Palm Springs: 15 Hot Hints To Make The Most of California’s Desert Paradise

Stay

The legendary La Quinta Resort & Club is blends modern amenities with a storied history as a desert hideaway and charming oasis. It is said that Frank Capra wrote parts of “It’s a Wonderful Life” while at the La Quinta Resort and the likes of Greta Garbo, Katherine Hepburn and Clark Gable were partial to this iconic property. Perfectly situated in the heart California’s hotspot, this retreat is nestled in Santa Rosa Mountains. With stunning sunset skies, an on-site spa and adjacent golf course, the resort features warm Spanish Colonial design influences, inspired dining, lush landscape, as well as relaxing casitas and pool areas to make the most of your vacay.

Image 1: Coachella Ferris Wheel; Image 2: The Spa at Sec-He

Sip

SottoVoce - Italian café and wine bar that brings La Dolce Vita to Palm Desert. Located at The Gardens on El Paseo, SottoVoce celebrates the timeless beauty of life, community and love in a cup. Bellissimo!!

Savor

• The Bacon Flight at Cheeky’s
• Brunch with your bestie at Wilma & Frieda’s
• Farm-to-table fare at Workshop + Kitchen- Bar
• Amazing authentic Mexican at Tac/Quila

Sweets

Brandini Toffee - What began as a high-school project has become a celebrated confectionary known for hand-crafted goodies that melt in your mouth.

Splurge

The Del Rey at the Villa Royale - Tucked into this très chic mid-mod hotel setting is an intimate date-night experience. Dished up tapas style, the Mediterranean inspired menu is just as delicious as the ambiance. Get a romantic reservation outside under the soft lights and stars. You will not be disappointed!

Spa

The Spa at Séc-he is a cultural and wellness experience not to be missed. Located on the Agua Caliente Cultural Campus in downtown Palm Springs, immerse yourself in a sacred healing experience for the mind, body and soul. “Take to the Waters” in Coachella Valley’s ancient mineral springs, relax in Tranquility Rooms with acoustic lounges and zero gravity chairs, try the halotherapy salt caves or book an amazing massage or facial service. Check out the fitness center, lounge by the pool, then grab a bite under the misters. Bliss!

Scene

If you are seeking the “scene and be seen”, The Nest in Indian Wells is the place. This restaurant/nightclub is always packed, and it isn’t uncommon to experience a wait line. The vibe is comfortable, festive and with live nightly entertainment and dancing... always a good time!

See

A polo game. If you like a fast-paced game of hockey with jockey’s, this is your ‘Pretty Woman’ moment to take to the pony fields for a champagne divet stomp. Polo has a huge draw in the desert with several Polo Clubs, various social “watch” brunches, special events and a great way to spend a Sunday in the sun. Tailgate on the sidelines, rent a field cabana or dress to impress at the Polo Clubhouse at fan fave The Empire Polo Club

Shop

Get your fix for designer shopping, boutiques and art galleries on the famed El Paseo, one of the most elegant rue’s in the region. But fashionista’s head to The Fine Art of Design for a truly gifted experience. This “emporium of fabulous vintage fashion” has a received global attention as “the place” where savvy stylist’s shop.

Shake

If you have time for a tour... this is it!! Red Jeep Tours will pick you up in their signature “red jeeps” and whisk you away to a desert adventure of a lifetime. If you want to stand IN the San Andreas fault, hike the Painted Canyons or get up close and personal with one of the most interesting arid landscapes at Joshua Tree, Red Jeep Tours expert guides will introduce you to the world beneath our feet.

Squeeze

Citrus is one of the main crops in the Coachella Valley with lots of bright yellow nectar on hand. For a truly luxurious pucker, head to the Lemonade Stand at The Parker Palm Springs... where all is in good taste.

Safari

Venture to the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Palm Desert to explore plant and wildlife indigenous to the earth’s deserts. Rhinos, cheetahs and wolves...oh my!! Walk the trails while enjoying interactive animal encounters, exhibits and even feed a giraffe!

Scoop

The inside scoop that is. Try a flavorful “date shake” at Shield’s Date Farm in Indio. It’s worth the drive.

Surprise

This spot serves up aces and some terrific tennis. Now you can nosh at Nobu in the Indian Wells Tennis Garden year round.

Season: Usually from October through March is when desert temperatures are mellow and “snowbirds” flock to enjoy desert climes. Season is considered high-time for many activities including tennis, golf and of course, the many festivals that dot the region (think Coachella & StageCoach, Palm Springs Food & Wine, Fashion Week, etc.) Yet, the desert is an amazing place where anytime is a great time to make a splash. dine under the misters and stay cool in one of the most spectacular destinations in the world.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Palm Springs page.