views of the San Jacinto Mountains and enchanting waterfalls, Indian Canyons Golf Resort offers an otherworldly experience that takes you to a serene oasis of natural beauty.
Undoubtedly, Indian Canyons Golf Resort is one of the most appealing golf courses in Palm Springs, making it a must-visit destination for every golfer’s bucket list.
Come out and experience the perfect blend of natural beauty and expert design for yourself – We promise you won’t be disappointed.
2. Desert Willow Golf Resort — Best for Challenging Play
- Website: https://www.desertwillow.com/
- City, State: Palm Desert, CA
- Overall Rating: 4.5/5
- Fun Rating: 4.2/5
- Design Rating: 4.4/5
- Par: 72
- Length: 7,056 yards
- Price: ????
Desert Willow Golf Resort is a must-visit destination for golfers seeking a challenging and thrilling experience in Palm Springs.
One of the most interesting facts about the course is that it features two 18-hole courses, each with its own unique layout and challenges. The Firecliff course is known for its demanding nature, with its strategically placed bunkers and undulating greens that will test your skills to the brim.
The Mountain View course, on the other hand, features wider fairways and less undulation, making it a more forgiving option for golfers of all skill levels. Additionally, the course offers a stunning view of the Santa Rosa Mountains.
All in all, if you want to golf in Palm Springs, then this one is pretty much a no-brainer. Get a tee time now.
3. PGA West Stadium Course — Best for Precision Golf
- Website: https://www.pgawest.com/
- City, State: La Quinta, CA
- Overall Rating: 4.6/5
- Fun Rating: 4.2/5
- Design Rating: 4.5/5
- Par: 72
- Length: 7,300 yards
- Price: ????
If you’re looking for some of the best golfing in Palm Springs, you can’t miss out on PGA West Stadium Course. Designed by Pete Dye, this course is renowned for its challenging layout, featuring unique holes that will push your skills to the limit.
As one of the world’s top most expensive golf courses, PGA West Stadium Course demands precision and strategic thinking.
The course is a massive 7,300 yards, making it one of the largest in the area. With its challenging holes and a signature island green on the 17th hole, you must bring your A-game to conquer this course.
So if you’re in the mood for some Palm Springs golf, head to PGA West Stadium Course. Reserve your tee time in advance because this course is popular.
4. Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort — Best for Casual Golfers
- Website: https://www.tahquitzgolfresort.com/
- City, State: Palm Springs, CA
- Overall Rating: 4.2/5
- Fun Rating: 4.1/5
- Design Rating: 4.3/5
- Par: 72
- Length: 6,671 yards
- Price: ???
Nestled in Palm Springs, Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort is perfect for those seeking the best golf in Palm Springs. The resort features two championship courses—the Legend Course and the Resort Course—designed to provide a laid-back golfing experience.
The Resort Course is perfect for novice golfers, featuring the 5th hole, a par-3 measuring 184 yards, and surrounded by a large pond with a generous and forgiving green. The Legend Course, on the other end, is slightly more challenging but still provides plenty of opportunities for casual golfers to enjoy the game.
In short, Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort is one of the top-rated golf courses in California, that not only comes with affordability but also values beauty.
Apart from the golf courses, the resort also offers a range of amenities to enhance the golfing experience, including practice facilities, club rentals, and a pro shop. Tee times are easy to book, and the staff is friendly and accommodating.
5. Classic Club — Best for Serenity
- Website: https://www.classicclubgolf.com/
- City, State: Palm Desert, CA
- Overall Rating: 4.5/5
- Fun Rating: 4.2/5
- Design Rating: 4.5/5
- Par: 72
- Length: 7,322 yards
- Price: ????
The Classic Club is widely regarded as one of the top golf courses in Palm Springs, and for good reason.
It provides a serene atmosphere, allowing players to focus on their game and enjoy the stunning surroundings. The Santa Rosa Mountains provide a breathtaking backdrop for your golfing adventure, and the friendly staff ensures your experience is exceptional.
Moreover, the signature 14th hole is a must-play, offering a challenging island green that will put your skills to the test.
The course also boasts a state-of-the-art practice facility, perfect for warming up before your game or honing your skills. If it’s peace and quiet you’re after, then Classic is the way to go. Book their tee times now!
6. La Quinta Resort & Club — Best for Luxurious Experience
- Website: https://www.laquintaresort.com/golf/
- City, State: La Quinta, CA
- Overall Rating: 4.7/5
- Fun Rating: 4.2/5
- Design Rating: 4.6/5
- Par: 72
- Length: 7,060 yards
- Price: ?????
If you’re looking for the ultimate luxurious golfing experience in Palm Springs, La Quinta Resort & Club is where it’s at.
With five courses designed by legends like Pete Dye and Jack Nicklaus, it’s no wonder why the course is a golfer’s dream. But, let’s be real, La Quinta is more than just a golfing destination – it’s a luxurious paradise.
The accommodations at La Quinta are top-notch, offering luxurious villas and private casitas for a comfortable and stylish stay.
Now, let’s talk about the courses. The impeccably maintained courses provide a stunning backdrop for your game, and the range of challenges suits both pros and beginners.
And, if you’re looking to fine-tune your skills, the state-of-the-art practice facilities, including the short game area, are the perfect places to do so. Head over to their website and book a tee time now!
7. The S at Rancho Mirage — Best for Modern Golfing
- Website: https://www.scga.org/courses/details/desert-island-golf-and-country-club
- City, State: Rancho Mirage, CA
- Overall Rating: 4.5/5
- Fun Rating: 4.3/5
- Design Rating: 4.4/5
- Par: 72
- Length: 7,300 yards
- Price: ????
The S at Rancho Mirage is not your average golf course. With state-of-the-art technology, including GPS-enabled golf carts, you can access real-time information about the course and your game.
But the modern golfing experience doesn’t stop there. The course design is unique and challenging, with greens that make you work for every stroke. And, with breathtaking mountain views in the background, you’ll be surrounded by nature while enjoying the modern conveniences of the course.
The S at Rancho Mirage is not just about golf, though. The luxurious clubhouse and on-site dining options provide the perfect place to unwind after a round of golf. So, grab a drink and a bite to eat and bask in the modern glory of The S at Rancho Mirage.
8. Mission Hills Country Club — Best for Tournament Play
- Website: https://www.missionhillscc.com/
- City, State: Rancho Mirage, CA
- Overall Rating: 4.5/5
- Fun Rating: 4.2/5
- Design Rating: 4.4/5
- Par: 72
- Length: 7,358 yards
- Price: ????
Mission Hills Country Club is an ideal choice for tournament players. In fact, the course has bragging rights to have hosted some of the world’s most significant tournaments, including the LPGA’s ANA Inspiration.
The course offers two championship courses, the Dinah Shore Tournament Course and the Pete Dye Challenge Course, which provide a challenging and rewarding experience for tournament players.
The Dinah Shore Tournament Course has hosted major tournaments, including the ANA Inspiration, since 1972. The course is named after the legendary entertainer. It features the famous “Poppie’s Pond,” where the winner takes a celebratory leap into the water after the final putt on the 18th hole.
The Pete Dye Challenge Course is also challenging, with narrow fairways and undulating greens, making it a favorite among tournament players. Book your tee time now and experience the same courses that have challenged the world’s top golfers.
9. Shadow Ridge Golf Club — Best for New Golfers
- Website: http://www.golfshadowridge.com/
- City, State: Palm Desert, CA
- Overall Rating: 4.5/5
- Fun Rating: 4.3/5
- Design Rating: 4.5/5
- Par: 71
- Length: 6,793 yards
- Price: ???
Shadow Ridge Golf Club is an ideal destination for budding golfers, thanks to its welcoming layout featuring spacious fairways and generous greens, enabling new golfers to master the game with ease. Moreover, the modern practice facility presents countless opportunities for golfers to hone their techniques.
Shadow Ridge Golf Club is a perfect choice for playing golf in Palm Springs, with its breathtaking scenery and top-notch amenities. After an exciting round of golf, head to the clubhouse, restaurant, or bar, where you can unwind and soak up the friendly atmosphere.
Shadow Ridge Golf Club is one of the best Palm Springs golf courses providing an outstanding golfing experience you won’t forget.
10. Escena Golf Club — Best for Skilled Golfers
- Website: https://www.escenagolf.com/
- City, State: Palm Springs, CA
- Overall Rating: 4.7/5
- Fun Rating: 4.3/5
- Design Rating: 4.6/5
- Par: 72
- Length: 7,175 yards
- Price: ????
Jack Nicklaus is known for his challenging golf courses; the Escena speaks up for itself. The course boasts a demanding layout with undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and fast, sloping greens that require precision shots and strategic thinking.
The par-4 16th hole is particularly challenging, with a deep bunker guarding the front of the green and a considerable water hazard to the left.
In addition to its challenging layout, Escena Golf Club has a rich history, having been named one of the “Best New Courses” by Golf Digest in 2008. The course has also hosted several major tournaments, including the Symetra Tour’s IOA Championship.
Escena Golf Club offers a state-of-the-art practice facility with a driving range, putting greens, and a chipping area for golfers seeking to refine their skills. There’s even a full-service clubhouse that provides excellent amenities, including a restaurant and bar.
Other Notable Golf Courses in Palm Springs
Some other notable courses in the area will impress even the most seasoned golfers.
Desert Dunes Golf Club
Get ready to tackle this championship course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. with its undulating fairways, elevated greens, and breathtaking mountain views.
With a slope rating of 138 and a course rating of 73.3, this course is challenging but oh-so rewarding.
SilverRock Resort
Located in La Quinta, this Arnold Palmer-designed course offers views of the Santa Rosa Mountains that will leave you speechless. The course has even hosted major tournaments, like the Bob Hope Classic, and is known for its challenging layout with multiple water hazards and bunkers.
The Quarry at La Quinta
If you’re looking for a course to test your skills, this Tom Fazio-designed course is for you.
With dramatic elevation changes, deep canyons, and jaw-dropping mountain views, this course has a slope rating of 147 and a course rating of 74.3.
FAQs
Which Places Provide The Best Golf Courses In Palm Springs For Couples?
Some of the best golf courses in Palm Springs for couples looking for a romantic experience include the Indian Wells Golf Resort and the La Quinta Resort & Club.
Alternatively, the Escena Golf Club and Shadow Ridge Golf Club provide a challenging game and stunning desert views.
Where Does PGA Play In Palm Springs?
The PGA plays in Palm Springs at the Stadium Course at PGA West, Nicklaus Tournament Course at PGA West, and La Quinta Country Club.
These courses provide a beautiful backdrop of the desert landscape and attract top golfers worldwide.
How Much Does It Cost To Play Golf In Palm Springs?
The cost of playing golf in Palm Springs varies depending on the course and season.
Some courses, like Desert Dunes Golf Club and Escena Golf Club, offer fees starting at around $80, while others, like PGA West Stadium Course, can cost over $300 per round.
Which Places Provide The Best Golf Courses In Greater Palm Springs For Travelers On A Budget?
For travelers on a budget, some of the best golf courses in Greater Palm Springs include Desert Willow Golf Resort, The Lights at Indio Golf Course, and Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort.
These courses offer affordable fees while still providing beautiful views of the surrounding desert landscape.
Conclusion
Regarding the best golf courses Palm Springs offers, it’s hard to be a contender. Palm Springs easily claims the top spot in a state with the most golf courses.
From the scenic views at Indian Canyons Golf Resort to the challenging precision of PGA West Stadium Course, there’s no shortage of amazing courses. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, Shadow Ridge Golf Club and Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort provide a great option.
And for those seeking luxury, La Quinta Resort & Club offers a top-tier experience in pretty much all facets. With all these incredible options, it’s no wonder why the best golf courses in Palm Springs are considered premier golf destinations worldwide.
Clint is PGA-certified and was a Head Teaching Professional at one of Toronto's busiest golf academies. He was also featured on Canada's National Golf TV program, "Score Golf Canada," twice. He graduated with a degree in Golf Management from the College of the Desert in California and studied under Callaway's co-founder, Tony Manzoni. He has a handicap index of 6.2 and spends the winters near Oaxaca, Mexico, where he plays twice a month at the Club de Golf Vista Hermosa. He's written over 100 articles at GolfSpan since 2021. You can connect with Clint at LinkedIn, FB, his website, or Clintcpga@gmail.com.