For a quick winter escape from southern California look no further than Palm Springs. The vast clear, blue skies, stunning landscape surrounded by the San Jacinto Mountains, and terrain painted by endless bright green palm trees and pink bougainvillea along with cotton candy clouds during sunset, perfect temperatures, and an infinite selection of restaurants, all make this desert oasis one of my favorite places on the planet.
We have visited Joshua Tree in the past but never stayed overnight. On this trip, I decided to throw a one-night stay in this bohemian little town comprised of a community of artists and musicians and just a stone’s throw away from Joshua National Park. The last two nights were spent in Palm Springs, which screams luxury in comparison and is only approximately forty-five minutes away from the National Park.
Our three-night itinerary was jam-packed with hiking, nature, food, and fun. I encourage you to take this itinerary and make it your own for a guaranteed great time.
DAY ONE:
Eat First, Play Next
First stop: FOOD. Driving always gets my appetite going. After two-and-a-half hours in the car, you’ll want to fill your tank (both figuratively and literally!). We were all mutually surprised by how good our lunch at Sky High Pie in Joshua Tree was. We devoured the caprese bruschetta, Korean BBQ beef skewers, parmesan gnocchi, chicken Milanese, crispy brussel sprouts, and vegetable pizza. Yum, yum, yum!
Hike
Now that you’ve loaded up on grub, head into the National Park and hit some trails. Skull Rock is one of the more popular sites yet visitors tend to gravitate towards the skull-shape stone rather than actually walk the easy 1.8 loop trail. Take the trail, you’ll be rewarded by stunning views and a constant change of scenery from sandy paths to narrow boulders to squeeze through. It may be hard to suck in that belly after a big lunch but you will make it through!
Hidden Valley Trail also offers a scenic landscape on an easy one-mile loop trail. This is one of Joshua Tree’s most popular trails and you’re likely to see rock climbers ascending the enormous boulders as you walk through and soak in the stunning scenery.
Glamp
Although the sunset in Joshua Park is known to be sensational, we opted to leave before the sun hit the sack to check into our accommodations at Autocamp to enjoy the property. Sleeping in a modern, “luxury” airstream for one night is a unique experience that provides a camping-like feel without the discomforts that often come with sleeping in a tent. Autocamp grounds are well-planned with enough privacy between each streamer and a beautifully designed common space with a massive outdoor firepit, heated pool, lobby, and restaurant. We loved watching the sunset as we made a campfire to grill our dinner followed by s’mores for dessert.
Stargaze
Wrap up an epic day with a private stargazing tour by Twentynine Palms Astronomy Club. With the advanced telescopes used you will see planets, nebulas, and galaxies ensuring you will leave humbled knowing how small we all are in this infinite universe. Our guide’s laser pointer easily traced constellations and zodiac signs while also pointing to stars and planets filling us with a wealth of astrological knowledge. This is the best stargazing we have ever experienced.
DAY TWO:
Rise and Shine!
After a good night’s sleep in a comfortable bed, you’ll be ready for another adventure! Head to the lobby at Autocamp for complimentary coffee and get your fire going in time for breakfast. We made delicious breakfast tacos!
Art Viewing
Reminiscent of Burning Man, the 28-foot-tall transmission sculpture stands erect in the middle of the desert, on private property (so please be mindful), instantly commanding your attention. This breathtaking masterpiece is surely worth the thirteen-minute drive from Autocamp and is the perfect place to set your intentions for another magical day ahead.
Head to Palm Springs
Upon arrival, embark on the Murray Canyon Trail, one of my absolute favorite hikes in the area. This four-mile in-and-out hike will get your feet wet- I opted to walk in water shoes just in case I slip in the several stream crossings on the route. The picturesque trail will keep your senses piqued as you walk through clusters of fan palms, scramble rocks, cross streams, and ultimately get to the Seven Sisters Falls.
Replenish Your Calories
For a great meal, head to Maleza and enjoy your Baja-inspired lunch in a vibrant setting overlooking the Drift Hotel’s pool. For a post-hike carb consumption treat, eating here is a great choice. We loved everything from their homemade salsa and guacamole to their tacos and burgers. Even the Cesear salad was extra special!
Check Into Your VRBO Rental
Palm Springs has no shortage of well-appointed homes that deliver a great stay. We loved renting the Palmetto House and utilized its large wrap-around couch to watch a movie, its spacious kitchen to prepare a family dinner together, and the well-heated pool for dips and laps.
DAY THREE:
Bon Jour!
Grab a cup of Joe at Mon Amour, a charming French Bistro with a quaint patio and inviting indoor space. Of course, a freshly baked chocolate croissant with your latte is a must!
Enjoy a Delicious Breakfast
You’ll love starting your day in Thirsty Palms‘ lively setting as you nosh over their generous portions of delectable breakfast dishes. The shakshuka, avocado-caprese toast, lox bagel, and salmon benedict were all a big hit. You’ll leave well-satiated and prepared for your next escapade in nature!
Challenge Yourself
Willis Palm Loop, a four-mile loop trail, is quite challenging mainly because of its endless sandy trails that make walking more difficult. The first two miles are a redundant barren nature scene making you wonder whether you should continue or turn back. However, once you ascend the five-hundred-foot mountain your hard work will be rewarded by a glorious breeze and breathtaking views. This trail is one of those that provides life lessons- will you give up when things suck? who are you when times get tough? Looking down at where you started from the top is always a good feeling.
Cool Off and Fuel Up!
There’s no doubt that you’ll be hot and hungry after a difficult morning hike. Grab some smoothies and acai bowls at Fresh Juice Bar and load up on some calories with huge sandwiches at Sherman’s Deli (skip the massive line by ordering ahead).
Chill
Head back to your rental house and relax, you’ve earned it!
Can You Escape?
Escape the Room is the ultimate team-building activity. I love booking these for my family whenever possible as working together to solve clues (difficult ones I might add) always brings us together. This time we opted for “Merlins Magic School” and for the first time EVER we escaped the room! (insert shrieks of joy here)
End the Day with a Gourmet Dinner
The well-executed French-focused menu at Le Vallauris and its romantic setting promise an extremely memorable meal. From start to finish we each loved every mouthful. The Black Magic oysters, beet and burrata salad, and hamachi topped with wasabi ice cream all set the expectations for an incredible meal ahead that included lobster ravioli, grilled salmon, beef filet, roasted half duck, and vegetable ravioli. This is a perfect choice for a last dinner
DAY FOUR:
Wake Up to a Locally Based Coffee Shop
Coffee at Koffi always delivers a creamy latte at just the right temperature in a neighborhood hub where locals flock to start their day with the right caffeine fix.
Bite Into a Perfect Petit-Dejeuner
Instantly transport yourself to a Parisian bistro at L’Atelier (not that you’ll ever want to leave Palm Springs). With too many tempting French-inspired options, order a bunch of dishes, and share. We loved the strawberries and cream crepes, as well as the Nutella ones. The quiche with blue cheese, potatoes, and caramelized onions was tres magnifique and so were the paninis we tried. Everything from the setting to the staff was tres bien!
Peruse the Shops and Sites on Palm Canyon Drive
Rather than hike to burn off the constant calorie consumption on this trip, you may instead opt to take a morning stroll down Palm Springs’ colorful main street. The sidewalks are lined with art galleries, eccentric shops, high-end retail stores, and even some commercial chains (like H & M and Free People).
Bobby K (center) Gre Records and Coffee (bottom left) are examples of unique shops you’ll find on Palm Canyon Drive
Palm Springs is always a good idea, especially during winter for ideal weather, clear skies, bonding time with Mother Earth, and making memories with your loved ones. It is one of the few places I return to again and again…Check out our past visits HERE and HERE and look out for future ones!