Golf in the desert is as unique as the desert itself. Pristine, wild, and full of surprises, the best golf courses in Palm Springs offer a range of challenges for all levels, set beneath the stunning backdrop of the San Jacinto mountains.
In the greater Coachella Valley, you are spoiled for choice, including numerous public championship golf courses. Palm Springs is home to the PGA West collection golf courses designed by such luminaries as Pete Dye, Gary Player, and Jack Nicklaus. Golfing in Palm Springs means you will be walking the same fairways as the PGA pros and putting on greens that the likes of Tiger Woods have helped make famous.
It is easy to book a tee time at a Palm Springs golf course, if you do so in advance. For last-minute bookings, the Concierge Team at Parker Palm Springs can help you choose a course that is right for you, and even reserve your clubs if needed.
Here are a few ‘must play’ courses when planning a golf vacation in Palm Springs and our recommended 3-day itinerary.
Golf
Golf Center at Palm Desert
After travel and check-in, playing 18-holes may be a stretch but you can stay sharp with a visit to the Golf Center, conveniently located mid-valley. It offers a driving range, chipping and putting greens, and a short nine-hole par three golf course. Lessons and clinics available.
19th Hole
Counter Reformation at Parker Palm Springs is a great way to unwind afterwards. This ode to Parisian Tabacs will transport you back to a time when daily life was imbued with artistic expression. Enjoy an eclectic selection of wines by the glass, each poured with the story behind the wine, and a variety of share plates to match.
No matter when you’re teeing off, breakfast is always available at Norma’s, our brightly colored open-air terrace restaurant. Gluten-free, vegan, or bacon forward options will please all palates. It is the best breakfast in Palm Springs.
Golf Options
Indian Canyons South Course
Redesigned in 2004 with the help of LPGA legend Amy Alcott, the South Course is the slightly shorter of the two courses available at Indian Canyons. With more than 850 palm trees and 500-plus Washingtonia Filifera, the icon tree of the Agua Caliente Indian Tribe, it is a one-of-kind course just 20-minutes from downtown Palm Springs.
This Jack Nicklaus designed course is one of the most popular golf destinations in Palm Springs. Described as a ‘modern classic’, Escena Golf Club also boasts one of the best 19th hole experiences around with a fabulous indoor/outdoor dining facility.
This Arnold Palmer-designed course used to host the Bob Hope Classic PGA tournament. Sloping fairways bring water into play so driving accuracy is paramount. True to its name, the clubhouse is a Tuscan-inspired masterpiece, worthy of some post-round relaxation.
Players Course at Indian Wells
Though opened in only 2007, the Players Course has a stately, venerable feel, reminiscent of older, classic golf courses. Do not let the jaw-dropping scenery distract you from the demanding greens, many protected by numerous bunkers. The ever-popular 11th hole will tempt the long drivers to reach the green off the tee.
19th Hole
After a round of gold, treat yourself to some pampering at Palm Springs Yacht Club, our stunning, on-property spa emporium. Choose from a variety of custom massage treatments to ease and refresh those overworked muscles. A robe, flip flops, a key to the private locker room, and a thimble of our cucumber infused vodka are all part of the experience.
Dark, lush, and discreet, our award-winning fine dining destination is one of many reasons Parker Palm Springs is favorite of Condé Nast Readers. The Menu of epicurean, savory favorites is paired with a Wine List worthy of the moment. This is a ‘slip into your favorite head-turning outfit’ kind of place. Jackets required for gentlemen.
Start your day with a little exercise. Join our resident Yogi on the lawn for a morning pre-game stretch or hit the Boiler Room, our fully equipped gym for a complete workout. For a real sweat, our Terre Battue tennis courts will help you discover your inner Nadal.
Golf Options
Just minutes from the Palm Springs airport, Tahquitz Creek offers two equally challenging courses to choose from. Rated by Golf Digest as ‘one of the best places to play’, here you will want to stick to the fairways, avoiding the many water hazards that meander through the topography.
This world-famous, ultra-challenging Pete Dye course was ranked as the 4th toughest golf course in America by Golf Digest. Host to the PGA Tour ‘Q-School’ Finals every other year, a round on this course is a bucket list item for golfers. The famous island green of hole #17 is worth the green fee alone.
Another fantastic public course, Silver Rock is nestled up against the Santa Rosa Mountains. Stretching over 200 acres, there is plenty of water and sand to keep you on your toes. A picture-perfect course with great facilities.
19th Hole
Poolside Lounging. There are few more rewarding post-game activities than sitting poolside, cocktail in hand, at one of our three gorgeous swimming pools. Refreshments and light meals are available from Lemonade Stand, located in the heart of our 13-acre property.
Mini Bar at Parker Palm Springs. Designed like a Jewel Box, this one-of-kind lounge sparkles almost as much as the cocktails. Try the signature Parker Paloma or the Picante Agave to put a little pep back into your step. Delicious share-plates available.
Outdoor Fire Pit. A favorite evening gathering spot for our guests, the fire pit offers a chance to recount the best shots of your golf vacation with friends, old and new, beneath the starry desert night sky.
Questions? Please see our Concierge Team for assistance.
Parker Palm Springs receives regular accolades as the best resort hotel in Palm Springs. We offer only 144 rooms on thirteen acres of exclusive, private property. To help plan your next vacation, weekend escape, special event, or wedding, please Contact us.