Palm Springs is a popular vacation destination year-round due to its unique beauty and variety of activities. However, if you are looking for fewer crowds, price deals and optimal pool weather, consider visiting during the summer months! Despite the heat, this season has a lot to offer visitors. Here are some top reasons to visit Palm Springs during the summer season.
Fewer crowds
Daytime summer temperatures in Palm Springs can exceed 100°F. But don’t let the heat scare you – with a little extra planning, scheduling your activities to avoid the hottest part of the day means you can enjoy all that Palm Springs has to offer with shorter lines and less traffic. With fewer visitors in summer, the city also has a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for those looking for a laid-back vacation.
Lower Accommodation prices
You can find discounts on vacation rentals during the summer season, making it a more affordable time to visit. Taking advantage of summer specials keeps more money in your pocket to spend on all the fun Palm Springs activities, dining, and shopping! Book 3 nights and get the 4th night free at one of the fabulous Palm Springs vacation rentals featured in our current summer special.
Rest and relaxation
The summer season is the perfect time to relax by the pool and soak up the sun. Floating in a refreshing pool with a drink in hand on a hot desert day is close to paradise. Many vacation rentals in Palm Springs offer the privacy and backyard amenities to take full advantage of the hot days and comfortable evenings of summer in Palm Springs. Many of our properties offer a private backyard oasis in addition to spacious, air-conditioned living spaces for when you need a break. Find your bliss at Bliss House, enjoy stylish luxury at The Ritz, or check out some of our other properties with incredible pools and backyard spaces.
To find rest and relaxation outside of the backyard, head to one of the renowned day spas in Palm Springs. Immerse yourself in the mineral-rich spring water at Azure Palm Hot Springs or Miracle Springs Spa to add a healing element to your spa service, or float your cares away at the Desert Serenity Float & Spa.
Tee Off
Palm Springs also has some of the most scenic golf courses in Southern California, and the summer season is a great time to hit the links. Enjoy the scenic mountain views from the JW Marriott Desert Springs course or the PGA West Club. With fewer crowds, it will be easier to get an early tee time to beat the heat.
Beautiful outdoor nature activities
The summer season is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the beautiful natural landscape surrounding Palm Springs.
Drive 40 miles to Joshua Tree National Park for amazing desert vistas, interesting plant life and rock formations. If you get there earlier in the morning, you can avoid the heat and have the trails to yourself. But if you get a late start, don’t worry – there are plenty of very short hikes to reach the top attractions in the park. Stop by the park headquarters to get the inside scoop from rangers, and make sure to top off the gas tank and bring extra water with you. If you will be in the park after dark, bring some blankets to enjoy the cooler temperatures while gazing at the stars.
Another great option in the area is the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. This rotating tramcar takes visitors to the top of Mount San Jacinto, with stunning views of the desert and mountains along the way. At the top, there are hiking trails, observation decks, restaurants and a natural history museum. This is an ideal activity for a day when you need a relief from the heat, as temperatures are typically 30 degrees cooler at the top of the mountain. Visitors may want to purchase the Summer Pass for discounts at these amenities.
Packing for outdoor activities in Palm Springs during summer should include lightweight and breathable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of water. It’s best to do strenuous outdoor activities like hiking in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the hottest part of the day.
Local arts and culture
Palm Springs has a thriving arts scene, and there are many galleries and shops to explore. Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum and explore its extensive collection of modern and contemporary art. Take a stroll in downtown Palm Springs to admire the mid-century modern aesthetic of the galleries and boutiques lining the streets.
To explore the history of the area, check out the Palm Springs Air Museum to learn about aviation history in Palm Springs. Visitors may also enjoy learning about local history at the Palm Springs Historical Society, which also offers historical walking and biking tours.
A highlight of summer is the Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week, which is a chance for visitors to enjoy special menus and exclusive discounts at some of the finest restaurants in the area. This event is a foodie’s dream, taking place over two weeks in early June. If your visit takes place later in the summer, you can get discounts at many of the same featured restaurants by using the free Summer Eats Pass.
Whether you are planning activities to beat the heat or soaking it up while relaxing in the pool, summer is an amazing time to experience all that Palm Springs has to offer. Book your vacation rental and kick off your summer adventure in this desert paradise!
