Soak up the sun, stay cool, and discover the desert’s hottest summer secrets.
Welcome to Palm Springs, where the sun is endless, the skies are crystal blue, and the vibe is effortlessly cool—even in the heat! While summer brings triple-digit temps, don’t let that stop you—this desert oasis transforms into a playground of shimmering pools, hidden gems, chill morning hikes, stylish spas, and unforgettable cultural experiences.
And here’s the kicker: summer means fewer crowds and the best deals of the year. Let’s dive into everything you need to make your Palm Springs summer getaway legendary.
Start the Day the Desert Way:
Cool Mornings, Stunning Scenery
🌄Sunrise Hikes & Magical Mornings
Early mornings in Palm Springs are golden—literally. Before the sun cranks up the heat, hit one of the area’s iconic hiking trails while the air is crisp and the desert is bathed in soft pink and amber hues.
Tahquitz Canyon: A short, rewarding hike with ancient rock formations, flowing waterfalls, and deep cultural significance.
Indian Canyons: Walk through lush palm groves and discover hidden streams and wildlife along Andreas, Murray, or Palm Canyon trails.
Insider tip: Pack water, sunscreen, and your camera. These sunrises are pure Instagram gold.
🧘 Desert Zen: Morning Yoga & Meditation
Start your day with outdoor yoga, surrounded by mountain views and swaying palms. Visit Power Yoga Palm Springs for mindful movement and breathwork. Discover the lightness in your heart, create space in your body and mind, and connect to the peaceful power within.
Urban Yoga welcomes beginners and all levels of experience at Ruth Hardy Park, every Saturday through Tuesday at 8:45 am. Kids are welcome.
💦 Midday Cool-Down: Pools, Cocktails & Cabana Vibes
Dive Into the Day with a Resort Pool Pass
With over 360 days of sunshine a year, poolside lounging is a sacred ritual in Palm Springs. Don’t have a room? No problem. Many resorts offer day passes, providing access to pools, spas, towel service, Wi-Fi, and poolside food and drinks.
Best for party vibes: Ace Hotel & Swim Club
Most luxe: Colony Palms Hotel & Bungalows
Most Scenic: Kimpton Rowan on 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.
Here's the list: Palm Springs 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, like their 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 offering a Baja-inspired menu that features seafood, grilled meats, and savory tacos.
🌊 Surf the Desert Waves: Palm Springs Surf Club
Yes, you can surf in the desert! The brand-new Palm Springs Surf Club is the summer destination for thrill-seekers and loungers alike. Featuring a cutting-edge wave pool, lazy river, and luxury cabanas, this spot is redefining desert cool. Once you're done surfing, head to The Restaurant at the Surf Club to satisfy your appetite.
Wave sessions are available for all skill levels, from groms to pros. Plus, the splash park and swim-up bar make it a hit with families and groups of friends alike.
Escape the Heat at 8,500 Feet
🚡 Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Take a break from the desert heat and head into the alpine air. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway whisks you to Mt. San Jacinto in just 12 minutes, where it’s typically 25–30 degrees cooler.
Bring a picnic or take a hike on over 50 miles of forested trails. Stay for sunset and dine at Peaks Restaurant for jaw-dropping views as the city lights sparkle below.
Culture, Cool Air, and Creative Escapes
✈️ 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.
🖼️ 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 different exhibits dedicated to telling the story of the Agua Caliente people, from native flora and fauna of the Indian Canyons to ancient artifacts, some of which were unearthed during construction of the museum itself.
🧖Desert Detox: Spas & Self-Care
💧 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
🎭 Evenings Full of Flavor, Fun & Entertainment
🍸 PS Air Bar
This aviation-themed speakeasy inside Bouschet is a whole vibe. With retro cabin décor, cheeky cocktails, and live music (or karaoke!), it’s first-class fun without leaving the ground.
🎤 Oscar’s Palm Springs
Come for the food, stay for the show. Oscar’s is your go-to for drag brunches, cabaret nights, and live jazz under the stars. Their outdoor patio is pure ambiance.
🎰 Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
Gaming, fine dining, and live entertainment all in one glitzy spot. Whether you’re hitting the slots or catching a show, the casino is a stylish spot to unwind after dark. The Steakhouse at this casino is one of the best in Palm Springs.
Thursday Nights = VillageFest
Every Thursday, Palm Canyon Drive transforms into a buzzing street fair with artisan booths, live music, food trucks, and fresh produce. A local favorite and the perfect place to snag one-of-a-kind souvenirs or just people-watch and listen to live music.
🕵️ Indoor Thrills: Escape Rooms & A/C-Friendly Fun
Need a break from the sun? Escape Room Palm Springs is one of the highest-rated in SoCal. With themed rooms like Titanic, Vampire’s Lair, and Jack the Ripper, it’s an adrenaline-packed challenge that’s perfect for friends or families.
📸 Midcentury Dreams: Architecture Tours
Palm Springs is a living museum of midcentury modern design. Book a guided tour or explore on your own. From celebrity homes to iconic designs, the architecture scene is a must-see.
Architecture Tour by Modernism Week
Palm Springs Mod Squad
PS Architecture Tours
The Modern Tour
Mid-Century Architecture Self-Guided Tour
🌈 LGBTQ+ Friendly Fun
You'll find lots to do at the Arenas District. It is a vibrant, walkable hub known for its lively nightlife, LGBTQ-friendly bars and clubs, eclectic dining, and boutique shopping—all set against a stunning desert modernist backdrop.
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.
🎉 Annual Summer Events (Check dates each year!)
Splash House: Palm Springs’ signature summer music festival with hotel takeovers and pool parties. It takes over two weekends in August. Check for dates.
Palm Springs ShortFest: The Palm Springs International ShortFest is one of the largest showcases of short-form cinema in North America!
🕶️ Hot Tip: Summer = Big Value
Palm Springs in summer = incredible deals. Hotels offer discounted rates, spas drop prices, restaurants offer prix fixe menus, and crowds? What crowds?
Tip: Weekends can still be busy and more expensive, so try to schedule your stay for Sunday through Thursday if possible
🌞 Wrap-Up: A Summer Like No Other
Palm Springs in summer is a mood—a dreamy blend of sun, style, and spontaneity. Whether you're floating in a crystal-clear pool, exploring canyon trails, or sipping cocktails beneath the stars, you’ll find a summer escape here that’s anything but ordinary.
So pack your shades, lather on that SPF, and experience the desert’s coolest summer secret.
Secret: Summer in Palm Springs offers the Best Values
A Food Lover’s Guide to Palm Springs
The Estate Sale Company