Pack your Speedos and sunblock. We’re about to spill the tea on the ultimate gay getaway in the USA! Picture this: days spent lounging poolside (clothing optional, naturally), drag shows for brunch, and a vibrant gay nightlife, all while surrounded by mid-century modern architecture, palm trees, and the desert mountains. Sound like heaven? It was. Join us gay couple travel bloggers, as we recount our fabulous ten-day adventure in this Californian desert paradise. Here are our insider tips on the chicest gay-friendly hotels, hidden architectural gems, rejuvenating spa experiences, and the top gay hot spots to dance the night away. Oh, and did we already mention The Trixie Motel? Consider this blog article your personal invitation to experience the magic of Gay Palm Springs!
– in paid collaboration with Visit Palm Springs –
Clothing optional: our favorite resorts
A fabulous vacation starts with the perfect home base, and in Palm Springs, “clothing optional” is practically a mantra! So, we split our stay between two stunning gay resorts, each offering its own distinct flavor of desert paradise.
Descanso Resort
This intimate, adults-only haven was perfect for those days when we craved tranquility. Drifting in the pool surrounded by lush greenery, cocktail in hand, the sun kissing your skin, and the blissful freedom to let it all hang out. The gay-friendly vibe and secluded setting at the Descanso Resort made it feel like our private Eden.
Watch our Instagram Descanso Reel >
Santiago Resort
The Santiago Resort provided the spark when we were ready to turn up the heat. It boasts a sprawling pool area, a hot tub that is always buzzing with energy, and a social scene that makes it easy to connect with fellow guests. And the rooms? Spacious, stylish, and equipped with every amenity a modern gay traveler desires.
Watch our Instagram Santiago Reel >
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Beyond the pool: unearthing Palm Springs’ past
Beyond the shimmering pools and vibrant nightlife, Palm Springs has a rich history waiting to be discovered. We were eager to explore its history from long before European settlers arrived. So, we hopped aboard a Red Jeep Tour. This exhilarating ride took us through the Indian Canyons. During the trip, we learned about the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians and how Palm Springs got its name.
Our knowledgeable guide from Red Jeep Tour, Darrell – Black Feather, shared his knowledge of the area’s past. He painted a vivid picture, from its indigenous roots to its Hollywood heyday. The highlight? Hiking through the stunning Andreas Canyon. It is part of the Indian Canyons near Palm Springs, an oasis of palm trees and hidden waterfalls. Talking about palm trees. We were awestruck by the towering California Fan Palms, the only palm native to western North America. These majestic giants, some reaching over 23 meters (about 75 feet), create a lush oasis in the arid desert landscape.
Darrell explained how the Cahuilla people relied on these palms for food, shelter, and tools, demonstrating their profound understanding of the natural world. We hiked through the canyon, marveling at the unique ecosystem. It was an incredible feeling to learn about the delicate balance between the palm oases and the surrounding desert environment.
Did you know? The California Fan Palm (Washingtonia filifera) has a fascinating adaptation to survive desert fires. The dead leaves around the trunk insulate the growing bud, protecting it from the flames. This allows the palm to regenerate quickly after a fire, symbolizing resilience and survival in the harsh desert environment.
Book your Jeep Tour in Palm Springs here >
Mid-Century marvels: bike tour through architectural history
Back to city life! Palm Springs is a mecca for mid-century modern architecture. Lovers of this architectural style should put the annual Modernism Week on their agenda. The best way to experience the stunning and unique architectural jewels is by bike! We rented electric bikes from Big Wheel Tours. They provided us with a mobile map, two water bottles, and a list of must-see homes. Here are some of the architectural gems that made us consider moving in right away:
- Party Lions: 1076 East Sierra Way. This iconic home is a true Palm Springs landmark with its playful lion statues guarding the entrance.
- That Pink Door: 1100 East Sierra Way. A vibrant pop of color against the desert landscape, this pink door is an Instagram favorite.
- Turquoise Chevron Door: 1221 East Sierra Way. A geometric masterpiece that captures perfectly the mid-century modern aesthetic.
- Yellow Tetris Door: 1499 E Via Estrella. A playful and unexpected design that adds a touch of whimsy to this stylish home.
- Mod Circles + Blue Door: 2244 South Yosemite. A striking combination of geometric shapes and bold colors.
- Palm Leaf Door: 2063 Madrona Drive. A tropical touch that brings a touch of paradise to the desert.
- Red Coiled Hose/Orange Door: 2690 Kings Road West. A quirky and unexpected detail that adds personality to this mid-century gem.
- Breeze Block House: 556 E. Flor Circle. A classic example of the breeze block design, a hallmark of desert architecture.
We cruised through these stunning neighborhoods. It felt like we were transported back in time to the golden age of Palm Springs. The electric bikes made it easy to navigate the streets. We biked around at our pace, especially during the heat before lunchtime. We recommend starting very early in the morning. This means around 8 am. Alternatively, you can start in the later afternoon before sunset.
Don’t forget to bring sunblock, enough drinking water, and a hat if it matches your outfit choice. Please drive passively and carefully, as the average American car driver is not used to bikes. Good to know is that some major roads have a bike lane marked on the streets.
Ascending to new heights: the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
A break from the desert heat is a welcome respite – even in paradise. Palm Springs offers its visitors the perfect way to escape the heat: the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. The gondola takes you on a breathtaking journey up the cliffs of Chino Canyon to the pristine wilderness of Mt. San Jacinto State Park.
Adapted to the heat, this day trip took the pace out of our day. So we maintained a cool head. That was our motto for our hiking day high above the rooftops of Palm Springs. And there is no need to rush, not even for the perfect spot in the gondola for the ideal photo. Why?
The gondola rotates slowly but steadily around its axis on its way up the mountain. We only had to stand still at the window. We enjoyed the panoramic views of the valley through the floor below, all while the gondola ascended.
With its 8,500 feet (2.59 km) ascend within just ten minutes, the sudden change of scenery is remarkable. Once we reached the Mountain Station, we were greeted by a refreshing pine-scented breeze. Temperatures can drop by up to 15 degrees Celsius (about 30 degrees Fahrenheit)! So, we’d recommend bringing a sweater or light jacket for one of the hikes.
For us, it was a welcoming cooling-off, feeling miles away from the desert bustle below. We spent the afternoon exploring this alpine paradise with its hiking trails and panoramic vistas. The 1.5-mile (about 2.41 km) Desert View Trail was perfect for us, making a nice loop with several scenic overlooks and forest views. Truly an exceptional mountaintop oasis to soak in the tranquility of this desert destination.
Book your ticket for the Aerial Tramway in Palm Springs >
A cultural awakening: the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum
To further deepen our understanding of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, we visited the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum. This impressive museum is located in the center of Palm Springs. It showcases the Agua Caliente’s rich and dramatic history, inspiring culture, and modern achievements.
We were fascinated by the exhibits on traditional crafts, and moved to tears by some stories of their resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. Next to its exhibits, the museum also houses a small shop. It’s a good place to buy a few souvenirs for families and friends back home.
The beautiful outdoor plaza with Indigenous palm trees right in front of the museum is a perfect spot for reflection and contemplation. The Agua Caliente Cultural Museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a more in-depth understanding of Palm Springs’ Indigenous roots.
Book your tickets for the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum here >
Ancient waters & modern luxury: The Spa at Séc-he
A trip to gay Palm Springs wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the legendary mineral hot springs of Palm Springs. The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians have revered these waters for centuries, believing them to be a gift from the Creator with healing and restorative powers. “Séc-he” translates to “boiling water,” reflecting the significance of these naturally heated waters in their culture. Historically, the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians has used the springs for drinking, irrigation, bathing, and spiritual ceremonies. Today, the Agua Caliente Spa at Séc-he beautifully blends this rich history with modern, US-American luxury.
The Spa at Séc-he offers various treatments and amenities, from traditional soaking pools to a eucalyptus steam room, halotherapy salt caves, and an outdoor pool with an artificial waterfall. We indulged in a private mineral bath before spending time in and at the pool. The lunch snack with a “waterfall view” was just the delicious cherry on top.
Book your Tickets for The Spat at Séc-he here >
Refreshed and revitalized after our spa day, we were ready to continue our Palm Springs adventure. We carried with us a deeper appreciation for the history and culture. These are what make this desert oasis so unique.
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Gay kick-off: PS Drag Brunch at Saguaro Hotel
Hold on to your wigs, for this Drag Brunch Extravaganza! PS Drag Brunch at the Saguaro Hotel knows how to brunch, so, we had to experience it for ourselves. We got a private table and cheered with our mimosa’s on a morning of fabulous entertainment and food.
Some of gay Palm Springs’ fiercest queens, Rosemary Galore, Kiki Masters, and Alexa Kamryn-Galore, put on a show-stopping performance. The act included lip-sync battles, comedic skits, and audience participation. The bottomless mimosas kept the energy high, and the three-course brunch was the perfect fuel for a day of fun in the sun.
Book your tickets for PS Drag Brunch in Palm Springs >
A culinary welcome: Palm Springs restaurant tips
Palm Springs boasts a diverse and delicious culinary scene, catering to every palate. We made sure to sample some of the best gay-friendly restaurants in town, always an eye on vegetarian and vegan options:
- Lulu California Bistro: We enjoyed a lively patio lunch surrounded by Palm Springs’ vibrant energy. The LGBTQ+ welcoming restaurant offers various vegetarian and vegan dishes. More info here.
- TRIO Palm Springs: Savored innovative and beautifully presented dishes are served in a chic and modern setting. Good to know: Vegetarian options are available. More info here.
- Townie Bagels: We started our day with fresh, New York-style bagels and delicious coffee – vegetarian-friendly options available. More info here.
- Alice B.: This restaurant is an integrated part of the Living Out resort (an elegant apartment community for active LGBTQ+ 55+ adults). The LGBTQ+ welcoming restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience focusing on Mediterranean food with a California twist made of seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Co-owners and James Beard and Julia Child award-winning chefs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken are icons of the American food scene. So, meeting Susan in person during dinner was a pleasure – thank you for all the delicious vegetarian options! More info here.
- Blackbook: Nestled in the Arenas District, this trendy spot serves delicious cocktails, burgers, nacho’s, ect. with vegetarian options available. More info here.
- Las Casuelas Terraza: A Palm Springs classic serving authentic Mexican dishes in a charming outdoor setting with live music – vegetarian options available. More info here.
Each restaurant offered a unique ambiance and culinary experience, showcasing the diversity and creativity of Palm Springs’ food scene. During the day, most restaurants offer cooling down with spray mist on the restaurant terraces and patios. The nights, though, can get chilly. Dinner outdoors can be a refreshing experience, with the bustling city life in the heart of Palm Springs.
Gay Palm Springs nightlife: flirting under the desert sky
Palm Springs knows how to party and comes alive at night. The Arenas District is the beating heart of its gay nightlife. We explored the various bars and clubs, each with its distinct personality. No matter your taste, you will find a bar or club in gay Palm Springs that suits your style. Some of our favorites:
- Toolshed is Palm Springs’ only leather and Levi cruise bar. It has a friendly atmosphere and enough eye candy to satisfy any sweet tooth. We went there several times and experienced their incredibly fun music bingo night “Tool Shed Tunes”.
- Hunters: This popular bar hosts themed nights and events, including Drag Bingo. It is located right opposite the Blackbook kitchen & bar that we mentioned earlier. So, while you are having dinner, you can check out the crowd.
- Chill Bar: This laid-back bar is an excellent spot for a casual drink and conversations with locals.
- Streetbar: Known for its strong cocktails and friendly bartenders.
- DICK’S on Arenas: Gay owned, gay operated, and for the gay community.
- Barracks: Sadly, this popular gay bar, which was still open during our visit, recently closed for good. We hope another bar or new gay-go-to spot will take its place for the fetish loving locals and travelers!
You can really feel Palm Springs has a rich historic gay culture. From the Hollywood hideaway haydays in the early 20th century to the present. The queer but mostly older gay men we met, locals and travelers, have all been incredibly friendly and made us feel at home. We are still in touch with some of them and can’t wait to reconnect during our next trip to Palm Springs.
Check our Instagram Gay Night Out in Palm Springs Post here >
Superbloom: finding our true colors
One of our unique experiences in Palm Springs was visiting Superbloom, a creative company, hybrid art gallery. The design lab encourages self-expression through colorful paint jobs. We were drawn to their philosophy of finding balance and meaning through color. Hence, we spent a few hours exploring their vibrant space dressed in overalls and color spotters.
Superbloom’s creators, Alexis Palomino and Chris Ramirez, have curated a fabulous collection of art, clothing, and home goods. These items are as inspiring as they are beautiful. We each created personalized souvenirs. Karl designed a jute bag and luggage tag. Daan on the other hand was painting a cap and luggage tag as well.
Superbloom is our creative tip of this trip to gay Palm Springs. For anyone seeking a dose of creativity and inspiration during their visit, make sure to check them out.
Trixie Motel: A pink gay paradise
Our visit to Trixie Motel, the pink paradise created by drag superstar Trixie Mattel, completed our Palm Springs gay adventure. This iconic motel is a testament to Trixie’s bold style and playful personality. Know that staying and even visiting the motel is not something you decide last moment since it is extremely popular. So, if staying in a lush pink bubble created by your favorite drag superstar is high on your list, make sure to book in advance!
We were very lucky to be able to tour all the uniquely themed rooms, each more fabulous than the last. From the “Pink Flamingo” room to the “Cowgirl” suite, every detail of the rooms has been carefully curated (as you can see on the tv show Trixie Motel on Discovery+).
We loved the fun atmosphere of the rooms. Each room offers quirky interior items, an individual scent experience, and over-the-top color choices. Karl could not resist buying some unique Trixie merch from the gift shop. You might have seen it already in some of his summer social posts.
Our next trip to Palm Springs is already in the works. We’re hoping to get a glimpse of Trixie herself and snap a pic with her. Sipping cocktails together by the flamingo pink pool?
Time to Book Your Gay Palm Springs Adventure
From a relaxing time by the poolside at clothing-optional resorts to desert exploration. Palm Springs offers a rich history and vibrant culture for an unforgettable gaycation experience.
With its queer LGBTQ+ welcoming atmosphere, stunning natural and architectural scenery, and endless entertainment options, it’s no wonder Palm Springs has become a gay mecca.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, grab your partner (or your best gay friends), and get ready to experience the magic of gay Palm Springs!
Karl & Daan.
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