The Top 5 Most Scenic Golf Courses in Palm Springs and How to Play Them

June 12th, 2026

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From beautiful weather year-round to the scenic views of the Coachella Valley, and a laidback and welcoming atmosphere, Palm Springs is one of the best places to relax. And then, naturally, there is golf. This is a must-see place for golfers visiting California. If you're new to the game or the area, here are the top 5 golf courses in Palm Springs that will impress you with their stunning location and design.

PGA WEST Pete Dye Mountain Course

The Pete Dye Mountain Course lies at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains. As the name suggests, this course was created by the famous Pete Dye. Back in the 80s, when he designed this course, Dye aimed to create the toughest golf course in the country. Besides stunning views, with its elevations, rocky formations, and strategic moat bunkers, the Mountain Course offers golfers a great chance to show off or hone their skills. This course challenges players at every hole, starting from the plateau tee, through elevated green areas and boulders. This is one of the nine PGA West courses and undoubtedly one of the most demanding in California.

Best for: Experienced and advanced players looking for a serious challenge.

Practical tip: This is a peak-season favorite, so book your tee time at least 2 to 3 weeks in advance between November and April. As part of the PGA West complex, stay-and-play resort packages are available and offer the best value.

SilverRock Resort

Another famed course that lies at the base of the imposing Santa Rosa Mountains is SilverRock. This 18-hole public course managed by La Quinta's Redevelopment Agency was designed by Arnold Palmer. It sprawls over a 200-acre surface and features native bunkers. This desert layout course is complemented by water features that increase its difficulty level. In fact, approximately half of SilverRock's holes are located near water, making it the ideal course for experienced players or those who want to increase their precision. The SilverRock course opened in 2005 and is nowadays one of the most popular golf destinations in Palm Springs. Besides the golf course, SilverRock also features a park and an event venue.

Best for: Intermediate to advanced players wanting to sharpen precision under pressure.

Practical tip: As a public course, SilverRock is one of the more accessible options in the valley, but don't let that fool you. Green fees are competitive, especially in shoulder season (October and early May), making it a smart pick if you want a premium experience without peak-season pricing.

Note: SilverRock is closed until August 28, 2026.

Indian Wells Golf Resort – Celebrity Course

This course has been open since 2006. It was designed by Clive Clark and features the dramatic mountain backdrop that makes Palm Springs a memorable golf destination. This course is a delight for the eyes, with stunning water features that include split-level lakes, streams, and waterfalls, embellished with brightly coloured flowers. This acclaimed 18-hole golf course with a par-72 layout is unquestionably one of the most beautiful in California. Moreover, golfers consider it one of the most playable courses in the area, which makes it ideal for any skill level.

Best for: All skill levels. A rare course that rewards beginners and satisfies seasoned players alike.

Practical tip: Indian Wells is an excellent anchor course for a Palm Springs golf trip if you're traveling with a mixed-ability group. The resort also offers strong accommodation options, making it a natural fit for a stay-and-play package.

JW Marriott Desert Springs – Palm Course

This elegant and scenic course, designed by Ted Robinson, comprises rolling greens and sprawling water features. One of the most memorable features of this course is the 16th tee box, which lies near Flamingo Island, whose name was not randomly picked, but reflects the native flamingo inhabitants. The next hole, 17, is equally thrilling, but thanks to the difficulty arising from the nearby water. The challenge continues until hole 18, which boasts a water-lined fairway. This gorgeous golf course can offer you the chance to shine in front of your friends and fellow players by showcasing your skill and precision.

Best for: Intermediate players and those who want a resort experience alongside their golf.

Practical tip: The JW Marriott Desert Springs is one of the most complete resort destinations in Palm Springs. Golf, dining, spa, and accommodation are all on-site. If you're looking for a single-resort golf vacation where everything is taken care of, this is a top contender. Golf Trip Junkie can build a full stay-and-play package around this property.