Drea The weather is getting colder. Work, family and adulting is non-stop. You’re past the point of needing a break, but not sure where to start. What if I told you you could be floating in a sparkling pool, surrounded by stunning mountains in every direction, with your biggest decision being whether to order another cocktail or book an extra spa treatment? No stress. No waiting for anyone. Just you, the Palm Springs desert, and three glorious days all to yourself.
This could be you! I’ve visited Palm Springs in a variety of ways – girls trips, family trips, romantic weekends, and yes, even solo. Here’s what I learned – Palm Springs may be the perfect solo travel destination you haven’t considered yet.
Whether you’re newer to solo travel and looking for a confidence-building destination, or a seasoned solo traveler seeking a chill reset, Palm Springs checks all the boxes. It’s drivable for us West Coasters, it’s safe, walkable, and the vibe is definitely ‘do you.’
Keep reading for my perfect 3-day Palm Springs itinerary designed for solo travelers – including what to do, where to stay, and how to balance adventure with that down-time you so deserve. Of course, it can easily be tweaked to accommodate friends, significant other’s or family, but for today, we’re focusing on you!
For my full guide to solo travel for women over 35, start here →
Packing Smart Isn’t Just for the Big Trips
The same system that keeps my big trips light works for the weekend escapes too. One grab-and-go bag by the door and you’re gone. Here’s my free custom checklist.
Why Palm Springs Is Perfect for Solo Travelers
Palm Springs may be known for wild bachelorette weekends or spring break shenanigans, but there’s a lot more variety than the valley gets credit for. Downtown has plenty of shops, bars and restaurants but is small enough to be walkable and feels safe and welcoming. There’s also a variety of activities – from hiking, tennis and golf, to more relaxing options like spas and poolside relaxation. And while it’s convenient to have a car (driving is straightforward and parking is pretty easy to find), it’s just as easy to walk or uber to town depending on where you’re staying.
The Solo Travel Sweet Spot
It goes without saying (but I’ll say it anyway), doing a long weekend in Palm Springs is a great way to flex those solo-travel confidence muscles. It’s 72 hours, so not too much time solo to over-worry about. And with English being their primary language, you won’t have that barrier to contend with. Even better – if you’re in the southwest, it’s an easy drive, so you aren’t dealing with airports or cross-country travel. If you do fly in, though, their airport is small and manageable. Everything about Palm Springs makes it the goldilocks city – not too small, not too big, but just right for a solo travel bite.
It gives you just enough time to sample solo travel pacing. You have permission to do what you want, at your own pace, even if that is nothing at all! Some of my most relaxing times in Palm Springs were reading a book by the pool, letting the sun soothe me and the glistening water wash away my stress. Going solo doesn’t mean it has to be all go-go-go.
Where to Stay in Palm Springs: Choosing Your Solo Base
You have a few options when choosing your solo base. The first is deciding on accommodation style, and the other is what part of town to be in.
Hotel vs Vacation Rental?
I’ve done both of these, and the right answer for you comes down to a few things. One is cost, as depending on the time of year, a hotel may be more cost-effective than renting a house. If cost isn’t a factor, then think about how much solitude you’re looking for.
The benefits of a hotel are they have built-in company – other people at the pool, in their restaurants, and even the friendly staff. If safety worries you about traveling solo, hotels can be a good option because they often have some security onsite.
A house, on the other hand, makes it easy to fully disconnect. You can make your own food, have more space to lounge and recharge, and have the pool all to yourself. All this while experiencing that iconic midcentury modern Palm Spring lifestyle.
Location, Location, Location
There are quite a few neighborhoods to choose from for a long weekend in Palm Springs when going solo. For easiest walkability, somewhere downtown near or on Palm Canyon Drive is great. If you want to be near there in a walkable distance, neighborhoods like the Historic Tennis Club, Old Las Palmas, and Movie Colony are all iconic neighborhoods. They’re more quiet, and have their own mid-century modern character that you’d expect in the desert.
A bit further out is Ruth Hardy Park or Tahquitz River Estates, which is more south. These are about a 15-minute walk from downtown. The good news about going south is also the wind factor – Palm Springs can get pretty decent desert winds sweeping through the valley, and they’re typically stronger in the north.
I once stayed a bit farther from downtown in Sunmor, and the house and neighborhood were great (and prices were a bit more affordable), but I was dependent on driving or ubering.
When you’re looking, pay attention to the city, as Palm Desert will look quite close but is really 20-30 minutes away.
If You Prefer a Hotel: Boutique Options
If you go the hotel route, a boutique hotel is a fun way to add character and get a unique Palm Springs solo experience. There are a lot of great boutique hotels in Palm Springs, but here’s a few to start with, each with their own vibe:
- Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs
- The Colony Palms
- Holiday House
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrive, Settle In, and Explore Downtown
You made it! On Day 1, it’s all about taking your time and settling in. Check in at either your hotel or vacation rental, decompress a bit from your travels, and congratulate yourself for making you-time.
Depending on when you get in, you may take an afternoon or evening walk downtown, checking out the shops and getting a feel for the city. It also gives you time to scout out a good dinner spot, as there are several solo-friendly restaurants in town. You can choose between places with great bar seating, lovely outdoor patios, or you might even find a spot like 4 Saints at the Kimpton, where you get a rooftop table so you can watch the sunset while you eat.
After your successful first solo meal, you can wind down by the pool, in the hotel lounge or back at your room or house. Bring a book or a journal, and don’t forget to look up. The stars in the desert sky are some of the best I’ve seen.
I like to take my first day easy. I usually don’t feel like I’m on vacation until I actually arrive, so I let myself ease into the trip. My pace slows, my mind starts to clear, and I realize I have uninterrupted me time. Before you go to sleep, thank yourself for making this trip a reality.
Day 2 – Morning Hike and Desert Adventure
Morning
Why not start off this morning with an activity to get you moving? You can find tennis or pickleball courts, head out for a round of golf, or if you’re like me, find a trail to hike. One of my favorites is Tahquitz Canyon. It’s only 2 miles and relatively easy, but the first half is uphill as you head up between two mountains, and are rewarded with the lovely 60ft Tahquitz Falls waterfall at the top.
Depending on when you go, you may have to criss-cross over the river – when I went I had to do that three or four times, but it was easy enough. There were plenty of people on the trail so hiking solo didn’t concern me like it would somewhere more remote. If going solo still makes you nervous, they also offer ranger-guided hikes. That way, you can get out there and enjoy the beauty of the desert but still feel safe and supported.
Admission is about $15, which supports the Agua Caliente band of Cahiulla Indians, as this is actually on the reservation. Annual passes and other discounts are available, so ask when you get there. I prefer going early before it gets too crowded and too hot, but check weather when you’re there as it will vary based on the time of year you visit. Parking is free and easy as they have a big lot.
Be sure to bring 32 oz of water (required!), tennis shoes or hiking shoes (no flip flops or heels allowed), a hat, and sunscreen. Regardless of the time of year, that desert sun is no joke.
After the hike, I like hitting up the local bagel spot, Townie’s Bagels for breakfast and a rest. You could also do this before to give you fuel for the trail.
Afternoon
With three days in the desert, you have a few options here. All of these are solo-traveler approved, no need to feel like you’re out of place in any of these locales.
- Chill Time – You’ve earned yourself a break, so in the afternoon, you can simply head back to the pool and rest.
- Pamper Time – You could also book yourself a massage at the spa, so you work all the kinks out of those muscles.
- Sightseeing Time – If you still want to see more of nature’s sights, you can head up on the Aerial Tramway. It’s only a 10-minute ride, but you end up at over 8500 feet, with temps being around 30 degrees cooler than in the city.
- Energizer Bunny Time – try another hike, like Andreas Canyon – easier and with slightly different scenery; or another activity completely like tennis or golf.
I personally like to mix up my days with activity and relaxation. If I hike in the am, I’ll chill or be pampered in the pm. I know people that like to go-go-go though, and if that’s you, you’ll be able to find plenty of things to do in Palm Springs.
Evening
You might want to take another sunset stroll through town and find a new restaurant to try. I recommend mixing it up. If you did a rooftop one night, try a patio the next. Birba has great Italian food and fun vibes, while Tropicale is a throwback with 1960’s supper club vibes. Both are great fun, with friends or solo!
Day 3 – Morning Market and Flexible Afternoon
The itinerary for your last day really depends on when you are leaving. I’ve laid this out as if you’re leaving in the evening, but you can easily adjust if leaving earlier or even the next morning.
Morning
You’ll want to get things packed up before check-out. Hotels will happily hold your luggage for you until you have to depart. Or, if you drive like I usually do, you can just throw your bag in your car.
I’d take this morning to find a nice spot to have breakfast or brunch. Sherman’s Deli is an institution, and Norma’s at the Parker is a swanky, lively brunch spot. If it’s a weekend, you may luck out with a farmer’s market or street fair to check out. Do any final shopping, find souvenirs, or just soak in the sights.
If your schedule allows, you may even have time to fit in one of the optional activities from yesterday. A quick hike at Andreas Canyon or a final spa treatment before you head home lets you make the most of your vacation time. Too often people think a travel day means zero fun, but you can definitely make the most of your time before you have to go!
The nice part of keeping this day flexible is you can see how you feel at this point, and check in on what you wanted to do but didn’t get to. The benefit of being solo is no one is here to say what you have to do, need to see, can’t miss. This is all about you and what you’re in the mood for at that time! Zero guilt, full indulgence.
Optional Day 4: Joshua Tree National Park
There’s so much to do in Palm Springs, I wouldn’t recommend leaving the city if you have 3 days or less. If you decide to add on a day, though, Joshua Tree would be a great addition. This National Park is only about 45 minutes from Palm Springs, and its scenery is so unique with huge rock formations (even one shaped like a heart), hiking trails, and yes, those spiky joshua trees everywhere!
Some key Joshua Tree spots to check out are the Cholla Cactus Garden at sunrise, Skull Rock, Arch (and Heart) Rock, and the Keys View lookout at sunset. While I felt solo at times, there were plenty of people visiting, so I never felt unsafe being by myself. In fact, it was pretty easy to befriend people on the trails and take pictures for each other!
I love making a trip out there, driving through roads where at times you feel like the only person in this vast desert landscape. It’s easy to find trails and parking near the trailheads, just have food and water as there’s no restaurant in the park! It’s also helpful to have google maps downloaded on your phone (and/or a paper map from the visitor station), as sometimes reception is spotty.
Practical Tips for Palm Springs Solo Travel
When to Visit
I’ve been to Palm Springs in every season, but I like Spring and Fall best. You avoid the high 100+ temps of the summer, and steer clear of the desert chills that come in winter.
To Drive or Not to Drive
If you’re staying mainly in town, you don’t need a car, but if you want to do the Tramway, Joshua Tree, or even some of the hikes, I’d recommend having a car.
What to Pack for Desert Days (and Nights)
- Sun protection – sunscreen, hats, and UV proof clothes
- Layer up for big temperature swings – tank tops, hoodies, and jackets at hand
- Comfortable walking shoes – good tennis or hiking shoes for the trails, sandals or slides for around town
- Swimsuit – or two! You don’t want to visit Palm Springs without sampling a pool, spa, or both!
Palm Springs Solo Dining and Activities Guide
When dining solo, I alternate between eating at the bar or getting a table. It just depends on what vibe I’m going for. If you’re worried about crowds, aim for off-peak times, like 5:30pm. You may feel old (hello, Early Bird Special!), but besides making it easy to get a table, it also gives you time to finish and either walk or head back to your home base for some evening relaxation before bed. I also typically bring a book to restaurants, though I rarely use it. I think it’s my dining solo safety net! See, even after all these years of solo travel, I still have a little angst in there 😊.
As for specific places to go that are solo-friendly, here are some restaurants and dining styles to look out for:
- Bar seating or counter-service spots – built-in company from the bartender or other diners if you want it, but not forced to chat with others. You’re likely to see other solo diners there as well.
- Bar Cecil
- Jake’s
- Zin American Bistro
- Outdoor patios – I love dining outside, and the people watching is top notch. It makes dining solo fun – like you’re on a veranda watching the scene, vs at a restaurant by yourself.
- Birba
- Tropicale
- Cheeky’s Palm Springs
- Hotel restaurants – mix of travelers and locals, and likely more solo travelers. Very common for folks to dine alone here.
- Counter Reformation & Mini Bar at the Parker Palm Springs
- 4 Saints at the Kimpton Rowan
- El Jefe at Saguaro
Conclusion
A long solo weekend in Palm Springs checks all the boxes: adventure when you want it (those morning hikes!), pure relaxation when you need it (pool days for the win), and a destination that makes solo travel feel natural rather than nerve-wracking. Whether this is your first solo trip or your fiftieth, the desert has a way of giving you exactly what you need.
I’ve traveled to some pretty spectacular places solo, but there’s something about Palm Springs that hits different. Maybe it’s the permission to slow down. Maybe it’s the way the mountains make you feel both small and somehow more yourself. Or maybe it’s just really nice to have your own pool.
If you’re thinking about planning a solo trip to Palm Springs – or anywhere, really – I’m here for it. Feel free to reach out if you want custom trip planning help or just want to chat about solo travel logistics. I’d love to hear where you’re headed!
Wherever you go, however you do it, I want you to have a trip to remember.
Happy travels, kindreds!
RELATED POSTS
- Considering a desert getaway? If you’re wondering whether to visit Palm Springs or Palm Desert, this will help
- Palm Springs is a Weekend Getaway Trip for me, but there’s different types of solo trips depending on what you’re looking for. Here’s 6 Kinds of Solo Trips to Take
- Planning Tips
- Is this your first solo getaway? Take a look at my Beginner’s Guide to Solo Travel
- Scared to Travel Alone? Here’s How I Overcome the Anxiety
- Wondering why you should travel solo? Take a look at What I learned Traveling Solo 3 Months in Italy – spoiler alert, it’s more than that the pasta is amazing (though it really is dream-worthy)
- Check out everything you need to travel solo in my full guide
- Wondering how to stay active on your trip? Check out my post on How to Stay Fit on Your Trip – while still having fun!
- If Palm Springs isn’t for you, you can find more warm-weather getaways here:
- Live in San Diego and want other ideas close to home? Here are some fun day trips and great weekend trips from San Diego
- Take a look at my 2026 planning framework in How to Plan Your Best Travel Year
HELPFUL LINKS
Here are some helpful links for Palm Springs-specific info:
- Visit Palm Springs Official Tourism Site
- Hotels:
- Vacation Rentals: https://airbnb.com or https://vrbo.com
- Activities:
- Restaurant Reservations: Great to book reservations for meals on OpenTable and Resy https://www.opentable.com, https://www.resy.com
Ready to book? Here are my go-to resources for flights, packing and planning:
- Car, activity and hotel bookings: https://www.expedia.com, https://www.viator.com, https://www.tripadvisor.com
- Flight comparison: https://flights.google.com
- Save restaurants and your hotel in a Google Maps list. https://maps.google.com
- Favorite luggage: I love Away luggage, I have several sizes that work for different types of trips: https://www.awaytravel.com
- Travel planning app: TripIt is great for keeping all your bookings organized and keeping people up-to-speed: https://www.tripit.com
- Custom trip planning: Need help planning your weekend in Palm Springs? Contact me here for personalized itinerary assistance!
