GAY FRIENDLY HOTELS IN PALM SPRINGS
Full of creativity and inclusivity in the USA
Choosing gay friendly hotels in Palm Springs lets you soak up a city where nearly half the residents identify as LGBTQ+, creating an environment deeply rooted in openness, acceptance, and flair. Perched in the sun-kissed Coachella Valley just beyond Los Angeles, this desert gem blends alluring mid-century architecture, luxurious pool scenes, and vibrant queer culture. From drag brunches and clothing-optional resorts to world-renowned women’s events like “The Dinah,” Palm Springs invites queer travelers to celebrate, relax, explore and be unapologetically themselves in style. Start to find your ideal gay friendly hotel in Palm Springs!
Our checklist for Palm Springs
- Gay friendly location
- A warm welcome from our selected gay friendly hotels
- Positive feedback from LGBTQ+ travelers
LGBTQ+ FAQ FOR PALM SPRINGS
Can you walk safely as a gay person in Palm Springs?
Absolutely. With one of the highest proportions of same-sex households in the USA, many LGBTQ+ businesses, and openly supportive locals, Palm Springs is widely considered one of the safest, most welcoming cities for gay travelers.
Is homosexuality legal in Palm Springs according to the law?
Yes. California is LGBTQ+ inclusive with full legal protections and marriage equality. Palm Springs reflects and celebrates this through its lively queer community and city leadership.
What are gay friendly places to stay in Palm Springs?
Downtown areas like Arenas Road and Warm Sands are prime. Boutique hotels and a cluster of gay clothing-optional resorts provide ideal settings.
Where are the popular districts in Palm Springs for the LGBTQ+ community?
Warm Sands and downtown along Arenas Road (aka “gayborhood”) are the heart of LGBTQ+ nightlife, hotels, and community.
What are the best gay friendly hotels in Palm Springs?
Where can you find gay bars in Palm Springs?
Hunter’s remains the “center of gay nightlife,” with drag bingo, happy hour, and Sunday drag shows. Many queer events and venues pop up throughout downtown, especially during festival seasons.
Are there Pride or queer events in Palm Springs?
Yes. Standout events include Palm Springs Pride in November, Club Skirts Dinah Shore Weekend (largest lesbian pool party/music festival), Leather Pride Weekend, and LGBTQ+ performances at major local spots. The city also proudly had a fully LGBTQ+ comprised local government.
THE BEST GAY FRIENDLY HOTELS IN PALM SPRINGS
No worries, you’ll feel comfortable and respected in these LGBTQ+ friendly places.
This is a handpicked small selection of gay-friendly hotels, carefully chosen to ensure the highest quality for your stay.
Santiago Resort
United States, California, Palm Springs
- Gay men's clothing optional resort
- Quiet location: feel the serenity of the desert
- Relax in the jacuzzi
- Reviewscore: 9,8
Vista Grande Resort
United States, California, Palm Springs
- Luxury getaway
- Only dedicted to gay men's
- Tropical garden with jacuzzi & swimming pool
- Reviewscore: 9,7
Desert Paradise
United States, California, Palm Springs
- Gay men's clothing optional resort
- Laid-back backyard with jacuzzi
- Proudly gay owned
- Reviewscore: 9,2
Inndulge
United States, California, Palm Springs
- Gay men's only
- Heated outdoor pool
- Fantastic breakfast included
- Reviewscore: 9,4
Twins Palms Resort
United States, California, Palm Springs
- Dedicated to gay men's
- Great breakfast and lunch
- Explore the city with a rental bicycle
- Reviewscore: 9,9
Descanso Resort
United States, California, Palm Springs
- Gay men's resort
- Very friendly hotelstaff
- Good breakfast included
- Reviewscore: 9,9
Do you want more options to choose?
THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES IN PALM SPRINGS
Don’t miss these must-sees during your gay friendly holiday in Palm Springs
Coachella Valley Preserve
The Coachella Valley Preserve is a breathtaking natural escape located just a short drive from Palm Springs. Spanning thousands of acres, this protected area is home to over 25 miles of scenic hiking trails, desert oases, and unique wildlife you won’t find anywhere else. The preserve’s most famous feature is the Thousand Palms Oasis, fed by an underground aquifer and surrounded by lush palm trees that seem to appear out of nowhere in the middle of the desert. For LGBTQ+ travelers looking to combine outdoor adventure with serenity, this spot is perfect for a romantic hike or a peaceful afternoon away from the bustle of the city.
Downtown Palm Springs
Downtown Palm Springs is where the city’s retro-chic charm truly comes alive. The streets are lined with stylish mid-century modern buildings, boutique shops, art galleries, and a tempting variety of restaurants and cafés that cater to every taste: from casual brunch spots to high-end dining experiences. For the LGBTQ+ community, the downtown area is a hub of inclusivity and celebration, with plenty of bars and lounges where you’ll feel instantly welcome. Every Thursday evening, VillageFest transforms the main street into a vibrant pedestrian market, with local vendors, live music, and an infectious community spirit.
Golf Courses in Palm Springs
Palm Springs is often referred to as a golfer’s paradise, and with over 100 golf courses in the Greater Palm Springs area, it’s easy to see why. The courses are world-class, set against the stunning backdrop of desert mountains and palm trees, and range from beginner-friendly layouts to championship-level challenges. Many courses are designed by legends like Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, making them as beautiful as they are exciting to play. Even if you’re not a seasoned golfer, spending a sunny afternoon on the lush green fairways is a quintessential Palm Springs experience.
Joshua Tree National Park
Just under an hour’s drive from Palm Springs lies Joshua Tree National Park, a place so otherworldly it feels like stepping onto another planet. Famous for its twisted, spiky Joshua trees and massive rock formations, the park offers endless opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing. By day, the landscape is bathed in golden desert light, and by night, it becomes one of the best stargazing spots in the USA, with skies so clear you can see the Milky Way in all its glory.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is one of the most unique attractions in the area, offering a 10-minute ride from the desert floor up to the cooler climate of Mt. San Jacinto State Park. As the world’s largest rotating tramcar, it gives you 360-degree views of the Coachella Valley, and the temperature drop at the top can be as much as 30 degrees cooler — a welcome escape during hot summer days. Once you reach the top, you’ll find over 50 miles of hiking trails, a natural history museum, and a couple of cozy restaurants with stunning views. It’s a perfect spot for a romantic lunch or a refreshing nature walk.
Palm Springs Art Museum
The Palm Springs Art Museum is a cultural gem in the heart of the city, showcasing a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art, Native American artifacts, photography, and even glassworks. The museum’s architecture is as striking as its exhibits, blending seamlessly with the desert environment. Rotating exhibitions keep things fresh, and there’s always something new to discover: from thought-provoking installations to internationally acclaimed works. The museum also hosts lectures, film screenings, and performances that reflect the city’s vibrant artistic spirit.
IT'S TIME TO BOOK YOU GAY FRIENDLY HOLIDAY IN PALM SPRINGS
DISCOVER MORE GAY FRIENDLY DESTINATIONS
San Francisco
London
New York
Bangkok
