If you're lucky enough to live in—or are shopping for— homes in Palm Springs, you know that summer in the desert doesn't mean you have to stay indoors. From surfing in the sun to sipping a cold date shake, there are plenty of fun and refreshing things to do just steps from some of the most stylish homes in the Coachella Valley.
Whether you already own one of the Palm Springs mid-century homes for sale by the Paul Kaplan Group or you’re just visiting the area, here’s your guide to making the most of summer desert living.
1. Ride Waves at Palm Springs Surf Club
Yes, it’s possible to surf in the desert! With its high-tech surf pool, lazy river, water slides, and poolside cabanas, the new Palm Springs Surf Club (Palmspringssurfclub) is creating waves. It’s perfect for families, thrill-seekers, or locals looking for a refreshing day close to home. Palm Springs Surf Club
DSRT SURF is scheduled to open late July, 2026.
Palm Desert is preparing to welcome a major new recreation and entertainment destination this summer as DSRT Surf is expected to open in late July 2026, bringing a large-scale surf resort experience to the Coachella Valley. It features North America's largest 5.5-acre wave lagoon. Located at Desert Willow Golf Resort, it offers a skatepark, pickleball, and dining. The highly anticipated development aims to blend surfing, hospitality, recreation, and entertainment into a destination unlike anything currently operating in the region.
2. Lounge at a Resort Pool with a Day Pass
If your Palm Springs home by Paul Kaplan doesn’t have a pool—or you just want a change of scene—score a day pass at luxury hotels like:
3. Explore the Palm Springs Art Museum
Just minutes from many Paul Kaplan listings is the Palm Springs Art Museum (psmuseum). Beat the heat while soaking up contemporary art, classic western pieces, and rotating exhibits. Local's Tip: Admission is free Thursday nights!
4. Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Ascend 8,500 feet for panoramic views and hiking trails in the cool air of Mt. San Jacinto. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a perfect quick getaway for homeowners or guests staying in the Paul Kaplan Group’s mid-century vacation homes.
5. Enjoy Happy Hour at Trendy Lounges
Palm Springs is famous for its cocktail culture. Chill out in air-conditioned comfort at:
- Trio Restaurant
- Mr. Lyons Steakhouse
6. Stroll Through VillageFest on Thursday Nights
Locals and visitors alike love heading downtown for VillageFest in the evenings after the sun sets. Every Thursday night, Palm Canyon Drive becomes a bustling pedestrian market filled with food, art, and entertainment.
7. Visit Moorten Botanical Garden
A local treasure, the Moorten Botanical Garden showcases rare desert flora and a beautiful “cactarium.” Located just minutes from downtown Palm Springs, we suggest visiting in the morning before the sun is at its hottest.
8. Take a Mid-Century Modern Architecture Tour
A guided tour is one of the best ways to appreciate mid-century modern homes in Palm Springs. Options include:
- Modern Tours Palm Springs
Or do a self-guided drive through historic neighborhoods like Vista Las Palmas, Racquet Club Estates, and Twin Palms—many of which are featured on the PaulKaplanGroup website.
9. Cool Off with a Date Shake
The classic desert treat! Grab a date shake at:
- Hadley Fruit Orchards in nearby Cabazon
- Great Shakes in downtown Palm Springs
10. Book a Spa Day
Pamper yourself at luxurious local spas close to Paul Kaplan communities, including:
11. Go Stargazing in Joshua Tree National Park
A short drive from Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park (nps.gov/jotr) offers some of the best stargazing in the U.S. Pack a blanket and head out after sunset—just don’t forget your camera.
12. Catch a Movie at Mary Pickford Theatre
Escape the summer heat with a good movie at Mary Pickford Theatre in nearby Cathedral City. It’s a local favorite for year-round entertainment.
13. Take a Sunrise Hike
Start early in the morning, and enjoy iconic desert trails like:
- South Lykken Trail
Proximity to hiking is one reason so many buyers choose living in the canyon neighborhoods of Palm Springs.
MAKE SURE TO BRING SUNSCREEN AND PLENTY OF WATER!
14. Browse the Uptown Design District
Need to furnish your Palm Springs home? You’ll appreciate the mid-mod aesthetic at the Uptown Design District (Visitpalmsprings), filled with vintage boutiques, home décor stores, and art galleries.
15. Savor a Desert Brunch
Start your day with eggs, pancakes, or a bacon flight at one of these popular brunch spots:
16. Take a Day Trip to Idyllwild
Just over an hour from downtown Palm Springs, Idyllwild offers mountain air, forest hiking, and charming shops—a welcome retreat from the summer heat.
Live the Lifestyle with Paul Kaplan Homes in Palm Springs
Whether you're soaking up the sun poolside, hiking scenic desert trails, or sipping a cocktail downtown, summer in Palm Springs is full of adventure and style. Living in or near a Paul Kaplan-designed home means you're in the heart of it all—with access to world-class experiences right outside your door.
Looking to buy or sell a home in Palm Springs?
Contact The Paul Kaplan Group today and let us help you find your perfect summer lifestyle, a part of Bennion Deville Homes. (760) 459-1396 DRE 01325586
*Video courtesy of Palm Springs Surf Club
