In the midst of the scorched Southern California desert lies an oasis brimming with dazzling art galleries, tastebud-tickling farm-to-table restaurants, and a culture of wellness that will mellow out any whistlestop tour of the Golden State. Among its dreamscape of angular, mid-century modern architecture, the Greater Palm Springs area offers the chance to unwind, recharge, and explore in ways that speak just to you.
One day, you could be swinging your golf clubs to the backdrop of swaying palm trees and knuckled mountains, winding down with a soak in the soothing mineral spring waters that have drawn Hollywood royalty here for decades. The next, you might take a hike through the otherworldly, botanical landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park. Or, perhaps you’d prefer to peruse Palm Spring’s independent shops — treasure troves of 1960s decor and fashion — before joining a guided tour around emblematic, butterfly-roofed modernist houses that once belonged to the stars.
However you choose to spend your time in this sun-bathed desert retreat, our specialists are on hand to help you make the most of your trip to Greater Palm Springs.
Our ideas for exploring Greater Palm Springs
Our USA specialists have designed these California road-trip ideas to spark inspiration and showcase some of the experiences you can enjoy in Greater Palm Springs. But rest assured, when it comes to planning yours, they’ll craft a journey completely tailored to your passions.
Desert-oasis stays in Greater Palm Springs
Whether you want to step out of your mid-century-inspired hotel into the hubbub of the city or while away the days in a peaceful hideaway in the Coachella Valley, our specialists can help you find a desert sanctuary that’s much more than a place to rest your head.
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Holiday House
Hidden in an oasis of lush palm trees and a tranquil garden, it's hard to believe that Holiday House is just a five-minute walk from downtown Palm Springs. The hotel's cool interior is modelled on mid-century modern architecture and an homage to local Palm Springs art. The communal design-led restaurant, garden complete with games and hammocks and relaxing pool area all add a whimsical charm.
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La Quinta Resort & Club
La Quinta Resort & Club is a traditional hideaway, which has been welcoming guests with its unique style of hacienda-inspired warmth since 1926.
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Palm Mountain Resort and Spa
Midway between Los Angeles and San Diego and just steps away from the famed Palm Canyon Drive lined with upscale boutiques, quaint shops, cafés, restaurants, nightclubs and casinos, the downtown location of the Palm Mountain Resort and Spa offers the perfect base for exploring California's most renowned desert resort.
Greater Palm Springs in pictures
More inspiration for your California road trip
From dramatic coastal highways to the Yucca-scattered grounds of Joshua Tree National Park, our travel guides and blogs give you a deeper look into what you could get up to on a trip to California.
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Where to visit in California: a seasonal guide
A true year-round destination, California provides near-endless experiences no matter which season you’re visiting. Here, our specialists share ideas for where’s best to go in spring, summer, autumn, and winter, along with how to make the most of your time in the Golden State.
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Self-drive holidays in California
Take a fly-drive along the California coast and explore some of the region’s most captivating towns, cities and national parks, from glamorous LA, home of the US film industry, to the dramatic geological spectacles of Yosemite National Park.
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Driving California's Pacific Coast Highway
Experience some of California's most impressive scenery on a drive along its central coast on Highway 1, taking in the sights of San Francisco, Los Angeles and everything in between. USA specialist, Alex, discusses the route’s highlights, from laid-back beach communities to historic towns and vibrant cities.
In partnership with Greater Palm Springs, California