
Escena Golf Club
Escena Golf Club presents an 18-hole championship course set against the dramatic San Jacinto Mountains. Combining broad fairways with desert challenges and nuanced greens, this course welcomes golfers seeking both strategic play and stunning desert views.
Course Overview
Rising along the rugged slopes of Palm Springs, Escena Golf Club offers an 18-hole championship layout that merges desert intensity with expansive mountain vistas. This semi-private course winds through arid terrain and natural washes, creating a setting where every hole tests your strategic thinking against the dramatic backdrop of the San Jacinto Mountains. Sculpted to challenge a broad spectrum of golfers, the design balances approachable fairways with green complexes that require precise approach shots and careful attention to the wind.
Wide fairways invite confident drives, yet the shifting desert winds influence shot selection and demand adaptability from every player. Water hazards appear selectively, guarding several greens and forcing creative shot-making. The course’s varied elevation changes and sculpted bunkers add layers of complexity without overwhelming casual players, making Escena both fun for social rounds and rewarding for low handicaps. For golfers seeking memorable challenges, the mid-to-long par 4s and reachable par 5s encourage risk-reward decisions.
The clubhouse captures a relaxed, resort-style vibe fitting its desert location. Amenities include a pro shop stocked with essentials, a full-service restaurant with views that complement the course’s natural beauty, and friendly staff who enhance the experience without pretense. Given Palm Springs’ arid climate, early morning tee times often provide the coolest conditions and a chance to spot local wildlife, including the occasional coyote.
Walking is possible though the desert terrain can be firm and uneven; proper footwear is recommended to maintain comfort over the undulating ground. For those preferring to conserve energy, golf carts are available and provide a smooth ride between tees and greens. The pace of play typically flows well, even on busy days.
Escena Golf Club offers desert golf scenery with contours that reward thoughtful shots and patience. Its blend of natural elements and accessible design creates a compelling desert golf experience for visitors to Palm Springs, where each round provides both challenge and an opportunity to engage with the distinctive character of the Southern California desert.
Course Highlights
Escena’s desert setting delivers striking mountain views and varied elevation changes. Fairways are generous but wind and desert hazards demand precision. The layout blends rolling terrain with natural washes and strategically placed bunkers. Notably, several holes frame vistas of the San Jacinto range, enhancing the overall experience without compromising approachability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guest Reviews
Simone Sheffield
The food is tasty but over priced for the portions. But as I drive by now and again I can smell grilled onions and I want to eat there again.
Cait Julia
Visited with a group during our trip to Palm Springs. The views were definitely the highlight, stunning setting and a perfect backdrop for a relaxing evening. The food/service didn’t quite live up to the scenery. It wasn’t a bad experience by any means, just a very average one. The dishes were okay. Lovely place for a drink and a sunset.
Guy Youhouse
I am not sure if it was because this course was the one I was looking forward to the most, or we had just played Indian canyons (South) the day before and it exceeded expectations by a lot, or it was significantly more windy and the air quality was terrible (500+) the day we played here vs the other days…but I was a little let down. The course was still beautiful, it was in great shape, the views were fantastic, it was challenging, shop staff was excellent, pace was ok for a Saturday, and we had a great time. I do feel that we found better value for the money at other courses, but I have to say that they did have the most beautiful cart girl to ever walk the planet. Would play again
Andrew Min
Absolutely gorgeous course. Playing conditions were pretty good (not perfect). Had a couple coyotes appear but they were harmless. Beware so you’re not caught off guard. Fairways were generally wide, but varying green heights and water hazard placements gave us a fun challenge. Overall, it was nice we had to play it twice — went back same day for a replay and made it through the front 9 again. Staff were great as well. Would highly recommend.
AJ Rockefeller
4.5? This place is 5.5 best course I have played in North America. First, the rate was affordable. Service from my uber to the clubhouse was 11/10. Every person I interacted with bag boy, starter, Marshall servers were the most professional I have ever seen by a long shot. I felt like royalty here. But it was affordable. Beers were 7 bucks. Patio was glorious.
Ethan Welch
Amazing course even in the 105 degree weather! We had a blast. The staff is always so nice and make you feel like you’re at a 5 star resort. Love this place!
Cait Julia
Visited with a group during our trip to Palm Springs. The views were definitely the highlight, stunning setting and a perfect backdrop for a relaxing evening. The food/service didn’t quite live up to the scenery. It wasn’t a bad experience by any means, just a very average one. The dishes were okay. Lovely place for a drink and a sunset.
Anthony Taylor (Tony T)
Perfect for photos and golf. Hack away!
Ethan Welch
Amazing course even in the 105 degree weather! We had a blast. The staff is always so nice and make you feel like you’re at a 5 star resort. Love this place!
Stacy Wells
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Course Details
Access & Location
1100 Clubhouse View Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262, USA
Modern clubhouse with pro shop, full-service restaurant, and outdoor patio overlooking the course
Walking permitted though desert terrain can be firm and uneven; supportive golf shoes advised. Carts available.
Reservations recommended, guest play allowed with member or resort affiliation