The months from December to April serve up some of Palm Springs’ best weather, as well as the greatest temperature change from day to night.
High Season: Winter/Spring (December–April) Here's our guide to the best time of year to visit Palm Springs. The valley hovers at around 70✯ – perfect for hiking and downtown strolling – and ski resorts open in the mountains to the north. Year-round, you can browse boutiques, dine in glam eateries, stay in boutique hotels, relax at spa resorts and explore the desert, but winter showcases a special side to the city. With its distinctive desert landscapes, laid-back lifestyle and history of LGBTIQ+ inclusivity, the region has an enduring, come-as-you-are appeal. The Coachella Valley – comprising the cities of Palm Springs, Cathedral City, Coachella, Desert Hot Springs, Indian Wells, Indio, La Quinta, Palm Desert and Rancho Mirage – basks under clear Californian skies for 300 days a year. Deciding the best time to visit Palm Springs is less about the perfect weather and more about pinpointing the kind of desert experience you’re after.