Overview
Desert Hot Springs sits in the Coachella Valley of Riverside County, roughly 10 miles north of Palm Springs. At around 1,000 feet in elevation, it occupies the slopes of the Little San Bernardino Mountains where the San Andreas Fault system has created one of the most accessible concentrations of natural hot mineral water in California.
The city has a dual identity: a workaday desert community of about 30,000 residents, and a destination built around small to mid-size spa hotels that tap the underground aquifer directly. The mineral water is naturally hot, alkaline, and reputedly high in silica — properties that have drawn visitors since the early 20th century.
Unlike the resort polish of Palm Springs, Desert Hot Springs is noticeably more low-key and unpretentious. That informality is part of the appeal for travelers seeking a relaxed soak rather than a scene. The city has also become a recognized cultivation area for legal cannabis since California's legalization, and several licensed dispensaries and cannabis-related businesses are visible throughout town.
The surrounding landscape — open desert, Joshua trees, and views toward the San Jacinto Mountains — gives the area a stark, quiet beauty that rewards those who slow down.
Before You Go
Visas
Desert Hot Springs is a U.S. destination. Entry requirements depend entirely on your nationality. Check the TravelerPulse Visas section and the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection website (cbp.gov) for current requirements before booking.
Weather & Seasons
Summers are extreme — daytime highs regularly exceed 110°F (43°C) in July and August, and outdoor activities become impractical during midday. Winter days are typically mild and sunny (60s–70s°F / 15–24°C), though nights can drop near freezing. Spring and autumn offer the best balance. Wind events are common throughout the year, particularly in spring.
What to Pack
- Sunscreen with high SPF, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat are essential year-round
- Light, breathable clothing for daytime; layers for cool evenings October–March
- Sandals or flip-flops for moving between pools
- Cash — some smaller spa properties and local restaurants prefer or require it
- Reusable water bottle; hydration is important in the desert climate
Health Notes
If you have cardiovascular conditions, consult a physician before using hot mineral pools. Pools vary in temperature; ask staff at your property about the range before entering.
Getting There
By Air
Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) is the closest commercial airport, approximately 10–12 miles south. Major U.S. carriers serve PSP with seasonal frequency that increases in winter. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Ontario International Airport (ONT) are viable alternatives for travelers who don't mind a drive of roughly 90–120 minutes.
By Car
Driving is the most practical way to reach Desert Hot Springs. From Los Angeles, take Interstate 10 east to the Gene Autry Trail or Indian Canyon Drive exits, then head north. The drive is roughly 100–115 miles depending on your origin point in the LA area. Highway 62 (Twenty-Nine Palms Highway) also connects the city northward toward Joshua Tree National Park.
By Bus
SunLine Transit Agency operates bus service connecting Desert Hot Springs to Palm Springs and other Coachella Valley communities. Routes and schedules should be verified at sunline.org, as service frequency is limited compared to urban areas.
By Train
Amtrak's Sunset Limited and Pacific Surfliner services stop in Palm Springs (at the North Palm Springs station area) and Indio. These are not high-frequency options; verify current schedules on amtrak.com. A car or rideshare will be needed from those stations.
Getting Around
Desert Hot Springs is a spread-out, car-oriented city. Having your own vehicle gives you the most flexibility for reaching spa properties, restaurants, and nearby attractions like Joshua Tree National Park.
Rideshare services (Uber and Lyft) operate in the area, though availability can be inconsistent compared to larger cities — do not assume a ride will be immediately available, especially late at night or early morning.
SunLine Transit provides local bus connections but routes within Desert Hot Springs itself are limited. Walking between attractions is not generally practical given distances and summer heat. Cycling is possible in cooler months; there are no dedicated cycle lanes on most roads, so exercise caution.
Parking is free and generally plentiful throughout the city, including at most spa hotels.
Where to Stay
Accommodation in Desert Hot Springs centers almost entirely on spa hotels and smaller motel-style properties that offer direct access to on-site geothermal mineral pools. Many properties are independently owned and range from budget-friendly to boutique mid-range. There are very few large chain hotels within the city itself.
What to Look For
- Number and temperature range of pools on-site (some properties have four or more pools at varying temperatures)
- Whether pools are heated purely by geothermal water or supplemented
- Pool hours, particularly if you want early-morning or late-night access
- Whether the property is adults-only — many are
Some well-regarded properties that have operated for many years include Two Bunch Palms (a longer-established spa resort with a reputation for wellness programming) and Miracle Springs Resort & Spa, among others. Verify current ownership, amenities, and pricing directly with properties before booking, as the independent hospitality market here can change.
Peak season runs roughly from November through March. Rates are generally lower in summer, but be prepared for the heat. Booking in advance during holiday weekends and the Coachella Valley festival season (spring) is advisable.
Things to See & Do
Soaking in the Mineral Pools
This is the primary draw. Most spa hotels allow day-use access to their pools for a fee — verify hours and rates directly with each property. The mineral water is naturally alkaline and comes out of the ground hot; pool temperatures vary by property and individual pool.
Joshua Tree National Park
Highway 62 leads east from Desert Hot Springs toward the town of Joshua Tree and the park's north entrance at Twentynine Palms. The park is one of Southern California's most distinctive landscapes, with boulder formations, two distinct desert ecosystems, and exceptional stargazing. Plan at least a half day; a full day is better. Entrance fees apply — check nps.gov/jotr for current information.
Cabot's Pueblo Museum
A local historic site, Cabot's is a hand-built pueblo structure created by homesteader Cabot Yerxa beginning in the 1940s. It houses artifacts, artworks, and a large carved totem. Operating hours and admission fees should be verified directly at cabotsmuseum.org before visiting.
Desert Hiking
The hills surrounding the city offer informal desert hiking with views across the Coachella Valley. Coachella Valley Preserve, accessible from Thousand Palms Canyon Road, protects one of the largest native California fan palm oases in existence and has marked trails. Go early in the morning and carry water.
Cannabis Tourism
Desert Hot Springs was among the first California cities to permit commercial cannabis operations. Licensed dispensaries are visible throughout town. Consumption in private accommodation may be permitted depending on property policy — ask before assuming.
Food & Drink
The dining scene in Desert Hot Springs is modest and largely local in character. There is no concentrated restaurant district, and options are fewer and less varied than in Palm Springs. Most visitors eat at least some meals at their spa property or make short drives to Palm Springs for a wider selection.
Local Eating
The city has a range of casual spots — taquerias, diners, and family-run Mexican restaurants are well represented and reflect the demographics of the community. Fast food chains are present along the main commercial corridors. A small number of cafes and health-oriented spots have opened in recent years to serve the wellness-focused visitor demographic.
Drinking
Alcohol is available at most spa resort restaurants and bars. California's wine country is not local, but California wines are widely available. Note that cannabis consumption and alcohol are legally separate; mixing them in public spaces is not permitted.
For a broader restaurant choice, Palm Springs is a 15–20 minute drive and offers significantly more variety in cuisine and price point.
Practical Information
Emergency Services
In any emergency in the United States, dial 911 for police, fire, or ambulance. For non-emergency police matters in Desert Hot Springs, contact the Riverside County Sheriff's Department, which provides law enforcement services to the city.
Medical
The nearest major hospital facilities are in Palm Springs and the broader Coachella Valley. Urgent care clinics exist in the valley — verify current locations and hours before you need them.
Connectivity
Cell coverage from major U.S. carriers (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile) is generally reliable within the city. Coverage can become patchy in more remote desert or canyon areas. Most spa hotels offer Wi-Fi; quality varies by property.
Money
ATMs are available at banks and some gas stations. As noted, some smaller businesses prefer cash. Credit cards are accepted at most spa hotels and larger establishments.
Tipping
Tipping is standard practice in U.S. hospitality. A gratuity of 18–20% is customary for restaurant service; spa service providers typically also expect gratuity — check individual property policies.
Safety
Desert Hot Springs has experienced periods of elevated property crime rates relative to California averages. Exercise standard precautions: do not leave valuables visible in parked vehicles, be aware of your surroundings in unfamiliar neighborhoods, and keep your accommodation's doors and windows secured.
The desert environment itself poses real risks. Heat-related illness is a genuine danger in summer months. Always carry more water than you think you need when outdoors, avoid strenuous activity during midday, and know the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
When hiking in remote desert terrain, inform someone of your plans and expected return time. Rattlesnakes and other desert wildlife are present; watch where you step and do not approach or handle wildlife.
Driving in the area is generally straightforward, but desert roads at night can be darker than urban drivers expect. Watch for animals crossing, and be cautious on unfamiliar unpaved roads.
