The Desert Willow Experience

More Than A Round - It's A State of Play

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The Desert Willow Experience Blog

The Desert Willow Experience

Desert Willow Clubhouse at Sunrise

Stories, Strategy, and the Spirit of the Game in Palm Desert

The Desert Willow Experience

More Than a Round – It’s a State of Play

At Desert Willow Golf Resort, the game is only the beginning. Tucked into the heart of Palm Desert, our resort invites you to experience more than a round, it’s where the landscape shapes the play, where every tee shot opens a new story, and where the moments between swings become just as meaningful as the scorecard. The Desert Willow Experience blog is your window into that world, offering on-course insights, PGA pro tips, behind-the-scenes features, event highlights, and the culinary creativity of The Terrace Restaurant. Whether you’re a first-time guest or a longtime member, each post reveals what makes Desert Willow one of Southern California’s premier golf destinations, where golf is elevated, resort life is revealed, and every visit becomes a memory in the making.

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Fresh perspectives, insider insights, and moments worth remembering, updated regularly from across the resort.

On the Course

Instruction & Insights

Resort Life

Events & Celebrations

Guest Reflections

Behind the Scenes

Latest Stories from the Desert Willow Experience

Fresh perspectives, insider insights, and moments worth remembering, updated regularly from across the resort.

Signature Hole Highlights

Signature Hole Highlights

Signature Hole Highlights

Dining Spotlights

Signature Hole Highlights

Guest Perspectives

Signature Hole Highlights

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Desert Vows & Unforgettable Views

Desert Vows & Unforgettable Views

Janine and Jason’s Wedding at Desert Willow Golf Resort

A live painter, sunset vows, and a celebration beneath the palms; see how this Palm Desert wedding became a night to remember.

Jodi Shaver
Marketing Manager
Desert Willow Golf Resort
Palm Desert, California

There’s something magical about March in Palm Desert—the way the desert light softens as it sets, the breeze quiets just enough for vows to float across the fairway, and the mountains stand tall as silent witnesses to a love story unfolding. For Janine and Jason, March 22, 2025, was more than a date on the calendar. It was the beginning of forever.

Their ceremony took place on the Firecliff lawn, framed by a wide blue sky, blooming palms, and the Santa Rosa Mountains in the distance. Rows of white chairs led to a stunning floral-draped chuppah, where family and friends gathered in joyful anticipation. With accents in lavender, periwinkle, and blush, the setting struck the perfect balance of natural beauty and elegant design.

As guests arrived, live artist @nicmartin_event quietly worked beside the crowd, capturing the ceremony in real time with brushstrokes that mirrored the scene unfolding before her. This unique detail—art created as love was being celebrated—was one of many thoughtful touches that made the day so personal.

When Janine walked down the aisle with her parents, the emotion in the air was unmistakable. Their ceremony was heartfelt, deeply rooted in tradition, and full of joy. The moment the couple kissed beneath the chuppah, a chorus of cheers rose into the desert sky, carried by the warmth of everyone gathered.

The Details That Made It Theirs

From the very first toast on the terrace, it was clear that this was a wedding infused with intention and heart. Signature cocktails welcomed guests to cocktail hour, alongside beautifully presented trays of savory skewers. The Lakeview Terrace offered a panoramic view of golden fairways and still water, making every conversation feel even more connected to the place.

Dinner was a standout, thanks to Chef François and his culinary team. Guests were treated to artfully plated filet mignon with silky mashed potatoes and crisp green beans—each dish as memorable as the view. Crisp white linens, soft sage napkins, and floral centerpieces in shades of blue and cream gave the space an atmosphere of refined ease.

A live band lit up the evening, both literally and musically, as the stage came alive beneath palm trees and twinkle lights. Every note, every step, every toast blended into a rhythm that carried the celebration long into the night.

The dance floor pulsed with energy and joy. Janine and Jason—surrounded by the people they love most—danced under the stars, their happiness infectious. It was one of those nights that felt endless in the best way.

Words from the Bride

Here’s what Janine shared about her experience:

“We had our wedding at Desert Willow in March, and it was the best day ever! The outdoor setting created a truly unforgettable atmosphere. Our guests couldn’t stop raving about the stunning views and the delicious food! Robbie was a pleasure to work with—always incredibly responsive and helpful. Harry, Sal, Chef Francois, and the entire Desert Willow team went above and beyond to ensure everything went smoothly. It was a perfect evening from start to finish. We highly recommend Desert Willow for anyone looking for a memorable wedding venue!”

Janine
Bride

The Desert Willow Touch

Every detail of Janine and Jason’s wedding—down to the perfectly plated entrees, the string lights swaying above the dance floor, and the thoughtful care of every staff member—reflected something deeper than design. It reflected a couple deeply loved, a setting that elevated each moment, and a team committed to making their day unforgettable. At Desert Willow Golf Resort, we’re honored to have been a part of this beginning—and we look forward to welcoming many more love stories under the same desert sky.

📸 Photography by Ashley LaPrade Photography
🎨 Live Painting by @nicmartin_event

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About the Author

Jodi Shaver, Marketing Manager

Jodi Shaver is the Marketing Manager at Desert Willow Golf Resort in Palm Desert, where she’s proudly spent the past 15 years bringing the story of the resort to life. An Indiana native and proud Purdue Boilermaker, Jodi is passionate about sharing the beauty, spirit, and unforgettable experiences that make Desert Willow so special. She’s grateful to share it all with you, one story at a time.

Introducing the Desert Willow Experience

Introducing the Desert Willow Experience

Brining the Stories of the Resort to Life

Meet the voices and stories behind Desert Willow Golf Resort. This first post introduces The Desert Willow Experience, a new way to connect with the game, the resort, and the moments in between.

Jodi Shaver
Marketing Manager
Desert Willow Golf Resort
Palm Desert, California

Desert Willow Clubhouse at Sunrise

It begins with the iconic drive, a mile-long stretch of road lined with desert flora and sweeping views of emerald fairways. No matter how many times I make that turn toward the clubhouse, it still feels like an arrival. A quiet transition into something special. And the moment you step inside, it deepens: your eyes are drawn to the breathtaking Chihuly sculpture that anchors the lobby, and you’re immediately greeted by the bright smiles and warm energy of the Desert Willow team. It’s more than a welcome, it’s a feeling. One that stays with you long after the round ends.

There’s something about Desert Willow that’s hard to explain, at least in just one sentence.

It’s the golden light that slips across Firecliff in the early morning. The quiet that settles before a swing on Mountain View’s back nine. The stunning view from The Terrace Restaurant, where the desert stretches wide beneath soft skies. And the happy sounds of celebration that rise from a wedding unfolding beneath palm trees and twilight.

These are the moments that stay with you, and that’s exactly why we’ve created The Desert Willow Experience.

As the Marketing Manager for Desert Willow Golf Resort, I’ve had the privilege of seeing this place from all angles: through the lens of a camera, behind the scenes with our chefs and event planners, and cruising around in a golf cart with our golf pros as they prepare for another unforgettable season.

What’s always struck me is that Desert Willow is more than a destination, it’s a feeling. And it’s time we had a place to share that feeling.

This blog is where we’ll do just that. Through stories, reflections, tips, and visual moments, we’ll offer a deeper look at what makes Desert Willow so special, on and off the course.

You Can Expect:

  • Course highlights and playing insights from our pros and instructors
  • Behind-the-scenes moments with our culinary and events teams
  • Guest reflections and resort lifestyle features that celebrate our community
  • And yes, a few surprises along the way

Whether you’re a longtime loyalty member, a first-time visitor, a Palm Desert Resident, or just dreaming of your next round under the desert sky, I hope you’ll find something here that resonates.

Thank you for being part of the story.
We’re just getting started.

Warmly,
Jodi
Marketing Manager, Desert Willow Golf Resort

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

About the Author

Jodi Shaver, Marketing Manager

Jodi Shaver is the Marketing Manager at Desert Willow Golf Resort in Palm Desert, where she’s proudly spent the past 15 years bringing the story of the resort to life. An Indiana native and proud Purdue Boilermaker, Jodi is passionate about sharing the beauty, spirit, and unforgettable experiences that make Desert Willow so special. She’s grateful to share it all with you, one story at a time.

The Desert Willow Experience

Where world-class golf meets breathtaking scenery and effortless luxurY
experience Desert Willow as more than a destination, but a way of life

The Desert Willow Experience

More Than a Round – It’s a State of Play

Where the rhythm of the swing meets the stillness of the desert. Discover what it means to truly play the game, here at Desert Willow Golf Resort.

Read the Blog

More Than a Scorecard

Every round tells a story. We’re here to share them.

At Desert Willow Golf Resort, the game transcends competition, it becomes a narrative shaped by terrain, time, and the quiet rhythm of the swing. The Desert Willow Experience is your invitation into that unfolding story, where each round reveals something more than score: a feeling, a moment, a memory.

On the bold, sculpted edges of Firecliff, or within the calming flow of Mountain View, the game reveals its depth, through decisions made in silence, landscapes touched by light, and lessons earned over time.

But the experience extends far beyond the fairway. At The Terrace Restaurant, flavors echo the landscape, fresh, inspired, and best enjoyed as the sun slips behind the Santa Rosa Mountains. And at our signature events, where every detail is curated with care, guests gather not just to celebrate, but to connect, reflect, and create memories of their own.

Here, instruction meets insight, and performance is paired with presence. From the thoughtful wisdom of PGA professionals, to behind-the-scenes glimpses from our culinary and event teams, to the lived reflections of guests, this is where golf lives not only in motion, but in meaning.

This is where story meets swing.

Stories, Strategy, and the Soul of the Game

Where every shot holds a story, and every fairway reveals a new chapter of the game.

Each post in The Desert Willow Experience is rooted in the rhythm and detail of the game, and in the moments that surround it.

Look forward to:

  • Course Stories – Hole highlights, seasonal changes, and design insight from Firecliff and Mountain View
  • Player Reflections – Narratives from guests, PGA professionals, and those who know the course by heart
  • Practice & Performance – Thoughtful golf instruction and mindset guidance from the Palm Desert Golf Academy
  • Desert Moments – Visual storytelling and lifestyle snapshots that capture the spirit of the resort
  • Upcoming Events – Teasers and recaps from tournaments, seasonal gatherings, and community celebrations
  • From the Terrace – Culinary insights, behind-the-scenes features, and seasonal flavors from our signature restaurant
  • Celebrated Gatherings – A look inside the art of hosting, from elegant weddings to elevated private events under the desert sky

These stories come together to reflect the essence of Desert Willow, a place where golf is just the beginning.

Step Into the Desert Willow Experience

Where Every Detail – on the Course, at the Table, and Beyond, Tells a Story

Each post invites you deeper into the world of Desert Willow Golf Resort. From the quiet focus of a morning round to the thoughtful craft behind a meal at The Terrace Restaurant, and the energy of a well-planned event, the experience goes beyond the course. Here, every element, on the green, at the table, and throughout the resort, contributes to the story of the game.

Read the Blog

What You Might Wonder While Reading

Have questions about the stories we share, who writes them, or what to expect from the blog? Explore the answers below to learn more about The Desert Willow Experience and the perspectives behind every post.

What is The Desert Willow Experience?


It’s the official blog of Desert Willow Golf Resort, a storytelling space where we share golf insights, course stories, and lifestyle moments from Firecliff, Mountain View, and the Palm Desert experience.

Who writes the blog?


Our content is written by a mix of Desert Willow’s PGA professionals, golf academy instructors, resort team members, and guest contributors, offering rich perspectives from those who know the game best.

What kind of golf content can I expect?


The blog features hole breakdowns, instructional tips, player profiles, photo essays, event recaps, and reflections on the golf lifestyle, all rooted in the unique environment of Desert Willow Golf Resort.

How often is the blog updated?


New stories are shared regularly, with seasonal highlights, event-driven content, and timely insights from our golf and resort team.

Firecliff Course Reopens Following Multi-Million Dollar Renovation

Firecliff Reimagined: A New Chapter Begins at Desert Willow Golf Resort

New Greens. New Tees. Same Firecliff Challenge—Now Elevated.

After a transformative summer renovation, the Firecliff Course at Desert Willow Golf Resort has reopened with upgraded greens, refined tee boxes, and rejuvenated fairways. In this post, we explore what’s new, what remains iconic, and why this next chapter of Firecliff offers golfers an experience that’s both familiar, and elevated.

Jodi Shaver
Marketing Manager
Desert Willow Golf Resort
Palm Desert, California

Hole 1, Firecliff Course, Green to Fairway

There’s a moment, just before the first tee, when the desert quiets and the mountains stand still, like the course is holding its breath, waiting to reveal what’s next. And now, what comes next at Firecliff is something truly extraordinary.

After months of thoughtful renovation, Desert Willow Golf Resort proudly reopened the Firecliff Course on December 20, 2024, unveiling a new era for one of Palm Desert’s most iconic golfing experiences. With a focus on playability, precision, and presentation, this multi-million dollar transformation honors the character of Firecliff while elevating every moment on the course.

Firecliff Course, Hole 9, Tee Box

Where Challenge Meets Renewal

Long celebrated for its bold design, native desert beauty, and tournament-level conditioning, Firecliff has always asked for your best game. Now, it offers even more.

Renovation highlights include:

  • Fraise Mowed Fairways
    Deep turf rejuvenation ensures optimal fairway conditions heading into the 2025 season and beyond.
  • New Mini Verde Bermudagrass Greens
    Smooth, fast, and true, these upgraded surfaces deliver year-round consistency and a more refined putting experience.
  • Leveled, Reshaped, and Expanded Tee Boxes
    Every teeing area has been redesigned for improved alignment, turf quality, and aesthetic impact, enhancing play for every skill level.

A Familiar Challenge – Now Elevated

While the upgrades are striking, Firecliff remains unmistakably itself: a course that winds with the land, framed by native flora and desert sky. The strategic demands, bold bunkering, and thoughtful routing haven’t changed—they’ve simply been polished, clarified, and brought to new life.

One returning guest summed it up best:

“Firecliff has always been spectacular, but now it’s something more. The new greens are smooth and true. The tee boxes frame each hole beautifully. It plays exactly how great golf should feel—confident, crisp, and unforgettable.”

GolfPass Reviewer

Now Open for Play

The new Firecliff Course is ready to welcome you back, with its familiar challenge and a fresh sense of possibility. Whether you’re a returning guest or playing it for the first time, we invite you to walk the fairways, read the new greens, and experience what it means to play desert golf at its finest.

Book Your Tee Time Today

Explore More

See the transformation from tee to green

Explore More of Firecliff
Read the Full Press Release

Whether you’ve played Firecliff a hundred times or are stepping onto its fairways for the first time, this next chapter invites you to see the course in a new light. The strategy remains. The spirit endures. But the experience, now elevated, is yours to discover. We can’t wait to welcome you back.

Warmly,
Jodi
Marketing Manager, Desert Willow Golf Resort

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

About the Author

Jodi Shaver, Marketing Manager

Jodi Shaver is the Marketing Manager at Desert Willow Golf Resort in Palm Desert, where she’s proudly spent the past 15 years bringing the story of the resort to life. An Indiana native and proud Purdue Boilermaker, Jodi is passionate about sharing the beauty, spirit, and unforgettable experiences that make Desert Willow so special. She’s grateful to share it all with you, one story at a time.

Hole 12 Firecliff Course

Share Your Experience

Tag us on Instagram @desertwillowgolfresort or use #FirecliffReimagined for a chance to be featured

Outings and Tournaments

Stunning Scenery. Exceptional Service. Unforgettable EVENTS.

Plan Your Golf Outing or Tournament
at Desert Willow Golf Resort

Two championship courses. Breathtaking desert views. First-class hospitality from check-in to the group photo on 18.

Book Your Group Today

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Santa Rosa Mountains, Desert Willow Golf Resort is the ultimate destination for golf outings in Palm Desert. Whether you’re organizing a corporate retreat, charity tournament, team-building event, bachelor party, or just a memorable weekend with friends, Desert Willow delivers an elevated experience on and off the course. With two award-winning layouts, Firecliff and Mountain View, your guests will enjoy world-class golf, impeccable service, and unforgettable moments at every turn.

Our Championship Courses

Choose between two distinct golf experiences; Firecliff for challenge and precision, Mountain View for relaxed play and scenic beauty, or choose both for the ultimate outing.

Firecliff Course

A challenging, tour-quality experience featuring natural desert hazards, rolling fairways, and more than 100 bunkers. Ideal for competitive players who enjoy shot-making and strategy.

Explore Firecliff

Mountain View Course

A relaxed, scenic course with forgiving fairways and wide landing zones—perfect for social events and mixed-skill outings that still want a memorable round.

Discover Mountain View
Golf outing golf cart staging at Desert Willow Golf Resort

Tailored Golf Outing Packages

Custom Golf Experiences for Groups of 12 or More

At Desert Willow, we believe every outing should be as distinctive as the group playing it. From intimate 12-player gatherings to full-course shotgun tournaments, our tournament specialists coordinate every detail with care and creativity.

Included Services:

  • Access to premium practice facilities
  • Personalized tournament planning and coordination
  • Professional scoring and event management
  • Hole-in-one contests and on-course games
  • Branded tee gifts, signage, and sponsor visibility
  • Bag drop, registration, and tournament staging

“We played 3 different courses around the area and nobody treated us nearly as
well as we were treated at Desert Willow, I can’t want to come back again. From
the service for lunch to the course rangers, pro shop and management that
helped book everything was exceptional!“

– TrueService Reviewer

Exceptional Dining & Hospitality

savor every moment – on and off the course

Elevate your outing with chef-crafted cuisine, curated beverage service, and warm desert hospitality. From sunrise breakfast buffets to post-round banquets on the terrace, our culinary team will customize the perfect menu for your group.

Dining Options

  • Pre-round breakfasts and grab-and-go options
  • On-course beverage carts and snack stations
  • Post-round lunches, banquets, and awards receptions
  • Private indoor and outdoor dining venues

Wrap up the round swapping stories and reliving epic shots beneath the desert sky, with fairways and mountain views all around.

Plan Your Golf Outing Today

Let our team bring your golf event to life. Whether you’re organizing a laid-back weekend round or a fully branded tournament, we’ll make it seamless and memorable from first contact to final putt.

Let’s Build Your Event

Ready to Start Planning?

To get started, contact our team directly to begin planning your golf outing.

Brian Simpson, Director of Sales & Marketing

Brian Simpson, our Director of Sales and Marketing, brings over 15 years of expertise in planning and executing golf outings and tournaments.

bsimpson@desertwillow.com

(760) 346-7060 Ext. 107

Golf Outing FAQs

Find quick answers to common questions about hosting your golf outing or tournament at Desert Willow Golf Resort, from group size to dining and coordination.

How many players do I need to host a golf outing at Desert Willow?


We offer customized packages for groups of 12 or more players, whether you’re planning a casual event or a full-scale tournament.

Can I host a private banquet or awards ceremony after the round?


Yes! We offer customizable dining experiences including buffets, plated meals, cocktail receptions, and awards ceremonies, indoors or on our scenic outdoor terrace.

What courses are available for group outings?


You can choose between our two championship courses, Firecliff and Mountain View, or reserve both for larger tournaments.

What kind of event coordination is included?


Our team provides full tournament support, including planning, scoring, on-course contests, sponsor signage, and more.

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