Golfing and Beaches in Palm Springs, CA
Palm Springs, CA, USA
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Palm Springs, California, is a vibrant desert oasis that warmly welcomes families in search of both adventure and relaxation. Boasting over 350 days of sunshine each year, this sun-kissed city presents an abundance of outdoor activities designed to delight guests of all ages.
Start your family’s escape with a breathtaking ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, the world’s largest rotating tramcar, whisking you from 2,643 feet to 8,516 feet in just 11 minutes. At the top, families can immerse themselves in the alpine wilderness of Mount San Jacinto State Park, where more than 50 miles of scenic hiking trails invite exploration. For those craving a taste of the desert’s wild side, a San Andreas Fault Jeep Tour offers the thrill of rugged landscapes paired with fascinating insights into the region’s geological wonders.
For a tranquil outdoor excursion, the Moorten Botanical Garden is an exceptional choice. This family-owned gem features an extraordinary array of desert plants from across the globe. Young explorers will be captivated by the impressive collection of cacti, succulents, and other rare plants, while learning about their unique adaptations and perhaps spotting a few desert creatures along the way. Guided tours and engaging educational programs tailored for children ensure the garden is both entertaining and enriching for families.
A visit to Palm Springs would not be complete without experiencing the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. This expansive attraction highlights desert wildlife from around the world, with interactive exhibits and unforgettable animal encounters that enchant visitors of every generation. From feeding giraffes to watching cheetahs sprint or wandering through vibrant desert gardens, the Living Desert promises families a day filled with wonder and lasting memories.
Nearby cities
Indio
Experience Indio and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the world-famous Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival.
Big Bear
Explore Big Bear and enjoy the annual Oktoberfest celebration, where Bavarian culture meets mountain charm and local brews.
Lake Elsinore
Explore Lake Elsinore and experience the thrill of skydiving above Southern California’s largest natural freshwater lake.
Hesperia
Discover Hesperia, where you can unwind by the scenic Silverwood Lake and enjoy endless outdoor adventures year-round.
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.
