Did you know La Quinta, California gets over 350 days of sunshine every year? This desert paradise is a golfer’s dream, with more than 130 courses in the Coachella Valley. La Quinta is known as the “Golf Capital of the World.” It started its golfing history in 1926 with the La Quinta Resort’s first course.
Today, golf lovers from all over come to La Quinta. They want to play on its top-notch courses. From the tough PGA West layouts to the beautiful Mountain Course, there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking for a golf trip or green fee details, La Quinta has it all.
Key Takeaways
- La Quinta offers over 130 golf courses in the Coachella Valley
- PGA West features 9 courses designed by legendary golfers
- The area enjoys 350 days of sunshine yearly, ideal for golfing
- Courses range from challenging PGA layouts to scenic resort options
- La Quinta introduced golf to the Coachella Valley in 1926
- Booking information and greens fees vary by course and season
Discovering La Quinta’s Golfing Treasures
La Quinta is known for its diverse golf courses, appealing to all skill levels. You’ll find legendary PGA West and historic La Quinta Resort & Club. These places showcase the desert’s stunning beauty.
Pete Dye, Jack Nicklaus, and Greg Norman have shaped La Quinta’s golf scene. Their designs offer unique challenges and breathtaking holes. They test your skills and thrill your senses.
SilverRock Golf Course, designed by Arnold Palmer in 2005, is a visual treat. It features emerald greens, desert washes, and large bunkers. It’s also eco-friendly and protects wildlife, making it even more special.
When planning your La Quinta golf trip, look at the pricing and membership options. Here’s a quick guide to green fees and rates for top courses:
Golf Course | Weekday Rate | Weekend Rate | Twilight Rate |
---|---|---|---|
PGA West Stadium Course | $249 | $299 | $149 |
La Quinta Resort Mountain Course | $189 | $229 | $129 |
SilverRock Golf Course | $159 | $179 | $99 |
La Quinta is a top golf spot with over 130 courses in the Coachella Valley. Its golf history goes back to 1926. By the early 2000s, nearly 100 courses were built, making it a premier destination.
Best Golf Courses in La Quinta, California
La Quinta is known as the “golf capital of the world.” It has over 130 golf courses. You can test your skills and enjoy beautiful desert views.
PGA West is a top spot with nine amazing courses. The Pete Dye Stadium Course is a par 72, 7,300 yards long. It’s tough, with a stroke rating of 76.1 and a slope rating of 150. The Greg Norman Course is a 7,200-yard par 72 with a slope of 140.
La Quinta Resort & Club has the Mountain and Dunes Courses. The Mountain Course, by Pete Dye, is 6,666 yards long. It’s set against stunning desert views. Check guest policies for access to these courses.
Course | Green Fees (Peak Season) | Tee Times |
---|---|---|
PGA West Stadium Course | $299 | 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM |
Jack Nicklaus Tournament Course | $279 | 7:30 AM – 2:30 PM |
Greg Norman Course | $259 | 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
La Quinta Mountain Course | $239 | 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM |
These courses have great amenities like practice facilities and pro shops. They also offer refreshments on the course. Book your tee times early, especially in peak seasons, to get a spot.
PGA West – Pete Dye Stadium Course: A Legendary Challenge
The Pete Dye Stadium Course at PGA West is a top choice in La Quinta. It’s known for its unique challenges and stunning desert views. The course blends perfectly with the desert, making it both beautiful and tough.
Pete Dye used 5,000 railroad ties and 200-yard-long waste bunkers in his design. Water hazards appear on nine holes, making the game more complex. The Santa Rosa Mountains add to the course’s scenic beauty.
The 16th hole, called “San Andreas Fault,” has a 19-foot-deep bunker. It’s one of golf’s most famous challenges. The “Alcatraz” hole is another highlight, with its island green surrounded by rocks and boulders.
The Stadium Course has hosted many big tournaments, including The American Express. It’s been a test for top golfers for over 35 years. It’s a must-visit for any serious golfer.
Tee Time | Weekday Rate | Weekend Rate |
---|---|---|
6:00 AM – 8:00 AM | $199 | $229 |
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM | $229 | $259 |
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM | $189 | $219 |
2:00 PM – Twilight | $159 | $179 |
PGA WEST – Jack Nicklaus Tournament Course: Golden Bear’s Desert Masterpiece
The Jack Nicklaus Tournament Course at PGA WEST is a true desert masterpiece. It was first planned in the early 1980s. The course features unique elements like plateau fairways, island greens, and split fairways.
Golfers will find the par-five 15th hole a real challenge. It’s one of the toughest in the Coachella Valley. The course ends with a double green for the 18th and 9th holes, right in front of the clubhouse.
Looking to book a tee time? PGA WEST offers various options. The facilities are top-notch, making your game comfortable and enjoyable.
Tee Time | Weekday Rate | Weekend Rate |
---|---|---|
6:00 AM – 8:00 AM | $159 | $189 |
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM | $179 | $209 |
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM | $149 | $169 |
2:00 PM – Sunset | $129 | $149 |
Don’t forget to book your tee times early, especially during busy times. The course is very popular. Whether you’re a pro or just starting, the Jack Nicklaus Tournament Course is unforgettable.
PGA WEST – Greg Norman Course: The Shark’s Desert Oasis
The Greg Norman Course at PGA WEST is a desert gem. It’s a links-style course with wide fairways and lots of bunkers. You’ll need to think carefully about each shot as you play through the desert.
Greg Norman Golf Course Design has made over 100 courses around the world. The PGA WEST – Greg Norman Course is a standout. It features 122 “Great White Shark” bunkers filled with white sand, making a bold statement against the desert.
Booking and green fees are important to plan for. Tee times can be reserved up to 120 days in advance. Greens fees change with the season and time of day, so check current rates when booking.
Season | Weekday Greens Fees | Weekend Greens Fees | Twilight Rates |
---|---|---|---|
Peak (Jan-Apr) | $199 | $229 | $149 |
Summer (May-Sep) | $99 | $119 | $79 |
Fall (Oct-Dec) | $159 | $189 | $119 |
To book, contact the PGA WEST golf shop or use their online system. Remember, you can book lodging up to a year in advance. This helps plan your La Quinta golf trip.
La Quinta Resort & Club: Where Golf History Began
La Quinta Resort & Club is an important part of golf’s history in the Coachella Valley. It started in 1926 with a nine-hole course for just $1 a day. Now, it has nine championship courses and is known as ‘North America’s Golf Resort of the Year’.
In 1986, the resort grew with the addition of Pete Dye’s TPC Stadium Golf Course and the Jack Nicklaus Tournament Course. These courses offer unique challenges and standout holes for all skill levels.
Today, La Quinta’s prices show its high status:
Course | Peak Season Fees | Off-Season Fees |
---|---|---|
Mountain Course | $189 – $239 | $59 – $99 |
Dunes Course | $169 – $219 | $49 – $89 |
TPC Stadium Course | $229 – $299 | $79 – $129 |
La Quinta Resort & Club is more than golf. It offers luxury with 41 pools, five restaurants, and a huge spa. The tennis program, with 21 courts and USPTA certified staff, has trained Hollywood stars.
The Mountain Course: Pete Dye’s Scenic Masterpiece
The Mountain Course at La Quinta Resort is a true masterpiece by Pete Dye. It was carved into the Santa Rosa Mountains in 1980. This 6,666-yard par-72 layout combines challenge and beauty in a unique way.
Spectacular Views and Strategic Play
As you play, you’ll be surrounded by stunning views. The course requires strategic thinking, with each hole offering its own set of challenges. From the 508-yard 4th hole to the short but tricky 162-yard 5th, every shot needs careful thought.
The Iconic 16th Hole: La Quinta’s Billboard
The 16th hole, known as “La Quinta’s Billboard,” is the course’s highlight. This downhill par-3 offers breathtaking views of the desert. It’s a favorite among golfers and photographers.
Tee Options | Yardage | Par |
---|---|---|
Championship | 6,666 | 72 |
Men’s | 6,280 | 72 |
Senior | 5,732 | 72 |
Women’s | 5,292 | 72 |
Forward | 4,844 | 72 |
The Mountain Course is part of La Quinta Resort’s impressive golf offerings. It includes two on-site courses and access to five more PGA West courses. With various tee options and top-notch amenities, it suits golfers of all levels. Membership details and rates are available, giving access to this scenic masterpiece and its sister courses.
The Dunes Course: A Desert Links Experience
The Dunes Course at La Quinta Resort is a special desert links-style golf experience. It was designed by Pete Dye in 1981. The course has rolling fairways and strategic bunkers, making it fun for all skill levels.
The course is 6,578 yards long with a par of 72. Water hazards appear on eight holes, adding fun to your game. The layout is split, with some holes near the resort center.
Getting to play is easy, with tee times for both resort guests and visitors. The course has wide fairways and native grass areas. These features make for a fun yet challenging game.
Course Statistics | Details |
---|---|
Total Yardage | 6,578 yards |
Par | 72 |
Longest Hole | Hole 7, Par 5, 591 yards |
Shortest Hole | Hole 6, Par 3, 191 yards |
Water Hazards | 6 |
Bunkers | 19 |
The Dunes Course has many great holes. The sixth hole is a standout par-three, and the seventeenth is a tough par-four. The seventeenth is known as one of California’s toughest holes.
Walking is an option during cooler months. The course’s desert links style and walkability make it a hit with guests in La Quinta.
Citrus Club: Exclusive Private Golfing
The Citrus Club is in the PGA West community and offers a top-notch golfing experience. It has a Pete Dye design that is both challenging and fun. With its beautiful views and excellent facilities, it’s a golfer’s dream.
Members-Only Amenities
The Citrus Club is known for its amazing amenities. Members get to use a modern fitness center, tennis courts, and a fancy spa. There are also great dining options and a special pool area for relaxing after golf.
Amenity | Description |
---|---|
Fitness Center | State-of-the-art equipment |
Tennis Facilities | Professional-grade courts |
Spa Services | Luxurious treatments |
Dining Options | Fine cuisine variety |
Pool Access | Exclusive swimming area |
Course Design and Challenges
The Citrus Club’s golf course, designed by Pete Dye, is 7,121 yards long from the black tees. It has a slope rating of 135, making it a tough course for all players. The course uses the desert landscape to create beautiful views and strategic challenges.
Joining the Citrus Club costs $40,000 for the initiation fee and $18,324 in annual dues. This price gives you access to three private Pete Dye golf courses. Each course offers unique challenges and stunning desert views.
Tee Time Bookings and Green Fee Details
Planning your golf trip to La Quinta? It’s important to book tee times and know the green fee details. La Quinta’s golf courses have different rates and booking options for everyone’s schedule and budget.
Most courses in La Quinta let you book tee times online or through a central system. Prices are higher in winter and lower in summer. Many courses also have twilight rates for playing in the late afternoon.
Here’s a quick look at green fees and tee times for La Quinta’s top courses:
Course | Peak Season Rate | Off-Season Rate | Twilight Rate | Earliest Tee Time |
---|---|---|---|---|
PGA West Stadium | $299 | $159 | $129 | 7:00 AM |
La Quinta Resort | $189 | $99 | $79 | 6:30 AM |
PGA West Nicklaus | $279 | $139 | $109 | 7:30 AM |
PGA West Norman | $259 | $129 | $99 | 7:15 AM |
Keep in mind, rates can change based on dates and special offers. Booking tee times early, especially in peak season, is a good idea. Some courses offer deals for playing multiple rounds, which can save you money if you love golf.
La Quinta’s courses are known for their impressive stats. They have a total yardage of 6,666 yards over 18 holes. You’ll find 4 par 3s, 10 par 4s, and 4 par 5s. The shortest hole is 89 yards, and the longest is 517 yards. Golf lovers will find these courses challenging and varied.
The American Express: PGA Tour Golf in La Quinta
The American Express is a top PGA Tour event held in La Quinta every year. It features world-class golf on several courses, with PGA West’s Stadium Course at its heart. Fans gather to see the best golfers compete.
The tournament is played on three amazing courses: PGA West Stadium Course, Nicklaus Tournament Course, and La Quinta Country Club. The final round is held at the Stadium Course, adding to the excitement.
In 2024, stars like Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele competed. Nick Dunlap won, making unforgettable moments for everyone watching.
Ticket Type | Benefits | Booking Information |
---|---|---|
Weekly Tickets | Access to all tournament days | On sale now |
Clubhouse Tickets | Access to Stadium Course at PGA WEST | Limited availability |
Premium Club | Complimentary lunch, hosted beer and wine | Booking required |
Champions Club | Hosted meals, all-day full bar | Advanced reservation recommended |
Military/First Responders | Complimentary tickets, venue access, concert entry | Available November 2024 via GovX |
AMEX Card Members get a 20% discount on tickets. Military and first responders can get free tickets in November 2024. There are many ticket options, from basic to luxury hospitality packages.
For more information on booking and greens fees, check the official tournament website. Prices change based on the ticket type and access level. Don’t miss the chance to see PGA Tour golf in La Quinta’s beautiful desert.
For golf lovers looking for year-round challenges, Texas has plenty to offer. San Antonio has a wide range of golf, from resorts to public courses, alongside La Quinta’s offerings.
Golf Academy at PGA West: Elevate Your Game
At PGA West’s Golf Academy, you can sharpen your skills and tackle your golf challenges head-on. This state-of-the-art facility offers instruction for players of all levels. It helps you improve your performance on standout holes across La Quinta’s courses.
The academy boasts cutting-edge technology, including video analysis and launch monitor systems. These tools provide insights into your swing mechanics and ball flight. This lets instructors pinpoint areas for improvement.
On-course instruction is an important feature of the academy’s programs. You’ll learn to navigate challenging holes and develop strategies for different course layouts. This hands-on approach ensures you’re well-prepared for the diverse golf experiences La Quinta offers.
Program | Duration | Pricing | Features |
---|---|---|---|
One Day Performance | 1 Day | $699 | 3:1 student-teacher ratio, video analysis, on-course instruction |
2-Day Signature | 2 Days | $1,399 | Personalized coaching, full swing & short game analysis, practice plan |
3-Day Signature | 3 Days | $1,999 | Intensive experience, advanced tech, extensive on-course coaching |
The academy’s rates reflect the high-quality instruction and facilities. A $500 non-refundable deposit secures your spot, with the balance due 30 days before your session. These programs offer excellent value, considering the personalized attention and advanced technology you’ll access.
La Quinta’s Golfing Community: More Than Just Golf
La Quinta’s golf scene is more than just playing golf. It has over 20 golf courses, making it a top spot for golf lovers. The area offers homes from luxurious estates to cozy condos, fitting every golfer’s dream.
Social Events and Activities
Golf clubs in La Quinta are always buzzing with life. Members get to join in on many events, like tournaments and wine tastings. These events help build strong friendships among golf fans.
Dining and Leisure Facilities
La Quinta’s golf communities have amazing amenities. You’ll find top-notch restaurants, fitness centers, and spas. For example, the Mountain View Country Club has a huge, beautiful clubhouse.
Community | Price Range | Notable Amenities |
---|---|---|
PGA West | $280,000 – $25 million | Multiple championship courses, clubhouses |
La Quinta Resort and Club | $400,000 – $2 million | Spa, tennis courts, multiple pools |
The Citrus Club | $599,000 – $2.5 million | Private course, exclusive membership |
The Hideaway Golf Club | From $2 million | Bungalows, villas, custom homes |
Guest access varies by community, with some offering day passes. Membership details include perks at partner clubs. La Quinta’s golf community offers a fulfilling lifestyle, whether you’re a pro or just enjoy playing.
Seasonal Considerations for La Quinta Golf
La Quinta’s golf scene is great all year, but the best time to visit makes a big difference. Palm Desert gets over 350 sunny days a year, perfect for golf lovers.
From November to February, golfing is at its peak. The weather is just right for a great game. This time also has popular golf events and more people playing.
Summer is very hot, with temperatures over 100°F. Even though it’s cheaper and less crowded, it’s harder to play. Try playing early in the morning for a better experience.
Season | Temperature Range | Green Fee Range | Tee Time Availability |
---|---|---|---|
Winter (Nov-Feb) | 60-75°F | $100-$250 | Limited |
Spring (Mar-Apr) | 75-90°F | $80-$200 | Moderate |
Summer (May-Sep) | 95-110°F | $40-$100 | Abundant |
Fall (Oct) | 80-95°F | $60-$150 | Good |
Many courses close for about 4 weeks in fall for overseeding. This keeps the courses in top shape all year. La Quinta’s design and care make it a top golf spot.
Membership Options and Benefits
Golf clubs in La Quinta have different membership options. Full golf memberships give you unlimited access to top courses. Social memberships focus on the clubhouse and events.
Members get special perks like early tee times and discounts on guest play. Many clubs also offer reciprocal play at other famous golf spots. This lets you explore more golfing destinations.
The stunning views from La Quinta’s courses are a big reason people join. Whether it’s a sunrise or sunset game, the desert scenery makes every round special.
Club | Green Fees | Tee Times | Member Benefits |
---|---|---|---|
PGA West | $150 – $250 | 7 days in advance | Access to 6 courses, priority bookings |
La Quinta Resort & Club | $125 – $200 | 5 days in advance | Spa access, dining discounts |
Citrus Club | Members only | 14 days in advance | Exclusive facilities, social events |
Club facilities include modern fitness centers, pools, and fine dining. These extras add to the membership value, offering a full lifestyle experience beyond golf.
The Future of Golf in La Quinta
La Quinta’s golf scene is changing to meet today’s standards while keeping its history alive. Courses are being updated to make play better and more eco-friendly. This means golfers will have amazing experiences for years ahead.
Green fees and tee times are evolving too. Courses now use dynamic pricing, changing rates based on demand and time. This makes golf more affordable for everyone.
Sustainability is a big deal for La Quinta’s golf courses. They’re saving water and using eco-friendly methods to protect the desert. These efforts help the environment and improve the golf experience.
Technology is becoming more important in La Quinta’s golf future. Courses are using new booking systems and GPS-enabled carts. These changes help games run smoother and give golfers useful info.
La Quinta is getting more into hosting big tournaments. The American Express PGA Tour event came back in 2016 and will bring more excitement. This puts La Quinta alongside other top golf spots in the U.S.
Course | Green Fees (Weekday) | Green Fees (Weekend) | Tee Time Availability |
---|---|---|---|
PGA West Stadium Course | $229 | $259 | 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM |
La Quinta Resort Mountain Course | $189 | $219 | 6:30 AM – 3:00 PM |
PGA West Norman Course | $209 | $239 | 7:30 AM – 2:30 PM |
Planning Your La Quinta Golf Getaway
Ready to tee off in La Quinta? Your golf paradise awaits. With over 130 courses in the area, you’ll find plenty of greens to challenge your skills. PGA West stands out with its 9 courses designed by golf legends like Pete Dye and Jack Nicklaus.
Booking your tee times early is crucial, especially during peak seasons. The Pete Dye Stadium Course at PGA West, a 7,300-yard par 72, offers a true test of golf with its 76.1 stroke rating. For a slightly less demanding round, try the Greg Norman Course, stretching 7,200 yards with a 140 slope.
Don’t forget to factor in green fees when planning your budget. Rates vary by season and course. The SilverRock Resort’s Arnold Palmer Classic, a 7,239-yard par 72, provides excellent value. For a quick round, check out Palm Royale Country Club’s par-3 course, perfect for honing your short game.
To make the most of your trip, consider staying at The Westin La Quinta Golf Resort & Spa. It offers a 27-hole course and luxurious amenities, including a Kids Club for young golfers aged 4-12. Remember, La Quinta’s courses can be busy, so early booking is crucial to securing your ideal tee times and avoiding disappointment.