Your Guide to the Ultimate Palm Springs Bachelorette Party

Las Vegas, Napa Valley, Palm Springs, Nashville, Austin, Charleston… what do these cities have in common? They’re some of the most popular destinations for bachelorette parties. It’s not hard to see why: each of these cities offer pleasant weather, a variety of attractions and experiences for a group, and are fairly easy to get to.

When it came time to plan my own bachelorette, it was a no-brainer that I would choose Palm Springs. It’s my happy place, and originally, I wanted to get married there. When that didn’t work out, I knew it was the perfect destination to host my bachelorette party. 

I love the location because it’s pretty much sunny there year-round, which was perfect for my January bachelorette. It also has the perfect mix of relaxing and more active vibes—we could hang out by the pool in the daytime and then go dancing at night.

Visit Greater Palm Springs

“Palm Springs offers the perfect mix of sunshine, wellness, and poolside fun,” explains Rob Hampton, General Manager, Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism. “It’s the ideal place for bachelorettes to relax, connect with friends, and create lasting memories before the big day.”

There are so many things to do in Palm Springs, and there’s something for every type of party. More on the outdoorsy side? You can go hiking in the canyons or even book an ATV adventure. Want to dance all day and all night long? There are plenty of pool parties and nightclubs to check out. Interested in going all out on a fancy dinner? There’s nothing better than a classic Palm Springs steakhouse experience! Or want to turn it into a wellness trip? Hit up some hot springs!

Since the activities in the desert can be endless, I was a bit overwhelmed when planning my itinerary. What really helped was asking locals and other people who had planned Palm Springs bachelorettes for their suggestions. With my own party in the rearview mirror, I’m sharing the best recommendations I received below, plus my own picks for those who are planning out their itinerary, or considering the destination.

STAY

Courtesy of Thompson Palm Springs

An Airbnb worked best for our group of 10 since we wanted private communal spaces for the whole group to hang out. It’s important to note that some Airbnb properties in the area do not allow bachelor or bachelorette parties, so make sure you read the fine print in the descriptions. We were able to find a cheerful and whimsical property that allowed bachelorette parties on a case-by-case basis.

Luckily, if you can’t find an Airbnb, or would rather stay at a hotel, there are so many options at various price points. “I love Sparrows Lodge. It feels like if summer camp for adults was designed by Vogue,” recommends Hope Leigh of F10 Hospitality.

“Thompson Palm Springs, naturally! There is plenty of space and easy access to downtown,” says Daniel Schmidt-Sohr, marketing manager of Thompson Palm Springs.

La Quinta Resort & Club

“Of course, I’m partial to say La Quinta Resort & Club is the best place to stay!” says Christina Cabrera, who is the director of spa and fitness at the resort. “With 42 sparkling swimming pools, three incredible onsite restaurants, five retail shops, striking tennis courts, and a world-class spa, there is something for everyone on the guest list. Additionally, the casita-style accommodations offer girls a private house feel, with all the amenities of a luxury resort.” Note: La Quinta is a 30-minute drive from Palm Springs.

Erin Feinblatt

Another Sunset staff favorite is the Drift Palm Springs, which brings a taste of Baja to the desert and is located steps away from downtown Palm Springs. For design eye-candy, check out Holiday House, Casa Cody, Parker Palm Springs, and Sands Hotel and Spa (20 minutes away from Palm Springs in Indian Wells). And if you’re looking for a party, consider The Saguaro Palm Springs and Ace Hotel & Swim Club.

EAT

Courtesy of Cheeky’s

Breakfast, Brunch, and Lunch

“I love Cheeky’s for breakfast, it’s the only Michelin-list breakfast spot in town but feels super casual with tons of great staples,” says Leigh. “The maple sausage and bacon flight are what dreams are made of, but tons of options for vegetarians too! They also can do custom menus and bookings for parties over 10 people.”

If you’re looking to go to a drag brunch, Leigh recommends the Saturday brunch at Reforma, which is hosted by Epiphany Kali and has a new theme every week. “There are huge group tables available and the food is good, too—the performers are world class,” she says.

Thomas J. Story

Boozehounds came highly recommended from multiple sources when I was doing my trip research. “It has super Palm Springs vibes and really cute indoor/outdoor seating! And don’t miss a drag brunch on Sundays!” says Schmidt-Sohr.

For lunch, Leigh says to get sandwiches to go from The Sandwich Spot—get the Dutch crunch bread!

Other Sunset picks include Norma’s, Townie Bagels,  Wilma & Frieda’s, and Farm.

Dinner

Courtesy of Mr. Lyons

One of my favorite ways to celebrate anything is doing a classic steakhouse night with many martinis involved. Palm Springs is home to so many iconic steakhouses, but I decided to try Mr. Lyons, and it didn’t disappoint. Not only were the steak and martinis perfectly prepared, but my group also loved the Parker House Rolls, Onion Rings, and most importantly, the Four Layer Caviar Dip (egg salad, shallot, herb cream cheese, and caviar).

To balance out our fancier dinner, I wanted to do a more casual dinner at a Mexican restaurant. I can’t recommend Las Casuelas Terraza enough. The food and margaritas hit the spot, but the best part was sitting out on the patio and listening and dancing to the live band. They even serenaded me with a rendition of “Chapel of Love,” which made me feel extra special.

Courtesy of Thompson Palm Springs

“Well, obviously: Lola Rose Grand Mezze—my kitchen, my pride, and the current hotspot in Palm Springs,” says the restaurant’s Executive Chef Quentin Garcia. “But when I’m treating myself, Workshop is my go-to for a refined and unforgettable meal. If you’re up for a little road trip, head out to Tía Carmen at our sister property, Grand Hyatt Indian Wells. Chef Angelo Sosa is doing incredible things out there.”

Thomas J. Story

Cabrera recommends Eight4Nine, which she says has fresh and vibrant flavors, excellent service, and a charming atmosphere. “You can even book a gorgeous private room for a full bachelorette party!” she adds.

Other Sunset favorites for dinner include Rooster + Pig for stellar Vietnamese food, Birba for pizza, Maleza for upscale Mexican eats, Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey for sushi, and Bar Cecil if you have a smaller group of five or less and can snag a reservation.

DRINK (AND DANCE!)

Courtesy of Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs

My group and I headed to Tonga Hut on our first night—we reserved “The Secret Room,” which is a private room that you enter through a phone booth. It can hold six to 12 people, so it’s a nice option if you want to a private space to celebrate.

The next night we headed to RetroRoom Lounge for karaoke. Not only is it a great spot for singing your heart out, but it’s also great for people watching. The regulars there really know how to sing and have a good time! We were also one of about 10 bachelorette parties there throughout the night—that’s when you know it’s a celebratory place.

Schmidt-Sohr also recommends Canopy Wine Lounge for a night out. “If you’re looking for something stronger, Evening Citizen is a hidden speakeasy off Arenas that’s worth checking out,” he adds.

For IG-friendly surroundings, Cabrera says The Pink Cabana at Sands Hotel and Spa is a hidden gem. “The restaurant is tucked away and boasts chic decor, offering endless photo opportunities for the girls. They also serve fantastic cocktails!”

Courtesy of Lost Property/MKimberling

For other bars, check out Bootlegger Tiki for more tropical drinks; Tailor Shop for chic cocktails; High Bar at the Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs Hotel for rooftop views; Seymour’s, the cocktail bar next door to Mr. Lyons; and Lost Property at the Skylark. Looking for a nightclub? Get tickets for Neon Oasis, a Saturday night dance party.

And if your group prefers to stay in, you can always bring the party to you. “You can also do at-home cocktail-making classes from one of the owners of Seymour’s.”

DO

Courtesy of Visit Greater Palm Springs

My group and I didn’t do as many activities, as it was a short trip (from Friday to Sunday) and we mostly wanted to hang out by the pool in our Airbnb. But since everyone was getting into town midday on Friday and we couldn’t check into our Airbnb until later in the afternoon, I had everyone meet me at Thompson Palm Springs, where I rented a cabana for the day. The cabana came with a couch, pool chairs, a TV, a bottle of rose, a fresh fruit platter, and complimentary bottled waters. We ordered more drinks and tons of snacks and appetizers—it was a fun way to kick off the weekend. We also had a tarot reader come by our Airbnb the next day to do readings for everyone, which was intriguing and a little bit mysterious.

But if you have a longer trip planned or your group wants to do more activities, you’ve got endless options. “Get out and explore the desert! The hiking trails around here are unreal—Tahquitz Canyon is one of my favorites, especially for the waterfall (yes, jump in if you’re brave enough),” says Garcia. “If heights don’t scare you, take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway—you won’t regret the view.”

Palm Springs is also home to some great museums, galleries, and other exhibitions. Head to the Palm Springs Art Museum, browse the local art galleries, and visit the Moorten Botanical Garden.

“If you’re in town on the first Sunday of the month, check out the Palm Springs Vintage Market,” Garcia says. “But my real go-to? The Thursday night VillageFest. It’s got everything: local vendors, great food, music, and a whole lot of heart. It’s Palm Springs at its best.”

Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians

For wellness-focused bachelorettes, Leigh recommends The Spa at Séc-he. “If you cant get spa appointments for everyone, do a day pass by the pool, sauna, etc. You can also get blowouts there after a spa day before dinner,” she says.

And Cabrera recommends her own spa for treatments: “The Wine Down Massage at Spa La Quinta is a must for a bachelorette itinerary in the Greater Palm Springs area!” She says. “Each spa treatment comes with a flight of wine specifically paired to aromatics of essential oils used during your massage, and you get a full pour of wine after!”

Thomas J. Story

For other daytime activities, Leigh recommends the Palm Springs Surf Club for its lazy river and water slides. And if you want to do a quick day trip, head to Pioneertown. “It’s super cute with great BBQ, live music, and fun shopping. Soukie Modern is my favorite,” she says.