Need sunshine, golf, and desert chic? Head to Palm Desert! Located in the heart of California’s Coachella Valley, Palm Desert is a sun-soaked oasis with world-class shopping, scenic hiking, top-notch golf, and art-filled public spaces—perfect for both relaxation and adventure.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Palm Desert is from November to April, when temperatures are mild and ideal for outdoor activities. Summer months (May–September) can be extremely hot, but resorts offer great deals and indoor attractions are plentiful.
How to Get There
- By Car: Palm Desert is about 2 hours from Los Angeles and San Diego via I-10.
- By Air: Fly into Palm Springs International Airport (PSP), just 25 minutes away from Palm Desert.
- By Bus: FlixBus and local transit systems connect Palm Desert to regional hubs and other desert cities.
Where to Stay
- JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa – Luxury resort with pools, golf, dining, and gondola rides through tropical waterways.
- Hotel Paseo – Trendy boutique hotel steps from El Paseo’s shops and restaurants.
- Shadow Mountain Resort – Comfortable, family-friendly option with tennis courts and multiple pools.
Recommended Activities for Families
First: Tackle the Bump and Grind Trail and Earn Sweeping Views with Every Step
Popular hiking trail offering sweeping views of the valley and rugged desert scenery.
Second: Step Into History at Cabot’s Pueblo Museum and Discover a Desert Dream Built by Hand
Third: Meet Meerkats and Marvels at the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
Desert wildlife park and botanical gardens with giraffes, trails, and immersive exhibits.
Fourth: Make a Splash at Palm Desert Aquatic Center and Cool Off in Style
Fifth: Stroll Through Creativity at the Palm Springs Art Museum and Expand Your View
Sixth: Cruise the Palms to Pines Scenic Byway and Watch the Desert Turn to Forest
Seventh: Stand on the Edge of Earth’s Forces at the San Andreas Fault
Eight: Snap a Sunrise at Smiler’s Point and Start Your Day With Awe
Ninth: Wander Among Shady Palms at Thousand Palms Oasis and Feel the Desert Breathe
Attractions for First Time Visitors
- El Paseo Shopping District – Known as the "Rodeo Drive of the Desert" for upscale boutiques, galleries, and dining.
- Palm Desert Civic Center Park – Expansive public park with sports fields, ponds, sculptures, and shaded picnic spots.
- Desert Holocaust Memorial – Thoughtful and moving memorial set within Civic Center Park.
Where to Eat
- Wilma & Frieda – Beloved brunch spot with creative comfort food and a cozy vibe in The Gardens at El Paseo.
- Cuistot – Elegant French cuisine in a romantic setting with fireplaces and garden views.
- Grill-A-Burger – Gourmet burgers, milkshakes, and tropical decor for a casual and fun dining experience.
Local Events
- Desert X (Biennial, Spring) – Outdoor art installations across the Coachella Valley, including Palm Desert.
- First Weekend Palm Desert (Seasonal) – Free art walks, concerts, and family activities held monthly during peak season.
- WildLights at The Living Desert (November–December) – Dazzling holiday light displays and festive fun at the zoo.
Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Palm Desert, California
- Palm Springs (25–30 min) – Explore mid-century architecture, shop chic boutiques, or ride the Aerial Tramway.
- Rancho Mirage (10–15 min) – Visit Sunnylands Center & Gardens or relax at luxury resorts and golf courses.
- La Quinta (15–20 min) – Hike the Cove trails, stroll Old Town La Quinta, or tee off at championship golf courses.
- Indian Wells (10 min) – Catch a tennis match at Indian Wells Tennis Garden or enjoy upscale dining and resorts.
- Cathedral City (15–20 min) – Enjoy family-friendly attractions, local restaurants, and mountain-view parks.
- Thousand Palms (15 min) – Explore the Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve or tour nearby desert trails and canyons.
- Bermuda Dunes (15 min) – Visit local golf courses, scenic neighborhoods, and enjoy easy access to nearby attractions.
- Desert Hot Springs (30 min) – Soak in natural mineral spas, hike mountain trails, or unwind at wellness resorts.
- Coachella (25–30 min) – Discover local culture, visit date farms, or attend festivals in this vibrant desert town.
FAQ
- Q: Where is Palm Desert located?
- A: Palm Desert is a city in the Coachella Valley, just east of Palm Springs and a couple of hours away from Los Angeles.
- Q: What attractions can be found in Palm Desert?
- A: Palm Desert is home to several golf courses, shopping opportunities, and country clubs, making it a great destination for leisure.
- Q: What is the Shops on El Paseo?
- A: The popular Shops on El Paseo feature several art galleries, tasty restaurants, and designer shopping boutiques.
- Q: What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy in Palm Desert?
- A: A number of leisure activities are available, including many opportunities to get out and explore the surrounding desert.
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