Against the wind: Desert Pines Golf Club in Las Vegas can give you a break

Anybody who’s played golf in Las Vegas knows that you better bring your knock-down shot because it can get a little breezy. And in the desert – besides not being able to remember your name (according to Horse with No Name by America) – breezy can be downright difficult.

So here’s a suggestion: If you’re on a Las Vegas golf trip and you find you’re going to be playing on a really windy day, check out Desert Pines Golf Club. It isn’t far from the action on the Strip and it has something most courses don’t have – lots of tall Carolina Pines.

“Desert Pines is somewhat protected from the high winds that engulf the rest of the Las Vegas Valley because of the more than 5,000 pine trees that are on the course,” said David Lipkins, head professional at Desert Pines. “This provides a little buffer for our guests. By no means, does it prevent the wind totally, but it does offer some relief.”

The property also sits lower than most golf courses in Las Vegas, which also helps protect it from the wind. But as Lipkins said, it isn’t immune. Calmer is good, however considering the number of bunkers, water hazards and fast, undulating bentgrass greens on this fun Perry Dye-designed course.

The facility also has a great atmosphere. The clubhouse is a good place to watch golf or ballgames, and the two-tiered covered driving range is lighted and open late, perfect for a little practice before you hit the tables.