From Air-Conditioned Shopping Sprees to Relaxing Spa Days, Here’s How to Stay Cool This Summer
Summer is here, which means so is the heat! Sun worshippers know that Palm Springs is a dreamy destination to catch some rays. The summer months, however, signal the start of some smoldering temps. Whether your personal oasis is lounging poolside under the misters or lacing up your hiking boots for a sunrise hike, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season while staying cool. Here’s a list of our favorite ways to beat the heat in Palm Springs.
Rejuvenate at The Spa at Séc-he
Stay cool this summer with a restorative trip to the all-new Séc-he spa! This desert oasis is centered around a 12,000-year-old hot spring made from snowmelt and rainwater that contains key minerals like calcium, magnesium and sodium. With a day pass, guests can soak in one of the 22 mineral baths or indulge in a body scrub, massage or facial. The Swedish-inspired Relaxing Desert Rain Massage is a great way to cool off from the summer heat; it incorporates aromatic local desert botanicals, such as sage and lavender, to boost immune function, reduce stress and diminish fatigue. After your treatment, explore The Spa at Séc-he’s countless luxury amenities, including the float pod suites, grounding room, tranquility garden, acoustic wellness lounge and more. There are also cabanas for shade as well as a cafe with refreshing smoothies.
Take a Dip in the Pool
Home to both sprawling resorts and charming boutique hotels, it’s no secret Greater Palm Springs is a vacation destination. But when visiting during the summertime, temps can rocket up into the triple digits, making the heat hard to beat. Cool off this season with a refreshing dip in one of the region’s many hotel pools. We love the Hyatt Regency Indian Wells for its HyTides Plunge Waterpark, complete with two 30-foot water slides, a lazy river and a splash pad, making it perfect for families! La Quinta Resort is also a great option; they have over 40 pools scattered across the property’s lush grounds. For a full guide to the best pools in Greater Palm Springs, check out this guide!
Embark on a Sunrise Hike
Greater Palm Springs is the quintessential hiking destination for beginners, experts and everyone in between. You can choose between more rigorous hikes or peaceful nature walks, but both give you the opportunity to witness breathtaking mountainscapes while watching the sunrise. Planning your hike early is key to beating the brutal temps that will certainly climb after sunrise. So set your alarm, grab your hiking shoes (and a water bottle) and get your sweat sesh in early! Click here for a list of our favorite hikes in Greater Palm Springs.
Shop in the Air-Conditioned Stores on El Paseo
After a morning hike, you might be yearning for some retail therapy. That’s why a trip to The Shops on El Paseo is a must. With stylish boutiques, name-brand stores and one-of-a-kind art galleries, this family-friendly center is the perfect spot to take a leisurely stroll and do some afternoon shopping. From staples like Anthropologie and Lululemon to designer picks, such as Louis Vuitton and Gucci, you and your crew will love popping into the variety of air-conditioned shops!
Snag a Scoop of Ice Cream from Kreem
Nothing screams spring and summer more than ice cream itself! At Kreem, you’ll find your new favorite flavor all while escaping the hot afternoon sun. This artisanal ice cream haven serves a variety of decadent flavors that will surely make your mouth water––from PB and J to rosemary vanilla and turmeric ginger! And if you have dietary restrictions, don’t fret! Kreem offers vegan options daily with both almond milk and coconut milk substitutions. So grab a cone, sit down and unwind at the coolest creamery in Palm Springs.
Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum
Feeling artsy? The Palm Springs Art Museum is a transformative art experience that is home to a collection of over 12,000 objects. Here, you can gaze at thousands of paintings, sculptures, jewelry, photos and ceramics that are rooted in modern and contemporary art, architecture and design. After surveying the collection of art, take a walk around the beautiful grounds, where you can see their Faye Sarkowsky Sculpture Garden and more gems. Make sure to plan in advance, as the Palm Springs Art Museum is only open Thursday through Sunday; take advantage of their free Thursday nights!
Head North on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
We hope you aren’t scared of heights because hopping on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a must when visiting Palm Springs! This local tramway, the world’s largest rotating tram car, travels over 2.5 miles up and over the cliffs of Chino Canyon. Once you arrive at the Mountain Station, you can explore multiple observation decks, the natural history museum, two documentary theaters and two restaurants. With over 50 miles of hiking trails to explore, this is an activity you’ll want to check off your bucket list. The best part? With an elevation gain of 8,516 feet, it’s bound to be cooler at the top!
