Curious about the legendary courses at PGA West? PGA West is not just a golfing destination; it’s a sanctuary for those who cherish the game.
PGA West is a renowned golf resort and residential community located in La Quinta, California, often referred to as the “Western Home of Golf in America”. It’s known for its nine championship golf courses designed by golfing legends like Pete Dye, Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman, Arnold Palmer, and Tom Weiskopf.
Beyond golf, PGA West offers a luxury resort experience with various amenities, including private clubs, dining, shopping, and social activities. But we’re here for the golf. In La Quinta, PGA West courses boast unique challenges and stunning views.
Newcomers to PGA West praise it for its access. Unlike many top-tier private courses, its five public courses let golf enthusiasts enjoy world-class golfing without exclusive memberships. When you stay at one of our nearby properties, you will enjoy full access to these public golf courses that are sure to make your desert golf getaway unforgettable.
Let’s take a look at PGA West’s five public courses and their unique features.
Stadium Course
Photo Credit: Dylanhatfield.com
- Par: 72
- Course Designer: Pete Dye
- Difficulty Level: Very challenging, most advanced course
- Signature Features: Hole 17 “Alcatraz” (island green), deep bunkers, spectator mounding
The Stadium Course at PGA West, designed by Pete Dye, is one of the world’s toughest. The Black tees stretch to 7,300 yards, with a slope rating of 148 and a course rating of 76, affirming its challenging nature.
The iconic 17th hole, ‘Alcatraz’, is a standout feature. This par-3 requires a precise shot to an island green, testing both skill and nerve. The course layout masterfully blends strategic design and natural beauty, with each hole presenting unique challenges and rewards.
The clever bunkering, water hazards, and undulating greens of the Stadium Course demand precision and strategic thinking throughout. It rewards patience and punishes mistakes, making each round a true test of golf.
The Stadium Course’s scenery and style add to its allure. Set against the Santa Rosa Mountains, it offers stunning vistas that enhance your round. That being said, thanks to the stunning backdrop of La Quinta, all the courses on this list offer spectacular scenery.
Dunes Course
Photo Credit: Magnum Photography
- Par: 72
- Course Designer: Pete Dye
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Signature Features: Traditional rolling layout, water features, resort-friendly
The Dunes Course layout showcases Pete Dye’s genius. Each hole challenges strategic thinking, requiring precise shots and careful management. The mix of bunkers, water hazards, and undulating greens ensures no two holes are alike, keeping you engaged.
The scenic beauty of the Dunes Course is a highlight. Set amid rolling dunes and desert landscape, it offers breathtaking views that enhance the golfing experience. Whether for casual play or competition, the Dunes Course provides a serene, picturesque setting.
The Dunes Course combines technical challenges with stunning scenery, rewarding careful planning and precise execution. It’s a favorite among golfers who appreciate both beauty and difficulty in their game.
Mountain Course
- Par: 72
- Course Designer: Pete Dye
- Difficulty Level: Difficult
- Signature Features: Holes cut into rocky foothills, dramatic elevation changes, pot bunkers
Set right at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains, the Mountain Course offers a picturesque and challenging golfing environment. Another course designed by Pete Dye, it features dramatic elevation changes and breathtaking vistas, making it a memorable destination for those who enjoy spectacular scenery.
Each hole of the Mountain Course presents distinct challenges, from tricky downhill shots to uphill approaches testing accuracy and control.
As previously mentioned, The Mountain Course’s scenery adds to its allure, with the majestic Santa Rosa Mountains providing a stunning backdrop. This blend of natural beauty and challenging design makes the Mountain Course unmissable.
Nicklaus Tournament Course
Photo Credit: Isogood_patrick
- Par: 72
- Designer: Jack Nicklaus
- Difficulty Level: Difficult
- Signature Features: Wide fairways, elevated and multi-tiered greens
Expect classic Nicklaus desert design with forgiving visuals but tough greens.
The Nicklaus Tournament Course, or ‘the Nick Tourney,’ stretches to 7,204 yards and is one of Nicklaus’ most visually stunning desert designs. Featuring two island greens (at holes 9 and 17), it has long been a favorite among golfers.
The course previously served as a host venue for the PGA TOUR’s Qualifying School Finals and continues to share the spotlight with the Stadium Course during The American Express tournament, one of several popular Golf Tournaments in the area.
The Jack Nicklaus Tournament Course layout tests even seasoned golfers, with a stroke rating of 75.3 and a slope rating of 143. The two island greens demand precision and careful course management.
The Jack Nicklaus Tournament Course offers a thrilling experience. Its design is forgiving off the tee but challenging around the greens, testing your golfing abilities. The stunning desert scenery enhances the enjoyment, providing a beautiful game.
Greg Norman Course
- Par: 72
- Course Designer: Greg Norman
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Signature Features: Extensive bunkering, target-style layout, water in play
Come enjoy the pure desert landscape with natural arroyos & mountain backdrop.
The Greg Norman Course at PGA West is a masterpiece of design and beauty. Designed by the Great White Shark himself, it offers a unique blend of challenges and breathtaking vistas.
The layout demands precise shot-making and careful management. It appeals to golfers who enjoy a thoughtful, challenging game.
The challenging design of the Greg Norman Course is particularly enjoyable. Each hole tests your skills and strategy, requiring precise shots and careful planning. The mix of bunkers, water hazards, and undulating greens ensures no two holes are alike, keeping you engaged.
The rugged beauty of the Greg Norman Course is unparalleled. Set amid the natural desert landscape, it offers stunning views that enhance the golfing experience. Whether for casual play or competition, it provides a picturesque setting.
Book Your Golf Getaway Today
PGA West La Quinta is a golfer’s paradise, offering five public courses that are as challenging as they are beautiful. The unique designs by legendary figures like Pete Dye, Jack Nicklaus, and Greg Norman ensure that every round at PGA West is a true test of skill and strategy.
Our luxurious PGA West rental homes offer the perfect base for easy access to some of the most challenging courses in the golf world. Come stay with us and enjoy the exceptional beauty of La Quinta, Coachella Valley, and PGA West.
