La Quinta sits at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains in the heart of the Coachella Valley, and its combination of natural beauty, culture, and year-round sunshine makes it one of Southern California's best-kept secrets. Whether you're here for a long weekend or a full month, these are the experiences worth your time.
1. Hike the La Quinta Cove Trail This moderate trail climbs through rocky desert terrain and rewards you with sweeping panoramic views of the entire valley. Early morning is best — the light on the mountains is unforgettable.
2. Play a Round at PGA West Home to some of the most celebrated golf courses in the country, PGA West offers five championship courses designed by legends like Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman, and Pete Dye. The Stadium Course alone is worth the trip.
3. Stroll Through Old Town La Quinta This charming village square features local boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants surrounding a central plaza. Visit on Sunday for the seasonal Farmers Market.
4. Visit the La Quinta Museum A small but thoughtful museum that tells the story of the Cahuilla people, early settlers, and the Hollywood stars who made La Quinta famous in the 1920s. Free admission makes it an easy afternoon stop.
5. Explore Joshua Tree National Park Just 40 minutes from La Quinta, Joshua Tree's surreal landscape of twisted trees and massive boulder formations feels like another planet. The Cholla Cactus Garden at golden hour is one of the most photographed spots in California.
6. Dine at Lavender Bistro Tucked into a lush garden setting, Lavender Bistro serves French-California fusion with an ambiance that feels worlds away from the desert. Their patio under string lights is the perfect dinner spot.
7. Catch Sunset at the La Quinta Resort Even if you're not staying there, the historic La Quinta Resort and Club — open since 1926 — is worth a visit for drinks at sunset. The Santa Rosa Mountains turn pink and gold, and the old Hollywood glamour is still palpable.
8. Mountain Bike the Cove Oasis Trailhead For something more active, the trails above the Cove offer excellent mountain biking with technical sections and long desert views. Bring plenty of water and go early.
9. Shop at El Paseo in Palm Desert A short 15-minute drive takes you to El Paseo, often called the "Rodeo Drive of the Desert." It's a mile-long stretch of galleries, designer boutiques, and excellent restaurants.
10. Simply Relax by the Pool Honestly, one of the best things to do in La Quinta is nothing at all. With 350 days of sunshine, mountain views from every angle, and a private pool at your Desert Sol retreat, you might find that the best activity is simply being here.
