⛳ Important Note: Desert Pines Golf Club is now closed indefinitely.
Desert Pines Golf Club – A Taste of the Carolinas in Las Vegas
Conveniently located less than 15 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, Desert Pines Golf Club offers golfers a refreshing change of scenery. Designed by Pete Dye, this par-71 layout delivers a Carolinas-style experience in the middle of the desert, with thousands of mature pines lining the fairways, white sand bunkers guarding the greens, and water hazards that come into play on nine holes.
Course Design & Playability
Stretching just over 6,800 yards, Desert Pines challenges golfers of all skill levels. Dye’s signature touches—tight landing areas, railroad ties, and creative bunkering—demand accuracy but reward smart play. Golf Digest recognized Desert Pines as one of the Best New Upscale Courses in America, and it continues to rank among the most enjoyable courses in the city.
Two standout holes highlight the challenge:
No. 9 “Double Down” – A 447-yard par 4 with water running along the right side of both fairway and green, punishing slicers who fail to control their tee shots.
No. 18 “Gauntlet” – Another 447-yard test, this time with a long fairway bunker right and a lake guarding the entire left side of the green. Accuracy is everything.
No. 12 “Tunnel Vision” – The most memorable hole on the course, this par 4 forces golfers to thread a drive through a narrow chute of pines before navigating Dye’s trademark railroad-tie bunkering.
Because of these holes and the course’s overall design, Desert Pines ensures players use every club in the bag.
Practice Facilities
Desert Pines is home to one of the best practice centers in Las Vegas. The 20,000-square-foot, two-tiered, climate-controlled driving range features five target greens modeled after famous par-3 holes. It also includes a short-game area, putting greens, and a state-of-the-art teaching center staffed by PGA professionals. With lighting for evening practice, golfers can train day or night.
Clubhouse & Dining
The clubhouse features Duffer’s Restaurant, which serves breakfast and lunch daily and includes the Champions Room, a private event space for up to 175 guests. On-course food and beverage service is also available, making it easy to relax and recharge during or after your round.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Desert Pines Golf Club blends Pete Dye’s imaginative design with the charm of a Carolinas-style setting—all within minutes of the Strip. With its mature pines, challenging holes, and world-class practice facility, it has earned its reputation as one of the must-play golf courses in Las Vegas.
