Eagle Falls at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino
The nerve-rackingly narrow par-5 seventh. The short but strategic par-4 11th. These and other diabolical setups make this Clive Clark track an unforgettable tester. Golfweek rates Eagle Falls a Top 50 Casino Course; for us, playing here is always a winning bet even when our game’s a loser.
Indian Canyons Golf Resort
Want old-school Palm Springs golf? You get a double dose here on both the North course (check out the photos in the clubhouse of Sinatra and friends!) and the more scenic South. You might find one of the 18s closed awhile during summer, but the other will be open.
Desert Willow Golf Resort
Desert Willow’s Firecliff and Mountain View courses are both extraordinarily lovely to look at and staunchly challenging to play. The latter may experience an extended summer closure (as of press time, plans weren’t finalized yet). But Firecliff, which recently underwent a renovation that included conversion of its greens to Mini Verde Bermuda, will certainly be primed for play throughout the season, except for a 10-day aerification closure in July and another in August (exact dates will be posted on the website).
PGA Tour Superstore
Data drives the modern game, but most golfers don’t have easy access to the gear that generates the numbers. One easy solution is to work through your bag, under the eye of a Foresight GC3 launch monitor, in one of the five bays at the Palm Desert branch of the PGA Tour Superstore. Book an hourly slot for $30, half-hour for $20, or get an annual pass for $300.
Indian Wells Golf Resort
This summer, Indian Wells Golf Resort will undergo some changes. The Players course will be closed for exciting renovations that will hopefully tempt the LPGA back to the Coachella Valley. Except for two brief stints in July and August (check the website), the Celebrity course will be open, and you’ll be able to ride its elegant fairways in carts with new cooling misters.
The Arnold Palmer–designed Classic Club in Palm Desert.
PHOTO BY BRANDON HARMAN
SilverRock Resort
Any list of the best and best-looking courses in Greater Palm Springs will include this Arnold Palmer–designed standout. Set against the Santa Rosa Mountains, “The Rock” is a genuine stunner. Summer advisory: We’re told that course renovations may limit accessibility but that at least nine holes will remain open all season — call ahead if that would change your plans.
Shadow Hills Golf Club
A full 18 on a par-3 course lets you hone your short game while making the most of cooler morning tee times. The gorgeous collection of holes on the North Course is always in impeccable condition.
The Golf Club at Terra Lago
Experience real desert golf on two tracks at this Indio favorite. Several elevated tee boxes provide breathtaking views of rugged desertscape. Superb ranges and short-game areas are added attractions. Here, too, there’ll be brief summer closures of each course while the other stays open along with the practice facilities.
PGA WEST
Reduced rates sure make Pete Dye’s famous Stadium course an irresistible choice, but his eye-catching Mountain and Dunes courses shouldn’t be overlooked. Plus, in the tucked-away Mountain/Dunes clubhouse, the Bunker Bar offers a pair of simulators, with food-and-bev service.
Topgolf Swing Suite
Play tracks ranging from Pebble Beach to St. Andrews in this two-bay simulator. (Baseball and other sports are also options.) Open late, the Topgolf Swing Suite at Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Golf Resort features food service and a full bar. Hourlong sessions are $60 Sunday to Thursday and $80 Friday and Saturday. Reserve online or just drop in.
The Lights at Indio Golf Club
The only after-dark golf in the Coachella Valley, this illuminated course is walkable with a pull-cart ($35 June to October). Or take advantage of practice facilities till 10 p.m. on the newly renovated range. There’s a guys’ league and a gals’, and word is, the latter’s especially popular.
Classic Club
Another Arnold Palmer design that really pleases the eye while testing one’s game, Classic Club offers top-tier amenities and the valley’s most lavish clubhouse. And the par-3 12th is certainly among the desert’s most picturesque challenges. Plan your round in June — Classic Club will be closed from July 1 to Aug. 31.
