Perhaps Happy Gilmore would settle for a “fresh, delicious, tasty, meaty, turkey-filled cold-cut combo,” but here in the desert, clubhouse dining goes beyond bagged chips and processed sandos. For a golf outing that delivers the ultimate trifecta — beautiful scenery, challenging play, and gourmet eats — book a tee time at any of these destinations.
Classic Club
Palm Desert
From the 7,305-yard championship golf course to the palatial Tuscan-inspired clubhouse, Classic Club promises an elevated guest experience on all fronts, as one would expect of a property envisioned by Arnold Palmer. As a certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, the course design incorporates trickling streams, large water features, and shade trees, providing habitat for local and migratory wildlife. The clubhouse hangout, Bellatrix Restaurant & Wine Bar, presents an impressive selection of vino by the glass and bottle. They also host wine dinners on the second Wednesday of the month, November through May.
Desert Island Country Club
Rancho Mirage
Private since 1971, Desert Island Country Club officially opened to the public in 2022. The course routes around a 25-acre lake sustained by a private well, creating several water hazards including an island fairway on the par-4 ninth. For an alfresco lunch, head to the 9 1/2 Bar & Kitchen adjacent to the putting green for a classic BLT, tacos, or a smash burger and a craft cocktail.
