Palm Springs Rainy Season brings a refreshing change to the desert’s sun-drenched landscape. Palm Springs, California, is known for its sunshine, desert scenery, and endless blue skies — earning its reputation as a sun-lover’s paradise with over 300 days of sunshine each year.
Yet, even in this desert adventure, the brief but invigorating rains breathe new life into the valley, offering travelers a unique way to experience the desert’s charm.
Before travellers decide to visit Palm Springs, they have to understand the meaning of the rainy season in this city.
The rainy season in Palm Springs is not like tropical places where the monsoon rains are heavy, but rather it is light and very short, and to a great extent, it makes your stay more interesting.
Think of having a cup of coffee when it is raining softly on the window, or after a shower in the desert, when the air smells fresher and plants start to shine.
In case you are asking about the best way to enjoy Palm Springs during its rainy season, then you are on the right track.
This travel guide is divided down to when the rainy season occurs, what you can expect, what should do when the skies become gray, and why Spirit of Sofia, an elegant boutique hotel on Main Street in downtown Palm Springs, is the right place to call home, whether it is rainy or not.
When Is the Rainy Season in Palm Springs?
In case you are planning your trip based on the weather, the following is what you should know:
- Months of rainy seasons: Mid-November to the middle of March or early April.
- Wettest month: the month of February is usually the one that is the most rainy.
- Dry seasons: It is in the months of April to October, and especially in the months of June to September, which are almost dry.
Palm Springs only receives a measurable amount of rainfall for 3-4 days, even during the wettest month of the year.
This is in contrast to tropical destinations, where it may take weeks before the rain has ended, so it is no wonder that Palm Springs is such an amazing destination throughout the year.
The precipitations are usually intense bursts of rain, short showers, or storms bounding through the desert, and then it is followed by the sunshine and spectacular clouds. This renders the rainy season more of a novelty than an inconvenience.
What to Expect During Rainy Season in Palm Springs
Most of the newcomers are shocked to know that Palm Springs has a rainy season. This is a desert, after all, a place that is more associated with its yearly sunshine and heat.
However, from November to March, the city has a small period of light rainy season that transforms the appearance and feel of the desert in wonderful ways.
Here’s what to expect.
Palm Springs Weather: Rainfall, Temperatures, and Desert Scenery
Short, Refreshing Showers
Palm Springs rain does not traditionally imply gloomy days. Rather, it is recorded in short showers, and in most cases these last a few hours.
- In some instances, there are storms, which are filled with more rain, but they occur infrequently.
- You will more frequently get up to sunshine, meet a passing rain cloud in the afternoon, and observe the skies clear off in time to see the sunset.
Lower Temperatures
Winter daytime temperatures range from 60°F to 70°F. This is the most comfortable time to visit the desert, as opposed to the hot summer seasons.
- It is not very hard to walk in town, visit a cafe, or have a mid-century modern driving tour, even during the light rain.
- During the night, the temperatures are as low as 40°F, and it is the best reason to warm up at home.
Rich Desert Sceneries
The most important present that the Palm Springs rainy season brings is, perhaps, its effect on the desert scenery.
- The showers bring out vegetation, wildflowers in blossom, and fresher and purer air.
- The desert smells fresh after a rain, a special earthy scent that locals enjoy.
- The cacti and succulents appear brighter, and hopefully, early wildflowers will be in blossom at the end of winter.
It is high time that photographers and nature lovers have the opportunity to take the desert the way that makes it seem special and enchanted.
Dramatic Desert Skies
Rain in the desert does not always refer to wet earth only; it also includes the spectacular cloud sceneries, foggy mountains, and colorful sunsets.
- Even the San Jacinto Mountains, which are also within the same vicinity, are at times sprinkled with snow, as seen by the valley below.
- Think about having a glass of wine at Spirit of Sofia, standing by the window and watching the sun poke through the storm clouds and turn mountains into gold and purple.
Different Travel Environment
During the rainy season, Palm Springs is more intimate, calm, and quiet.
- Not so many tourists go out on a rainy day, and most of the popular places do not seem overcrowded.
- Most travelers who have avoided seeing rain as a hindrance have found it an extra unexpected relaxation to the trip.
And, after all, how many times are you able to say that you saw the desert live after it had rained?
Fun Things to Do in Palm Springs During the Rainy Season
You do not have to ruin your vacation in Palm Springs because of the rain. Here are some fun things to do in Palm Springs during the rainy season.
Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum
The Palm Springs Art Museum features modern and contemporary art, Native American art, photography, and changing exhibitions.
- Since it is an indoor and well-designed museum, it is ideal on a day when the weather is not as predictable.
- There is plenty of time to peruse the galleries, and the art is very motivating as a contrast to the desert scenery of the outdoors.
Have a Spa or Wellness Experience
Nothing is better than having a spa day when it’s raining outside.
- The city of Palm Springs boasts of high-end spas and wellness centers, which include mineral baths, massages for couples, and more.
- In case you are staying at Spirit of Sofia, you can complement the hotel atmosphere by indulging in the local spa treatments to make a complete self-care treatment.
Moorten Botanical Garden
Moorten Botanical Garden is more magical when it rains.
- The desert vegetation is greener, and colors are brighter, and the air is fresh.
- It is a little yet very beautiful place that is totally changed with rain sprinkles.
Ride Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
When it rains in the valley, you are likely to find mist, clouds, or even snow on the summit of the San Jacinto Mountain.
- The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is the place that will provide you with an incredible shift in perspective, incredible views, and a comfortable mountain atmosphere.
Mid-Century Modern Driving Tour
The self-directed driving tour of the classic mid-century modern architecture of Palm Springs is best done on rainy days.
- You do not have to leave the car frequently, hence it is a fabulous way to stay dry while sightseeing at the same time.
- And when it is not raining, the desert air and spectacular scenery are the perfect subjects to capture these architectural marvels.
Discover Quirky Attractions
Palm Springs is a city brimming with quirky spots where one can spend an hour on a rainy day. For example:
- Cabazon Dinosaurs: An interesting roadside view in which you can view gigantic dinosaur monuments (some are inside the building).
- Local history museums: Know about the local history of Coachella Valley, the culture of Native Americans, and the relationship of Hollywood to Palm Springs.
These two attractions will give your rainy day itinerary a fun aspect or make the weather a part of your adventure.
Spirit of Sofia Boutique Hotel: Cozy Palm Springs Retreat in the Rain
The best thing to do on a rainy day in Palm Springs is to take it on board, and that can be best done in Spirit of Sofia, a boutique stay located in the heart of downtown.
- In the case the weather outside changes to cloudy, the Spirit of Sofia becomes a place of comfort.
- The stylish interior, the considered spaces, and the closeness make the overall experience of staying in something to experience in itself.
- Imagine having tea or a glass of wine by the window, watching the raindrops glide down the glass, cuddling with a book in a sophisticated lounge, or having a romantic rainy day getaway with your love.
Spirit of Sofia is the ideal place to take a romantic and cozy retreat with couples. In rainy weather, it is not hard to slow down and reconnect, and have time to enjoy each other without worrying about unending sightseeing.
The spirit of Sofia is going to make your rainy day as memorable as a sunny one.
Conclusion | Palm Springs Rainy Season
Palm Springs is known to be full of sunshine, but the short and gentle rainy season gives it a cool touch to the desert experience.
The period between November and March is marked by the occurrence of small rainfall, which alters the scenery and makes the air cooler, making this season an opportunity to help the traveler explore the other side of the city.
It does not mean that rainy days should put a stop to the fun. You can visit museums, have a wellness experience, spend time shopping downtown, or just get into the comfortable boutique mood of Spirit of Sofia.
No matter when you visit, during the rare rainy or the unending sun, Palm Springs is sure to be beautiful, charming, and will leave memories that will be unforgettable.
Therefore, there is no reason to avoid making your reservation during the rainy season. Rather, accept it, since even during rainy weather, Palm Springs is glittering.
FAQs | Palm Springs Rainy Season
When is the rainy season in Palm Springs?
Palm Springs experiences a short rainy season from mid-November through March, with the wettest month typically being February.
How much does it rain in Palm Springs?
Even during the rainy season, Palm Springs only averages 3–4 days of measurable rainfall per month, making showers brief and rare.
Does it rain a lot in Palm Springs in February?
February is the wettest month, but rainfall is still light compared to other destinations. Expect short showers or desert storms followed by sunshine.
What is the weather like during the rainy season in Palm Springs?
Daytime temperatures are usually 60–70°F with cooler nights around 40°F. The rain freshens the desert air and highlights the landscape’s beauty.
What does the desert look like after rain in Palm Springs?
Rain brings out bright desert colors, fresh vegetation, blooming wildflowers, and dramatic skies over the San Jacinto Mountains. Photographers love this season.
What can you do in Palm Springs on a rainy day?
You can visit the Palm Springs Art Museum, enjoy a spa day, explore the Moorten Botanical Garden, or take the Aerial Tramway for mountain views.
Is Palm Springs still worth visiting during the rainy season?
Yes. Rainy days create a peaceful, cozy, and romantic atmosphere in Palm Springs, with fewer crowds and more intimate experiences.
Are there indoor attractions in Palm Springs for rainy days?
Yes. Popular indoor attractions include the Palm Springs Art Museum, local history museums, and quirky spots like the Cabazon Dinosaurs.
Can I still enjoy outdoor activities during the rainy season?
Absolutely. Showers are usually short, so you can still enjoy mid-century modern driving tours, hikes between storms, and beautiful sunsets after rain.
Where is the best place to stay in Palm Springs during the rainy season?
The Spirit of Sofia boutique hotel in downtown Palm Springs is ideal. It offers a cozy retreat with stylish interiors, perfect for rainy-day relaxation.
