Why the desert's warmest season may be its best-kept secret.
Summer in Palm Springs might just be the desert's best-kept secret.
While some travelers shy away from the warmer temperatures, savvy visitors know summer brings some of the year's biggest rewards: exceptional hotel rates, fewer crowds, easier restaurant reservations, and a chance to experience the city at a more relaxed pace. In fact, summer often offers the lowest resort and hotel rates of the year, especially for Sunday through Thursday stays, making it one of the best times to enjoy a luxury getaway for less.
It's when resort pools become the center of the social scene, spa days feel even more indulgent, and evenings stretch out under colorful desert sunsets. Add signature events like Splash House and XOXO Palm Springs, and you'll discover a season filled with unexpected experiences and outstanding value.
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, a family vacation, a staycation, or simply looking for a few days of sunshine and relaxation, here's how to make the most of summer in Palm Springs.
Start Early: Desert Mornings Done Right
Summer mornings are one of Palm Springs' greatest gifts. Temperatures are comfortable, the mountains glow in the early light, and the desert landscape feels especially peaceful.
Explore the Indian Canyons
Home to one of the world's largest California fan palm oases, Indian Canyons offers miles of scenic hiking trails winding through palm groves, streams, and dramatic desert scenery. Palm Canyon, Andreas Canyon, and Murray Canyon each offer their own unique experience.
Visit Tahquitz Canyon
Just minutes from downtown, Tahquitz Canyon combines natural beauty with cultural significance. The moderately easy trail leads to a seasonal waterfall while sharing the stories and traditions of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians.
Insider tip: Pack water, sunscreen, and your camera. These sunrises are pure Instagram gold.
Morning Yoga in the Desert
Take advantage of the cooler temperatures with an outdoor yoga session. Palm Springs offers a variety of yoga experiences, from studio classes to outdoor sessions set against mountain views and palm trees.
👉 Drop-In Fitness & Yoga Classes in Palm Springs
Spend the Day Poolside
Dive Into the Day with a Resort Pool Pass
In Palm Springs, the pool isn't just an amenity—it's a lifestyle.
Many local resorts offer day passes, allowing visitors to enjoy luxury pools, food and beverage service, spas, and cabanas without booking an overnight stay.
- Best for party vibes: Ace Hotel & Swim Club
- Most luxe: Colony Palms Hotel & Bungalows
- Most Scenic: Kimpton Rowan on the 7th Floor
Upgrade your pool day with a private cabana or plush daybed for personalized service, shaded lounging, and next-level relaxation. This is a great way to experience the many resorts in Palm Springs without a room reservation. Most include towel service and free WiFi.
👉 Palm Springs Pool Day Pass Guide
Poolside Dining
Savor gourmet bites and handcrafted cocktails while you bask in the sun. From fresh ceviche to elevated burgers and rosé all day, pool menus are designed for indulgence.
- Chi Chi at the Avalon is known for its refreshing dishes, such as its Acai bowl with fresh fruit.
- The Palm Canyon Swim & Social Club at the Arrive Hotel is a relaxing adults-only spot with California cuisine. Enjoy menu items like lobster tacos paired with a frosty cocktail or beer.
- Maleza at Drift Palm Springs is a chic restaurant serving a Baja-inspired menu featuring seafood, grilled meats, and savory tacos.
Ride the Waves at Palm Springs Surf Club
Yes, you can surf in the desert.
Palm Springs Surf Club has quickly become one of the city's most popular summer attractions. The expansive facility features a state-of-the-art surf lagoon, lazy river, splash zones, water attractions, cabanas, and dining options.
Whether you're an experienced surfer chasing perfect waves or simply looking for a refreshing way to spend the afternoon, the Surf Club offers something for every age and skill level.
Afterward, grab a table at The Restaurant at the Surf Club, where the menu features elevated California cuisine with a view of the action.
Escape the Heat at 8,500 Feet
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
One of the easiest ways to cool off is to leave the desert floor entirely.
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway transports visitors from the desert into the pine forests of Mount San Jacinto State Park in just 12 minutes. Temperatures at the Mountain Station are often 25 to 40 degrees cooler than downtown Palm Springs.
Once at the top, visitors can enjoy:
- More than 50 miles of hiking trails
- Scenic viewpoints
- Wildlife viewing
- Mountain dining at Peaks Restaurant
- Cooler temperatures and fresh alpine air
Stay through sunset for one of the most spectacular views in Southern California.
Cool Off With Culture
Palm Springs Art Museum
Beat the heat and stimulate your mind. This sleek, modern museum boasts an impressive collection of contemporary art, Native American pieces, and rotating exhibits. Don't miss the Annenberg Theater for occasional performances and film nights.
Architecture & Design Center
Modernism lovers, rejoice! Housed in a stunning midcentury building by E. Stewart Williams, this center is dedicated to Palm Springs' unique architectural legacy. The rotating exhibitions are always inspiring and photo-worthy.
Agua Caliente Cultural Museum & Plaza
This is your gateway to the tribe’s past, present, and future. Explore five exhibits dedicated to telling the story of the Agua Caliente people, from native flora and fauna of the Indian Canyons to ancient artifacts, some unearthed during the construction of the museum itself.
Palm Springs Air Museum
A must-see for aviation lovers and history buffs! Wander through massive hangars filled with vintage aircraft, interactive exhibits, and war stories that bring the past to life. They often host flight demos and special summer events, so check the schedule before you go.
Wellness in the Desert
The Spa at Séc-he
This newly opened luxury spa is built on sacred healing waters used by the Agua Caliente tribe for generations. Enjoy "Taking of the Waters", thermal mineral pools, private cabanas, and restorative treatments. It's a summer sanctuary.
The Parker’s Yacht Club Spa
Set sail on relaxation at this chic nautical-themed spa with top-tier facials, body scrubs, and massages. Combine with brunch at Norma’s or a stroll through the manicured gardens for a full day of indulgence.
From mud wraps and sound baths to CBD massages and cold plunge pools, Palm Springs is the wellness capital of the desert.
👉 Listing of All Spas & Salons
Summer Dining
One of the best-kept secrets of summer is how easy it becomes to experience Palm Springs' restaurant scene.
Many local restaurants offer:
- Summer prix fixe menus
- Happy hour specials
- Seasonal promotions
- Easier reservations
It's the perfect opportunity to try some of the city's most popular dining destinations without peak-season wait times.
Whether you're craving upscale dining, poolside bites, Mexican food, burgers, brunch, or vegan cuisine, summer makes it easier than ever to secure a table.
👉 Explore our Palm Springs Dining Guide
Sunset Is Prime Time
As the sun begins to set, Palm Springs comes alive.
VillageFest
Every Thursday, Palm Canyon Drive transforms into a buzzing street fair with artisan booths, live music, food trucks, and fresh produce. VillageFest is a local favorite and the perfect place to snag one-of-a-kind souvenirs or just people-watch and listen to live music.
Rooftop Cocktails & Outdoor Dining
Summer evenings create ideal conditions for dining outdoors. Grab a cocktail, enjoy mountain views, and watch the city transition from day to night at one of our rooftop bars.
Arenas District
The Arenas District is Palm Springs' LGBTQ+ nightlife district, offering bars, entertainment, dancing, and an energetic social scene just steps from downtown.
- Chill Bar is an eclectic mix of retro and modern elements.
- Hunters is known for its friendly staff and frequent events and parties.
- Quadz is where you go to meet friends and have fun with a Broadway sing-along.
Architecture, Shopping & Indoor Fun
Need another break from the heat?
Explore Palm Springs' world-famous architecture through a self-guided tour or join one of the city's expert-led experiences.
Shoppers can browse locally owned boutiques downtown, discover vintage treasures throughout the city, or head to Desert Hills Premium Outlets for luxury brands at outlet prices.
👉 Explore our Palm Springs Shopping Guide
Families and groups can also enjoy air-conditioned fun at our local Escape Room with unique immersive experiences and puzzles to solve.
Signature Summer Events
Palm Springs ShortFest
The Palm Springs International ShortFest is one of the largest showcases of short-form cinema in North America.
XOXO Palm Springs
Launched as a celebration of art, community, and culture, XOXO Palm Springs brings together pool parties, live entertainment, social events, wellness experiences, and community gatherings across the city. The multi-day event showcases many of Palm Springs' most iconic entertainment venues, art events and galleries, and LGBTQ+-events, while highlighting the welcoming and inclusive spirit that has made Palm Springs one of the world's premier art and culture destinations.
Splash House
Palm Springs’ signature summer music festival with hotel takeovers and pool parties. Splash House takes over two weekends in August.
Summer Means the Best Hotel Deals of the Year
One of the biggest advantages of visiting Palm Springs in summer is value. Many resorts, boutique hotels, and vacation rentals offer some of their lowest rates of the year, making it possible to enjoy luxury accommodations at a fraction of peak-season prices.
The best deals are often available Sunday through Thursday, when visitors can take advantage of reduced room rates, complimentary upgrades, resort credits, spa packages, and seasonal promotions. Combined with fewer crowds at pools, restaurants, and attractions, a midweek summer getaway can feel like having Palm Springs almost to yourself.
Whether you're booking a luxury resort, a stylish boutique hotel, or a private vacation rental, summer is often the most affordable—and relaxing—time to experience Palm Springs.
👉 Book Now
What to Pack for Summer in Palm Springs
- Lightweight clothing
- Sunscreen
- Refillable water bottle
- Swimsuit
- Sunglasses
- Walking shoes
- Light jacket for the Aerial Tramway
Frequently Asked Questions About Summer in Palm Springs
Is summer a good time to visit Palm Springs?
Yes. Summer offers fewer crowds, lower hotel rates, easier restaurant reservations, and access to many of the city's top attractions. Visitors can enjoy resort pools, spa experiences, museums, shopping, and evening activities while taking advantage of some of the best travel values of the year.
How hot is Palm Springs in summer?
Daytime temperatures often exceed 100 degrees during summer, particularly from June through August. Most visitors plan outdoor activities for the morning, enjoy pools and indoor attractions in the afternoon, and return outdoors in the evening as temperatures cool.
What are the best things to do in Palm Springs during summer?
Popular summer activities include relaxing by resort pools, visiting Palm Springs Surf Club, riding the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, exploring the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum, enjoying spa treatments, shopping, dining, and attending events like Splash House and XOXO Palm Springs.
Are hotel rates cheaper in Palm Springs during summer?
Yes. Summer is typically the most affordable season for accommodations in Palm Springs. Many hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals offer significant discounts compared to peak season.
When is the best time to find the best hotel deals in Palm Springs?
The best values are often available Sunday through Thursday during the summer months. Midweek stays frequently include lower room rates, special promotions, resort credits, and added amenities.
Can you hike in Palm Springs during summer?
Yes, but visitors should start early in the morning, carry plenty of water, wear sun protection, and avoid hiking during the hottest part of the day. Popular options include Indian Canyons and Tahquitz Canyon.
What are the best indoor activities in Palm Springs during summer?
Popular indoor attractions include the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum, Palm Springs Art Museum, Palm Springs Air Museum, Architecture and Design Center, spa experiences, shopping, escape rooms, and casino entertainment.
Is the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway worth visiting in summer?
Absolutely. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway takes visitors from the desert floor to Mount San Jacinto State Park, where temperatures are often 25 to 40 degrees cooler. It is one of the most popular ways to escape the summer heat.
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