Vacationing in Palm Springs during the heat can be a delightful experience if you plan wisely and take advantage of the city’s many amenities designed to help you stay cool. Here’s how to make the most of your trip while keeping comfortable in the desert heat:
1. Pool is a must
- Pool Time: Palm Springs is famous for its luxury homes and community villas, many of which feature stunning pools. Plan to spend your afternoons lounging by the pool, where you can cool off, enjoy poolside service, and enjoy the beautiful desert scenery. Some resorts also offer cabanas and misters to help beat the heat.
2. Plan Activities for Early Morning or Late Evening
- Hiking: If you enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, start early before the sun gets too intense. Trails like the Indian Canyons or Tahquitz Canyon are beautiful at sunrise, offering cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Evening Strolls: Explore downtown Palm Springs in the evening when the temperature drops. The city comes alive with outdoor dining, shops, and galleries that stay open late, especially on Palm Canyon Drive.
3. Take Advantage of Indoor Attractions
- Museums and Galleries: Spend the hottest part of the day indoors exploring Palm Springs’ cultural attractions. Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum, which offers a cool, air-conditioned environment with impressive collections of modern and contemporary art.
- Shopping: Explore the boutiques and shops of Palm Springs’ Uptown Design District. Many stores have air conditioning and unique finds, making it a perfect way to escape the midday sun.
4. Relax at a Spa
- Spa Day: Palm Springs is renowned for its world-class spas, which offer a variety of treatments designed to pamper and rejuvenate. Treat yourself to a massage, facial, or body wrap, and enjoy the cool, tranquil environment of the spa.
5. Enjoy Water-Based Activities
- Water Parks: If you’re traveling with family or simply want to cool off in a fun way, visit a local water park like Wet ‘n’ Wild Palm Springs. These parks offer slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools that are perfect for beating the heat.
- Joshua Tree Excursions: While Joshua Tree National Park is a bit of a drive from Palm Springs, consider visiting in the early morning or late evening. The unique desert landscape is cooler during these times, and the stars at night are spectacular.
- Berger Foundation Iceplex: skate where your Coachella Valley Firebirds train! The Berger Foundation Iceplex is located in the same building as Acrisure Arena. Bring your family and friends, get some exercise, learn a new skill or join fellow Firebird fans for public skate sessions daily.
- Palm Springs Surf club: Discover a destination like no other at The Palm Springs Surf Club featuring a state-of-the-art wave technology catering to surfers of all levels.
6. Dine Al Fresco with Misters
- Cool Outdoor Dining: Many restaurants in Palm Springs have outdoor patios equipped with misters, which spray a fine, cool mist to keep diners comfortable even on hot days. Enjoy local cuisine while staying refreshed.
7. Stay Hydrated and Protect Yourself from the Sun
- Hydration: Always carry a water bottle with you and stay hydrated throughout the day. The dry desert heat can quickly lead to dehydration.
- Sun Protection: Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen with a high SPF to protect yourself from the sun’s intense rays. Light, loose-fitting clothing is also recommended.
8. Take a Scenic Drive
- Air-Conditioned Excursions: When the heat is at its peak, consider taking a scenic drive through the Coachella Valley or up to the San Jacinto Mountains. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a great way to escape the heat, as it takes you from the desert floor to the cooler mountain heights in just minutes.
9. Experience Nightlife
- Cool Evenings: Palm Springs has a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of options for after-dark entertainment. Whether you prefer a laid-back cocktail bar, a lively dance club, or a live music venue, you’ll find plenty of places to enjoy cooler temperatures once the sun sets.
Vacationing in Palm Springs during the heat is all about timing and choosing the right activities. By planning your days around cooler mornings, late afternoons, and evenings, and taking full advantage of the city’s pools, spas, and indoor attractions, you can enjoy all that Palm Springs has to offer without succumbing to the desert heat