Pete Dye Stadium Course

at PGA WEST

Location: La Quinta, California | Style: Championship desert | Length: ~7,300 yards

The Pete Dye Stadium Course at PGA WEST is one of the most iconic and formidable golf venues in the Coachella Valley. Built with the ambition to challenge elite golfers, this par-72 layout stretches to around 7,300 yards from the championship tees. The “stadium” concept is literal here: elevated mounds and “spectator” embankments frame significant holes, lending dramatic theatre to your round.

Throughout, Pete Dye’s architectural fingerprints are unmistakable: deep bunkering, forced carries over water, and visual intimidation are designed to demand strategic precision rather than just sheer distance. While it remains playable for everyday golfers thanks to multiple tee options, it keeps its reputation as a true test of golf. The Stadium Course is the perfect course to play on your next Palm Springs golf vacation.

Course highlights

• One of the toughest public-access courses in the U.S., often rated in the top lists of most challenging layouts.
• “Island green” par-3 hole 17 (nicknamed “Alcatraz”) is among the most photographed and feared in resort golf.
• Finishing holes 16-18 form a dramatic stretch of challenge, including extensive water play, deep bunkers and no easy escape.
• The stadium routing and spectator mounds give a feel of major-tournament pressure even for resort golfers.
• Massive teeing options make the course accessible for a range of skill levels, while maintaining serious championship integrity.
• Ranked in Golf Digest's best courses you can play in California list.

Signature Holes

Hole 17 is the standout: a mid-par-3 with an island green surrounded by boulders and water, demanding a nerve-steady tee shot and perfect execution. Whether you walk away with a birdie or bogey, the memory of this hole stays long after the round is done.

Clubhouse and amenities

The Stadium Course shares the resort-level facilities of PGA WEST, including a substantial practice area with driving range, short-game zones and putting greens. The clubhouse offers a full pro-shop, locker rooms and dining options with views over the fairways and surrounding desert-mountain landscape. Whether staying on-site or just playing the round, golfers are treated to premium service and amenities.

Post Round

After the round, players can relax in the clubhouse lounge or on the terrace, enjoying panoramic views over the course’s finishing holes. Many take advantage of the resort’s spa, pool or dining facilities to round off a full golf-holiday experience, rather than just a day’s play.

Nearby activities

Beyond the course, La Quinta and the Coachella Valley offer a rich mix of leisure opportunities: hiking trails in the nearby mountains, resort spas, boutique shopping and dining in Old Town La Quinta or Palm Springs. With the resort setting of PGA WEST, one round here easily becomes part of a multi-day getaway.