Palm Springs is famous for its mid‑century architecture, pools, and picture‑perfect desert views, but it’s also a fantastic place for laid‑back fun like miniature golf. Whether you’re traveling with kids, planning a date night, or looking for a low‑stress group activity, mini golf is an easy way to add smiles and memories to your trip.
If you’re staying with Apek Rentals, you’re already halfway there. With a comfortable vacation home as your base, you can spend the day exploring the Coachella Valley, then unwind by the pool after a friendly putting competition.
Table of Contents
Why Miniature Golf Is Perfect for Palm Springs
Palm Springs is known for world‑class championship golf, but you don’t have to be a serious golfer to enjoy the local scene. Miniature golf in Palm Springs offers all the fun of golf without the pressure or pricey green fees.
Here’s why it works so well here:
1. All‑ages, zero‑experience fun
Mini golf is easy to learn and hard to play “wrong,” which makes it ideal for:
-
Families with kids
-
Multi‑generational trips
-
Friend groups and couples
-
Company retreats and team‑building
Everyone gets a putter, a brightly colored ball, and a chance to laugh at the occasional wild shot.
2. A relaxed break from the pool
In Palm Springs, the pool is usually the main plan, and for good reason. But stepping out for a quick round of miniature golf adds a fun, low-effort way to explore more of the area.
It’s just enough activity to mix up the day without losing that laid-back vacation vibe, and the pool will feel even better when you come back to it.
3. Desert backdrop = instant photo ops
Many local courses use desert‑style landscaping: palms, rocks, water features, and bright flowers. That means you get playful obstacles and Instagram‑friendly views.
Popular Miniature Golf Options Near Palm Springs
When people search for “miniature golf Palm Springs”, they’re usually looking for easy, fun, and nearby options. Here are a couple of well‑known choices in and around the area you can look into (always check current hours and details before you go):
Boomers
Located just a short drive from downtown Palm Springs, Boomers is a classic family‑fun center that typically features:
-
Multiple 18‑hole miniature golf courses
-
Themed holes with bridges, water features, and fun obstacles
-
Extra attractions like go‑karts, bumper boats, and arcade games
-
Location: 67-700 E Palm Canyon Dr, Cathedral City, CA 92234, United States
It’s a great choice if you want to turn mini golf into a half‑day adventure with lots of variety, especially if you’re traveling with kids or teens.
Photo by: https://maps.app.goo.gl/qzdmncV4teh288B49
Shots in the Night
In the Greater Palm Springs area, you’ll find Shots in the Night, with more “grown‑up” takes on miniature golf and putting, sometimes with:
-
Glow‑in‑the‑dark targets
-
Music and lounge‑style atmosphere
-
Food and drink options nearby
-
Location: 44-500 Indian Wells Ln, Indian Wells, CA 92210, United States
These after‑dark experiences are perfect for couples or groups who want something different from the usual dinner‑and‑drinks routine.
Photo by: https://www.indianwellsgolfresort.com/shots-in-the-night/
How Apek Rentals Makes Your Mini Golf Day Easier
Staying with Apek Rentals gives you a home base that makes planning a mini golf outing simple and relaxed.
1. Convenient locations
Apek’s vacation rentals are in and around Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley, so you’re never too far from a mini golf course, restaurants, and other attractions. That means:
-
Short drives to miniature golf venues
-
Easy trips back “home” for a swim or a nap
-
More time having fun, less time in the car
2. Room to regroup and recharge
Mini golf doesn’t sound intense, but in the desert sun, even a fun round can leave you ready to chill. Back at your rental, you’ll appreciate:
-
Private or shared pools to cool off
-
Comfortable indoor spaces to relax
-
Kitchens and grills to refuel with snacks or dinner
Instead of being stuck in a small hotel room, your group can spread out, play games, scroll through photos, and plan the next day.
3. A flexible home base for your whole itinerary
Mini golf is just one piece of the Palm Springs puzzle. From your rental, you can easily plan a mix of:
-
Pool and spa time
-
Shopping and dining in downtown Palm Springs
-
Hikes in nearby canyons or the high desert
-
Day trips to Joshua Tree or other desert sights
Because you’re in a vacation home, you can keep your schedule flexible, change plans if it’s too hot, too windy, or if your group just wants a lazy day by the pool.
Tips for Planning Your Miniature Golf Palm Springs Adventure
Time it right for the weather
-
In hotter months, aim for late afternoon or evening.
-
In cooler months, late morning and sunset are ideal.
Dress smart for the desert
-
Light, breathable clothing
-
Comfortable shoes for walking
-
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
Stay hydrated
Even a short round outdoors can be dehydrating.
Bring water or grab drinks nearby before you start. You can always stock up at your rental and load a small cooler in the car.
Check hours, pricing, and specials
-
Look up each miniature golf spot online before heading out.
-
See if they offer package deals, family pricing, or date‑night specials.
Turn it into a full outing.
Mini golf pairs perfectly with:
-
Lunch or dinner at a nearby restaurant
-
An ice‑cream stop for kids (or adults)
-
A night swim back at your Apek vacation home
If you want to take your mini golf experience to the next level and venture into the golf world, check out our guide to the top golf courses.
Sample Mini Golf Day
Need a simple plan? Here’s a sample day built around miniature golf in Palm Springs:
Golf at Your Stay
You can also enjoy mini golf without leaving home at one of our Palm Springs properties, which features its own private putting green perfect for casual fun.
If you’re looking for a more elevated experience, our Indian Wells retreat sits on a complete golf course just 30 minutes away, ideal for guests who want to enjoy full-scale desert golf during their stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need to be good at golf to enjoy miniature golf in Palm Springs?
Not at all. Miniature golf is designed for all ages and skill levels, including complete beginners. The courses in and around Palm Springs focus on fun obstacles and creative layouts, not serious competition. As long as you can hold a putter and roll the ball toward the hole, you’re good to go.
2. What should I wear for miniature golf in the Palm Springs desert?
Comfort is key. Lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes are ideal. Because Palm Springs is sunny most of the year, it’s smart to bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen. If you’re staying at an Apek rental with a pool, you can always change into swimwear and cool off right after your round.
3. What time of day is best for miniature golf in Palm Springs?
In the hotter months, late afternoon, sunset, or evening are usually the most comfortable times to play miniature golf in Palm Springs. In cooler seasons, late morning can also be great. If you prefer a more “night‑out” vibe, look for glow‑in‑the‑dark or nighttime putting options in the Greater Palm Springs area.
4. Is miniature golf suitable for young kids and older adults?
Yes. Mini golf is one of the most family‑friendly activities in Palm Springs. Courses are typically flat and easy to walk, and you can play at your own pace. Young kids love the bright colors and fun obstacles, while older adults appreciate that it’s active without being too strenuous.
There is also more golfing nearby! If you’re up for a little road trip, check out our guide about La Quinta golf packages.
