Why would anyone willingly head into the Southern California desert in the heat of summer when beach resorts beckon just a few hours away? It’s a bold move, we’ll admit—but somehow, Palm Springs delivers. From endless sun to a retro-cool vibe, this desert gem is much more than a mirage in the desert. Whether you’re pool-hopping, stargazing, or chasing mid-century modern dreams, Palm Springs in the summer is its own kind of paradise.
Why Palm Springs in the Summer?
The weather in Palm Springs ranges from beautifully warm to a bit too hot. Let’s face it, we visited Palm Spring in July—it was HOT! But, as they say, it’s a dry heat. (And with minimal humidity, you really never have a bad hair day. Score!) Toss in more clothing-optional resorts than you can count (more than 20 of them gay!) and a laid-back atmosphere tailor-made for pool lounging, and you’ll see why summer in this desert playground is worth the sweat equity.
Palm Springs is more than a vacation destination—it’s a vibe. Historically, it was where the Hollywood elite came to unwind. Today, it’s a hub for LGBTQ+ travelers, mid-century modern enthusiasts, and anyone who’s mastered the art of pairing a cocktail with a pool float.
Here’s how to make the most of your Palm Springs getaway—hot weather included. (Pro tip: bring plenty of sunscreen, as sunburned private areas will ruin your vacation.)
The Secret to Staying Cool? (Hint: It’s All About Where You Stay)
If you’re headed to Palm Springs in the summer, don’t underestimate the power of picking the right place to stay. National chain hotels might be predictable, but clothing-optional resorts? That’s where the magic happens.
Must-Have Amenities for Beating the Heat
- Private Pools with Perks
Whether it’s morning laps or midnight dips, a pool is non-negotiable. Look for resorts equipped with shaded cabanas or misting systems—they’ll transform scorching afternoons into breezy bliss.
- Cool Comforts Inside and Out
Blackout curtains, ceiling fans, and leafy, shaded patios create a haven when you need a sun-free siesta. And if your rental also has an outdoor shower? Chef’s kiss.
On this trip, we stayed at the Triangle Inn (a literal gay oasis, clothing optional and fabulous). With nine rooms, each fully equipped with comfortable furniture and fully-equipped kitchens or kitchenettes, lush gardens, two sundecks, in-ground Jacuzzi, outdoor shower, an outdoor misting system, and a swimming pool fit for Instagram royalty, it was almost too tempting to leave. Plus, a continental breakfast patio-side doesn’t hurt the vacation vibes.
For more adventurous activities outside the hotel—at least ones that don’t require a safe word—Palm Springs boasts a wide selection of things to do in and around the area.
Bottomless Brunches & Desert Dining
When you’re ready to give your floatie a break, Palm Springs’ food scene is here to impress. Start your day at Pinocchio in the Desert, where indulgence takes the form of bottomless champagne for just $7.95 a person. Trust us, it’s an experience—and a half.
For dinner, you can’t go wrong with Palm Springs staples like Trio, for Midwest comfort with a Cali twist, or Eight4Nine, where you’ll end (and possibly redefine) your meal with their flourless triple chocolate cake. If you’re craving a spot to kick off your night in style, head to the Steakhouse at Agua Caliente Casino, where you’ll find perfectly aged prime cuts, fresh seafood cooked to perfection, and expertly crafted martinis. Oh, and if you’re more surf than turf, check out the tropical vibes at Marlin Bar by Tommy Bahama.
Escaping the Heat—Activities You’ll Love
Yes, Palm Springs is hot, but it’s packed with ways to beat the heat and thrive in that delightful desert vibe.
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Meet your new BFF for summer cool-downs. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway whisks you out of the sweltering valley and up to the San Jacinto Mountains—where temperatures drop so low, you might actually reach for a sweater (gasp).
The 10-minute ride rotates 360 degrees, so you’ll spend the trip snapping views of the desert floor and lush green mountaintop. At the summit? Hikes, mountain picnics, and brisk breezes await.
Art, Culture, and Air Conditioning
Need a sun break with a culture boost? Make your way to The Palm Springs Art Museum. This air-conditioned haven offers everything from stunning contemporary works to Native American sculptures—and to be honest, you might just want to hang out there until sunset.
If you’re into that midcentury modern look, you’re in luck because it’s something in which Palm Springs specializes. Check out the Palm Springs Mod Squad Tour with super-friendly host Kurt Cyr who will help you navigate your way around the flat roofs, angular details, and asymmetrical designs. For about 90 minutes, you’re treated to a brief lesson on the local architects that designed and built the city. Highlights include William Cody, Albert Frey, Hugh Kaptur, William Krisel, E. Stewart Williams and Donald Wexler, who designed Dinah Shore’s house.
Spa Me, Please!
Palm Springs knows how to relax, and its spas are second to none. From the mineral-rich pools at Two Bunch Palms to luxe massages at The Spa at Desert Springs JW Marriott, you’ll have no problem soothing sunburned skin or kickstarting vacation nirvana. Feeling adventurous? Try a sound bath or mud wrap at one of the city’s boutique wellness retreats.
Exploring Palm Springs’ Brewery Scene
Drinkers, rejoice—Palm Springs isn’t all one-note martinis and poolside daiquiris. The local craft beer scene is thriving. Pop into La Quinta Brewing Co. or Coachella Valley Brewing Company, where citrusy IPAs and smooth stouts await. Pro tip? Take a mid-afternoon breather in their mountain-view tasting rooms and enjoy a chilled pint to combat that desert heat.
VillageFest, Palm Springs’ Weekly Block Party
Every Thursday night, Palm Springs pulls out all the stops for VillageFest. Imagine Palm Canyon Drive buzzing with food vendors, live music, artists hawking handmade wares, and the friendliest crowd of sun-drenched locals and vacationers mingling under the stars.
It’s part farmer’s market, part festival, and 100% Palm Springs magic. Whether you’re snagging a tie-dye souvenir or digging into street food, you’ll leave VillageFest with a smile (and possibly a full belly).
Stargazing Like You’ve Never Seen
Did you know that Palm Springs is one of the best places for stargazing? Thanks to nearly zero light pollution (outside of the nightlife, of course), the desert skies at night twinkle like nobody’s business.
Just 20 minutes away, the Rancho Mirage Library & Observatory is a state-of-the-art facility that offers free, astronomer-led stargazing parties called Open Public Exploration Nights twice a week. The observatory’s striking two-dome structure houses a massive 27.5” research-grade telescope and an outdoor viewing deck with four telescope pads. Expert guides will walk you through planets, nebulae, star clusters, and more—and yes, it’s all free.
Prefer the DIY approach? Head to Joshua Tree National Park. Blanket, champagne, and maybe a friend or two, and you’ve got yourself a star-studded night you’ll never forget.
Nightlife & Community Vibes
Palm Springs’ nightlife is like stepping onto the set of the queerest, glitteriest movie you’ve ever seen. Head over to East Arenas Road for the action. This tiny street downtown is bumping with new hotspots and classics that pack the gays in. Chill Bar brings the youthful 20- and 30-something crowd, while Hunters mixes younger patrons with their dashing admirers. Prefer some show tunes? Quadz spins Broadway favorites like it’s their job (it is).
The Takeaway
The moral of this lengthy piece: Palm Springs in the summer isn’t just a trip–it’s an experience. Between the sun, the views, the endless opportunities to relax (or party), and the unapologetic freedom to be exactly who you are, this vibrant desert retreat is ready to turn up the heat on your summer plans. Check out the Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism for the latest happenings.
Just don’t forget the SPF.
Note: Our stay in Palm Springs was sponsored by the Triangle Inn and some activities and meals were partially covered by the Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism. Rest assured the views and opinions expressed in this post are 100% our own and we would never sacrifice our integrity for a sponsorship.