California Desert travel, tours and vacation ideas. Plan your California Desert travel and vacation online at VisitCalifornia.com

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Home | Explore California | Deserts

Deserts

The warm air may draw you here, but any number of other attractions will keep you coming back. It could be the innovative spas in Desert Hot Springs, the outdoor adventures in the desert, art galleries in Palm Desert, hot air ballooning over Joshua Tree, or the hundreds of birds at the Salton Sea. Then again, it could be the simple act of lounging by a turquoise pool in Palm Springs that’s reason enough for a repeat visit. for more information about this region, please visit the California Deserts Visitors Association and the Palm Springs Desert Resorts web sites.

Deserts Arts & Culture

California’s Desert region art scene got its start as American artists flocked to the southwest in the early 20th century. Add to that its popularity with Hollywood glitterati, and you’ve got the two ingredients that continue to fuel arts and culture here today, including fine art, opera, symphony and theater.

Deserts Golf

For decades the desert has been a safe haven for golfers trying to escape the bone chilling cold of winter. Today, low handicappers and hackers alike still enjoy the desert’s warm winter days and crisp nights. However, those same golfers are returning to play in the summer months, when the days are hot, the nights are warm, and green fees are extremely attractive.

Deserts Outdoor Recreation

California’s Desert region is chock full of natural beauty and ways to explore it: by foot, horseback, bicycle, car and hot air balloon. Whether you’re getting out to rock-climb in Joshua Tree, bird-watch in the Salton Sea, or run your ATV in the Dumont Dunes, rest assured there are plenty of opportunities to cool off afterward in the area’s rivers, lakes, and (of course) swimming pools.

Deserts Spas & Wellness

Palm Springs has long been an escape for Southern Californians, so a large number of spas cater to vacationing urbanites. In and around Desert Hot Springs, many spas are built around natural springs, and encourage visitors to “take the water” for its healing powers. In addition to treatments such as massage and scrubs, you’ll find Native American-inspired purifying rituals to restore body, mind, and spirit.

Deserts Family Fun

California has family-friendly fun for every member of your brood, young or old. From theme parks galore with the latest rides and roller coasters, to up-close encounters with animals and history alike, grab the relatives and hit the road for a groovy California getaway!

Deserts Wine & Dine

Long a favorite getaway from the hubbub of Hollywood, the residents of Palm Springs and surrounding towns enjoy a lively restaurant scene. Close proximity to Southern California’s vineyards ensures sophisticated wine lists. Several landmarks, reminders of the rat pack’s days, still provide reliable, thick steaks with a special ambiance. Newcomers to the dining scene are spicing things up with down home barbecue, upscale Californian, Hawaiian and Thai.