Desert Willow Golf Resort - Firecliff Course

The Firecliff Course at Desert Willow opened in 1997, designed by Michael Hurdzan, Dana Fry, and PGA Tour player John Cook. It is a municipally owned public facility in Palm Desert — one of the finest city-run courses in the country.

Earned 4 out of 5 stars from Golf Digest Places to Play and regularly hosts championship events including the City of Palm Desert Championship and the Golfweek Senior Amateur Championship (March 2026). The course recently underwent renovations including an expanded and upgraded 18th green.

Widely considered one of the best public golf values in the entire Coachella Valley — municipal pricing for championship desert golf.

A rugged, authentic desert layout at 7,056 yards from the tips. Six of the ten par 4s stretch past 400 yards from the blues. Desert washes, native vegetation, and sandy waste areas frame the holes rather than manicured turf, giving it a true Sonoran feel.

Firm, fast conditions are typical. Water impacts the two finishing holes on each nine. Five tee sets make it playable for all skill levels.

As a city-owned facility, green fees ($60-150) are notably lower than comparable private-resort courses.

Carry distances over desert washes are the key challenge. Know your landing zones off the tee.

The course plays longer than the card suggests because firm fairways can kick balls into waste areas.

Take the forward tees seriously if you don\'t carry the ball 200+ yards. The desert penalties are severe.

Greens run firm and fast — plan for run-out on approach shots. Below-the-hole is essential.