Desert Willow Golf Resort
Desert Willow Golf Resort delivers an 18-hole desert layout that balances challenge and playability amid the scenic Coachella Valley. Known for its elevation changes, fast greens, and well-appointed amenities, it offers a memorable round for golfers seeking both strategy and striking views.
Course Overview
Desert Willow Golf Resort presents an 18-hole challenge set amid the striking desert landscape of Palm Desert, California. This resort-style course blends the natural arid beauty of the Coachella Valley with lush irrigation that creates contrasting pockets of green throughout the layout. Designed to challenge a range of skill levels, the course demands careful strategy rather than sheer power, with fairways that wind through stands of native palms and sweeping desert vistas that test both precision and imagination.
The course features two distinct 18-hole layouts, offering variety and dynamic play options, but the Firecliff course is especially notable for its elevation changes and visual drama. Elevation plays a key role here, with holes climbing and dropping around rocky outcroppings that frame long approach shots. The desert winds subtly influence shot selection, suggesting a measured and thoughtful pace. Golfers will find well-conditioned, fast greens that reward accurate approaches and putts, while bunkers guard the strokes more than punish errors, enhancing the strategic experience without overwhelming.
Amenities at Desert Willow reflect its commitment to visitor comfort. Players can expect a full-service pro shop stocked for every need, well-maintained practice areas including a driving range and short game zone, and several convenient tee time options. Water and restroom stations are placed regularly, ensuring hydration under the desert sun. The clubhouse facilities extend beyond golf, with dining spaces that overlook the course, providing a relaxing spot to unwind after play.
For travelers planning a visit, early morning tee times are best to avoid midday heat and to witness the desert come alive with morning light. Walking is an option, but carts are widely recommended to conserve energy across the sun-exposed terrain. The course invites golfers who appreciate a test of shotmaking and course management amid unforgettable desert scenery. Desert Willow offers an experience that combines professional-level conditions with the striking calm of the surrounding landscape.
Course Highlights
Distinctive elevation changes on the Firecliff layout create dramatic approach shots framed by natural rock formations and palms. Fast, undulating greens demand precision and focus. Desert Willow stands out for combining desert terrain with lush irrigated fairways that highlight the contrast between natural and cultivated landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guest Reviews
Alyssa Gierej
We had an incredible experience and are so fortunate to have our wedding here this past fall. We kicked off the weekend with a round of golf on Friday—the course was beautiful, and the pro shop (shout out to Brian and Jason!) was extremely accommodating. Saturday went off without a hitch. The ceremony on the event lawn was picture-perfect, followed by a lovely cocktail hour on the Palm Desert Terrace. Dinner and dancing on the Lakeview Terrace made for an unforgettable evening. Everything was seamless and beautifully coordinated! Robbie, (Coordinator/Director of Catering Sales) was truly a magician—her care, attention, and patience over months of planning made all the difference, and she ensured day of unfolded perfectly. Harry, the Banquet Manager, kept every transition between events smooth and effortless, so we could simply enjoy every moment. Thanks to the whole team, we appreciate all of you!
Jarrod Kailef
Some of the nicest views in the desert are to be found here. I don't golf, but I have attended number of gatherings here and eaten at their restaurant, and it is quite good. This is an excellent place to hold small events of up to around fifty people.
Todd Williams
Course is in great shape.
Ovell Scott III
Played course on 15 June 2025. Course staff is very friendly and helpful. From the cart guys, marshall, pro shop, and diner. Everyone was top tier. The course has complimentary range balls, good practice greens, and a nice chipping area. The course itself conditions are great also. Tee boxes level, fairways cut nicely, and greens well maintained. These greens roll and roll FAST. The only critique I could say is the sand in the bunkers. They don't have much at all and definitely need more but is not a reason to give this course less than 5 stars. The marshall even came around with cold towels to keep us cool. Five star treatment and service!!! They treated our G.O.A.L. golf group with class. Definitely recommend this course to all and I will be back. THE COURSE IS CHALLENGING, THIS IS YOUR WARNING!!
Matt Harp
Fantastic experience on Fireclif course. Good variety of holes with really cool backdrops (foliage, palms, water) on a lot of approach shots. We played in 4h, entire course was in great shape with bathroom and water stations every 3-4 holes. Greens are very reasonable, some movement to keep you focused and receptive to good shots, they're not tabletop fast which is appreciated.
grant I
Been here numerous times in past years. For lunch and breakfast. And it is one of the nicer patios with golf views around. Food was previously great, however the last couple tests has been below par. Burger was lacking in the flavor dept and quesidiawas drowning in cheese, reorderwe coffee twice and was pretty poor all around. Hope they get back on course.
Derrick Lawson
Played 9 holes here with my buddy this season and I enjoyed this course a lot. It wasn't real tough like some of the others and the cart barn was friendly.
MICHAEL CALVILLO
GFLP
We recently celebrated my parents’ afternoon wedding reception at the Desert Willow Golf Club restaurant, and it was such a beautiful and memorable experience. The setting was incredible, sweeping desert views, and an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere that made the day feel extra special. The service was outstanding from start to finish. Staff were attentive, kind, and genuinely helpful in making sure every guest felt comfortable and taken care of. The food was equally impressive, fresh, flavorful, and beautifully plated. From appetizers to dessert, every bite was a hit with our guests. If you’re looking for a venue that blends great food, top-notch service, and breathtaking views, I highly recommend Desert Willow. It was the perfect place to celebrate such an important family moment, and we’re so grateful for the hospitality we received.
Felix Ramirez
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Course Details
Access & Location
38-995 Desert Willow Dr, Palm Desert, CA 92260, USA
Desert Willow Clubhouse with dining overlooking the course
Walking allowed but carts advised due to course length and desert heat; wear light, breathable shoes
Reservations recommended, especially during peak season
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