Ultimate Summer Guide: Relax and Recharge in Greater Palm Springs
Greater Palm Springs, nestled in Southern California's desert, offers an exceptional summer escape. While daytime heat is part of the appeal, the season delivers splashy family adventures, tranquil spa retreats, endless poolside lounging, mild evenings at top restaurants, and unbeatable lodging deals. Our firsthand experience highlights why summer here is unbeatable.
Conveniently located just 100 miles east of Los Angeles, this nine-city destination features Palm Springs International Airport with direct flights from 31 cities, including San Francisco, Chicago, New York, and Dallas.
Discover our top ways to unwind and enjoy summer in Greater Palm Springs.
Poolside Paradise
With over 10,000 pools in the Coachella Valley, Greater Palm Springs boasts unparalleled aquatic options—from family waterparks to exclusive adults-only cabanas. Dive into the possibilities.
For Adults
For couples' getaways, girlfriends' trips, or solo rejuvenation, opt for adults-only havens. Boutique gem Villa Royale restricts its three pools (and entire property) to guests 21+. Complimentary cabanas are first-come, first-served—claim yours early.
Experience breathtaking views at Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs, the valley's only accessible rooftop pool. Enjoy a Little Tuscany cocktail (amaro, pineapple, prosecco, and tonic) as you watch the sunset.
La Quinta Resort & Club features 41 pools, including lap pools, 21+ areas, and cabana-lined mains. Upgrade to a private casita for your exclusive swim.
For vibrant pool parties with DJs, try Ace Hotel & Swim Club (retro vibes and craft cocktails), ARRIVE Palm Springs (dive-in movies, water fights, ice cream), or The Saguaro Hotel & Pool (colorful, energetic fun).
For Families
Family-friendly pools abound. Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa offers a lazy river, two 100-foot waterslides, and a refreshed waterpark.
Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort's waterpark includes a three-story slide tower, lazy river, and five pools.
Blend beach and pool at Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa Indian Wells, with a manmade beach for sandcastle building beside the pool.
Gourmet Dining Delights
Greater Palm Springs has long drawn celebrities and tastemakers, fueling a vibrant culinary scene with star chefs and stylish venues.
Try buzzy Bar Cecil for elevated New American fare like caramelized onion tart, smoked pork chop, or the Beaton Burger in a chic takeout box.
Tac/Quila, from the Farm duo, serves Jalisco-style Mexican tacos on housemade tortillas and mains like carnitas-stuffed poblano. Pair with margaritas on the plant-walled patio.
Pet-friendly? Dine at Boozehounds' open-air lounge—dog treats like turkey jerky or chicken bowls, plus dog-named cocktails and shareables for humans.
Grab the Summer Eats Pass for discounts at favorites like Babe's Bar-B-Que & Brewery, Heirloom Craft Kitchen, The Cafe at Shields, and Wally's Desert Turtle.
Luxury Spa Escapes
Counter summer sun with hydrating treatments using local botanicals at Greater Palm Springs spas.
Reopening in June, Two Bunch Palms in Desert Hot Springs harnesses mineral springs for pools, grottos, and tubs. Indulge in a CBD deep-tissue massage.
JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa's Desert Journey features citrus scrub, Swedish massage, hot stones, paraffin feet, and scalp bliss. Try the Coachella Date Facial with local Medjool dates.
The Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage offers Desert Wildflower Poultice Massage with ayurvedic herbs, stretching, and tension relief.
Artistic Inspirations
Visit Palm Springs Art Museum before Sept. 7 for Agnes Pelton's spiritual abstracts and desert landscapes, plus Helen Lundeberg's crisp mid-century works. Timed tickets required.
Later? Tour Sunnylands in Rancho Mirage post-Labor Day: A. Quincy Jones-designed estate, art garden, and rotating exhibits.
Family Adventures
Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to 8,516 feet at Mount San Jacinto State Park for rotating views, dining, decks, and cool hikes.
End at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens (summer: 7am-1:30pm; tickets needed) to see 450+ animals like cheetahs and giraffes, with petting and feedings.
