Hidden Gem of the Desert: A Weekend Getaway in La Quinta, CA

Get moving

Kickstart your day with a walk or hike: La Quinta Cove offers trails for all levels, from easy paved paths to mountain hikes with breathtaking panoramic views of the Coachella Valley. Don’t forget your camera for the stunning sunrise and peaceful early morning vibes.

For golf enthusiasts, La Quinta is a paradise, boasting over 20 courses, including PGA West, Trilogy, Indian Wells, La Quinta and Silver Rock. (My husband is on the course as I write this!)

Not into hiking or golf? Enjoy pickleball and tennis courts open to the public, plus safe bike paths for easy cruising around town.

Pro Tip: Always pack sunscreen, water and a hat — the desert sun is stronger than you might think.

Culture & history

After breakfast and shopping, dive into La Quinta’s rich culture at the La Quinta History Museum and Old Town Artisan Studio. The Artisan Studio offers classes and a gallery showcasing works from global artists, regional talents and local students, with proceeds supporting art programs.

The La Quinta History Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the town’s past. Exhibitsfeature the Cahuilla, the area’s first inhabitants, and the La Quinta Hotel, a 1920s Hollywood hotspot. Don’t miss the 32-foot mural depicting the town’s history.

Shopping

Take a stroll through Old Town La Quinta with your dog in tow, and explore over 30 restaurants, boutiques and salons. Keep an eye out for sidewalk sales as you wander.

Local annual events

• La Quinta Art Celebration (February): A four-day event with world-class artists, live entertainment, local food booths and interactive displays.

• BNP Paribas Tennis Tournament, Indian Wells (March): Watch top global tennis players compete, with exclusive parties, athlete clinics and celebrity sightings.

• Empire Polo Club, Indio (December–April): Enjoy exciting polo tournaments leading up to the Stagecoach and Coachella music festivals.

Breakfast & lunch

After your morning activity (before the heat sets in), head to Old Town La Quinta for a treat at Yes Please Cafe. Sip on local Joshua Tree coffee paired with some of the best scones and biscuits, generously slathered with butter and jam.

If you're more of a tea person, stop by Cali Rosina Tea & Chocolate for a delightful experience.

Beautiful Day!: A charming farm-to-table restaurant offering mouthwatering breakfast and lunch daily. The kitchen uses fresh, local ingredients, and the vibrant pink, green and yellow decor makes it perfect for Instagram shots. The staff is incredibly friendly, and the menu caters to everyone, whether you're a vegetarian, meat lover or gluten-free eater. Don't forget to check out their local wines and refreshing non-alcoholic smoothies and teas.

Aspen Mills has been baking top-notch breads, muffins, cookies and pies for almost 30 years. With several locations across the Coachella Valley, it’s the place to visit if you’re craving freshly baked bread, especially for a sandwich that’s big enough for leftovers.

Los Arcos in La Quinta Village is a beloved, family-owned spot in the Coachella Valley. It offers an extensive menu of authentic Mexican dishes with a full bar, often with futbol matches playing in the background. It’s a favorite of both tourists and local families. (Plus, parking is a breeze!)

Chula Eatery: A family-friendly, farm-to-table treasure offering delicious, locally sourced, made-from-scratch breakfast and lunch dishes. Whether you’re craving traditional breakfast favorites or Mexican-inspired options like Huevos Rancheros and chilaquiles, there’s something to satisfy every taste. Be sure to try their renowned green chile omelet and mimosas.