Play Where the Pros Play: Premier Public Golf Courses in Greater Palm Springs
Greater Palm Springs boasts over 120 golf courses and has long been a premier destination for the world's top players.
Known as a golf paradise for snowbirds, everyday enthusiasts, and resort guests, the Coachella Valley's fairways have hosted iconic events like the Ryder Cup, the Skins Game, the season's first major, and nearly six decades of PGA Tour competitions.
While some venues are private, public-access courses abound, allowing golfers to test their skills on the same tees and greens that have challenged touring professionals.
PGA West
In 2016, the PGA Tour's CareerBuilder Challenge (now The American Express) shifted two courses in its rotation to PGA West's premier public layouts: the Stadium and Nicklaus Tournament Courses. Previously held at private clubs under names like the Bob Hope and Humana Challenge, this move opened these elite tracks to the public.
Pete Dye's Stadium Course, one of the West's toughest, features rolling terrain and a dramatic finish, including the infamous island par-3 17th, 'Alcatraz.' The Nicklaus Tournament Course offers resort-style play with accessible fairways leading to elevated, well-guarded greens.
Classic Club
From 2006-2008, the elegant Classic Club in Palm Desert hosted the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic. Arnold Palmer's design, built for pros, stretches over 7,300 yards with signature holes weaving through desert flora. All skill levels appreciate its beauty and the Tuscan-style clubhouse.
SilverRock Resort
Arnold Palmer's SilverRock Resort in La Quinta hosted the Bob Hope Classic from 2008-2011. Undergoing a $42 million renovation completed in recent years, it now features two on-site hotels, a conference center, and resort amenities against the Santa Rosa Mountains.
The updated back nine balances three par-3s, three par-4s, and three par-5s, enhancing its appeal with fresh highlights while retaining its Eastern Valley character.
Bermuda Dunes Country Club
A Bob Hope Classic host for 50 years, Bermuda Dunes Country Club offers public access via seasonal and preview memberships. Its 27 holes, designed by Billy Bell, blend classic Southern California routing with fast greens.
During the PGA Tour's 'Silly Season,' stars competed in the televised Skins Game on Thanksgiving weekends. Several public-access Skins venues dot Greater Palm Springs.
The Golf Club at La Quinta
Challenged by Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, and Annika Sørenstam in the Skins Game (2003-2006), The Golf Club at La Quinta measures over 7,100 yards from the tips. Shorter tees provide manageable par-3s for mid- and high-handicappers.
The Golf Club at Terra Lago
In Indio, The Golf Club at Terra Lago hosted the Skins Game from 1992-2002. Its North and South courses mix resort play with desert beauty—the North ends with water hazards, while the South demands precise approaches.
Indian Wells Golf Resort
Host of the final Skins Game in 2008, Indian Wells Golf Resort's Clive Clark-designed Celebrity Course dazzles with water features and floral displays. Pair it with the challenging Players Course for a 36-hole day testing short-game skills.
Morongo Golf Club at Tukwet Canyon
While pros compete at Mission Hills during the ANA Inspiration (now Chevron Championship), public players can swing where LPGA talent hones skills at Morongo Golf Club at Tukwet Canyon in Beaumont. Its Legends and Champions courses host the Symetra Tour's IOA Championship.
Explore our full listings of golf courses in Palm Springs and beyond.
