Amid the high-energy soccer action sweeping Southern California, a sun-soaked escape is just a short drive away. In Greater Palm Springs, you can ease into your day with sparkling pools, indulge in rejuvenating spa experiences, explore a dining scene full of surprises, and discover so much more. Here’s your guide to a luxurious getaway, perfect for gearing up for the excitement or unwinding after the final whistle. 

Day 1 

Afternoon: Check In & Explore 

Ease into your stay by arriving early and taking advantage of everything Greater Palm Springs has to offer before your room is ready. Whether you opt for a leisurely brunch, a quick shopping spree, or a stop at a local coffee shop, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your first afternoon. Here’s our guide on things to do before check-in for some inspiration. 

When it’s time to settle in, choose from a collection of standout resorts that set the tone for a luxurious escape. Unwind in style at Thompson Palm Springs, take in sweeping views at The Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage, or embrace Spanish colonial charm at La Quinta Resort & Club. For family-friendly fun and expansive pools, Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas delivers, while Sensei Porcupine Creek offers a more serene, wellness-focused retreat. You’ll also find spacious grounds and endless amenities at JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa and Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa, Indian Wells. 

As the afternoon unfolds, head to El Paseo Shopping District for a little retail therapy. Browse designer favorites like Gucci and Louis Vuitton, alongside chic boutiques such as Trina Turk and Johnny Was. With palm tree–lined streets, public art, and plenty of places to pause in-between shops, it’s the perfect way to spend a leisurely afternoon. 

Pro tip: Time your arrival for early afternoon to beat peak check-in crowds and give yourself a few extra hours to explore the destination. 

Evening: Dine Under the Stars 

As the sun dips behind the mountains, ease into the evening with al fresco dining under the stars. Swaying palm trees, glowing fire pits, and twinkling lights set the scene for an unforgettable night out. 

For elevated views, seasonal cuisine, and great cocktails head to 4 Saints at the Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs. Tucked away and full of ambiance, Clandestino offers Mexican fine dining and refreshing margaritas in an intimate outdoor patio. Grapefruit Basil at Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa serves fresh, California-inspired flavors and innovative cocktails, all in a lush garden setting. 

For a stylish atmosphere, dine at The Pink Cabana at the Sands Hotel & Spa where you can dig into delicious Mediterranean cuisine, or enjoy a relaxed yet refined meal on the patio at Porta Via in Palm Desert. Craving beautiful views? La Quinta Cliffhouse delivers with its cliffside setting and panoramic vistas, which are especially magical at sunset. 

Pro tip: Make a reservation about 30–60 minutes before sunset to enjoy golden hour views as the sky shifts colors, then linger under the stars as the evening cools. 

DAY 2  

Morning: Play Your Way 

Spend the day out on the greens or behind the wheel with two unforgettable ways to play in Greater Palm Springs. Tee off at a nearby championship course like Indian Wells Golf Resort or Desert Willow Golf Resort, where lush fairways and mountain backdrops elevate every round. For a more modern golf experience, Escena Golf Club offers wide-open views and a sleek clubhouse, while PGA WEST is home to legendary courses that challenge and inspire players of all levels.  

Looking for more of an adrenaline rush? Head to the BMW Performance Center West in Thermal, where a variety of high-performance driving experiences put you in the driver’s seat. Try a guided off-road course, navigate tight turns on a professional track, and get a feel for different BMW models as you move through each experience. Cap it all off with an unforgettable hot lap alongside a professional instructor as they accelerate, drift, and push the limits around the track. 

Pro tip: Book tee times or driving experiences in advance and plan your visit for early morning to enjoy cooler temperatures. 

Afternoon: Recharge 

After an exciting morning activity, treat yourself to some well-deserved relaxation at one of Greater Palm Springs’ world-class spas. Rejuvenate with a signature massage, soothing facial, or restorative body treatment at Spa Esmeralda at Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa or enjoy luxurious treatments and peaceful surroundings at The Ritz-Carlton Spa. At The Spa at Séc-he, immerse yourself in soothing hot mineral spring waters and enjoy a tranquil escape that will leave you feeling completely relaxed and renewed. 

For more natural hot mineral spring experiences, you can soak and unwind at Azure Palm Hot Springs Resort & Day Spa Oasis, where warm mineral waters and serene landscapes offer a perfect reset. Discover additional mineral spring spas in our hot water guide for the ultimate soak. 

If you’ve worked up an appetite or crave a post-treatment snack, many spas offer light, nourishing lunch options. From refreshing smoothies to wholesome salads, these spas let you complement your treatments with flavors that leave you both satisfied and refreshed. 

Pro tip: Arrive a little early and take advantage of pre-treatment amenities like saunas, steam rooms, or Jacuzzis—perfect for enhancing the benefits of your treatment. 

Evening: Sunset Sips 

As the day winds down, raise a glass to the sunset with cocktails at one of Greater Palm Springs’ vibrant bars and restaurants. In Palm Desert, La Fe Wine Bar provides a cozy spot to savor wine and tapas as the evening sets in or sip craft cocktails and enjoy small bites on the rooftop patio at Pacifica Seafood Restaurant. 

Enjoy sweeping views with a cocktail at the stylish High Bar at the Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs, or head to the vibrant rooftop at Azucar at La Serena Villas for inventive cocktails and a lively atmosphere. For more elevated experiences with breathtaking views, check out our guide to the best rooftop bars and discover even more places to toast to a perfect weekend getaway. 

Pro tip: Try a flight of signature cocktails or a tasting menu to sample a variety of drinks while pairing them with small bites.