Palm Springs has been our go-to weekend escape for years, and for good reason! Just a two-hour drive from LA, it’s all sunshine, palm trees, and guacamole—what more could you ask for? Whether you're there for a quick getaway or a long, leisurely stay, I’ve got you covered with my top picks for where to eat, stay, and play in the desert. Let's do this!
COFFEE + BREAKFAST + BRUNCH:
Koffi – A local favorite for expertly brewed coffee and fresh pastries.
Cheeky’s – My go-to for a casual breakfast! There’s usually a wait, but it’s 100% worth it. Get the chilaquiles! If you miss breakfast, their sister restaurant Birba has you covered.
Norma’s – A must-visit inside The Parker. Think boozy brunch meets leisurely luxury, followed by a visit to the lemonade bar.
Kings Highway – A cozy, cash-only diner offering everything from avocado toast to Belgian waffles.
Townie Bagels – The spot for old-school, freshly made bagels when you need a quick bite.
Boozehounds – A stylish, dog-friendly brunch spot that’s as Instagrammable as it is delicious.
LUNCH:
So.Pa – An all-day outdoor restaurant serving incredible Middle Eastern fare in a dreamy setting.
Las Casuelas Terraza – A legendary family-owned Mexican spot in the heart of downtown, with an unbeatable patio vibe.
Heydey – The best smash burgers in Palm Springs. A must-try for burger lovers!
Real Deal Italian Deli – For when you need an authentic, satisfying Italian sandwich.
El Salvador Cafe – A hidden gem serving incredible pupusas and other Salvadoran specialties.
Gabino's Creperie – A food truck turned local favorite, serving delicious, savory, and sweet crepes.
DINNER:
Bar Cecil – This is the spot. Elevated Californian-American fare, killer cocktails, and fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies for dessert. Say less.
Rooster and the Pig – A Vietnamese-American restaurant with incredible sharing plates that will blow your mind.
Workshop Kitchen + Bar – A chic, minimalist-designed space serving seasonal dishes. If the octopus is on the menu, order it!
Melvyn’s – An iconic Palm Springs steakhouse located at the Ingleside Inn. Old-school elegance at its best.
Birba – The perfect place for pizza, wood-fired goodness, and strong cocktails.
4 Saints – Rooftop dining at the Kimpton with food that’s just as epic as the views.
Mr. Lyons – A modern steakhouse that delivers on all fronts.
Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey – A sleek, Scandinavian-designed sushi bar serving hand-crafted sushi with whiskey pairings.
WHERE TO DRINK:
Colony Palms – A perfect spot for a poolside cocktail and prime people-watching.
Cork & Fork – A charming wine bar in La Quinta with an excellent selection and next-level poke nachos.
El Jefe – Because no trip to the desert is complete without tacos, guacamole, and a killer margarita.
La Quinta Resort + Club – A sophisticated piano bar with a stellar wine list, plus multiple restaurants with gorgeous outdoor seating.
WHERE TO STAY:
Travlr Home Rentals – Impeccably designed vacation homes with the best vibes in town.
Colony Palms – My absolute favorite Palm Springs hotel. Small but stylish pool, amazing guac, and a prime location for exploring.
Rowan Palm Springs – A chic Kimpton property with great food and a Vegas-like party atmosphere.
Holiday House – A dreamy boutique hotel with a killer pool and unbeatable vibes.
La Quinta Resort + Club – A stunning resort outside of Palm Springs proper, ideal if you’re here for Coachella, the Indian Wells tennis tournament, or just a change of scenery.
And that’s a wrap on my favorite things to do in Palm Springs! If you’re looking for more city guides check these out:
- Gaby’s Guide to Los Angeles, CA
- Gaby’s Guide to Santa Ynez (and surrounding areas)
- Gaby’s Guide to Santa Barbara
- Gaby’s Guide to Ojai
- Gaby’s Guide to San Francisco, CA
- Gaby’s Guide to NYC
Did I miss anything? Shout it out in the comments below so I can go give it a try!!
Hi Gaby...thank you for posting some of your favorite places to eat. We are heading to PS for 2 glorious weeks in February 2016 so can't wait to try out a few of these eateries you have recommended.
omg 2 weeks?! you'll have the best time!! I'm jealous! Keep me posted with your favs 🙂
At the top of the bucket list!
I have never been to Palm Springs but it looks so nice! I wish it was warm enough to be in a pool here in NY. Also, how adorable is that flamingo floaty!
Love this! Definitely makes me want to jump on a plane to visit Palm Springs!!
When I lived in Northern California I loved hopping down to Palm Springs. This list is great Gaby, a perfect size to pick from covering all anyone would need to know. It's making me want to board a plane, now....
Great recommendations, my hubby is going to Joshua Tree next week and wants me to go with him on his next trip which to me means Palm Springs! So this will be a great guide for when I go!
Oh how I love the LQ Hotel....I grew up about 5 minutes away and worked there during a summer in college. I can just smell the orange blossoms now! 😉
Wow! This looks so amazing!! Great photos!! So beautiful! Thanks for sharing.
Oh gosh, this looks so amazing and your photos are fantastic! Wish we'd get to visit soon, too 🙂
Bookmarking this one in case I ever make it out to Palm Springs! Loving all the photos- and how fun are those pool floaties?? lol! 😉
: le sigh : I ADORE Palm Springs! This post really makes me miss it even more! <3
What a great list! I will have to keep this handy for when I visit Palm Springs!
After reading this I clearly need to add Palm Springs to my travel list asap! Love your travel guides 🙂
We have been to Palm Springs at your recommendation and have used Beau Monde Villas and were NOT disappointed! Dining out is also a real treat. So many great places - love the ones that you suggested. Can't wait to go again!!
Where was this guide 2 weeks ago!! Seriously, I took a weekend trip to Palm Springs and swore you had one of these, even went to your site looking for it before my trip , but you didn't. Ahhh, love these recommendations and will be checking them out next trip out there! Thanks, Gaby!! 🙂