ADVENTURE TRAVEL
The Perfect Girls Trip to Palm Springs
Ready to get the girls together for some fun in the sun? Pack, your bags, we’re going to Palm Springs!
Picture this: Azure skies stretching endlessly over palm-fringed pools, where you can sip rosé by day and stargaze by night. The air is crisp and dry, carrying whispers of pine from nearby mountains, and the vibe? Pure, unadulterated joy. Palm Springs isn’t about high-octane partying; it’s about savoring the slow burn of good conversation, indulgent spa rituals, and shared triumphs on a golf green or a desert trail. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone birthday, toasting a promotion, or simply escaping the daily grind, this spot delivers. And with direct flights into Palm Springs International Airport (PSP), it’s as easy as a three-hour hop from most West Coast hubs or a quick drive from LAX.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll map out a dream itinerary for your squad—think spa soirees, farm-to-table feasts, a soul-stirring jaunt to Joshua Tree National Park, and tee times at world-class public golf courses. We’ll weave in shopping sprees, aerial tramway rides, and those little luxuries that make you feel like the queen you are. By the end, you’ll be booking flights faster than you can say “another round of margs.” Let’s dive in, sisters—your desert renaissance awaits.
Arriving in Style: Where to Base Your Desert Dream
First things first: where to lay your sun-kissed head. Palm Springs boasts a bounty of boutique hotels that scream “girls’ trip goals”—think Instagram-worthy pools, plush robes, and welcome cocktails that set the tone for uninhibited fun. For women in our age bracket, the sweet spot is properties that blend retro charm with modern comforts: no cookie-cutter chains, just vibe-y spots with communal spaces for late-night heart-to-hearts.
Top pick? The Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs. Perched on the edge of downtown, this 2019-opened gem channels Palm Springs’ golden era with sleek lines, vibrant art, and a rooftop pool overlooking the San Jacinto Mountains. Rooms are spacious (perfect for sharing secrets in king suites), and the on-site spa offers complimentary yoga at dawn—ideal for easing into the day without the 6 a.m. alarm guilt. Rates hover around $300-500/night in peak season (November-May), but the value? Impeccable. Pro tip: Book the “Rowan Social” package for girls’ trips, which includes a private cabana and bubbly on arrival.
If you’re craving something more boho-chic, The Saguaro Palm Springs is your colorful canvas. With its candy-hued exteriors (think hot pink and turquoise), this 2024-refreshed icon feels like a mid-century fever dream. The pool scene is legendary—lounge chairs for eight, plus a swim-up bar slinging prickly pear margaritas. Suites with patios let you host impromptu sunset picnics, and the central location means you’re steps from boutique shopping. Budget $250-450/night; it’s a steal for the photo ops alone.
For a touch of whimsy, consider The Parker Palm Springs, a 144-acre playground of gardens, croquet lawns, and that infamous “Palm Springs Yacht Club” spa (more on that later). It’s got that eccentric edge—think taxidermy decor and hidden nooks for gossip sessions—without feeling fussy. The bungalows sleep four comfortably, starting at $400/night, and the Thursday night pool parties (yes, even for us “mature” gals) are low-key electric.
Airbnb devotees, don’t sleep on mid-century modern rentals in the Vista Las Palmas neighborhood. A four-bedroom with a private pool and mountain views runs $800-1,200/night split four ways—cheaper than most hotels and infinitely more personal. Whatever you choose, aim for a spot with a full kitchen for those boozy brunch recoveries.
Pamper Party: The Best Spas for Ultimate Relaxation
Nothing says “girls’ trip” like a spa day that leaves you glowing from the inside out. We’re all about self-care that nourishes the body and spirit—no quickie manicures here, but transformative rituals that melt away stress lines and rekindle that inner spark. Palm Springs’ spas draw on the desert’s mineral-rich hot springs, blending ancient healing with luxe indulgences. Book a group package; most offer sisterhood specials with shared steam rooms and post-treatment lounges for debriefing over herbal teas.
Leading the pack is The Spa at Séc-he Palm Springs, a 2025 Readers’ Choice Award winner from USA Today 10 Best as California’s best day spa (and #2 nationally). Nestled atop natural hot springs, this 40,000-square-foot sanctuary feels like a modern temple to wellness. Opt for the “Desert Renewal” ritual: a 90-minute hot stone massage infused with agave and prickly pear oils, followed by a eucalyptus steam and a dip in gender-specific mineral pools. At $250/person, it’s an investment, but the private women’s lounge—with plush daybeds, fresh fruit infusions, and a reflexology path—is worth every penny. Groups of four get a complimentary mud bar session; slather on that volcanic clay and giggle through the dry-down. Open daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; reservations essential, especially for peak winter weekends.
For a hot springs immersion, head 15 minutes north to Azure Palm Hot Springs Resort & Day Spa in Desert Hot Springs. This clothing-optional (but women-only vibes encouraged) retreat taps into geothermal waters bubbling up at 115°F—pure, unfiltered mineral magic for aching joints and weary souls. The “Ladies’ Escape” package ($175/person) includes a private mineral tub soak for your crew, Swedish massages, and access to Finnish saunas and cold plunge pools. It’s intimate, not overwhelming—perfect for deep convos while floating in silky, silt-free waters. Bonus: The on-site café serves vegan glow bowls post-treatment. If modesty is key, they have robed areas galore.
Back in town, Sante Spa at The Riviera Palm Springs is a 30,000-square-foot behemoth with 18 treatment rooms and separate men’s/women’s locker rooms boasting steam showers and vitality pools. The “Girlfriends Getaway” facial ($200) uses organic Sonoran Desert botanicals to plump and brighten—think hyaluronic acid from nopal cactus for that post-40 hydration boost. Add a couples’ (or quad’s) cabana for $100 extra, complete with chilled cucumber water and fruit platters. It’s resort-adjacent luxury at $300-400/night including spa credit if you stay over.
Don’t miss The Palm Springs Yacht Club at The Parker—our earlier hotel fave. This quirky spa channels a nautical fever dream with submarine-themed hammams and “yacht club” lounges. The signature “Yacht Glow” body polish ($180) scrubs away dead skin with sea salt and lavender, leaving you silky for poolside struts. Groups love the private “Captain’s Quarters” for bespoke mani-pedis while sipping sparkling elderflower. It’s playful, not pretentious—ideal for lighthearted laughs.
Two Bunch Palms, a 20-minute drive east, offers clothing-optional mineral soaks in palm-shaded grottos ($50 entry), with add-on treatments like the “Desert Rose” wrap ($150). It’s raw, romantic, and restorative—think Alchemist-inspired elixirs and fire pits for evening unwinds. Whatever spa you choose, schedule it for Day 1: Arrive, exfoliate, emerge reborn. Your skin (and sanity) will thank you.
Culinary Confessions: Restaurants That Fuel the Fun
Food in Palm Springs isn’t just sustenance—it’s foreplay for the senses, a communal ritual that turns strangers into confidantes. For our demographic, it’s about elevated comfort: dishes that comfort without heaviness, wines that whisper sophistication, and atmospheres that invite lingering. From Michelin nods to hidden gems, here’s where to feast like queens.
Kick off with brunch at Workshop Kitchen + Bar, a downtown staple in a former auto garage. The menu’s a love letter to seasonal California: think ricotta hotcakes with Meyer lemon curd ($18) or avocado toast topped with chili oil and poached eggs ($16)—light yet indulgent for mid-morning mimosas. The industrial-chic space buzzes with natural light, perfect for people-watching and plotting the day’s adventures. Open 8 a.m.-2 p.m. weekends; expect a wait, but the bloody mary bar ($12) makes it worthwhile.
For dinner, Rooster and the Pig reigns supreme—a 2025 Reddit darling for its Vietnamese-Californian fusion. Housed in a strip mall (bless the unpretentiousness), it serves pho with wagyu short rib ($22) and shaking beef skewers ($19) that melt like butter. Pair with basil seed limeade cocktails ($12), and you’ve got a table for sharing plates and stories. Intimate, affordable ($50-70/person), and always packed—book ahead.
Elevate the night at 4 Saints, Workshop’s sultry sister spot. Tucked into a 1950s bungalow, it dishes New American with a desert twist: grilled octopus with romesco ($24) or heritage pork belly bao ($18). The moody lighting and leather booths scream “confessional,” ideal for spilling tea over negronis ($16). It’s romantic without the pressure—$80-100/head, reservations a must.
Casual cool? Birba, an Italian-inspired courtyard haven, where wood-fired pizzas ($18-22) like the spicy nduja with burrata arrive blistered and begging to be torn apart. The outdoor fire pits flicker as you nibble arancini ($12) and spritzes ($14), fostering that easy flow of “remember when” tales. Open till 10 p.m.; it’s the spot for post-spa debriefs.
Poolside perfection awaits at King’s Highway in the Ace Hotel: farm-to-table Americana like buttermilk fried chicken sandwiches ($18) or heirloom tomato salads ($15). The diner vibe (checkered floors, neon signs) belies the sophistication—think heritage grains and local forages. Brunch here is legendary; dinner, a breezy $40-60/person affair.
For upscale flair, Copley’s on Palm Canyon channels old Hollywood in a historic manse. The menu fuses tropical and Euro accents: seared scallops with mango chutney ($32) or rack of lamb with harissa ($48). Crystal chandeliers and ocean-blue walls set a glamorous stage for milestone toasts. $90-120/head; valet parking included.
Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge in the Uptown Design District is a five-star fixture, blending Pacific Rim with Cali fresh: miso-glazed black cod ($36) or Wagyu tartare ($22). The lounge’s craft cocktails ($16) like the smoked old fashioned pair perfectly with small plates for grazing. It’s chic yet welcoming—$70-100/person.
Hidden gem: Bar Cecil, a 2025 Yelp darling for modern Mexican. Tacos al pastor ($16) and ceviche with desert melon ($20) shine in a breezy patio. The mezcal flights ($25) spark bold convos. Affordable at $50/head.
FARM in the Ace’s sister property emphasizes hyper-local: butter-poached halibut ($34) from nearby ranches. The greenhouse setting feels alive, mirroring our vibrant energy. $60-80/person.
Counter Reformation at The Parker is whimsy incarnate—think deviled eggs with caviar ($14) in a speakeasy-esque nook. It’s playful dining for playful souls ($50-70).
And for a sweet send-off, Colony Club‘s American classics like lobster rolls ($28) in a mid-mod clubroom. Michelin-blessed, it’s the finale your trip deserves.
Pro tip: Pace yourselves—brunch heavy, dinners light. Hydrate with those desert mocktails; the altitude sneaks up. These spots aren’t just meals; they’re memories forged over forks and flutes.
Desert Wanderlust: A Day Trip to Joshua Tree National Park
No Palm Springs pilgrimage is complete without Joshua Tree National Park, a 45-minute drive north that transports you from manicured glamour to raw, otherworldly beauty. For women 35-55, it’s the perfect antidote to urban hum: gentle hikes that challenge without crushing, vistas that inspire introspection, and that profound sense of smallness under endless skies. This 800,000-acre wonderland—where Joshua trees twist like Dr. Seuss sculptures and boulders stack like ancient ruins—fosters the kind of soul-deep bonding that lingers long after the tan fades. Pack water, snacks, and your favorite playlist; entry is $30/vehicle, good for seven days.
Craft your day around a 8 a.m. departure for cooler temps (summers hit 100°F; spring/fall ideal). First stop: Keys View (20 minutes from the West Entrance), a 5,185-foot overlook with panoramic sweeps of the Coachella Valley. Sip coffee from thermoses as the sun crests, painting the desert gold. It’s a low-effort, high-reward opener—snap group selfies with the wind-sculpted yuccas, breathe in the pine-scented air, and set intentions for the day. (30 minutes; accessible paths for all fitness levels.)
Next, tackle Ryan Mountain Trail (3 miles round-trip, moderate, 1-2 hours). Starting at 4,856 feet, this loop climbs steadily through manzanita thickets to a summit rewarding with 360-degree views of Queen Valley’s iconic trees. It’s invigorating but not brutal—think steady inclines that get the endorphins flowing without trail-running vibes. Pack light lunches (cheese boards from FARM travel well) for a picnic at the top; share triumphs from the past year as eagles soar overhead. For less ambitious gals, shorten to the first viewpoint.
Descend to Hidden Valley Nature Trail (1-mile loop, easy, 45 minutes), a shaded oasis where boulders form natural “hideouts” once used by cattle rustlers. Legend has it this spot inspired U2’s album—channel your inner rock star with echo-y laughs among the granite. Spot lizards and wildflowers; it’s meditative, perfect for quiet reflections or silly poses.
Lunch al fresco at Cap Rock Trailhead (0.4-mile loop, easy, 20 minutes), where massive formations cradle a seasonal pond. Graze on quinoa salads and rosé (chilled in a Yeti); the site’s yin-yang rock invites balance-themed chats—what are we releasing this trip?
Afternoon thrill: Cholla Cactus Garden (0.25-mile loop, easy, 30 minutes), a quarter-mile boardwalk through a “tumbleweed forest” of teddy-bear cholla. Their golden spines glow at golden hour—touch at your peril, but the otherworldly density feels like stepping into a sci-fi film. Giggle over “cactus selfies” (zoom lens only!).
For the finale, Arch Rock Nature Trail (0.3-mile round-trip, easy, 20 minutes) leads to a massive granite arch—nature’s photo booth. Nearby, detour to Skull Rock, a boulder eerily resembling a pirate’s grin. If energy allows, add Hall of Horrors for slot-canyon scrambling (moderate, 1 mile).
As dusk falls, exit via the South Entrance for stargazing prep—Joshua Tree’s International Dark Sky Park status means Milky Way magic. Back in Palm Springs by 7 p.m., debrief over sunset spritzes. This isn’t extreme adventure; it’s empowering exploration that reminds us: We’re as resilient and beautiful as the desert itself. Guided tours like Good Trip Adventures ($150/person) handle logistics for bigger groups.
Fore the Win: Teeing Off at Palm Springs’ Best Public Golf Courses
Golf in Palm Springs? Darling, it’s not stuffy country-club fare—it’s a sun-drenched sorority of swings, where the desert’s dramatic backdrops turn every putt into poetry. For 35-55-year-olds dipping toes (or reclaiming rusty games), public courses offer forgiving fairways, pro lessons, and that triumphant “yes!” of sinking a birdie with your besties. No green jacket required; just cute visors, chilled whites on carts, and zero judgment for shanks. Greens fees range $100-250; book tee times months ahead for winter peaks.
Crown jewel: PGA West Stadium Course in nearby La Quinta (20-minute drive). This Pete Dye masterpiece—host to the PGA Tour’s American Express—boasts alpine walls, island greens, and views of the Santa Rosa Mountains. At 7,167 yards (par 72), it’s challenging yet playable for mid-handicappers; ladies’ tees shave it to 5,600 yards. Rent clubs ($60) and a cart ($30); the pro shop’s women’s apparel is on-point. Post-round, the clubhouse grill serves ahi poke bowls ($22). $150-250; it’s bucket-list bonding.
For scenic splendor, Desert Willow Golf Resort (15 minutes east) shines with two 18-hole tracks: Fire Cliff (dramatic elevation changes, par 72, 7,015 yards) and Mountain View (forgiving, wildflower-lined, par 72, 7,215 yards). Fire Cliff’s “Cliffhanger” 18th—a par-3 over a gorge—elicits cheers (or comforting hugs). Ladies’ leagues run mornings; sunset twilight rates ($99) are golden. The adjacent restaurant’s avocado egg rolls ($14) fuel victory laps. $100-200/person.
Indian Canyons Golf Resort (10 minutes south) channels ancient heritage on two courses: South (par 72, 6,823 yards, palm oasis fairways) and North (par 71, 7,064 yards, waterfall hazards). The South’s “Cholla Nine” winds through native cacti—forgiving for casual play. Group clinics ($50/hour) build confidence; the pro shop stocks flattering polos. $80-150; end with tacos at the Grill ($12).
Escena Golf Club (15 minutes east) is a hidden gem—36 holes of Arnold Palmer design amid citrus groves. The Lakes Course (par 72, 6,943 yards) features water carries and bunkers that test without terrorizing; the Villas Course adds mountain drama. Cart paths whisper underfoot; the Escena Grill’s lobster bisque ($15) is post-game perfection. $90-160; it’s serene, social, sisterly.
Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort (5 minutes from downtown) offers three public 18s: Stadium (tight, tree-lined, par 72, 6,576 yards), Mountain (elevated, panoramic, par 72, 6,800 yards), and Canyon (open, forgiving, par 72, 6,500 yards). Mountain’s signature 7th—a par-3 over a creek—is swoon-worthy. Twilight deals ($69) suit late starters; the Creekhouse pub’s fish and chips ($16) pairs with lagers. $70-120.
Classic Club (20 minutes west) is a Tom Fazio stunner (par 72, 7,251 yards) with undulating greens and wildflower meadows. It’s public-access luxury—think bentgrass fairways and a spa-like clubhouse. Ladies’ tees (5,900 yards) keep it fun; the 18th’s island green is epic. $150-250; cap with chardonnay flights ($20).
Gear tip: Rent hybrids for desert winds; hydrate with electrolyte packs. Whether you’re a bogey pro or fairway fashionista, golf here levels the playing field—every divot dug together strengthens the sisterhood.
Beyond the Greens: More Magic in the Desert
Your Palm Springs sojourn isn’t all swings and soaks—it’s a tapestry of eclectic escapes that spark joy and curiosity. For the 35-55 year old crowd, it’s about curated cool: activities that blend intellect, whimsy, and wellness without overwhelming the itinerary.
Start with the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway (10 minutes from downtown), a rotating gondola whisking you 8,500 feet up Mount San Jacinto in 10 minutes. From valley floor to alpine forest, the views—palm oases giving way to snow-capped peaks—are jaw-dropping. At the top, hike easy trails like Desert View (1 mile) amid Jeffrey pines, or sip hot toddies ($10) at the Pines Café. Tickets $30; go at dusk for sunset alchemy. It’s transformative—whispered dreams carried on mountain breezes.
Shop ’til you drop on Palm Canyon Drive, the mile-long artery of boutiques from Trina Turk’s bold prints ($200 sundresses) to The Fine Art of Joy’s desert-chic jewelry ($50 earrings). Hit VillageFest Thursdays (6-10 p.m.), a street fair of 200 vendors: artisan soaps, live jazz, and gelato trucks. It’s flirty fun—haggling over hats while sipping local wines.
Culture vultures, the Palm Springs Art Museum (free Thursdays) houses 90,000 works: Calder mobiles, permanent-wave architecture exhibits. The sculpture garden begs barefoot strolls; pair with coffee at in-house Café des Beaux-Arts ($8 lattes).
Nature buffs, explore Indian Canyons (10 minutes south), ancestral Cahuilla lands with palm-fringed hikes like Andreas Canyon (1-mile loop, easy). Spot roadrunners; meditate by streams. $12/entry; it’s grounding grace.
For whimsy, Moorten Botanical Garden ($5) is a living cactus encyclopedia—400 species in a storybook setting. It’s quirky therapy: “Cactus John” lore over iced herbal teas.
Evening? Sunset cocktails at Bootlegger Tiki (craft mai tais, $14) or live music at Palm Springs Cultural Center. These threads weave your trip into legend.
Sunset Toasts and Lasting Bonds: Why Palm Springs Calls You Back
As your final desert dusk dips the sky in fuchsia, gather on your hotel terrace—champagne flutes raised to the women who’ve seen you through it all. Palm Springs isn’t a destination; it’s a declaration: At 35-55, we’re not fading—we’re flourishing. The spas stripped us bare (in the best way), Joshua Tree’s trails rebuilt our fire, golf greens proved our grit, and those restaurant rituals reminded us of our shared feast. It’s luxury laced with laughter, adventure edged with ease—a balm for busy lives.
We’ve hiked under ancient arms, sunk putts in paradise, savored bites that burst with sunshine. We’ve traded war stories in steam rooms, cheered slices into canyons, and watched stars wheel overhead, feeling infinitely possible. This trip? It’s the gift that keeps giving: tanned shoulders, fuller hearts, and a Rolodex of “next time” dreams.
So, pack that itinerary, rally your ride-or-dies, and go. Palm Springs awaits, arms open, whispering, “You’ve earned this.” Until the next horizon, sisters—shine on.
Packing List for Your Palm Springs Soul-Stir
- Essentials: Wide-brim hats, SPF 50 (desert sun bites), reusable water bottles, comfy sneakers for trails, golf gloves if teeing up.
- Souvenirs: Turquoise jewelry from local artisans, prickly pear jam from farmers’ markets, memories etched in group chats.
Budget breakdown for four (3 nights): Flights $300-500 RT, hotel $1,200 split ($300 each), meals $600 split ($150), activities $400 split ($100), spa/golf $800 split ($200). Total: $750-1,150/person. Worth every shimmering cent.
Here’s to us—the women who know the desert blooms brightest after the rain.
Book now – the palms are calling.