News Summary
Greater Palm Springs is solidifying its reputation as the Golf Capital of the West with over 100 golf courses and luxury accommodations. The area’s golf tourism is booming, attracting millions of enthusiasts and vacationers. With several upscale hotels offering unique experiences and access to championship courses, it serves as an ideal getaway for golf lovers seeking both leisure and luxury. As the region continues to grow in popularity, early bookings are recommended to secure the best experiences for travelers.
Greater Palm Springs Emerges as a Prime Destination for Golf and Luxury Hospitality
Greater Palm Springs, located in Southern California, continues to strengthen its reputation as the Golf Capital of the West by offering an exceptional combination of world-class golf courses and luxurious accommodations. The region features over 100 golf courses suitable for players of all skill levels, making it a leading destination for golf enthusiasts and vacationers alike.
Growing Popularity of Golf Tourism
Recent data indicates that golf tourism remains a significant contributor to the area’s economy. In 2023, approximately 12.2 million U.S. adults took a golf trip, reflecting the sport’s increasing popularity. Globally, the golf tourism market was valued at around $26.4 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow to $41.2 billion by 2030. This upward trend underscores the appeal of regions like Greater Palm Springs as key travel destinations for golf and leisure.
Luxury Hotels Enhancing the Golf Experience
Hotel Paseo in Palm Desert
Among the prominent luxury hotels is Hotel Paseo in Palm Desert. This elegant property offers amenities such as a pool, putting green, and lawn games, catering to guests seeking a comfortable and upscale stay. Its close proximity to the El Paseo Shopping District — often called the “Rodeo Drive of the desert” — provides visitors with high-end shopping opportunities including stores like Travis Matthew and dining options such as Tommy Bahama and Wilma + Frieda’s.
Desert Willow Golf Resort
The hotel’s collaborating golf course, Desert Willow Golf Resort, provides guests with discounted tee times and convenient shuttle service for a brief 10-minute ride. The resort features two courses: Firecliff, which offers a challenging play for seasoned golfers, and Mountain View, designed for those seeking a more forgiving experience with wider fairways and easier greens.
JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa
Offering a comprehensive resort experience, the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa includes 884 guest rooms, 101 luxury suites, and a multitude of amenities like a spa, multiple pools, and 10 dining venues. The hotel boasts two championship golf courses: the Palm course, designed by Ted Robinson, and the Valley course. Additionally, an 18-hole putting course provides extra leisure options for guests.
Grand Hyatt Indian Wells
The Grand Hyatt Indian Wells provides family-friendly accommodations with 531 rooms, 39 suites, and 43 villas. The resort features a large water park with a 450-foot lazy river, alongside prime dining options such as Tia Carmen and Carmocha. Situated next to the Indian Wells Golf Resort, it offers access to two golf courses: the Players and the Celebrity.
Exclusive and Wellness-Focused Resorts
Sensei Porcupine Creek
Sensibly catering to adult guests, Sensei Porcupine Creek emphasizes wellness and tranquility. This luxury resort integrates a golf course that harmonizes with the natural landscape, providing a peaceful environment for play and relaxation. It also features food service from Sensei by Nobu directly on the course, enhancing the upscale experience.
Additional Notable Golf Courses in Greater Palm Springs
Beyond hotel-linked courses, the region offers a variety of notable golf destinations:
- Escena Golf: Known for its strategic layout balancing playability to challenge, complemented by a scenic clubhouse.
- Palm Desert Country Club: A more casual, resort-style course offering affordable tee times and relaxed atmosphere.
- PGA West: Features nine courses including the renowned Pete Dye Stadium Course, catering to serious golf aficionados.
- Silverrock Resort: Recognized as one of the toughest courses in the area, currently expanding with two new luxury hotels.
- The Classic Club: Known for pristine conditions and top-tier service, it provides a challenging layout for skilled players.
Ongoing Growth and Travel Planning
Golf continues to serve as a popular option for weekend getaways and major life events, including tournaments, weddings, and reunions. Travel advisors recommend booking accommodations early, especially at the region’s luxury hotels, to secure preferred tee times and ensure an optimal experience for golfing clients. With its combination of scenic courses, upscale lodging, and recreational amenities, Greater Palm Springs stands out as an ideal destination for golf travelers seeking both leisure and luxury.
As the industry sees sustained growth, Greater Palm Springs remains at the forefront of golf tourism, offering a comprehensive experience that caters to diverse preferences and elevates the region’s status as a premier golf and luxury travel destination.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- TravelAge West: Palm Springs Golf Resorts
- Wikipedia: Golf in the United States
- Palm Springs Life: Golf Courses Experiences
- Google Search: Palm Springs Golf Resorts
- Golf Digest: Best Public Golf Courses in Palm Springs
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Golf
- Palm Springs Life: Places to Stay
- Google News: Greater Palm Springs Golf
- ABC7: Live with Kelly and Mark in Greater Palm Springs
Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
