Best Golf Courses in Palm Springs for Luxury Travelers
Palm Springs is built for a relaxed golf escape. The weather is warm through much of the year, the mountain views are hard to ignore, and the Coachella Valley has more than 100 golf courses across Palm Springs, Palm Desert, La Quinta, Indian Wells, and nearby communities.
Luxury travelers come here for more than tee times. A good Palm Springs golf trip can include a quiet morning round, lunch with mountain views, a spa afternoon, a poolside break, and dinner under clear desert skies. The area makes it easy to create a trip that feels active without becoming rushed.
Top Palm Springs Golf Courses
Golf Course
Area
Known For
PGA West Stadium Course
La Quinta
Championship layout and dramatic desert views
The Vintage Club
Indian Wells
Private luxury experience and mountain scenery
Indian Wells Golf Resort
Indian Wells
Resort convenience and scenic fairways
Desert Willow Golf Resort
Palm Desert
Well-kept public courses and landscape views
Escena Golf Club
Palm Springs
Modern design near downtown Palm Springs
SilverRock Resort
La Quinta
Mountain setting and challenging play
Classic Club
Palm Desert
Tournament-level design and water features
PGA West is one of the best-known names in the area. Its Stadium Course is famous for challenging holes, deep bunkers, and a course design that asks golfers to think through every shot. It is a strong choice for experienced players who enjoy a serious round.
Indian Wells Golf Resort gives travelers a polished resort setting, with two courses, dining, and nearby luxury accommodations. It works well for groups that want golf close to other vacation activities.
Desert Willow Golf Resort is another popular option, especially for golfers who want a public course with a high-end feel. The Mountain View and Firecliff courses both offer desert landscaping, water features, and views of the Santa Rosa Mountains.
Best Time to Golf in Palm Springs
Palm Springs golf season usually runs strongest from October through April. Daytime temperatures are more comfortable, mornings feel fresh, and the desert scenery looks especially clear after cooler nights.
Time of Year
Typical Conditions
Planning Tip
October to November
Warm days, lighter crowds early in the season
Book popular courses ahead.
December to February
Mild weather and peak demand
Reserve tee times well in advance.
March to April
Excellent golf weather, busy spring travel season
Choose early tee times.
May to September
Hot temperatures, lower green fees
Play at sunrise and stay hydrated.
Summer golf can offer good value, but early tee times are important. Temperatures can become intense by late morning, so many golfers start close to sunrise and plan pool time for the afternoon.
Build a Luxury Golf Weekend
A Palm Springs golf trip feels best when you balance course time with downtime. Trying to fit in too many rounds can take away from the experience.
Day one: Arrival and easy evening
Settle into your rental, enjoy the pool, and head out for dinner in downtown Palm Springs. Keep the first night simple so everyone is rested for an early tee time.
Day two: Championship golf and relaxation
Book a morning round at PGA West, Indian Wells, Desert Willow, or another course near your stay. Return for a pool break, spa appointment, or relaxed lunch. End the day with dinner in Palm Springs, Palm Desert, or La Quinta.
Day three: Casual round and desert views
Choose a shorter or more relaxed course for your final round. After golf, visit local shops, take a scenic drive, or enjoy a laid-back meal before heading home.
Note: To explore more of Palm Springs, you may find our short read on Travel Guide to Palm Springs helpful in planning your golf getaway.
What to Pack for Desert Golf
Lightweight golf shirts and shorts
Hat or visor
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Refillable water bottle
Light jacket for early tee times
Golf shoes with good grip
Extra gloves for warm-weather rounds
The desert sun can feel strong even in winter, so sunscreen and water matter every month of the year.
Stay Near the Fairways
A vacation rental makes a Palm Springs golf trip easier for groups, couples, and families traveling together. You can store clubs comfortably, cook breakfast before an early tee time, relax by the pool after a round, and enjoy more privacy than a standard hotel with our luxury stays.
