When is the best time to visit Palm Springs?
Discover the best time to visit Palm Springs with our month-by-month guide. Explore ideal weather, top events, festivals, fewer crowds, and the best travel deals for your perfect desert getaway.
When is the best time to visit Palm Springs?
Palm Springs is an iconic California desert destination that has captured the hearts of travelers for decades. Known for its endless sunshine, luxurious resorts, world-class golf courses, and mid-century modern architecture, it is a playground for both relaxation and adventure. From poolside lounging to desert hiking, art festivals, and nearby natural wonders like Joshua Tree National Park, Palm Springs offers a diverse range of experiences suitable for solo travelers, couples, families, and groups of friends.
With its subtropical desert climate, the best time to visit Palm Springs depends heavily on what you want to do. Are you chasing soaring summer poolside temperatures, mild shoulder-season weather for exploring outdoor attractions, or cooler winter months perfect for golf and hiking? This guide breaks down everything you need to know about visiting Palm Springs, including seasonal activities, month-by-month recommendations, top events, weather expectations, and travel tips.
Check out our Palm Springs vacation rentals to find the perfect home base for your trip. From luxurious villas with private pools to centrally located condos, we have options to suit every traveler.
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Best Time to Visit Palm Springs by Season
Spring (March – May)
Best for: Mild weather, outdoor activities, festival season
Spring is widely considered one of the best times to visit Palm Springs. During this period, temperatures are warm but comfortable, perfect for exploring the desert without the sweltering heat of summer. Highs range from 78–90°F (26–32°C), while lows hover between 55–65°F (13–18°C), making early mornings and evenings ideal for hiking or golfing.
Activities: Take advantage of this season for hiking in the Indian Canyons, enjoying early morning hot air balloon rides, or strolling through the downtown Palm Springs VillageFest. Spring is also festival season, with outdoor art markets, live music events, and the world-famous Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival kicking off in nearby Indio (late March/early April).
Travel tip: This is a shoulder season, so accommodations are slightly less crowded than summer, but still book ahead for popular villas.
Summer (June – August)
Best for: Poolside relaxation, luxury resort experiences
Summer in Palm Springs is undeniably hot, with temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F (38°C). Mornings and evenings are cooler, but the desert sun is intense, making poolside lounging, spa retreats, and indoor attractions the highlights of this season.
Activities: Indulge in luxury resort experiences, enjoy private chef services at your villa, or explore air-conditioned attractions like the Palm Springs Art Museum. For early risers, desert hikes can be rewarding, and evening stargazing is spectacular due to minimal light pollution.
Travel tip: While summer can be extreme, many travelers enjoy discounted rates at resorts. If you plan outdoor activities, schedule them early morning or after sunset.
Fall (September – November)
Best for: Comfortable outdoor exploration, hiking, golfing
Autumn is the perfect balance between summer heat and winter crowds. Highs range from 85–95°F (29–35°C), while lows sit between 65–75°F (18–24°C). The desert begins to cool down, making it ideal for exploring Joshua Tree National Park, taking scenic drives through Palm Desert, or attending fall art and cultural festivals.
Activities: Golf enthusiasts will find perfect conditions on world-renowned courses. Photographers can capture the stunning desert light, while foodies can enjoy local culinary festivals. Outdoor markets, craft fairs, and vineyard tours in nearby Temecula make autumn a versatile season for all types of travelers.
Travel tip: This season sees fewer tourists than peak summer, so it’s ideal for those seeking a peaceful getaway while still enjoying great weather.
Winter (December – February)
Best for: Mild desert escape, golf, cozy retreats
Winter in Palm Springs is mild and highly appealing for visitors from colder regions. Highs range from 68–75°F (20–24°C), with lows around 45–55°F (7–13°C). Outdoor adventures, such as hiking, golf, and exploring local botanical gardens, are comfortable without overheating.
Activities: Winter festivals and events include the Palm Springs International Film Festival and Festival of Lights. The season also attracts travelers looking for a cozy desert escape with warm days and cooler nights. Skiers from nearby mountains may combine a Palm Springs retreat with weekend trips to snowy resorts in Big Bear or Lake Arrowhead.
Travel tip: Book accommodations early for film festivals or holiday weekends to ensure access to top villas and resorts.
Month-by-Month Guide to Palm Springs
January:
Mild winter weather, perfect for golf, hiking, and poolside relaxation. Minimal crowds make this a peaceful month for exploring.
February:
Peak festival season; enjoy the Palm Springs Film Festival and Valentine’s Day getaways.
March:
Shoulder season begins; temperatures are ideal for hiking and early desert blooms. Nearby Coachella Valley comes alive with music festivals.
April:
Warm days, ideal for outdoor dining, visiting art galleries, and desert excursions.
May:
Early summer heat begins; mornings and evenings are comfortable for poolside lounging, golf, and hiking.
June:
High summer begins; focus on indoor attractions, resort amenities, or early morning outdoor activities.
July – August:
Hottest months; perfect for poolside relaxation, spa indulgence, and evening desert adventures.
September:
Slightly cooler, fewer crowds; great for photography, hiking, and golf.
October:
Comfortable temperatures; enjoy fall art festivals, outdoor markets, and scenic desert drives.
November:
Mild weather, ideal for exploring Joshua Tree, attending local craft fairs, and golf.
December:
Holiday season; Palm Springs Festival of Lights, cozy villas, and mild desert days make it a magical escape.
Travel Tips for Palm Springs
Packing: Lightweight, breathable clothing for summer; layers for cooler winter nights. Always include sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen.
Transportation: Renting a car is recommended to explore Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Joshua Tree National Park, and nearby attractions.
Accommodation: Browse Palm Springs vacation rentals for villas with private pools, modern amenities, and central locations.
Activities & Things to Do by Season
Spring Desert hikes, Coachella, Village Fest, art markets Summer Pool lounging, spa retreats, early morning desert hikes Fall Golf, photography, scenic drives, fall festivals Winter Film festivals, Festival of Lights, golfing, cozy villa retreats
Why Palm Springs Is a Year-Round Destination
Palm Springs can be enjoyed year-round, but the experience varies depending on the season:
Spring & Winter: Best for outdoor activities, festivals, and mild weather.
Summer: Ideal for poolside luxury, indoor activities, and resorts.
Fall: A quieter season with excellent weather for outdoor adventures.
No matter when you visit, Palm Springs offers a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and luxury. Book your stay at one of our Palm Springs vacation rentals for access to private pools, modern amenities, and central locations that put all of the city’s attractions within reach.
Vacation rentals in Palm Springs
