The Ultimate Guide to Golf at Sun City Palm Desert
Last Updated: 2.18.26 | Time To Read: 10 minutes | Author: Desert Oasis Insider | Category: Sun City Palm Desert
Everything you need to know about Mountain Vista Golf Club’s Santa Rosa & San Gorgonio courses
If you’re looking at Sun City Palm Desert (SCPD) as a place to live—or you’re simply hunting for great desert golf that’s not priced like a trophy resort—this is the guide you want.
Sun City Palm Desert is home to Mountain Vista Golf Club, a 36-hole facility with two championship courses (Santa Rosa and San Gorgonio) designed by Billy Casper (with Greg H. Nash listed as course architect). SCPD’s own materials emphasize that the golf is pay-as-you-play, 7 days a week, with no golf membership fee, and that the courses are known for strong conditions and value.
Two 18-hole championship courses: Santa Rosa + San Gorgonio (both part of Mountain Vista Golf Club).
Open to the public (and residents have their own booking access).
Pay-as-you-play with no initiation / membership fee for golf (per SCPD).
Practice facilities: driving range + putting/chipping areas + even an 18-hole putting course on grass (community amenity).
Instruction: PGA professionals on staff; lessons and clinics available.
On-site golf clubs/leagues: multiple resident golf groups (men’s, ladies, couples, putters).
Table of contents
First: What “on-site golf” really means at Sun City Palm Desert
Mountain Vista Golf Club is inside the Sun City Palm Desert community and is widely marketed as a “resort-style” 36-hole facility with dramatic mountain backdrops.
A key point for buyers (and visiting golfers): this is not a mandatory-membership private country club model. SCPD explicitly states it’s pay-as-you-play with no golf membership fee—which is a big reason the golf is often positioned as a strong value play in the Coachella Valley.
How to book tee times: residents vs. the public
Public tee times
SCPD provides a public booking link directly from its golf page.
Mountain Vista also promotes online booking and public play across its own site.
Resident tee times
SCPD links residents to a separate “private tee time” system (residents-only) and the activity portal references resident tee time and lottery requests through EZLinks.
Practical takeaway:
If you’re a resident, you’ll likely interact with the resident tee time/lottery workflow. If you’re not, you’ll book like a public course (online or by phone).
Public golf rates (2025–2026)
Mountain Vista publishes a simple seasonal public rate schedule for 2025–2026:
June – September: $63 (18-hole) | $42 (twilight)
October: $112 (18-hole) | $75 (twilight)
November – April: $169 (18-hole) | $113 (twilight)
May: $112 (18-hole) | $75 (twilight)
Rates can change, and “twilight” timing varies seasonally—so always confirm when you book.
Resident golf costs: Rate Lock plans and resident packets
SCPD highlights a Rate Lock plan concept and even claims that golfers who average ~50 rounds can save about $1,000/year versus other local communities (while still having no initiation fee).
The resident activity portal posts a Resident Golfer Information Packet and a Rate Lock Application (example shown for the ’24–’25 season) and points residents to the tee time/lottery request system.
One more important detail for anyone researching long-term golf costs: SCPD’s own community publication noted that the Rate Lock Program was being changed starting in the 2025–26 fiscal year, with further enhancements planned for 2026–27.
Practical takeaway:
If you’re evaluating SCPD as a golfer, ask for the current season’s resident packet and Rate Lock details (because the program has been actively evolving).
The two courses: Santa Rosa vs. San Gorgonio
SCPD itself says the two courses have “different character” and challenge golfers of all skill levels.
Here’s how to think about each one.
Course #1: Santa Rosa Course
The “resort-scape” vibe with strong playability
Key stats (from the official scorecard + course listings):
Par: 72
Back tees (Black): 6,720 yards | 72.1/127
Gold tees: 6,162 yards | 69.5/120
Silver tees: 5,693 yards | 67.5/113 (men) and 72.4/124 (women)
Designer/architect: Billy Casper (designer) | Greg H. Nash (architect)
What it feels like to play
Independent course reviews describe Santa Rosa with classic “desert resort” aesthetics— waterfalls, lush fairways, flowers/tropical foliage, and green complexes that are “moderately challenging.”
You’ll also see frequent feedback that the layout is fun and playable while still having water hazards and undulating greens that demand attention.
Local rules / “good to know” details (from the scorecard)
If you like to be prepared, Santa Rosa’s scorecard notes:
All water hazards and culverts are treated as lateral (red)
Practice range is out of bounds
Drop zone on Hole #12 (additional option if your ball ends up in the penalty area)
Alternative to stroke-and-distance local rule may be in effect for lost ball/out of bounds (2-stroke relief option).
Who typically loves Santa Rosa
Golfers who want a scenic, “vacation round” feel without giving up conditioning.
Players who value playability—room to swing, then “earn it” on/around the greens.
Couples/groups who want the round to feel social and not overly punitive.
Course #2: San Gorgonio Course
The “slightly tougher test” (with a notable renovation)
Key stats (from the official scorecard + course listings):
Par: 72
Back tees (Black): 6,632 yards | 71.5/126
Gold tees: 6,192 yards | 69.4/121
Silver tees: 5,656 yards | 66.8/114 (men) and 72.3/124 (women)
Designer/architect: Billy Casper (designer) | Greg H. Nash (architect)
2021 renovation is credited on the scorecard to Casey O’Callaghan.
A layout quirk that matters: the front nine is par 35
San Gorgonio’s scorecard shows a par-35 front and par-37 back.
That often changes how the round “scores” mentally—your early holes can feel like a sprint, then the back nine asks for more sustained execution.
What it feels like to play
A detailed review describes San Gorgonio as shorter than Santa Rosa but more challenging, with tighter driving holes, more extensive bunkering, and water hazards, plus large, undulating greens.
Greenskeeper reviews also routinely talk about good conditioning and efficient operations/pacing.
Local rules / “good to know” details (from the scorecard)
San Gorgonio’s scorecard notes:
All water hazards treated as lateral (red)
Drop zone options on Holes #3 and #17
Alternative local rule option for lost ball/out of bounds may be in effect (2-stroke relief option).
Who typically loves San Gorgonio
Golfers who enjoy a cleaner, more “testy” layout while staying in a resort-style setting.
Players who like holes that reward position and punish sloppy misses a bit more.
Anyone who appreciates that the course has had a modern renovation (2021) in its design history.
Practice facilities: how golfers actually improve at SCPD
SCPD highlights “exceptional practice facilities” including a large driving range plus multiple putting and chipping courses.
On the community amenities side, SCPD also promotes:
Driving range and pro shops
Chipping and putting practice areas
An 18-hole putting course on grass with water hazards (yes, really).
Why this matters:
In a 36-hole community, the culture tends to split into two groups: “play more” golfers and “practice more” golfers. SCPD supports both—especially with a putting course that makes short game feel like its own sport.
Lessons, clinics, and getting coached on-site
SCPD’s official instruction page lists PGA professionals on staff and promotes individual sessions and clinics/group options.
The resident activity portal provides a clearer “menu” with example rates:
$50 for a ½-hour individual session
$30 for a 1-hour clinic / group session
…and it lists professional staff including Joe Johnson and Nancy Callan-Houtz (and also Ernesto Rosales as PGA Associate/Tournament Coordinator).
Practical takeaway:
If you want to level up quickly after moving in, SCPD’s built-in coaching ecosystem makes it easy to go from “new to desert golf” to “confident with desert lies and firm greens.”
The golf culture at Sun City Palm Desert: leagues, groups, and the social layer
This is where SCPD really separates itself from “just another place with golf nearby.” The community’s clubs list includes multiple golf-focused groups, such as:
Mountain Vista Couples Golf Club
Couples Putters
Ladies 9-Hole Golf (MV)
Mountain Vista Ladies Golf
Mountain Vista Men’s Golf Club
Men’s Niners
Lady Putters
Menz Putterz
What this means in real life:
You can find your tribe whether you’re a serious handicap tracker, a weekly social player, or someone who just loves the putting course scene.
The “golf lifestyle” at SCPD isn’t only about tee times—it’s about recurring play days, organized games, and built-in social momentum.
Tournaments, outings, and events
Mountain Vista advertises the ability to host corporate outings, tournaments, and group events of 13+, supported by experienced staff and two courses to work with.
SCPD also notes the courses host several tournaments each year.
If you’re a resident, this matters because tournament calendars can affect tee time availability—so it’s worth checking ahead (or learning the rhythm of the season).
Pro shops, “clubhouse logistics,” and where everything is
SCPD’s clubhouse page is unusually helpful because it ties the golf shops to specific buildings (and gives hours).
San Gorgonio Pro Shop (Sunset View Clubhouse)
Located at Sunset View Clubhouse (36890 Del Webb Blvd.)
Listed hours: daily 6:00am–3:30pm (subject to change)
Santa Rosa Pro Shop (Mountain View Clubhouse)
Located at Mountain View Clubhouse (38180 Del Webb Blvd.)
Listed hours: daily 6:00am–2:00pm (subject to change)
Quick note on after-round food
The clubhouse page also lists on-site dining options (like Boulevards Restaurant at Sunset View and Cali Cafe at Mountain View).
Policies & what to bring (especially for visitors)
From GolfNow’s facility policies for Mountain Vista (Santa Rosa listing):
No metal spikes
Credit cards accepted (Visa/Mastercard listed)
Carts available and club rentals available
Driving range + putting green + teaching pro available
Desert golf “reality check” tips (experience-based):
Bring water even in cooler months.
Plan for sun and wind variability (especially afternoon rounds).
If you’re playing in peak season (Nov–Apr), book early and expect busier tee sheets.
Maintenance / seasonal closures: what to expect
Desert golf often includes a fall overseed window where courses rotate closures. Third-party listings commonly show seasonal closure windows for each course:
GolfNow lists Santa Rosa as “Closed: September 26 – October 23.”
GolfNow lists San Gorgonio as “Closed: October 24 – November 22.”
Treat these as planning signals, not guarantees—always confirm with the golf shop for the current year’s maintenance schedule.
Living at SCPD as a golfer: what future homeowners should think about
If you’re considering buying in Sun City Palm Desert specifically for golf, here are the “real life” considerations that matter:
1) Do you want to be on the golf course, or just near it?
Golf course lots can be incredible for views and vibe, but you’ll also want to think about privacy, morning activity, and the occasional stray ball reality of any golf community.
2) What kind of golfer are you?
Play-first golfers will love having 36 holes on-site with published seasonal rates and daily access.
Community-first golfers will love the density of organized clubs (men, women, couples, putters) that make it easy to plug into a routine.
Improvement-first golfers will love the combo of practice areas + instruction options + putting course.
3) How sensitive are you to changing programs/rules?
Rate Lock plans and resident golf programs can evolve; SCPD has explicitly discussed changes to broaden benefits.
Christine Church, Real Estate Agent
A Palm Desert–based real estate agent specializing in lifestyle-driven communities throughout the Coachella Valley, with deep expertise in Sun City Palm Desert and other active-adult neighborhoods.
After relocating full-time to the desert, Christine brings a thoughtful, firsthand perspective to buyers who want more than just a home—they want the right community. She is especially knowledgeable in 55+ communities, HOA-governed neighborhoods, and amenity-rich environments, helping clients understand not only the homes, but the day-to-day lifestyle that comes with them.
Christine is known for her calm, approachable style and her ability to clearly explain complex details such as community amenities, clubhouses, recreation options, and long-term value. Whether clients are relocating, downsizing, or planning their next chapter, she serves as a trusted local guide with a strong focus on fit, comfort, and long-term satisfaction.
Clients appreciate Christine’s local insight, clear communication, and genuine care—qualities that make her a natural fit for buyers seeking confidence and clarity in the Palm Desert market.
253-335-7276
christinechurch41@gmail.com
DRE #02219292
Brokerage: HomeSmart
Is Mountain Vista Golf Club private?
No—Mountain Vista is promoted as open to the public, and SCPD also provides resident-only booking access.
Do I have to buy a golf membership if I live in Sun City Palm Desert?
SCPD describes the golf as pay-as-you-play with no golf membership fee.
Are there leagues/clubs I can join?
Yes—SCPD’s clubs list includes multiple golf groups (couples, men’s, ladies, putters, nine-holers, etc.).
Are lessons available on-site?
Yes—PGA professionals are listed, with individual lesson and clinic options (rates shown on the activity portal).
What’s the biggest difference between the two courses?
At a high level: Santa Rosa is often described as the more “lush resort-scape” experience, while San Gorgonio is commonly described as the more challenging test (and it has a renovation listed in 2021).
