Golfing and Beaches in Palm Springs, CA
Palm Springs, CA, USA
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In Palm Springs, the sun dances through the swaying palms, casting playful shadows on glistening waters that beckon adventurers. This Southern California oasis, cradled by majestic mountains, offers a canvas for those eager to explore its hidden treasures. Picture yourself gliding across the shimmering waters of Lake Cahuilla, where kayaks and paddleboards await your touch—each stroke a step deeper into tranquility. The scent of cedar mingles with the salty breeze as you unfurl your picnic blanket on the shore, savoring locally sourced bites from nearby eateries like The Real Italian Deli.
For a pulse-racing adventure, lace up your hiking boots for the Cactus to Clouds Trail, where vibrant blooms frame exhilarating views over the Coachella Valley. Afterward, unwind at the serene Agua Caliente Cultural Museum, immersing yourself in the rich heritage of the area. Seasonal festivals, such as the Palm Springs International Film Festival, mingle relaxed glamour with cultural allure. With every whisper of the wind, you’re invited—come discover Palm Springs, where adventure and nature waltz hand in hand, and every moment is crafted for cherished memories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Palm Springs has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To experience the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, start your day early, either at 8:00 AM on weekends or 10:00 AM on weekdays, and secure your tickets in advance to avoid delays. As you ascend the 2.5 miles along the cliffs of Chino Canyon in the world’s largest rotating tram, enjoy the stunning 360-degree views of the valley below. At the Mountain Station, 8,516 feet up, explore over 50 miles of hiking trails in Mt. San Jacinto State Park, dine at one of the two restaurants, and take in the cooler temperatures, which are 30 degrees lower than the desert floor. Dress in layers and wear comfortable footwear to make the most of your outdoor adventure.
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Palm Springs, California is located in the Sonoran Desert and does not have any natural beaches or coastal access, as it’s over 100 miles inland from the Pacific Ocean. Because of its desert location, there are no beaches in Palm Springs that offer snorkeling opportunities.
However, if you’re looking to combine a trip to Palm Springs with snorkeling, your best option is to plan a day trip or overnight excursion to nearby coastal destinations. Popular spots for snorkeling include:
- La Jolla Cove (San Diego) – About a 2.5-hour drive from Palm Springs, this marine reserve is famous for calm waters, sea caves, and snorkeling with sea lions and leopard sharks.
- Laguna Beach (Orange County) – Roughly 2 hours away, with crystal-clear coves like Shaw’s Cove and Crescent Bay known for reef snorkeling.
- Catalina Island – Accessible via ferry from Dana Point or Long Beach, Catalina offers some of Southern California’s best snorkeling at Lover’s Cove and Casino Point.
While Palm Springs is a desert oasis ideal for pools, spas, golf, and hiking, you’ll need to head west to the coast for underwater adventures.
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Yes, dogs are allowed on some hiking trails in Palm Springs, California—but with important restrictions.
Within Palm Springs city limits, dogs are permitted on a few designated trails, such as:
- The South Lykken Trail (from the south trailhead at South Palm Canyon Drive)
- The North Lykken Trail (via Ramon Road trailhead)
- Araby Trail (though dogs must be kept on a leash and watch out for steep drop-offs)
However, dogs are strictly prohibited on trails managed by the Tahquitz Canyon and Indian Canyons areas, which are part of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians reservation. These include popular trails like Andreas Canyon, Murray Canyon, and Palm Canyon. The prohibition is due to cultural preservation and wildlife protection.
