Palm Springs

Just shy of a two-hour drive from LA, Palm Springs is an exciting, laid-back destination for those looking to enjoy a posh desert getaway. It is the perfect marriage of nature and refinement, with just the right dash of quirkiness. It’s known for its hot springs, golf courses and spas, not to mention its many wonderful examples of mid-century modern architecture. Luxury travelers wanting to experience the uncommon landscape, along with a vibrant arts scene and gorgeous golf courses, will want to check into this arid wonderland in the Sonoran Desert. The core shopping district along Palm Canyon Drive features vintage boutiques, interior design shops and restaurants. The surrounding Coachella Valley offers hiking, biking and horseback riding trails.

The dedicated LVH team ensures all guests receive the ultimate in service and satisfaction during their stays. LVH can arrange for private chefs, private jets, exotic cars, luxury yachts, and anything else you might require to make your vacation stay truly remarkable. Choose a one-on-one session with a certified yoga or pilates instructor, time with a private tennis pro to up your game, or complete pampering sessions with a massage therapist, hair stylist or barber, nail technician, and makeup artist.

Luxury home rentals, with full services and support, can be arranged to accommodate groups of varying sizes and are ideal for lavish events. A wide roster of specially curated properties makes up the lists of the world’s most exquisite vacation estates. No matter what your chosen destination, when you are seeking the best homes, you have the most elite selection from which to choose when booking your stay with LVH.

AREAS

The many unique and exciting areas and neighborhoods of Palm Springs make it a very compelling holiday destination. These 10 areas are among the most delightful:

Coachella

Between the San Jacinto and Santa Rosa mountains lies the incredibly beautiful Coachella Valley. It's like no other place on earth with its magical, serene vibe. If you want to immerse yourself in this tranquil energy, you would be delighted to stay at the sumptuous Zenyara Estate. It is, in fact, very Zen-like with its crisp, clean style and astonishing, oversized heated pool. With 11 bedrooms there is room for more than 20 guests.

El Mirador

This beautiful area was developed in the 1920s by the same man who built the famous El Mirador Hotel, P.T. Stevens. Once a resort area catering to the Hollywood elite, the Desert Inn was a place to be and be seen. One can still see the resort's tower highlighting El Mirador's eclectic neighborhood vibe.

Indian Canyons

Indian Canyons was built in the 1960s with mid-century-modern homes designed by notable architects such as Dan Palmer, William Krisel, and Stan Sackley. Including the architecture, the neighborhood is best known for its close proximity to the mountains, Indian Canyon Park, many golf courses, and the largest grove of wild palm trees in the world.

Indio

Just over 20 miles east of Palm Springs, Indio is close enough to drive to things like the Living Desert, the beautiful botanical park, and the Coachella music festival. Staying at the gorgeous 6,800-square-foot Villa Castillo, adjacent to the Plantation Golf Course, is the ideal choice for a luxury getaway to enjoy the Palm Springs area.

La Quinta

You can spend some time meandering down the cobblestone sidewalks of La Quinta's main street, shop in boutiques located in a storybook setting, and dine alfresco after purchasing one or more unique works by the many local artists. After a day of exploring, head back to the famed Three Thumbs Estate to relax poolside and soothe those muscles in the outdoor hot tub.

The Movie Colony

This neighborhood is named after the many film stars who owned homes in the area between the 1930s and 1960s. The Movie Colony (TMC) is within walking distance to the downtown area and many fine restaurants, boutiques, and live entertainment. It is only three miles from the Palm Springs International Airport.

Palm Canyon

Palm Canyon is one of the greatest areas of natural beauty in Western North America. Majestic palm trees are mesmerizing contrasts to the area's stark rocky gorges and desert lands. Palm Canyon is perfect for a picnic near a stream, meditation, exploring, hiking, and horseback riding.

Palm Desert

Palm Desert is in the heart of Great Palm Springs and has turned into a shopping, dining, entertainment, and recreation mecca. The El Paseo Shopping District is a tree-lined boulevard in Palm Desert boasting upscale stores, boutiques, and many fine dining establishments. You would be close to all Palm Desert offers by choosing the lavish Villa Carol as their luxury holiday retreat. One of the most incredible features of this villa is the glass ceiling that allows sunlight to filter in through the day and retract in the evening for balmy desert nights stargazing.

Rancho Mirage

Villa Aurelia, a true architectural masterpiece with its modern elegance, is the epitome of luxury desert living. The villa is located in Rancho Mirage, where a luxurious lifestyle meets lovely landscapes. Rancho Mirage is a playful area with many things for children and adults to do, such as the Children's Museum of the Desert and Palm Springs' only waterfront shopping and entertainment center, The River.

Warm Sands

Warm Sands is one of the most historic and diverse neighborhoods in all of Palm Springs. It is brimming with Spanish-style homes built in the 1920s and 1930s and mid-century modern homes from the 1950s and 1960s.

RESTAURANTS

Purveyors of fine cuisine say that Palm Springs is a culinary destination to be reckoned with. Here are eight fine dining establishments to which LVH gives five golden stars:

Copley's On Palm Canyon

American cuisine infused with the tastes of the tropics and Europe flare is served up at the award-winning Copley's On Palm Canyon. Dine on the patio surrounded by stunning mountain vistas or in the inviting indoors. Chef Andrew Copley is known for innovative dishes like miso-glazed Scottish Salmon or saffron-scented seafood spaghetti. After dinner, try the black ice martini made with dark rum, Irish cream, Frangelico, and a shot of espresso.

Cork Tree Restaurant

Cork Tree creates a fine dining experience with its upscale and wholesome cuisine, comprehensive wine list, and intimate dining areas. Locally sourced products are used for Chef Herve's offerings, such as duck breast and smoked mushroom risotto and hibiscus braised short ribs. Private rooms are also available at the Cork Tree if you are looking for more intimate dining.

Le Vallauris

Le Vallauris is one of the finest culinary destinations in Palm Springs. Here, you will experience five-star dining and first-class service. Entrees include Maine lobster ravioli and seared whitefish with mustard sauce. The outdoor patio, covered by a canopy of lush trees and surrounded by fragrant flower bushes, is known for one of the desert's best al fresco dining options.

LG's Prime Steakhouse

This establishment is often given the moniker of one of the desert's best steakhouses. There's a 24-ounce porterhouse or its 30-ounce big brother, "The Gold Strike 49er" on the menu. The service is as exemplary as are the perfectly-seared steaks.

Mister Parker's

Located in the famed Parker hotel in South Palm Canyon, one of the most impressively decorated eateries, dinner at Mister Parker's is sure to be impressive. Expect upscale bistro dishes with a stylish twist. This can be seen in such dishes as Osso Bucco with saffron risotto, pistachio-crusted rack of lamb, and duck confit with truffled potatoes.

Morgan's in the Desert

Award-winning Chef Jimmy Schmidt is known for his innovative menu options, such as pan-roasted maple leaf duck breast. Morgan's is also a steak lover's heaven with thick, quality cuts of choice beef. There is also an extensive wine list, so it's easy to find the perfect wine to pair with dinner.

Spencer's Restaurant

Locals, and tourists alike love Spencer's Restaurant because of the award-winning dishes it serves. Like pan-fried Dover sole with asparagus, lemon caper brown butter, bearnaise sauce, served with gratin potatoes. The cuisine sets the perfect table with the restaurant's breathtaking setting against Mount San Jacinto.

Wally's Desert Turtle

It may have an unusual name, but Wally's Desert Turtle is one of the most awarded restaurants in the desert. The menu is classically French with roasted pheasant breast, seared venison strip loin, escargot, and Dungeness crab and lobster ravioli. Be prepared to dine amongst murals, a mirrored ceiling, and ancient Peruvian artifacts.

For a quick primer on some of these restaurants’ leading dishes and more, click here!

THE ARTS

Palm Springs has always attracted creative individuals. There are many galleries, shops, and boutiques that feature local artists, alongside some very beautiful museums. Have a look at these three:

Palm Springs Air Museum

The Air Museum houses one of the world's largest collections of flyable WWII, Korean War, and Vietnam War aircraft. The hangars are air-conditioned and have no ropes to keep guests from interacting with the exhibits. The vast library and crew of volunteers can provide details on the planes and a sense of the experience of flying them.

Palm Springs Art Museum Architecture and Design Center

The Architecture and Design Center is the place to explore mid-century architecture and design. The center features exhibitions, educational and community programs, research space, and a storage area for the museum's growing architecture, design collections, and archives.

Museum of Ancient Wonders

The Museum of Ancient Wonders offers exhibitions of replicated and genuine treasured artifacts from ancient civilizations and scientifically produced laboratory-cast fossils of important prehistoric life discoveries. You will learn about the wonders of King Tutankhamun and explore dinosaur fossils.

NIGHTLIFE

The nightlife in Palm Springs can be hot, just like the temps, or laid back and cool like a dessert evening. Check out the vibes of these four chic and upscale venues to have a good time once the sun has set:

Chi Chi

Pure and simple, Chi-Chi is outright beautiful. The white walls and décor sparkle with touches of copper, gold, and silver. Though the interior is sedate, the ambiance is lively. Those who like to imbibe outdoors can sip their beverages beside a quaint little pool under the desert sky.

Escena Lounge & Grill

Stunning sunsets and majestic mountain views overlooking a million-dollar fairway aren't hard to take at Escena Lounge & Grill. The architecture of the building is sprawling; the décor, grand; and the ambiance, gracious. Sit at the circular bar with a delicious cocktail while listening to the water flowing in the pond below.

Melvyn's Restaurant & Lounge

Melvyn's is where Frank Sinatra would hang out when in Palm Springs and the venue still has the rat pack vibe to it. The place is filled nearly every night with the dulcet tones of local musicians. Opulent chandeliers still give the joint the feeling of the sexy 60s.

Seymour's

This classy place is a hidden Palm Springs gem. Its décor is plush, inviting, and dimly lit. It's the perfect, dusky, romantic cast ideal for spending time with that special someone. Swanky craft cocktails sit on charming tables. You will feel like you have walked into the very dreamy past.

EVENTS

Palm Springs can be defined by its many golf courses. Check out these four events that would be great to attend:

American Express PGA Tour

Every January, the best golfers in the world descend on Palm Springs for four days for the American Express PGA Tour. Prime ticket holders don't sit on the sidelines but have seating that gets them close to the green and are privy to food and drinks alongside pre and post-live concerts.

BNP Paribas Open

The BNP Paribas Open is the largest combined ATP Tour Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 tennis event globally. For the ultimate in luxury, you can book a private suite, which is the best way to soak up all the courtside action.

Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival

This festival is not to be missed by music and art lovers. One of the world’s premier music showcases, Coahcella hosts the largest names in music and the most promising emerging artists. The festival has developed its own unique culture. There are various VIP packages available to get up close and personal with the action.

LPGA Ana Inspiration (women's golf)

The best women golfers in the world compete in this annual tournament. Guests will be able to watch as 15 women vie for the winning $465,000. Even non-golfers know this tournament, made famous by Amy Alcott's jump into Poppie's Pond in 1988, a celebratory act repeated by champions ever since.

ACTIVITIES AND EXPERIENCES

Palm Springs, located in the Sonoran Desert, is replete with many activities and experiences for the luxury traveler. Here are five that are well worth it:

Hot Air Balloon Tour

One of the most romantic and different perspectives of Palm Springs can be found in the basket of a hot air balloon floating on a gentle breeze. A private champagne balloon flight might be the perfect way to start a holiday after settling into the Palm Springs mansion rental.

Indian Canyons Hiking (and other hiking spots)

There are so many treasure troves of nature in the Palm Springs area, which beckon hikers and cyclists. Indian Canyons is the perfect spot since there are 60 miles of trails to choose from, depending upon the difficulty. Whichever trail is chosen, expect some postcard-perfect surreal scenery. Other areas to consider hiking are Big Morongo Canyon Preserve, Joshua Tree National Park, and Tahquitz Peak.

Indian Wells Certified Farmers Market

From May to October, visitors in Palm Spring might want to check out the Indian Wells Farmers Market on Thursdays. It is a great place to stock up on goodies such as locally grown dates, homemade bread, and one-of-a-kind gifts for foodies on the gift list.

Joshua Tree National Park Jeep or SUV Tour

If you are looking for something a little adventurous, you might want to take a private Jeep or SUV tour of Joshua Tree National Park. The exhilarating trip takes you along mountainsides of rugged roads through Coachella Valley and into the protected wilderness of the Mojave Desert.

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Palm Springs is home to the world's largest rotating tramcar. Cars make the journey along the fascinating Chino Canyon Cliffs from Valley Station to Mountain Station in about 10 minutes. The ride is worth the views from the top, where you can find the Peaks Restaurant, a charming café, gift shop, theaters, nature exhibits, and more than 50 miles of trails to hike.