Sunnylands Golf Course

Thanks to the generosity of the Annenbergs philanthropic spirit, the gardens and art exhibits are open to all. It's nicely landscaped with a photo gallery of trees and plants inside. There's a cafe and gift shop as well as paid tours. We spent about 45 minutes strolling around the gardens and looking at the exhibits.

Beautiful grounds and garden. We did a walking tour and our guide was very friendly and knowledgeable. My only regret is not doing the house tour. It’s expensive but I think well worth it once we saw it from the outside.

We had such a lovely time at Sunnylands for our first visit. We were first interested in the Free Birding Walk around the gardens (8:45am most Thursdays), which was so fun to spot and hear a number of birds. The gardens, especially as of January '26, were well maintained and we had absolutely perfect weather for a peaceful stroll. I genuinely appreciate the free access to the gardens and center, along with the free short birding tour and some other events (apparently they also host yoga on certain days). Access to the large house and estate grounds beyond the center does require paid tours.

We had a great time touring the Sunnylands in Palm Dessert. The tour person did a fantastic job and had plenty of knowledge on the history. It was great to hear of all the famous people that had been there to include Barack Obama and other past presidents.

They call this place the Camp David of the west. Many Presidents, Congressional members, Cabinet members and dignitaries have come here for summits and retreats. The gardens and grounds are breathtaking and a photographer and bird watchers paradise. This is a worthwhile stop while in the Palm Springs area.

Stunning gardens, perfectly done and worth the drive to see. Didn’t do the house tour but did walk the gardens. It’s free and no wait.

Beautiful gardens displaying desert flora. Free entry and free parking. Charming and helpful staff Excellent cafe which is (amazingly) cheaper than Starbucks and has the most beautiful views

On my second visit to Sunnylands, I was struck again by how effortlessly it blends history, diplomacy, and desert beauty. Walking through the midcentury modern estate and its expansive gardens felt even more meaningful this time, knowing the legacy of presidents, royalty, and world leaders who once gathered here. The tranquility of the pathways, reflective pools, and desert vistas made the experience both inspiring and restorative, reaffirming why Sunnylands truly deserves its reputation as the “Camp David of the West.”

Escape into serenity and immerse yourself in the luscious gardens at Sunnylands. Go bird watching, take a walk, listen to the trees, sit and read in peace, enjoy one of the many events they have to offer. I had this place on my list of desert experiences and finally checked it out on dia de los muertos. Then I went back for their weekly community yoga and let me tell you.... You could hear the trees singing you sweet songs of tranquility, turn off the noise in your head and just exist. Yes, it's as magical and enchanting as it sounds. Come all nature lovers and historians!

Stunning San Jacinto mountain views , manicure lawns abundant with Olive trees and a beautiful house that has been the host to some very important people in recent history.

Lovely place very calming. Very well maintained and clean. We did not do the guide tour but the staff was very informative and helpful. Nice stop for a leg stretch.

Beautiful grounds rich in history! We took the golf cart tour and our guide was sooo knowledgeable! Worth the stop, but make sure you book the tour early as the fill up!