Along with swaying palms and sun-kissed pools, the image that probably comes to mind when you hear Summer in Palm Springs is endless desert terrain.
However, when summer comes with all the heat shooting way up to the triple-digit levels, the question that follows is: Is it too hot to visit Palm Springs during summer?
The truth? It is hot, sure, but it is also a marvelous time to visit. Palm Springs has always been that city that offers a good travel deal, poolside lounging, fewer crowds, and, of course, more sunshine.
So, if you happen to be someone who loves sunshine, then you may just as well start to make summer your new favorite season.
A relaxed and stylish summer vacation in one of the most famous destinations of California can be yours with a bit of planning, such as the time to begin the adventures, having plenty of water, and finding the right place to stay, such as Spirit of Sofia, a serene boutique hotel.
There are also a lot of benefits of a summer visit low rates in hotels, lack of traffic, and no long restaurant queues, and you can experience the city more closely.
1. Palm Springs Summer Weather: What to Expect
When planning a summer vacation in Palm Springs, one essential thing to know is the weather, as it determines your daily rhythm.
The climate of Palm Springs is characterized by a hot desert climate, meaning it has long, dry summers with very high temperatures and practically no rainfall.
Monthly Average Temperatures
This is what the Late Summer months are like:
- June: 100°F (38°C) and up
- July to August: Average is often 105 to 115 °F(4046 °C)
- September: slightly cooler, about 95 to 105 °F (35 to 40 °C)
- Night temperatures: It falls to 75 to 85°F (24 to 29 °C)
Best Time of the Day
To be comfortable in your stay, you have to orient yourself to the temperature curve:
Early mornings ( 6 AM to 9 AM )
The most pleasant hour of the day. The climate is upper 70s or lower 80s, which is perfect when it comes to hiking, biking, and outdoor photoshoots.
Noon (10 AM to 4 PM)
It is the time of day that is hottest, temperatures run up over 105 degrees. Better on an indoor type of activity, such as museums, galleries, spas, shopping, or poolside shade.
Evening (after 6 PM)
The temperature slowly falls to the 90s and 80s. Excellent for a stroll about downtown, an outdoor meal, or a plan to hang out at VillageFest.
2. Best Things to Do in Palm Springs in Summer
Early Morning Adventures
Although it is hot, summer brings a different type of adventure. It is easy to get a lot out of your Palm Springs visit. Let’s dive in to find out.
Indian Canyons hiking trails
Hiking is certainly not the first thing that springs to mind when you think about Palm Springs, primarily due to the intense heat.
- Though there are some amazing trails in Palm Springs, don’t rule it out if you can find a day when it’s not too hot.
- My first choice is the Indian Canyons Nature Preserve’s Andreas Canyon, a veritable desert valley oasis with shade-giving palm trees and a yearly stream.
- There are numerous trails, but the most well-known and picturesque one is Andreas Canyon, which is only a mile long in both directions.
- If you’re not a big hiker but still want to spend some time outside and capture a photo for Instagram, this path is ideal.
- There is an entrance charge that must be paid as you drive through the front gate of the preserve, which is situated on tribal property.
- But because of how breathtaking this route is, it’s well worth the money.
- Arrive early before the crowds for the best experience.
Opening Hours: Daily 8 am to 4 pm
Tahquitz Canyon Trail
From the Visitor Center, you can locate the trail entrance. The trail is a 1.8-mile loop path known for its moderate difficulty and its 350-foot elevation gain.
- The hiking difficulty level falls in the moderate zone, which allows participants from all stages of experience to join.
- The hiking path ends at Tahquitz Falls, where the 60-foot cascade produces a serene swimming hole.
- The hiking trail presents desert wildflowers with native wildlife, and several different native plants during your journey.
- During your excursion, you can observe rock formations and remnants from the previous irrigation system, which demonstrate the Tribe’s settlement in the area.
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Distance | 1.8-mile loop |
| Elevation Gain | 350 feet |
| Dogs Allowed | No |
| Kid Friendly | Yes |
Joshua Tree National Park
An early morning road trip into Joshua Tree is out of this world. Beat the heat (start early around 5 AM) and enjoy the serenity of the desert by being in the Mojave Desert.
- This well-known park offers a breathtaking combination of rock formations, desert panoramas, and various plant and animal life.
- This is approximately 45 to 60 minutes going out of Palm Springs. Take snacks, drinking water, and a full gas tank.
Entrance Pass
| Pass | Price |
| Standard Pass | $15 to $30 |
| Annual Pass | $55 |
| America the Beautiful Pass (includes Senior Passes) | FREE to $80 |
Biking or walking along Palm Canyon Drive
The central road in Palm Springs runs along Palm Canyon Drive with retro buildings, murals, stores, and palm trees.
- Try riding at night. You will find the streets are less congested, it is cool, and the pavement is in the shade.
- Bike Palm Springs Rentals and other local dealerships are available as an alternative to riding your bikes.
Daytime Cooling Activities
This is indoor time or pool time. Palm Springs is designed to lounge and explore in the most luxurious ways- and the most beautiful ones, to enjoy during mid-days.
Lounge at the Pool: Spirit of Sofia
Stay cool and relaxed at Spirit of Sofia, the pool is an oasis of serene desert.
- You will find minimalist style, dark lounge furniture, and silence.
- This Place is best suited to couples, creatives, or solo travelers and digital nomads who want to take a breather from reading or journaling.
Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum
If you or your date is interested in art, or if you just want to escape the heat for a bit, the Palm Springs Art Museum is highly recommended.
- It boasts a surprisingly amazing collection of modern and contemporary art. It is larger inside than it appears from the outside, with three storeys and a basement.
- Conveniently, Palm Canyon Drive, the main thoroughfare, is only a short stroll away.
- Note that Thursday through Sunday is the only time the museum is open.
- You should still explore the grounds and the free Faye Sarkowsky Sculpture Garden, which is a four-acre space with 14 works that is accessible during the day.
Explore vintage shopping and local boutiques
Explore Palm Springs’s rejuvenated downtown, which is home to new eateries, shops, and artwork.
- This lively neighborhood is teeming with vintage stores and local boutiques.
- Go into the Frippery and find some vintage fashion. Don’t forget Destination PSP filled with exotic souvenirs and gifts, and desert gift Ideas
Relax at a day spa or wellness center
Take a break in the middle of the day. Palm Springs is inundated with elite spa design:
- Azure Palm Hot Springs: Mineral water, refreshing air-conditioned halls, and a relaxing atmosphere.
- The Spa at Sec-he: Opened in March 2021, the spa has an ancient mineral order, eucalyptus steam rooms, and wellness services on tribal lands.
Massage with the whole body or facial, accompanied by sleeping in a cool room.
Evening Fun
After the sun sets and starts going down behind the San Jacinto Mountains, the city bursts into life with the golden hour activities, rooftop beverages, and energetic spectacles.
Palm Springs VillageFest
Every Thursday night, Village Fest gathers food and festivities and serves them all up on Palm Canyon Drive.
- As you move from one vendor to the next, music will fill the cool desert air and make you feel at home. Snacks and drinks abound as you browse the artwork of regional artisans. It’s no cost.
Catch a show at the Annenberg Theater
This theater is situated in the Art Museum and it offers small, intimate performances of jazz, Broadway-style to a small number of visitors.
- Plan during the summer season; tickets can be purchased in advance because there is a limited venue.
Rooftop Cocktails
Take in stunning panoramas of the desert with a custom-tailored cocktail in hand.
- Saints at the Kimpton Rowan: The Kimpton Rowan is sleek, sexy, and perfect for watching the city light up
- High Bar: poolside lighthearted nightlife at the rooftop pool
- Bar Cecil: not rooftop, but a cool and good spot to have a late dinner and drink
You do not want to be wearing too warm clothes at night, as the temperatures at night are still high (80s to 90sF).
3. How to Stay Cool: Palm Springs Summer Travel Tips
The heat of summer in Palm Springs is as hot as an oven, but it does not mean that you cannot have fun with it. All you have to do is be strategic.
There is no lack of options on what to do or how to beat the heat in Palm Springs. Stay safe and make the trip unforgettable.
1. Start your day Early
It is quite common to find temperatures at 100°F or more by 11 AM. The heat is also hottest between noon and 4 PM, and it may be suffocating.
- Walk, make photo shoots in nature, hike in the period 6 to 9 AM. Get back to your hotel or indoor activity by 10-11 AM.
- Spend some time napping in the afternoon, reading in the shade of a pool, or at a spa or museum.
- Outdoor play should resume between 5-6 PM when the sun starts going down.
2. Hydrate Like a Local
The heat in the desert is very dehydrating, even when you do not feel sweaty.
- Have a reusable water bottle with you as much as possible.
- Pack salty packets of electrolytes or a coconut water beverage, particularly in case you have a hike or exercise.
- Stay away from alcohol during the day. You can have your margaritas after the sun goes down; drinking during the day can make you drier and more tired.
At Spirit of Sofia, refreshments and water stations are free to allow people to remain hydrated.
3. Dress Smart
The wrong choice of clothes can ruin your comfort.
- Lightweight cotton, linen, bamboo, or a moisture-absorbing mix will make your skin breathe.
- Put the dark color aside because it retains the heat; instead, use whites, neutrals, or pastels.
- Oversized shirts, dresses, etc. and flowy items ensure that air flows around the body.
- Long sleeves and broad-brimmed hats are the best forms of protection against the sun compared to short sleeves. The only exception is desert chic, not tank tops and sunburn.
4. Carry Cooling Gadgets
Easy-to-carry accessories can provide you with immediate relief during outdoor times.
- Cooling towels: Wet them and wring and wrap them around your neck or forehead to have a cooling effect.
- Travel-sized mist sprays: There are mini face misters or battery-powered fans, which are lifesaving when standing in line or walking.
- Cooling gel pads: Apply to the back of the neck or on the wrists to cool the body.
- Chilled facial wipes or gel of Aloe Vera: Put a portion of this in your day bag as a post-sun refreshment.
4. Why Spirit of Sofia Is the Perfect Palm Springs Summer Stay
In the matter of locating your cool in Palm Springs, your choice of lodgings matters a lot. Located off the beaten track but just in couple of steps from downtown, Spirit of Sofia is your dream summer venue.
- We are talking about light rooms, soothing tones, and careful design.
- You are in an air-conditioned room, which is a kind of solitary relaxation in the sun.
- Ideal to read in, or have iced tea shade under a palm.
- Relax and take a swim or take a snooze on a leather lounge chair.
Spirit of Sofia is styled to feel like summer vibes and boutique luxury, sure that you want to be, and hence the perfect peaceful getaway right in the middle of hot Palm Springs.
Book your summer getaway today!
5. Local Summer Events Worth Checking Out
Palm Springs will reach its busy season in summer with thrilling activities that are artistic or splashy:
Palm Springs International ShortFest (June)
Among the most esteemed short film festivals of the world. Meet filmmakers, see the movies, and spend time in air-conditioned spaces.
Splash House (June-August)
An exclusive party by the pool, combined with a music festival in a series of boutique hotels. The 20s30s are great. The tickets sell quickly-book now!
Local Markets
This is an area that sells fresh fruit up to desert honey, as well as handcrafted items that one can browse through. It will be a fabulous morning exercise before the heat sets in.
Pop-Up and Indoor Art Walks
In the summer, local artists and craftspeople tend to have indoor markets and shows during weekends in summer watch the Backstreet Art District or the Uptown Design District.
Conclusion | Summer in Palm Springs
Not even a vacation, but a vibe-like atmosphere is what summer in Palm Springs is all about.
It is golden mornings, easy afternoons, and nights under the neon lights. It is the quiet on the side of the pool, the rooftop drinks, and the magic of the desert in the sunrise.
It is hot, yes, but that is only one more reason why you are allowed to have a taste of Palm Springs just like the locals: early hikes, siestas, and long breezy evenings.
Summer is the time when the city can be experienced the way you want it since it has fewer crowds, lower hotel rates, and a slower pace.
Be cool, be stylish, and keep Spirit of Sofia as your cool summer place of respite.
FAQs | Summer in Palm Springs
1. Is it too hot to visit Palm Springs in the summer?
While Palm Springs does experience triple-digit temperatures in summer, it’s still a great time to visit with proper planning. Enjoy early morning activities, poolside lounging, and fewer crowds—all while taking advantage of lower rates and off-season perks.
2. What are the average summer temperatures in Palm Springs?
Summer temperatures typically range from 100°F (38°C) in June to 115°F (46°C) in July and August. Nights cool down to the mid-70s to 80s°F, offering a comfortable window for outdoor evening plans.
3. When is the best time of day to explore outdoors?
The best time for outdoor activities is between 6 AM and 9 AM when temperatures are still in the 70s and 80s. Late evenings (after 6 PM) are also pleasant for walking, dining, or exploring downtown.
4. What are the best things to do in Palm Springs during summer?
Top summer activities include:
- Hiking at Indian Canyons or Tahquitz Canyon in the early morning
- Visiting Joshua Tree National Park
- Lounging poolside at boutique hotels
- Shopping vintage and exploring local boutiques
- Enjoying cool, indoor escapes like the Palm Springs Art Museum
5. How can I stay cool during summer in Palm Springs?
To beat the heat:
- Start your day early
- Hydrate constantly
- Wear breathable, light-colored clothing
- Take afternoon breaks indoors or at the pool
- Use cooling towels or portable fans
6. Are there any must-visit summer events in Palm Springs?
Yes! Some exciting summer events include:
- Palm Springs International ShortFest (June)
- Splash House Pool Festival (June–August)
- Weekly VillageFest on Thursday nights
- Local farmers’ markets and indoor art walks in Uptown & Backstreet Districts
7. Is it safe to hike in Palm Springs during summer?
Yes—if you hike early (6–8 AM), stay hydrated, and choose shaded or shorter trails like Andreas Canyon or Tahquitz Canyon. Avoid hiking after 10 AM due to extreme heat.
8. What are the best ways to cool off midday?
Midday activities include:
- Relaxing at your hotel pool
- Booking a day spa (e.g., Azure Palm Hot Springs or The Spa at Sec-he)
- Visiting art galleries or cool cafes
- Taking a siesta in an air-conditioned room
9. What should I pack for a summer trip to Palm Springs?
Bring:
- Lightweight, breathable clothing (linen or cotton)
- Wide-brim hats & sunglasses
- Reusable water bottle with electrolytes
- Cooling towel or face mist
- SPF 30+ sunscreen and lip balm
10. Why visit Palm Springs in summer instead of peak season?
Summer in Palm Springs offers:
- Lower hotel rates
- No restaurant waitlists
- Fewer crowds at attractions
- Easier access to shops and trails
- A more relaxed, locals-only vibe
