Classic Club, Palm Desert, California
Designed by Arnold Palmer and the host site of the 2006, 2007, and 2008 Bob Hope Chrysler Classic, Classic Club offers spectacular views and 30 acres of water features. Along with the water comes 14 bridges, wide fairways, and five sets of tee boxes on each hole. Classic Club was proud to show off their newly opened 63,000 square-foot three-story clubhouse, complete with a full-service golf shop with women and men’s apparel alike. The sprawling Tuscan-inspired structure is perfect for hosting big groups like weddings and corporate events or small foursomes just looking to get a round of golf in. No matter what you are looking for, the answer is yes when considering Classic Club for your next outing.
The entrance to the clubhouse stood out immediately, giving us a hotel-feel driveway around the first of many water features. Once we checked in I wanted to take a look around before we headed out to warm up. The men’s locker room was well-equipped but a bit small considering the size of the clubhouse. I was oddly impressed by the quality of the golf carts at Classic Club. Normally I don’t pay too much attention to the quality, but this cart had high-quality seats complete with logo embroidery and course GPS.
The new 63,000 square-foot clubhouse features a full-service golf shop stock with the top names in women and men’s apparel
We took the carts over to the practice facilities to warm up. Our first impression of the Classic Club continued to take shape at the range, chipping, and putting areas. The range had popular target distances with balls provided to dial in each club, along with a large putting green and separate chipping area. It shouldn’t have been any surprise considering the driving range was ranked #1 by California Golf and Travel Magazine in 2016. The clubhouse informed us that the greens were rolling at about a 10.5 on the stimpmeter, so it was important for us to roll a few putts before.
The 63,000 square-foot clubhouse is the centerpiece of the Classic Club
Having great practice facilities is a fundamental aspect of what separates one course from another. Preparation is key when playing a new course, or any course for that matter. I’m glad Classic Club did not overlook this detail as many courses do.
I always like picking the starter’s brain for any tips for our round and strategy to help us score. He informed us that there is a lot of water on the course. Not only was there a lot of water but the fairways do not have rough around the lakes to stop the ball. We had a few drives that ended up rolling in the water where they would otherwise stay in play, so make sure to aim well away from the water!
The Signature Holes
Hole 9, 595 Yards
One of my favorite holes on the front nine was the par-5 9th. The tee shot calls for about 240 yards of carry to get over the bunker along the right side. From there, the second shot turns a bit to the right with water in front of the green. Only the longest hitters will even have a chance at this green in 2, as it plays almost 600 yards. The green slopes from back to front towards the water. As you can see in the photo, our pin placement was a center/back location and we made sure to keep our approaches below the hole to allow for an easier putt up the hill.
While the greens were not rolling overly fast, our group had a tough time reading some of the putts. As you can see in the overhead shot, this course is full of rolling hills and slopes, making it tough to see some of the break or lack thereof. However, the greens did roll true, making it a tad easier to gauge speed.
Hole 12 – Par 3, 162 Yards
My next favorite came a few holes later in the par-3 12th. Playing at 160 yards, this green is surrounded by water and features a beautiful waterfall and flower array. You must carry almost the entire yardage to make sure your ball is dry. The front pin made it a bit tougher, but we made sure to miss long.
I can’t conclude talking about the back nine without mentioning the finishing hole. A par-5 turning right, this hole will tempt your will to go for it in 2 over the giant lake along the right side. I elected the risky route and fortunately ended up on the dry side of that gamble. I’ve seen all too much of the opposite, so I was glad to come out on land and without a drop!
Classic Club Course Rating: 4.6/5 stars
It was no surprise why Classic Club was a previous home to a PGA tour event. It was well-manicured, provided excellent practice facilities, and kept us on our toes with a variety of different hole types. The water kept us honest, the views kept us sane. It’s tough to pick out a clear number one course with all the competition in the area, but Classic Club is a good bet to knock your socks off.
To learn more about the Classic Club or to book a tee time please visit their website. As a Troon managed property Troon Reward Members are eligible to earn free rounds of golf and discounts on merchandise and golf fees. Also, members receive special offers and access to exclusive events. To learn more about Troon Rewards please visit the rewards website.