Ready to trade your everyday routine for sunshine, poolside lounging, and a serious change of scenery? Summer in Palm Springs is more than just hot weather. It’s stylish stays, beautiful views, and endless things to do, if you know where to look. Whether you’re here for the art, the fashion, the food, or just some quality time by the pool, this desert city delivers. With a summer rental from Arrived, your trip gets even better.
Start the Day on the Trail
Summer hiking in Palm Springs requires a little planning, but it’s absolutely worth the early wake-up call. With the sun rising before 6 a.m., you have a solid window for getting outside before the heat settles in. One of the most popular and rewarding hikes is the Indian Canyons. Specifically, Palm Canyon Trail is great for spotting wildlife, seeing the famous California Fan Palms, and walking through genuine oases. Murray Canyon Trail is another good option, with fewer people and even the chance of seeing a bighorn sheep if you’re lucky.
If you’re staying close to downtown, the Museum Trail provides a quick, steep climb that delivers sweeping views of the city below. It’s short but intense, and ideal if you’re looking for a workout to start the day. For something more relaxed and scenic, the Andreas Canyon Trail is an easy loop through lush greenery and palm groves that feels miles away from the desert heat.
No matter where you go, bring lots of water, wear sunscreen, and start early. Most trails close by mid-morning during summer for safety, and for good reason. But if you plan your hike right, the desert rewards you with a peaceful start to the day and views that stay with you long after you’ve left.
Shop Vintage Finds in Retro Paradise
Palm Springs is a vintage lover’s dream. If you’re into unique fashion, mid-century design, or just like the thrill of the hunt, summer is actually a great time to explore the area’s vintage stores. Start your day early and browse the shops before the sun is at its peak, or head out in the cooler hours of the afternoon when the air conditioning is a welcome bonus.
The Uptown Design District is packed with must-visit shops that carry everything from designer finds to retro dresses and statement sunglasses. The Frippery is one of the local staples. It’s where you’ll find color, prints, and timeless Palm Springs style all in one spot. Mitchells Palm Springs is another standout for bold vintage fashion and accessories that practically shout California cool.
Beyond clothing, the city is filled with mid-century modern home decor, furniture, and art pieces. If you’re staying in one of our stylish Arrived rentals and fall in love with a look, there’s a good chance you’ll find something similar for sale in town. Shopping vintage here is an experience that gives you a real feel for what makes Palm Springs special.
Get to Know the Local Art Scene
Palm Springs is an art town. You may not think of it that way at first, but give it a day or two and you’ll start seeing it everywhere. From murals on downtown buildings to galleries tucked between boutiques, creativity thrives here year-round. The Palm Springs Art Museum is a great place to begin. It has a mix of contemporary and Native American art, rotating exhibits, and even a sculpture garden. It’s air-conditioned, walkable, and located near downtown.
If you’re more into street art or local creators, check out some of the smaller galleries and studios throughout the city. Even just walking around neighborhoods like the Design District, you’ll find design-forward shops that double as art spaces.
And for something really fun, take part in a local art event if your trip lines up. Art walks and open studio nights happen throughout the summer and give you a chance to meet artists, ask questions, and maybe even take a piece home with you. Art is part of the fabric of this town, and summer gives you the breathing room to explore it at your own pace.
Attractions That Beat the Heat
There’s more to Palm Springs than lounging by the pool, and the city offers plenty of attractions perfect for summer visitors. When it comes to beating the heat, you can’t miss the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. It takes you from the desert floor up to the cool heights of Mount San Jacinto State Park in just a few minutes. Up top, you’ll find miles of hiking trails, a visitor center, and temperatures that are often 30 degrees cooler than in town.
Another great stop is The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in nearby Palm Desert. It’s ideal for early mornings with kids and offers a mix of animals, desert gardens, and interactive experiences. Summer visitors will find smaller crowds and better opportunities to get up close with the animals.
If you’re looking for air-conditioned escapes, the Palm Springs Air Museum is a great choice. It houses one of the largest collections of WWII aircraft in the country, and it’s surprisingly engaging even if you’re not a huge history buff. Combine that with the city’s many boutique museums and quirky roadside attractions, and you’ve got more than enough to fill your itinerary with cool, creative fun.
Take a Day Trip to Joshua Tree
Just under an hour from Palm Springs is Joshua Tree National Park, a world of striking desert landscapes, massive boulders, and those iconic twisted trees. While it can be hot during the summer months, a day trip is still possible with some smart planning. Head out early and stick to shaded or shorter trails like Hidden Valley or Barker Dam. Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and maybe even a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic areas.
Joshua Tree isn’t just about hiking. It’s also a hub for artists, musicians, and offbeat culture. On your way there or back, swing through the town of Joshua Tree and check out local shops like the Joshua Tree Coffee Company or grab a bite at Crossroads Cafe. If you’re into art, the Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Art Museum is a quirky must-see that blends large-scale installations with the surreal desert landscape. Stop by local boutiques or galleries featuring desert-made goods and handcrafted items. Whether you’re snapping photos of the landscape or just enjoying the calm, expansive views, a quick trip to Joshua Tree adds a memorable touch to any Palm Springs summer getaway.
Celebrate with Summer Events
Summer in Palm Springs comes with its own calendar of events, and if you time it right, you can be part of some great local happenings. Foodie Fridays are a favorite for both locals and visitors. Hosted at various spots across town, these events showcase local chefs, pop-up kitchens, and sometimes live music. They offer a casual, delicious way to try something new without needing a reservation or a big plan.
Restaurant Week is another highlight that usually kicks off in early summer. Dozens of restaurants across the city participate, offering special menus and fixed pricing. It’s a great chance to sample high-end dining or finally try that place you’ve had your eye on. From casual Mexican spots to fine dining under the stars, there’s a little something for every palate.
If you’re visiting in August, Splash House is one of the biggest events of the season. It’s a multi-day pool party and music festival held across several Palm Springs resorts. Even if you’re not attending, the city buzzes with energy that weekend, and many local businesses get in on the fun with themed menus, parties, and events.
VillageFest is also worth checking out. Held every Thursday night year-round, this street fair takes over Palm Canyon Drive with vendors, food, and entertainment. It has a laid-back community vibe that makes it easy to browse, snack, and enjoy a warm desert evening. Palm Springs knows how to make summer feel festive, and these events are proof of that.
Book Your Summer Stay with Arrived
A great summer in Palm Springs starts with the right home base. At Arrived, we offer a wide range of vacation rentals in Palm Springs that make it easy to settle in and feel right at home. Whether you want a modern villa with panoramic views or a cozy condo with retro flair, you’ll find something that fits your style and your summer plans.
Our homes come with everything you need to stay comfortable in the summer heat. Many include private pools, shaded patios, and large windows that frame the desert beauty without letting in the heat. Inside, you’ll find fully equipped kitchens, high-speed internet, and thoughtfully curated spaces that invite you to relax and recharge. We even offer pet-friendly rentals, so your dog doesn’t have to miss out on the fun.
Being close to the action is another perk. Whether you want to walk downtown, head out for a hike, or explore nearby towns, our homes put you in a great spot to do it all. Plus, our team is here to help every step of the way, from choosing the right property to making sure your stay goes smoothly.
We know that every guest is different, so we take pride in offering a personalized approach. Want help finding a home with a chef’s kitchen or a quiet workspace? We’ve got it covered. Our Palm Springs weekly rentals are regularly maintained and fully stocked, so you’ll walk into a clean, welcoming space every time. Summer in Palm Springs is about ease, comfort, and enjoying the little things, and we’re here to make sure you get the most out of all of it.
Make This Summer One to Remember
Palm Springs may heat up in the summer, but so does the fun. With early morning hikes, daytime adventures, vibrant local events, and stylish spaces to call your own, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of your vacation. Whether you’re coming for the food, the fashion, the art, or just the sunshine, there’s something here for you. Book your summer rental in Palm Springs with Arrived and start planning your perfect desert escape today!
Are you looking for a way to make some extra income during the year? Do you own a property in Palm Springs? If so, providing your property as a vacation rental for short-term renters is a great way for the property to remain in use and help with your return on the investment. Many of our vacation rental owners utilize our property management services that let them sit back and have us do the heavy lifting. Take a look at what exactly you can find when you choose Arrived for your Palm Springs vacation rental property management:
Offering an Online Presence for Your Home
Owning a vacation rental property is just the first step of many when it comes to managing it. Quite a bit of details will need to be considered and taken care of. Our team will first provide and manage an online presence for your property. This includes staging a property listing on our website with our other homes. Having a property listing is the perfect way for potential renters to be introduced to the home. They will be able to browse photos of the home, read through amenities, and take a virtual walk through to know exactly what your home has to offer. Renters will also rest easy finding your home on a trusted resource such as our listing site when it comes to booking the property.
Managing Reservations for the Property
Our property management services also handle all reservation with your guests. We understand you must be busy with your daily life so our team manages each individual reservation. This includes helping renters with questions they have, helping them secure the reservation, and helping with any questions they can have during their stay. We are just one phone call away to help with anyone booking a reservation at your home. While we may reach out to you with specific home related questions we are typically able to handle most renter requests with ease.
Rental Cleaning
Cleanliness is an important aspect of any reservation. No one wants to book a stay at a property when they know it has not been cleaned in ages. Our property management team makes sure that your property is clean every single time a renter is about to arrive. Our cleaning time will clean out the home after every reservation to ensure all surfaces and floors are disinfected. We have a trusted team who handle most of our property cleanings so you will not have a random individual in your home every time cleaning it out. We take care of the dirty work so you don’t have to.
Exterior Maintenance
Over time the front and backyards of your property will need some maintenance to look as fresh as can be. Even in Palm Springs where most homes have palm trees and shrubs there will need to be monthly maintenance. We will make sure that all trees and shrubs are trimmed nicely to offer that perfect touch to the exterior. Grass yards will also be taken care of with frequent mowing. We understand that the front yard will need to be looking its best to fall in line with HOA requirements and to have your renters want to return time after time again.
Staging Your Home
Your vacation home may need a little help with staging and that is perfectly reasonable. We offer privately owned homes in our portfolio so our guests can experience homes that are not cookie cutter and instead have individual features. Staging can always help set up furniture and décor in your home in ways that are designed to attract the eye’s attention. Renters will be browsing through photos of your home and clean and staged rooms will help get that attention. In addition to staging we will also help with photography for your photos. We can offer recommendations and support in how you want your home to appear. This typically is recommendations such as professional photography that has every corner of your home being shown off. Professional photos and perfect staging tends to bring in more renters to our vacation rentals.
Pool Services
Most homeowners in Palm Springs know that it can get hot during the year so most people buy swimming pools. This is another part of the home that will need consistent upkeep and our team is here to help. We are able to provide monthly pool services to make sure the water is always clean and ready for your next guests. Of course, hot tubs are always included too for the cool nights during the winter and spring.
Choose Our Management Services Here in Palm Springs
Now that you have seen a bit of our management services you can prepare your home for its next guests. Let our team help you make the highest return on your property investment.
For most people, Valentine’s Day is often an exercise in trying to stay warm, with February serving as the coldest and dreariest month of the year, so if you live in a cold climate and you are thinking of ways to spoil your Valentine, choosing a Palm Springs vacation will make all the difference. As ice may be blanketing your steps, the only ice we encounter in our Arrived vacation rentals will be the cubes that will keep your mojitos and margaritas chilled to the right temperature! This guide to spoiling your loved one with a Palm Springs getaway and a stay in our Arrived vacation rentals will most definitely earn you “the best gift giver award” for 2025 and make this year’s Valentine’s Day one that will never be forgotten.
Follow Traditions with Breakfast in Bed
Traditions become traditions because they work, and while your Valentine slumbers a little longer, you can be puttering around our fully equipped kitchens, preparing a breakfast feast that, of course, must include a mimosa to be complete. Not everyone is handy in the kitchen, and for those who might worry that your cooking skills could be harmful to your favorite Valentine, food delivery options can help save some lives! We’re sure you can handle the mimosa making part on your own though, so you will still be creating something that will make her feel spoiled.
Day Spa Dreams
Every woman alive (and many men) dream about a day spa experience such as the one they can enjoy at The Spa at Séc-he, located at 200 E Tahquitz Canyon Way. Offering over 70,000 square feet of spaces designed to spoil and pamper in the most sumptuous of ways, the site of Aqua Caliente Hot Mineral Spring is where their story began. Their treatments include a long list of ones you’ve probably enjoyed before and an even longer one of new things that must be tried, including a variety of couple’s packages that will ensure that you both feel spoiled and renewed. Their couple’s massage & aromatic bath promises to take you to new levels of relaxation, but if you really want to spoil her, consider purchasing a private Spa Suite and experience all they have to offer in the way of spa services.
Yet Another Form of Ice We Enjoy in Palm Springs
Yes, you have given up icy streets in favor of balmy temperatures in the mid-70s, and we have already discussed the ice in your refreshing tropical beverages, but the ice we have in mind now glitters brightly on fingers, wrists, and earlobes. Maybe your ultimate gift is going to be a proposal of forever or maybe you just want to make your spouse realize that you love him or her more today than you did when you both said, “I do.” In either case, a visit to the Gold Store, located at 190 S Palm Canyon Drive, will ensure that your Valentine is spoiled in all the best ways. Offering a selection of vintage, antique, and custom designs sure to make her heart skip a beat, THIS may be the highlight of an adventure filled with many wonderful moments.
The Dinner She Will Never Forget
Even as you started the day with breakfast in bed, ending the evening with a special meal is highly recommended and a dinner at Copley’s on Palm Canyon, located at 621 Palm Canyon Drive is our first choice for romance. Once a part of Cary Grant’s private estate, this fabulous restaurant has won a place in Open Table’s Top 100 romantic restaurants as well as their Diner’s Choice award, and having enjoyed more than a few meals there, we can heartily agree with both.
Their standard menu is special, but at the holidays, including Valentine’s Day, they often create a special holiday menu that elevates the already elevated to the next level of “Oh my gosh, I’ve just died and gone to heaven!” Eclectic and unique, the regular menu offers everything from organic chicken schnitzel to roasted half Muscovy duck, and if you don’t save room for dessert, you will regret it forever. Fancy restaurants often seem to forget the dessert portion of a meal, perhaps wanting the table free for the next guests, but Copley’s menu deserves to be pored over, with each diner ordering their own dessert and sharing.
Romance Begins at Home with Arrived
Coming home to the luxuries we offer in our Arrived Palm Springs love nests will bring even more spoiling moments. Offering a plethora of romantic amenities, guests can snuggle in front of a roaring fire in the living rooms or cuddle together around a firepit in the backyard. There are swimming pools, hot tubs, and if three’s company when it comes to you, your Valentine, and your favorite fur baby, many are also pet friendly. Reserve your favorite escape today!
Travelers love to document their trip with pictures. Luckily, our phones all have cameras now, making it easy to snap a quick pic on the go. It is especially important to document your trip during the holiday season to cherish your time with family. This is a beautiful destination during the winter and offers many incredible Palm Springs photos spots. Below, we’ve listed the top spots for a family holiday photo in Palm Springs.
The Living Desert WildLights
Palm Springs is home to many incredible attractions in the area that are each a joy to see in person. This includes The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. You will find sprawling exhibits with exotic animals and beautifully maintained gardens to explore. The Living Desert WildLights focuses on natural conservation to help the area flourish. Part of that is by sponsoring events throughout the year, including WildLights. This holiday event turns the zoo into a sprawling holiday light show that features over three million holiday lights. Each of the zoo’s exhibits will be decorated in delightful holiday lights and displays, giving you a whole new perspective of the zoo at night. Don’t forget to see the many exotic animals during your visit, including the rhino, giraffe, and more.
A favorite display returning once again for the 2024 season is the Tunnel of Lights, where you will find is a perfect backdrop for your family photo. Picture a tunnel of countless holiday lights that surround you and your family. This will make for the perfect Christmas card or a photo to simply cherish any memories you have of the trip. Don’t forget to also check out the Dazzling Gift or the holiday themed G-Scale train. You can stay warm during your visit with hot cocoa or visit the s’mores station. A full bar is available for adults aged 21 years or older too.
WildLights will be open on select nights from November 26th through December 30th. The zoo will be closed on Christmas Day and December 19th will be an adults-only night. Tickets for WildLife start at $15.95 per person and are separate from day passes for The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. Come take some pictures of this local favorite event!
Miracle Pop Up at Truss & Twine
If your family is all over 21, you will find that the Miracle Pop Up at Truss & Twine is the place to be. Each year, Miracle comes back again as a Christmas-themed cocktail bar that appears inside Truss & Twine here in Palm Springs. The masterful menu is curated by mixologist Joann Spiegel, who has created a menu of holiday inspired cocktails and drinks. Favorites from the previous year often make a comeback along with brand new drinks ready for the holiday season. You will find that the Christmas décor inside Miracle to be the perfect background for a family photo. This is a perfect option for when the kids have all grown up and are ready for a night out with mom and dad!
Santa Paws 5K and Elf Dash
Palm Springs also hosts the annual Santa Paws 5K and Elf Dash each year with it returning once again in 2024. This is not your typical 5K race and instead a 5K where your family pups are allowed to join for the fun. This annual event supports Guide Dogs of the Desert. Santa Paws 5K and Elf Dash encouraged participants to also show up in their best holiday costumes to have a little fun. There is nothing better than seeing the family with big smiles on their faces in a family photo with the family dog and loveable costumes. Getting a photo at this event just says your family knows how to have a good time!
Photos with Santa
You can also get photos with Santa Claus as well during your time in Palm Springs. He will make an appearance for the month of December over at The Shops at Palm Desert. Grab your family and get a photo with himself or let the kids take all the fun. Mondays even allow your family dog to join in on the photo sessions! Each year, there is also a Pajama Party with Santa where you can show up in your pjs for the photo. The Gardens at El Paseo also has Santa on hand for a one day event in front of their huge holiday tree. You will even receive a framed photo with Santa.
Palm Springs Is Your Holiday Destination
The holidays at Palm Springs is the way to go this year. Grab the family for a picture and remember your journey here.
If you are looking to escape the hustle of the big city but still want a weekend full of luxury, you need to plan for a stay here in Palm Springs. Our Southern California home is the perfect place to getaway away and treat yourself to the finer things in life. Take a look at what your luxury weekend in Palm Springs can look like:
Luxury Vacation Rentals
Your luxury weekend starts by reserving one of our exclusive high-end rentals right here in Palm Springs. These luxury homes can be as big as 8-bedroom homes with sprawling open floor plans. Each property is professionally decorated and will put local resorts to shame. Most luxury homes we offer feature huge outdoor pools with heating options (just in case for the cooler California winters). Additional amenities featured in these homes can include mini-golf courses onsite, workout equipment, game rooms, vaulted ceilings, backyards with beautiful mountain views, and much more. We make sure all of your needs are taken care of when you reserve one of these premium homes.
Fine Dining Restaurants
Palm Springs is full of the finer things of life, including fine dining restaurants. Make sure to stop by one of these locations such as Workshop Kitchen + Bar for an incredible experience. This local restaurant features New American cuisine that is paired with seasonal cocktails that use fresh ingredients. The restaurant is located in a former movie theatre, but you would not be able to tell with the beautiful décor. Copley’s on Palm Canyon is another great fine dining restaurant that can be found on the former Cary Grant estate. You will have near-endless options for fine dining restaurants here in Palm Springs.
High-End Shopping
Perhaps the best spot in town for a selection of high-end shopping can be found over at the Uptown Design District. This shopping district features a variety of art galleries, high-end boutiques, and trendy restaurants for you to explore. Expect these shops and galleries to feature a mid-century modern style for which Palm Springs is known.
Enjoy Your Luxury Weekend in Palm Springs
As you can see, there is no shortage of high-end fun when you vacation to Palm Springs. Get ready for the weekend getaway of a lifetime when you choose from our selection of luxury vacation rentals right here in the desert.