Things To Do
in Desert Hot Springs
Desert Hot Springs is a small city located in Riverside County, California, known for its natural hot mineral springs. It attracts visitors looking for relaxation and therapeutic treatments at its numerous spa resorts. The area is surrounded by stunning desert landscapes, with opportunities for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
Desert Hot Springs is a peaceful oasis for those seeking to unwind and recharge in a serene environment.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a calming soak in the natural hot springs. Enjoy a fresh breakfast at a local café nearby.
Explore the nearby Desert Hot Springs Spa Hotel for their stunning pools and wellness treatments. Take a leisurely hike in the surrounding desert trails to appreciate the beautiful scenery.
Dinner at a local restaurant featuring Southwestern cuisine is a must. End your night with stargazing in the clear desert skies.
Get your adrenaline pumping with an early morning hike in the Joshua Tree National Park. Take in the unique rock formations and picturesque views.
Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch within the park, surrounded by beautiful desert wildlife. Visit the nearby Cholla Cactus Garden for stunning photo opportunities.
Return to Desert Hot Springs for a relaxing soak in the thermal mineral pools. Treat yourself to dinner at a charming restaurant that offers local artisan dishes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to natural hot springs and spas for relaxation and wellness
- Affordable real estate compared to nearby cities like Palm Springs
- A warm desert climate, ideal for those who enjoy sunny weather
- Scenic views of the San Jacinto Mountains and the desert landscape
- A growing artistic community with local galleries and events
- Limited job opportunities and economic diversity
- Hot temperatures during summer months can be extreme
- Fewer amenities and services compared to larger cities
- Potential for water scarcity issues in the desert environment
- Some areas may have a higher crime rate than surrounding regions
Best Activities in Desert Hot Springs
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the unique rock formations and diverse plant and animal life in this iconic national park.
Embark on a guided horseback ride through the picturesque desert landscape, offering a memorable outdoor experience.
Take a scenic tram ride to Mount San Jacinto State Park, where you can indulge in hiking trails and breathtaking vistas.
Tours
Uncover the best of Desert Hot Springs with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Desert Hot Springs
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque national park known for its otherworldly landscapes and stunning sunset views.
Home to the Thousand Palms Oasis, offering beautiful palm tree-lined trails and unique wildlife viewing opportunities.
Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and San Gorgonio Wilderness.
Food in Desert Hot Springs
Desert Hot Springs Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy milkshake made with locally grown dates, offering a perfect combination of sweet and creamy flavors. Don't miss trying this delightful treat at Windy Point Restaurant & Lounge.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked ribs rubbed with savory Southwestern spices and smothered in tangy BBQ sauce, a must-try at Los Arcos Authentic Mexican Restaurant.
A refreshing and unique salad made with fresh cactus, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, available at El Portal Café.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Desert Hot Springs better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore a variety of locally grown fruits, vegetables, and artisanal products at this vibrant farmer's market, held every Saturday. Don't miss the food stalls offering delicious street foods like local tacos, tamales, and fresh fruit juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Desert Hot Springs, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when conversing.
It is courteous to show respect for local traditions and customs, such as being mindful of cultural events or practices observed in the community.
Being mindful of quiet hours, especially in residential areas or during designated times, is considered respectful in Desert Hot Springs.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Desert Hot Springs with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Desert Hot Springs
Ensure a smooth experience
In Desert Hot Springs, tipping is a common practice in the service industry. It is customary to tip around 15-20% in restaurants, bars, and for services such as haircuts, spa treatments, and tours.
Payment in Desert Hot Springs is generally made using credit or debit cards, although cash is also widely accepted. Many businesses and restaurants in the area also accept digital payments and mobile wallets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Desert Hot Springs.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is the best time to visit Desert Hot Springs because the weather is warm and there are plenty of events and festivals. The wildflowers are in bloom, creating a beautiful sight.
Fall is another great time to visit Desert Hot Springs as the weather is mild and pleasant. The crowds are thinner, and it's an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the nearby Joshua Tree National Park.
Winter is a popular time for snowbirds to visit Desert Hot Springs to escape the colder temperatures elsewhere. The daytime temperatures are still warm, and the nights can get chilly. It's a great time for relaxing in the hot springs.
Summer can be very hot in Desert Hot Springs, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F (37.8°C). However, it's a good time for those looking for a quieter and more affordable visit, and the area's spas offer a refreshing retreat from the heat.
Desert Hot Springs at Night
Hiking in Desert Hot Springs
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail that follows Mission Creek through a beautiful canyon, offering stunning views and a moderate hike.
A network of trails in Palm Springs featuring lush palm oases, water sources, and unique rock formations ideal for hiking.
Famous for its unique Joshua Trees and striking rock formations, this park has numerous trails suitable for all levels of hikers.
An oasis in the desert featuring a variety of habitats, this area has hiking trails that allow visitors to experience diverse wildlife.
Home to a variety of ecosystems, the preserve features trails that can be explored to see unique desert flora and fauna.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Desert Hot Springs through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Desert Hot Springs by plane.
The nearest airport, located approximately 10 miles from Desert Hot Springs, offering flights to various domestic and international destinations.
One of the largest and busiest airports in the world, located about 120 miles from Desert Hot Springs, serving numerous international and domestic routes.
Situated approximately 130 miles from Desert Hot Springs, this airport provides a wide range of international and domestic flights.
Located around 80 miles from Desert Hot Springs, this airport offers flights to numerous domestic and some international destinations.
About 100 miles from Desert Hot Springs, this airport is another option for international and domestic flights, primarily serving the Orange County area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Desert Hot Springs, representing a significant portion of the population.
The second largest demographic group, primarily consisting of individuals of European descent.
A notable portion of the population representing individuals of African descent.
A smaller demographic group, including individuals with roots in various Asian countries.
A very small but significant demographic group representing indigenous peoples.
Includes individuals who identify with multiple races or other racial categories.
The Soul of Desert Hot Springs
Discover the essence of Desert Hot Springs through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport played in schools and recreational leagues throughout Desert Hot Springs.
Widely enjoyed at youth and adult levels, with various local clubs and leagues offering opportunities for play.
Played at community courts, with both casual play and organized tournaments available.
Desert Hot Springs is home to several golf courses, attracting enthusiasts of all skill levels.
A favored sport among residents, with leagues for adults and youth, particularly in the summer months.
Popular due to the warm climate, with community pools and local swim teams providing facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Desert Hot Springs.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Desert Hot Springs offer a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, from fresh salads to plant-based entrees, ensuring that those with dietary preferences have plenty of options to choose from.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy their dining experience at various establishments in Desert Hot Springs, with a range of gluten-free dishes and menus designed to cater to their dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Desert Hot Springs with these cultural adventures.
