Greater Palm Springs has an enormous golf inventory, but the useful question is not “what is the best course?” It is “what can I book, in the city where I am staying, at the difficulty, price, and level of desert drama I actually want?”
The recognizable public-access shortlist
Indian Canyons Golf Resort, Palm Springs
Best for: classic Palm Springs scenery and players who want to remain in Palm Springs proper. The resort has two distinct courses beneath the mountains. Confirm current public tee-time access and course rotation directly.
Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort, Palm Springs
Best for: convenience near Palm Springs International Airport and a choice of two courses. It is a practical first stop for a golf-focused visitor staying in Palm Springs.
Escena Golf Club, Palm Springs
Best for: modern desert design, mountain views, and pairing a round with an on-site meal. Wind can influence play in this part of the valley, so check same-day conditions.
Desert Willow Golf Resort, Palm Desert
Best for: two highly regarded municipal courses and a polished resort-style public experience. Firecliff is generally the more demanding choice; Mountain View is the friendlier comparison for many recreational players.
Indian Wells Golf Resort, Indian Wells
Best for: a premium 36-hole resort experience. The Celebrity and Players courses offer different designs, and packages may be available through neighboring hotels.
PGA WEST, La Quinta
Best for: famous tournament pedigree and golfers who want the course itself to be the destination. Not every course in the larger PGA WEST community has the same public-access rules, so verify the exact course when booking.
SilverRock Resort, La Quinta
Best for: dramatic mountain scenery, tournament history, and a La Quinta golf day. Check current routing, construction impacts, and tee-time availability before committing.