Tee Time in the Desert: The Best Public & Resort Golf Courses in the Coachella Valley
The Coachella Valley is a golfer’s dream, with sunshine nearly year-round and a stunning desert backdrop. From Palm Springs to Coachella, the valley’s nine desert cities—Palm Springs, Cathedral City, Desert Hot Springs, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, Indian Wells, La Quinta, Indio, and Coachella—offer a diverse range of public and resort golf courses. Whether you're chasing championship-level challenges or a casual round with friends, there’s a course that fits your swing and your style. Here’s your guide to the best public and resort golf courses in each city—complete with links to help you plan your perfect round. Click on the name of each golf course below to explore more details, check tee time availability, and plan your perfect round.
Palm Springs: Classic Desert Golf with Hollywood History
Once a private club, this 36-hole facility was a favorite of Frank Sinatra and Bob Hope. The South Course is more forgiving, while the North Course offers a tougher test.
Cathedral City: Scenic and Accessible
Home to two courses—Boulder and Pebble—this resort offers unobstructed views of Mount San Jacinto. The Boulder Course is longer and more challenging, while Pebble is perfect for a quick round.
Desert Hot Springs: Hidden Gem in the Hills
A semi-private course open to the public, located in the foothills with cooler temps and sweeping views. Known for its elevated tees and breezy conditions.
Indio: Desert Golf with a Local Vibe
Two 18-hole courses (North and South) with dramatic elevation changes and panoramic views. A former Skins Game host.
Big Rock Golf (Indian Springs Golf Club)
Known for its immaculate conditions and value, this course is fun and friendly.
The Lights at Indio (Indio Municipal Golf Course)
The Valley's only night lighted golf course. A great par-3 course for beginners or a quick round.
Eagle Falls Golf Course
Located at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, this Clive Clark-designed course offers a lush, resort-style layout with water features and mountain views.
La Quinta: Championship Golf in a Scenic Setting
Home to the AMEX Golf Tournament - Play where the Pros play! A Pete Dye masterpiece and one of the most challenging courses in the U.S.
SilverRock Golf Resort
Arnold Palmer-designed and framed by the Santa Rosa Mountains.
La Quinta Resort - Dunes & Mountain Courses
Two scenic resort courses with lush landscaping and dramatic terrain.
PGA West Norman Course
A desert-style course with wide fairways and rugged bunkering, offering a unique contrast to the Stadium Course.
Rancho Mirage: Desert Elegance Meets Golf Tradition
Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa
Three 9-hole courses (North, South, and West) that can be played in various combinations. Great for resort guests and casual players.
Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa - Pete Dye Course
A challenging course with elevated tees and water features, designed by Pete Dye.
Desert Island Golf
A scenic course surrounding a 25-acre lake, offering a peaceful and picturesque round.
Plan Your Perfect Desert Golf Getaway
Whether you're a seasoned golfer seeking championship-level challenges or a casual player looking for scenic fairways and relaxing rounds, the Coachella Valley offers some of the best public and resort golf courses in Southern California. With over 300 days of sunshine, breathtaking desert landscapes, and world-class amenities, each of the nine desert cities—Palm Springs, Cathedral City, Desert Hot Springs, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, Indian Wells, La Quinta, Indio, and Coachella—delivers a unique golfing experience. Start planning your desert golf getaway today and discover why the Coachella Valley is a top destination for golf enthusiasts from around the world.
