Scottsdale vs Palm Springs Golf Trip

TLDR / Key Summary:

Palm Springs offers the same elite-level golf as Scottsdale, without the crowds.
Winter weather in Palm Springs is ideal—less wind, warmer mornings, and more consistent sun.
Indian Wells Golf Resort has 36 championship holes and award-winning amenities.
Scottsdale is more expensive during peak season and can feel overbuilt.
Palm Springs offers easier access, relaxed vibes, and iconic desert golf layouts.

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Here’s the thing:

If you’re deciding between Scottsdale and Palm Springs for a golf trip, you’re already on the right track. Both are legendary desert golf destinations. Both offer year-round sun, dramatic scenery, and some of the most recognized courses in the country.

But if you’re looking for a more relaxed, accessible, and less-crowded golf trip, Palm Springs may quietly be the better call.

Let’s break down the details so you can book your trip with confidence.

Golf Course Quality & Variety

Scottsdale:

Over 200 courses in the greater Phoenix area.
Iconic courses like TPC Scottsdale, Troon North, and Grayhawk.
Expect higher green fees during peak season (Jan–April).
Tee times can be tough to get unless booked well in advance.
Many desert target-style courses—stunning but can be punishing.

Palm Springs:

Around 120 courses in the Coachella Valley.
Legendary spots like PGA West, Desert Willow, and of course, Indian Wells Golf Resort.
More player-friendly layouts with generous fairways and lush conditions.
Tee time availability is better, and pace of play is often smoother.
Indian Wells features 36 holes of championship golf (Celebrity and Players Courses), both ranked among the top public courses in California.

Verdict: Scottsdale has volume. Palm Springs has variety without the chaos. If you want high-end golf without fighting for every tee time, Palm Springs is the move.

Weather: Winter vs Summer Conditions

Let’s talk seasons.

Winter (Nov–March):

Palm Springs: 70s–80s, low humidity, very little rain. Mornings warm up fast. Ideal golf weather.
Scottsdale: Also sunny, but chillier mornings and more wind. Temps can dip into the 40s overnight.

Summer (June–August):

Both get hot: Triple digits hot.
Scottsdale has more monsoon activity (afternoon storms and humidity spikes).
Palm Springs is dry heat, more predictable, and still playable in early mornings.

Shoulder Seasons (April–May, Sept–Oct):

Palm Springs tends to cool off earlier in the fall and stay mild longer in spring.
Less wind and more daylight in Palm Springs gives you longer golf windows.

Verdict: Palm Springs wins in the winter—hands down. You’re booking a golf trip to escape bad weather, not freeze on the tee box waiting for the sun to come up.

Cost of Travel, Lodging & Tee Times

Scottsdale:

Flights into Phoenix Sky Harbor are frequent and affordable.
Resorts can be pricey during spring training and high season.
Premium tee times can run $250–$400+.

Palm Springs:

Flights into PSP (Palm Springs International) are increasing every year, with more direct routes.
Boutique resorts and golf-specific stay-and-play packages offer better value.
Indian Wells Golf Resort packages often include multi-round discounts, free replays, and resort perks.

Verdict: If you want a top-tier golf trip without dropping $2,000 per player, Palm Springs offers more bang for your buck, especially if you plan it smart.

Vibe & Off-Course Experience

Scottsdale:

Known for nightlife, bachelor parties, and packed restaurants.
Lots of energy and development—it’s a golf trip with a side of Vegas.

Palm Springs:

More relaxed, artistic, and scenic.
Great restaurants, mid-century charm, local shops, and spa resorts.
Less traffic. Easier to get around. Perfect for decompressing after 18 holes.

Verdict: Depends on your crew. If you’re 25 and chasing shots, Scottsdale might be for you. But for couples, friends, or a legit golf-first group, Palm Springs brings a better overall balance.

Why Indian Wells Golf Resort Should Be Your Base

Here’s where it all comes together.

Indian Wells is:

Home to 36 championship holes: the Players Course and the Celebrity Course.
Known for immaculate conditions, dramatic backdrops, and tournament-quality layouts.
A short drive from Palm Springs airport and walkable from several top resorts.
Equipped with lights for Glow Golf at night, an unbeatable post-round experience.
Regularly ranked as one of the best public golf resorts in the country.

When golfers pick Palm Springs, this is the spot they come to play. It’s the perfect home base for your trip, with access to nearby courses like Desert Willow, PGA West, and Classic Club if you want to mix it up.