
Arnold Palmer Private Course
PGA West




About this course
Arnold Palmer Private at PGA West stands as a testament to the King's vision for desert golf, a demanding yet playable layout sculpted from the rugged Coachella Valley landscape. Carved in the late modern era, its expansive fairways belie the challenges that await, where wayward shots find unforgiving desert scrub and strategically placed bunkers. Faders will find themselves at home here, especially navigating the doglegs that demand strategic positioning off the tee. Originally crafted by Arnold Palmer, the course has seen subtle refinements over the years, ensuring its playability while maintaining its inherent character. The course favors a bold style of play, rewarding the aggressive golfer who can accurately judge distances and trust their swing. While not a stage for major championships, the course has hosted numerous regional and amateur events, providing a stern test for seasoned players. The membership at Arnold Palmer Private is known for its close-knit community, united by a shared love of the game and appreciation for Palmer's legacy. The halfway house, a beloved tradition, is famed for its date shakes, a nod to the Coachella Valley's agricultural heritage and a welcome respite from the desert heat. The club's inclusive spirit fosters a relaxed atmosphere, making it a true home away from home for its members.
Rankings
Ranked by CV ratings from golfers who've played this course. Positions are shown worldwide, by country, and by state; the Private column compares member-only and guest-restricted courses.
Best in World
Best in USA
Best in CA
Quick facts
- Location
- La Quinta, CA, USA
- Access
- Private
- Year built
- 1987
- Holes
- 18
- Designer(s)
- Pete Dye, Arnold Palmer
- Par
- 72
- Length
- 6,950 yards
- Difficulty
- 80.9/150
- Course Vaults score
- 8.0
Getting there
The gateway to PGA West is Palm Springs International Airport, a compact desert hub just twenty minutes north along Highway 111 as it cuts through the Coachella Valley floor. Private arrivals favor Thermal Airport, a discreet facility favored by those seeking unobtrusive access to the valley's most exclusive enclaves, positioned even closer to La Quinta's resort corridor. The drive itself is a study in contrasts - commercial stretches of mid-century modernism giving way to gated entries and the sudden, dramatic rise of the Santa Rosa Mountains framing the southern horizon, their barren ridges standing sentinel over PGA West's emerald fairways and the desert's most storied collection of championship layouts.

FAQ
Common questions about Arnold Palmer Private at PGA West
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
Arnold Palmer Private at PGA West has a Course Vaults score of 8.0 out of 10 based on 17 logged golfers.
Arnold Palmer Private was designed by Pete Dye and Arnold Palmer.
Arnold Palmer Private at PGA West is listed as private on Course Vaults; guest access is typically restricted.
Par at Arnold Palmer Private is 72.
Arnold Palmer Private plays 6,950 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at Arnold Palmer Private is 150.






