Palm Springs is a beautiful desert oasis in Southern California that sits surrounded by the Coachella Valley, with friendly local residents and an abundance of visitors who come for the warm weather and relaxing atmosphere. Vacation rentals in Palm Springs give you convenient access to everything this peaceful little desert town offers, including historic attractions, hiking trails, horseback riding, day spas, and an abundance of shopping and dining options along Main Street and Palm Canyon Drive. Soak up the warm sun during the day, then enjoy the cool desert breeze and crystal clear, star-filled skies as night falls. If Palm Springs is the next destination on your holiday itinerary, this top 11 list of popular vacation rental cities in the immediate area and surrounding cities will help you find the ultimate desert hideaway.
1. San Jacinto Cove, Palm Springs
Surrounded by the San Jacinto Mountains and overlooking the Coachella Valley, San Jacinto Cove is the perfect vacation rental location if you’re looking for a cozy, peaceful environment with picturesque views. The area is also located just minutes away from local attractions such as the Palm Springs Art Museum and Architecture Design Center, which features the work of local artists and architects, as well as exhibits from artists around the world.
2. Chino Canyon, Palm Springs
The Chino Canyon community overlooks the Chino Canyon cliffs and sits just a short drive away from Mt. San Jacinto State Park, making it an ideal lodging spot for recreational enthusiasts. Head over to the park and hike the nature trails, or sign up for a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, a rotating tram car that travels above the canyons and mountains. The tram ride takes passengers up to the Mt. San Jacinto Mountain Station, where you can stretch your legs and gaze out into the great beyond via the observation deck, or grab a snack at one of the mountaintop restaurants.
3. San Gorgonio, Palm Springs
Vacation Rentals in the San Gorgonio community are in close proximity to the Palm Springs Windmill Farm, one of the city’s most popular attractions. The farm houses over 4,000 windmills that provide power for both Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley, and they are truly a sight to behold. Sign up with Palm Springs Windmill Tours to view the mills up close from the comfort of an air-conditioned bus, and learn all about the history of the farm. When the tour is over, enjoy a delicious date shake at the Windmill Market, known for the freshest dates and best shakes in the valley.
4. Cathedral City Cove, Palm Springs
If you’re hoping to stretch your legs and do a little hiking during your Palm Springs visit, Cathedral City Cove puts you just minutes from beautiful nature areas and several hiking trails. Araby Trail spans 4 miles around the Coachella Valley, with gorgeous views of the canyons and homes that pepper the area, including the home once owned by legendary entertainer Bob Hope. Nearby Indian Canyon offers several trails, including Indian Canyon Trail that leads to a gorgeous waterfall, and Andreas Trail that travels up the right side of the canyon for some amazing mountain views.
5. Cahuila Hills, Palm Springs
For the camping enthusiasts in the family, Cahuila Hills is a great vacation rental location, as this community sits just a short drive away from Joshua Tree State Park, one of the most famous natural parks in the country. Desert rocks, cactus and yucca palms, also referred to as Joshua trees, cover the entire area, creating an environment like no other. Hike through the park during the day, then set up camp at one of the several designated areas and spend the night gazing at the millions of stars in the clear desert skies.
6. Bella Monte, Palm Springs
Bella Monte is a quiet, upscale neighborhood in South Palm Springs with vacation rentals that overlook the picturesque scenery of Indian Canyon. In addition to lovely views and a relaxed atmosphere, this area is also just a quick trip away from Moorten Botanical Garden, a beloved attraction filled with hundreds of desert plants. The garden is open year round and offers self-guided walking tours, just grab a map at the door and start your desert adventure.
7. Downtown Palm Springs, Palm Springs
Downtown Palm Springs is a great neighborhood if you’re planning on visiting the many shops and restaurants of Palm Springs. Unlike some downtown areas of busier cities, Downtown Palm Springs only spans a few streets, so visitors still enjoy the small-town atmosphere of the area. Take in a movie with the family at the historic Plaza Theatre, stop by Palm Springs Fudge for something sweet, or simply do a little window shopping for antiques and boutique clothing.
8. Historic Tennis Club, Palm Springs
While the name sounds like a sports venue, Historic Tennis Club is actually one of Palm Springs’ oldest neighborhood. Vacation rentals in this district put you in close proximity to a variety of historic homes and structures that were once occupied by some of Palm Springs’ earliest pioneers. Sign up for a Historic Palm Springs walking tour and learn about the area through the eyes of a seasoned guide, or take an evening stroll through the area in your own time. One of the most well-known buildings is Cornelia White House, one of the oldest buildings in the city that dates back to 1893.
9. South Palm Springs, Palm Springs
South Palm Springs sits a few miles north of the Thousand Palms Canyon and Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve, a vast nature area where you’ll find hiking trails, picnic areas, and some of the best views in all of Palm Springs. Take a family hike through the preserve, then stop for a lunch break when you get to the “thousand palms,” an area of endless palm trees and natural pools.
10. Desert Hot Springs, Palm Springs
If you’ve got relaxation on your mind, consider a vacation rental in Desert Hot Springs. Known for its natural hot springs, this laid-back community is filled with day-resorts and spas that utilize the healing mineral waters found throughout the springs. Soak your troubles away and check out the mountain views at the Sagewater Spa, or dip your toes in the pools at Lido Palms Day Spa.
11. Palm Desert, California
Palm Desert sits just outside of Palm Springs and a few miles away from Desert Hot Springs. Many of the vacation rentals in the area feature gorgeous views of Eisenhower Mountain and sit just a few minutes away from Civic Center Park, the city’s largest recreational area. For a fun nature-filled day, take the family to the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. Tour the gardens and view over 1,400 species of desert plants, then stop by the giraffe enclosure and let them eat right out of your hand.