Welcome to Coachella Valley, CA, where the desert lifestyle provides tranquility and adventure. With its year-round sunny weather and mild winters, this region is a haven for those seeking warmth and outdoor activities. Picture springtime, when the valley bursts into color with beautiful wildflowers, creating a stunning contrast against the desert landscape.
Whether you're drawn to hiking through scenic trails, golfing on world-class courses, or enjoying serene desert views, Coachella Valley provides endless opportunities to connect with nature. This vibrant destination invites newcomers to embrace the relaxed pace of life while offering a strong sense of community and culture. Moving to Coachella Valley, CA, means living a lifestyle where sunshine and natural beauty are your everyday companions.
The great outdoors
For a unique wildlife experience, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens showcases desert flora and fauna worldwide, blending conservation with education in a fun, family-friendly environment. If you're looking for a bird's-eye view of the valley, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway whisks you up to the cool heights of Mt. San Jacinto, where you can hike, picnic, and enjoy the stunning vistas.
The Coachella Valley Preserve, a natural oasis in the desert, is home to over 20,000 acres of protected land. Its diverse ecosystems provide a peaceful retreat for hikers and nature lovers, with hidden springs and fascinating wildlife. After a day of exploration, unwind in the Palm Springs natural hot springs, known for their relaxing and rejuvenating properties. Or, for a more cultivated experience, visit Sunnylands Center and Gardens, where beautifully landscaped gardens meet cultural and historical exhibits, offering a serene space for reflection.
Festivals and events
For those who prefer a more intimate setting, the Joshua Tree Music Festival provides a unique mix of eclectic music styles in a beautiful desert setting at Joshua Tree Lake Campground. This four-day event is a soulful celebration of music and community. At the Southwest Arts Festival in January, artists from around the country showcase traditional, contemporary, and abstract works. The valley also hosts the Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival each February, featuring everything from carnival rides to date-themed culinary treats.
For foodies, November brings the Indio CA BBQ Festival, where pitmasters compete for the best BBQ, and the Cabazon Indio Pow Wow, celebrating Native American culture with traditional dancing, food, and festivities. December is highlighted by the Indio International Tamale Festival, where visitors can savor the best tamales in the region.
For art in unexpected places, Desert X brings site-specific installations to the desert landscape, transforming the valley into a stunning open-air gallery. For weekly fun, VillageFest in Palm Springs offers a classic street fair experience, complete with musicians, sidewalk performers, and local vendors.
Endless entertainment
One of the most iconic experiences in the valley is playing a round at some of its world-renowned golf courses. The Coachella Valley has over 100 courses, each offering breathtaking desert views and lush, meticulously maintained greens. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a casual player, courses like PGA West and Indian Wells Golf Resort provide a challenge paired with an unforgettable scenic backdrop, making golf one of the area's most popular pastimes.
For those seeking a meaningful experience, the Desert Holocaust Memorial provides a powerful and somber reminder of history, honoring the lives lost during the Holocaust with thoughtful sculptures and inscriptions.
Downtown Palm Springs is the vibrant heart of the region, with its bustling streets filled with restaurants, cafes, and shops. Shoppers will enjoy exploring The Shops at Palm Desert, a modern mall featuring popular retailers. For a more upscale experience, the El Paseo Shopping District and The Gardens on El Paseo offer a collection of high-end boutiques, art galleries, and fine dining options.
Dining destinations
If Italian food is your passion, Castelli's Ristorante is a lively and bustling institution that has been serving traditional Italian fare for years. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Castelli's often features live entertainment, making it a great choice for a fun and flavorful evening. Morton's The Steakhouse is a go-to for those seeking aged prime beef and seafood in a classic steakhouse setting. This upscale chain brings a clubby, elegant vibe, perfect for indulging in a top-tier steak dinner.
For a more elegant Italian dining experience, La Spiga Ristorante Italiano transports you to Tuscany with its villa-like ambiance, with rose gardens, gazebos, and ample outdoor seating, ideal for enjoying a sunset meal. History and romance blend beautifully at Copley's on Palm Canyon, part of the former Cary Grant estate. This restaurant serves elevated American dishes in a chic and intimate setting, offering a sense of Hollywood glamour and unforgettable flavors.