3 Desert Gems to Explore in 2024 for Golfers

Nestled in the heart of Southern California, hosting dozens of world-class courses to choose from, the Palm Springs area is a veritable haven for golf enthusiasts. In addition to golf, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in the region, making it a premier destination for anyone looking for an active, fun-packed getaway.

For those seeking a golf destination that offers an unparalleled golf experience, endless recreation combined with top-notch lodging options, and a wide range of services, here are three gems that every golfer should explore.

By virtue of the legendary golf courses they host, the three Californian desert gems are must-visit destinations for golfers - amateurs and professionals who want to master their golf skills.

Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa

Located in the Palm Springs desert and ranked as one of the country's top golf resorts by Golf Digest, Westin Rancho Mirage is bound to offer golf players memorable experiences on and off the green.

The resort hosts the Pete Dye Resort Course, one of the tamer courses the legendary architect has ever devised. The course is described as "Potentially diabolical, yet indescribably playable."

While it may not seem difficult at first glance, the Pete Dye Course provides enough challenge even to veteran players, requiring strategy and precise shots.

The resort is also home to the Mission Hills North Gary Player Course, known for its environmentally careful integration within the desert landscape.

A unique aspect of this 7,062-yard golf course is that it's the first and only Gary Player course created in the desert and is by far one of the most versatile courses in the Palm Springs area.

La Quinta Golf Courses Designed by Legendary Architects

One of the most sought-after golf destinations in the area is PGA West, located in La Quinta, approximately 25 miles from Palm Springs.

Featuring nine iconic golf courses, two private golf clubs, and five clubhouses that offer a range of services, the resort attracts professional, amateur, and leisure golf players from all over the world.

The golf courses of PGA West were designed by renowned golf architects such as Ar-nold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Pete Dye, Greg Norman, and Tom Weiskopf. After obtain-ing their membership or being invited as a guest by a member, golfers can play at five world-class golf courses:

• The Jack Nicklaus Course
• The Greg Norman Course
• The Stadium Course
• The Mountain Course
• The Dunes Course

La Quinta Resort & Club provides exquisite lodging, with the entry-level option being a Resort casino. Upgrades are available for the Starlight or the Deluxe Poolside Casitas at an additional charge.

Championship Golf Courses at Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa

For those looking for a golf destination with a touch of old-school glamour, a weekend getaway at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa is one of the best options.

Just steps from the resort, you can enjoy championship golf courses ranked in the Top 20 "Best Courses You Can Play" in California by Golf Week Magazine:

• The Celebrity Course, one of the most impeccably landscaped courses in the Palm Springs area
• The Players Course, reminiscent of a Parkland Course

The two championship golf courses are aesthetically fascinating while boasting plenty of challenges, featuring:

• 36 holes for an unparalleled golf experience
• Immaculately landscaped and conditioned tracks, mountain views framed around palm trees
• Awe-inspiring water features and plants

Besides perfecting their swings on the golf courses designed by renowned architects Clive Clark and John Fought, golfers will find many other reasons to plan a vacation at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa.