Palm Springs, California
Vacation rentals in Palm Springs

Discover Palm Springs, California, a vibrant village with rich history, diverse culture, and ample amenities, perfect for your next vacation or permanent residence.

Golfing and Beaches in Palm Springs, CA

Palm Springs, CA, USA

Saturday
70°F21°C

Newest

Luxury rentals

Family-friendly

Pet-friendly

Swimming

Tips on renting in Palm Springs

Getting Around

Embrace the architectural poetry of Twin Palms, where renowned architect William Krisel's modernist masterpieces from the 1950s create a living museum beneath the San Jacinto Mountains' dramatic silhouette. This historic neighborhood pulses with mid-century magic, where butterfly roofs and walls of glass capture the desert's golden light. Position yourself within walking distance of downtown's vibrant Palm Canyon Drive, where boutique hotels nestled among towering date palms offer front-row seats to the most spectacular sunsets in Southern California. The convergence of architectural heritage and natural splendor creates an intoxicating backdrop for desert exploration.

What to Pack

Layer strategically for the desert's dramatic temperature symphony—lightweight linens for blazing afternoons paired with cashmere wraps for surprisingly cool evenings when mountain breezes carry whispers of cooler altitudes. Pack wide-brimmed hats that cast sculptural shadows and polarized sunglasses to navigate the intense high-desert light that photographers crave. Comfortable walking shoes prove essential for exploring mid-century neighborhoods and hiking palm-lined canyons, while elegant resort wear transitions seamlessly from poolside lounging to sophisticated dining beneath desert stars. Don't forget reef-safe sunscreen and a refillable water bottle—hydration becomes a sacred ritual in this arid paradise.

Must-Try Activities

Begin your desert pilgrimage aboard the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, where you'll be whisked from desert sands to mountain peaks in just minutes, ascending through five distinct ecological zones as the Coachella Valley unfolds below like a shimmering tapestry. Surrender to the therapeutic embrace of natural hot springs at Two Bunch Palms, where indigenous waters have soothed spirits for centuries. As twilight paints the mountains lavender, admire the mid-century modern architecture during golden hour strolls through neighborhoods where Frank Sinatra once entertained beneath star-studded skies, each geometric home a testament to optimistic post-war design.

Smart Spending Tips

Embrace Palm Springs' generous spirit during shoulder seasons when luxury resorts offer dramatic savings while the desert maintains its golden allure. Take in the views aboard the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway during weekday visits for reduced rates, maximizing your elevation experience without premium weekend pricing. Many of the city's architectural treasures reveal themselves through free self-guided walking tours, where Palm Springs has one of the world's largest concentrations of preserved mid-century gems waiting to be discovered. Happy hours at rooftop lounges transform sunset viewing into affordable luxury, while municipal golf courses offer desert course experiences at accessible rates.

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.

Palm Springs, California

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!

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

Rent a property

Looking for a great place to stay. Begin your adventure now!

Cottage on a lake