Best golf courses in Palm Springs

Ranked 23rd best course in California by Top 100 Golf Courses Location: La Quinta | Designer: Pete Dye | Par: 72 | Yardage: 7,300 yards | Founded: 1986

Why play here? One of the most iconic and challenging courses in the country, the TPC Stadium Course at PGA West is a bucket-list destination for serious golfers. Known for its dramatic visuals, deep bunkering, and tournament pedigree, this course demands strategy and precision. It’s a regular host of PGA TOUR events, such as The American Express, and a true test of championship golf.

Highlight: The infamous par-3 17th hole, “Alcatraz,” features an island green that has tested the nerves of countless pros.

Key Features:

• Tournament-proven design by Pete Dye
• Dramatic risk-reward holes throughout
• Desert scenery with rugged terrain
• Practice range and short game area

Course type: Links Bonus Fact: When it opened, its course rating of 77.1 was the highest ever given by the United States Golf Association.

Ranked 88th best course in California by Top 100 Golf Courses Location: La Quinta | Designer: Jack Nicklaus | Par: 72 | Yardage: 7,204 yards | Founded: 1987

Why play here? A more forgiving counterpart to its Stadium sibling, the Nicklaus Tournament Course combines generous landing areas with classic Golden Bear design. It’s a favorite among both amateurs and professionals, offering a fair but challenging layout with elevated tee boxes, contoured fairways, and true-rolling greens. It also co-hosts the PGA TOUR’s The American Express.

"A true ball strikers’ golf course" ~ Nicklaus Designs

Highlight: The 15th hole, a par-3 framed by water and palm trees, delivers a picturesque and nerve-wracking shot into a well-guarded green.

Key Features:

• Jack Nicklaus signature layout
• Sweeping mountain backdrops
• Multiple teeing areas for all skill levels
• Tour-quality practice facilities

Course type: Championship Bonus Fact: This course has hosted the final stage of PGA TOUR Q-School, where many pros have earned their tour cards under pressure.

Ranked in the “Top 10 Best Desert Courses” by Desert Golf Location: Palm Desert | Designer: Arnold Palmer | Par: 72 | Yardage: 7,305 yards | Founded: 2006

Why play here? Designed by Palmer himself, the Classic Club blends championship-caliber golf with lush, manicured beauty rarely seen in desert layouts. With over 30 acres of water features, rolling terrain, and tree-lined fairways, it offers a refreshing break from the typical desert aesthetic. Former host of the PGA TOUR’s Bob Hope Classic.

Highlight: The 18th hole is a dramatic par-5 finishing hole that wraps around water and challenges players to go for the green in two.

Key Features:

• Parkland-style course in a desert setting
• Over 5,000 trees and extensive landscaping
• Expansive practice facilities and putting greens
• Elegant Tuscan-inspired clubhouse

Course type: Desert Bonus Fact: It’s one of only a few courses in the Palm Springs area to be designated a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary for its environmental efforts.

Ranked 5th best public course in Palm Springs by Golf Digest Location: Rancho Mirage | Designer: Gary Player | Par: 72 | Yardage: 7,062 yards | Founded: 1991

Why play here? One of the only Gary Player-designed courses in the desert, Mission Hills North offers a player-friendly experience with wide fairways, subtle elevation changes, and stunning views of the San Jacinto Mountains. Its thoughtful design promotes shot variety and pace of play, making it a favorite for both resort guests and locals.

Highlight: The 18th hole, a scenic par-5 with water in play and mountain views beyond, provides a memorable and potentially score-shifting finish.

Key Features:

• Only Gary Player course in the Coachella Valley
• Expansive fairways and approachable greens
• Scenic desert and mountain backdrop
• On-site Westin Resort with full amenities

Course type: Desert Bonus Fact: Gary Player walked the entire course during its design process to ensure it was both challenging and enjoyable for players of all skill levels.

Ranked 28th in the Golfers Choice Top 50 Golf Courses in US by Golf Advisor in 2023 Location: Indian Wells | Designer: John Fought | Par: 72 | Yardage: 7,376 yards | Founded: 2007

Why play here? A modern, championship-style course offering wide fairways and strategic bunkering. The Players Course at the Indian Wells Golf Resort is renowned for its playability and conditioning. It’s also one of the few courses in the region with a true resort feel, complete with on-site luxury accommodations.

Highlight: The 9th hole offers panoramic views of the Santa Rosa Mountains.

Key Features:

• Walkable, resort-style layout
• Mountain views and water features
• Practice facility with GPS range
• Onsite spa and hotel packages

Course type: Parkland Bonus fact: It has been announced that golf course architect John Fought and his team will be redesigning the course beginning in March of 2025. Currently a par 72, it will be transformed into a par 71, featuring two exciting new finishing holes.

Location: La Quinta | Designer: Arnold Palmer | Par: 72 | Yardage: 7,578 yards | Founded: 2005

Why play here? Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Santa Rosa Mountains, SilverRock Resort is one of the longest and most scenic public courses in the Palm Springs area. The course is a bold layout featuring wide fairways, expansive bunkering, and sweeping desert views. Formerly a host venue for the PGA TOUR’s Bob Hope Classic (now The American Express), SilverRock is both accessible and championship-caliber, perfect for golfers who want a tour-level challenge without the private club barriers.

Highlight: The par-5 18th offers a thrilling finish with water running along the left and a spacious green framed by rugged mountain views, perfect for a closing birdie (or blow-up hole).

Key Features:

• Arnold Palmer Signature Design
• Former PGA TOUR host course
• Expansive fairways with mountain and water hazards
• On-site practice range and pro shop

Course Type: Desert Bonus Fact: At over 7,500 yards from the tips, SilverRock is one of the longest courses ever used in a PGA TOUR event, and remains a favorite for long hitters looking to test their game in the desert air.

Ranked 30th best course in California by Golf Advisor in 2020 Location: Palm Springs | Designer: Casey O’Callaghan & Amy Alcott | Par: 72 | Yardage: 6,582 yards | Redesigned: 2004

Why play here? Nestled against the base of the San Jacinto Mountains, the South Course at Indian Canyons offers a scenic, resort-style experience with a lush oasis feel. Originally built in the 1960s and redesigned for the modern era, the course features generous fairways, over 850 palm trees, and a friendly layout perfect for a relaxing round.

Highlight: The par-5 9th hole runs alongside a reflective lake and offers postcard views of the surrounding mountains, an ideal spot for a mid-round photo.

Key Features:

• Wide fairways and forgiving greens
• Streams, waterfalls, and mountain scenery
• Historically favored by celebrities and presidents
• Full-service clubhouse with dining and patio views

Bonus Fact: The course is located on tribal land once frequented by Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope, and other Hollywood legends, adding a touch of vintage glamour to every round.

Location: Rancho Mirage | Designer: Pete Dye | Par: 70 | Yardage: 6,706 yards | Founded: 1987

Why play here? A true Pete Dye masterpiece tailored for resort play, this Dye course offers a fun yet challenging experience with all his signature elements, strategic bunkering, railroad ties, and risk-reward opportunities, balanced by generous fairways and stunning desert scenery. Part of the Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa and set against the backdrop of the Santa Rosa Mountains, it's a favorite for both casual golfers and avid players.

Highlight: The par-3 17th hole features a dramatic island green surrounded by water and mountain views, making for a thrilling late-round test.

Key Features:

• Pete Dye design with player-friendly layout
• Water features and elevation changes
• On-site Westin resort with luxury amenities
• Expansive practice facility and instruction available

Course type: Public Resort Bonus fact: This Dye-design that has often been described as ‘potentially diabolical, yet indescribably playable’.

Location: Palm Springs | Designer: William F. Bell (original), redesigned by Ted Robinson Sr. | Par: 72 | Yardage: 6,815 yards | Founded: 1957

Why play here? A true Palm Springs classic, The Legend Course offers a traditional desert layout with mature trees, wide fairways, and mountain views in every direction. Blending old-school charm with modern playability, it’s a local favorite for its walkability, value, and relaxing resort atmosphere.

Highlight: The front nine winds through a palm-lined corridor, while the back nine opens up to panoramic views of the San Jacinto Mountains, especially striking at sunset.

Key Features:

• Classic, walkable design with mature landscaping
• Excellent pace of play and accessibility
• Full-service clubhouse and dining
• Affordable rates with resort-style service

Course type: Desert links-style Bonus Fact: The Legend Course has hosted several celebrity and charity tournaments over the decades, making it a storied part of Palm Springs golf history.

Best time to visit: Late October to April offers cooler temperatures and the best playing conditions.

Where to stay: Many resorts such as La Quinta Resort, Renaissance Esmeralda, and the Hyatt Indian Wells, offer stay-and-play packages. The Hilton Garden Inn Palm Springs and Rancho Mirage are great for golfers looking to experience a golf tour, playing multiple golf clubs in a single trip.

Booking tips:

• Plan ahead and book tee times in advance.
• Consider twilight rounds for value and cooler temperatures

Q: When is the best time to golf in Palm Springs? A: The peak golf season runs from November to April, offering ideal temperatures (15–25°C). Summer rates are lower, but be prepared for the heat.

Q: How far is Palm Springs International Airport from most courses? A: Most major courses are within 30 minutes of the airport.

Q: Can beginners enjoy these courses? A: Yes! Courses like Indian Wells are more forgiving and great for casual or newer players. For more challenge, try PGA WEST.

Q: Are there stay-and-play packages available? A: Absolutely. Many resorts such as La Quinta Resort, Renaissance Indian Wells, and the Westin Rancho Mirage offer bundled accommodations and tee times.

Q: Should I book tee times in advance? A: Yes, especially during peak season. Aim to book 9 months ahead for the best selection of times.

Q: Are there rental clubs available? A: All of the featured courses offer premium rental sets, including TaylorMade, Callaway, or Titleist, depending on the venue.

Whether you're chasing championship conditions or a relaxing desert round, Palm Springs has a course that suits your style. These nine layouts represent the best of what the region has to offer, combining beauty, playability, and rich history.