Golf Home at Andalusia La Quinta
Welcome to the ultimate guide to Palm Springs area golf courses for 2025. With over 100 world-class courses spread across the Coachella Valley, Palm Springs offers an unparalleled golfing experience. From historic clubs to modern championship courses, this guide covers everything you need to know about golfing in the desert paradise.
Palm Springs area golf courses are numbered from 1 to 100 and more. The first course, O’Donnell Golf Club, was built in 1926, and the 100th course opened in 2001.
History of Palm Springs Golf
Palm Springs First Golf Course Opened In 1926 (Still Open!)
O’Donnell Golf Club was built in 1926 by wildcat oil millionaire Thomas A. O’Donnell. O’Donnell came to Palm Springs for health reasons after striking it rich in the oil fields of Southern California and Mexico. He had wintered in Palm Springs since the early 1920s and had a home built for himself in 1925. He bank rolled an expansion of The Desert Inn Hotel where he used to stay and worked out a long-term land lease for his golf course just behind the hotel. The Desert Inn continued operations until 1967. The O’Donnell House still stands today and is visible from downtown Palm Springs.
Today O’Donnell Golf Club members are still enjoying those original nine holes and the O’Donnell Golf Club with its historic clubhouse remains a testament to Palm Springs’ golfing heritage, still delighting members and guests alike.
Evolution of Palm Springs Area Golf Courses
21 Years Passed Before Course #2 Opened
And while the El Mirador Golf Course in Palm Springs opened briefly in 1929, it was almost 21 years before the next Palm Springs area golf course, and then many more started springing up around the Coachella Valley from Palm Springs in the West to Indio and even Salton Sea at the East end of the Valley.
- 1947: Cochran – Odlum, Indio (Now Indian Palms Country Club)
- 1949: Shadow Mountain pitch and putt course
- 1951: Thunderbird Country Club, Rancho Mirage
- 1953: Tamarisk Country Club, Rancho Mirage
- 1957: Indian Wells Country Club
- 1957: El Dorado Country Club, Indian Wells
- 1959: Bermuda Dunes Country Club
- 1959: San Jacinto (Now Whitewater Country Club)
- 1959: Palm Springs Municipal
- 1959: Shadow Mountain
- 1961: Westward Ho
- 1962: Canyon Country Club
- 1962: Palm Desert Country Club
- 1962: Salton Sea Golf Course
Palm Springs Area Development Takes Off In The 60’s & 70’s
The rapid growth of golf courses in the 60s and 70s transformed Palm Springs into a global golfing destination. This expansion continued into the 21st century, with the 100th course opening in 2001. The evolution of Palm Springs golf courses reflects the area’s development from a quiet desert retreat to a world-renowned resort destination.
Thunderbird Country Club opened in 1951 as the 2nd 18-hole golf course in the desert. It was followed by Tamarisk Country Club in 1952, Bermuda Dunes Country Club in 1958, and Indian Wells Country Club in 1956. By 1960 the desert had seven 18-hole golf courses.
The 1960s saw an explosion of golf course development in Palm Springs and the surrounding desert communities. New courses included Seven Lakes Country Club in 1965, Eldorado Country Club in 1957, and La Quinta Country Club in 1965.
The 1970s and 1980s brought even more golf courses to the desert, including the world-famous PGA West courses. Mission Hills Country Club opened in 1970 and became the home of the Dinah Shore Tournament, now known as the Chevron Championship.
The 1990s saw another boom in golf course construction, with many of the newer courses being built as part of planned residential communities. The 100th golf course in the desert opened in 2001.
Notable Palm Springs Area Golf Courses
While all Palm Springs area golf courses offer unique experiences, some stand out for their design, challenge, or historical significance:
- PGA West Stadium Course: Designed by Pete Dye, this course is known for its difficulty and has hosted numerous professional tournaments.
- La Quinta Resort Mountain Course: Another Pete Dye design offering stunning views of the Santa Rosa Mountains.
- Indian Wells Golf Resort: Features two courses, the Celebrity and the Players, both offering top-notch experiences.
- Desert Willow Golf Resort: Home to two courses, the Firecliff and Mountain View, known for their desert landscaping and challenging play.
- Escena Golf Club: A modern course with a mid-century modern clubhouse, offering panoramic views of the San Jacinto Mountains.
Golf Course Architecture in Palm Springs
Palm Springs area golf courses showcase designs from legendary architects like Pete Dye, Jack Nicklaus, and Arnold Palmer. These courses blend seamlessly with the desert landscape, offering unique challenges and breathtaking views. The architects have masterfully incorporated natural desert features, creating courses that are both challenging and visually stunning.
Golfing Seasons in Palm Springs
While golf is a year-round activity in Palm Springs, peak season runs from October to April when temperatures are milder. Summer golfing offers great deals but requires early tee times to beat the heat. Many courses offer twilight rates, allowing players to enjoy the spectacular desert sunsets while playing.
Golf and Real Estate in Palm Springs
Many of the newest and most luxurious golf communities are located in La Quinta. These include:
- Andalusia at Coral Mountain: Featuring a Rees Jones-designed course
- PGA West: Home to six championship courses
- The Madison Club: An exclusive Tom Fazio-designed course
- Hideaway Golf Club: Two Pete Dye-designed courses
- Rancho La Quinta Country Club: Offering two Robert Trent Jones II courses
These communities offer a range of real estate options, from luxurious condos to expansive custom homes, all with stunning golf course views and access to world-class amenities.
Sustainability in Palm Springs Golf
Palm Springs area golf courses are leading the way in water conservation and sustainable practices. Many courses have implemented drought-resistant landscaping, efficient irrigation systems, and use of recycled water. This commitment to sustainability ensures that golf in Palm Springs will continue to thrive while respecting the desert environment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Palm Springs Area Golf Courses
How many golf courses are in the Palm Springs area?
As of 2024, there are over 100 golf courses in the Greater Palm Springs area, spanning from Palm Springs to Indio.
What is the best time of year to golf in Palm Springs?
The peak golfing season is from October to April when temperatures are milder. However, you can golf year-round with early tee times recommended during summer months.
Are there public golf courses in Palm Springs?
Yes, there are several public and semi-private courses in the area, including Desert Willow Golf Resort, Indian Wells Golf Resort, and Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort.
What is the average green fee for Palm Springs area golf courses?
Green fees vary widely depending on the course and season. During peak season, fees can range from $50 to $300+, with discounts available during summer months.
Can I play at private golf clubs in Palm Springs?
Some private clubs offer limited public play or stay-and-play packages. Check with individual clubs for their policies or work with a local golf package provider.
What is the most challenging golf course in Palm Springs?
The Stadium Course at PGA West, designed by Pete Dye, is often considered one of the most challenging courses in the area.
Are there golf academies or instructors available in Palm Springs?
Yes, many courses offer instruction from PGA professionals. Notable golf academies include those at La Quinta Resort & Club and Indian Wells Golf Resort.
Can We Help You Find Your Home In The Palm Springs Sun?
Ready to experience world-class golf in Palm Springs? My Sheri Dettman & Associates team of specialists has helped thousands of people in all prices segments. We’d love to help you find your Palm Springs area home or luxury condo. Contact Sheri Dettman & Associates to explore golf course real estate opportunities and plan your perfect golfing getaway!