You are in one of the most unique corners of Southern California. Here is our guide to the best of the high desert.
The high desert delivers experiences you simply cannot find anywhere else.
The high desert has a real food scene. These are the spots worth knowing.
The high desert is one of the best stargazing destinations in Southern California. On a clear night the sky is extraordinary.
Not sure where to start? These itineraries give you a framework. Adjust to your own pace.
Enter early before the heat and crowds. Skull Rock or Cholla Cactus Garden. Stop at Keys View.
Brunch in Yucca Valley before it gets too hot to be outside comfortably.
Explore the sculpture grounds. Budget 45 to 60 minutes. Bring sunscreen.
Golden hour on Main Street then dinner at Pappy and Harriet's.
Fire pit, jacuzzi, and the telescope. The sky out here speaks for itself.
Arrive, unpack, walk the backyard. Grocery run to Stater Bros. Fire up the BBQ for dinner.
Pool table, arcade games, and drinks by the fire. Easy first night.
End the evening in the spa. Telescope optional but recommended.
Skull Rock or Barker Dam. Bring water, snacks, and start before 9 AM.
Pappy and Harriet's for a late lunch. Walk the old movie set streets.
Watch the sun go down over the Coachella Valley. Worth it every time.
Back at the property to close out a full day the right way.
Settle in, walk the backyard, take in your surroundings. There is a lot to discover on the half-acre.
La Casita or Crossroads for a relaxed first night.
Light the fire, get in the spa, look up.
Skull Rock, Barker Dam, or Ryan Mountain. Bring water. Start before 9 AM.
Pick up supplies at Stater Bros. and cook on the BBQ or outdoor kitchen.
Free outdoor art. One of the most photographed spots in the desert.
Panoramic sunset. Worth it every single time.
Telescope in the backyard. Download a star map app. Hammocks and blankets.
Espresso on the deck. Hammock time. No agenda. Let the desert wake you up slowly.
Walk the western movie set. Browse the shops along the way.
Art galleries and vintage shops. Sunburst Trading Post for gems and minerals.
Dinner and live music. Book ahead on weekends.
BBQ, fire pit, jacuzzi, hammocks. Make the most of your final evening.
Arrival, Joshua Tree, Pioneertown, stargazing, and the full backyard experience.
About 45 minutes. The contrast from rugged desert to mid-century resort town is striking and worth experiencing.
Ride to 8,516 feet above the desert floor. Views on the way up are breathtaking. Book in advance.
Great restaurant variety from casual to upscale. Walk the boutiques after eating.
Stunning mid-century estate with beautiful desert gardens. Open to the public.
Espresso on the deck, fire pit, and a slow goodbye to the desert.
Book Radiant Shore Oasis and make this your home base.
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