Getting to Palm Springs: A Guide to Paradise

Palms Springs is known for being an aspiring architect's dream, a golfer's paradise, and a haven for those looking to soak up the sunshine the way old Hollywood once did (and still does). Resting approximately 107 miles east of Los Angeles and 140 miles northeast of San Diego, this desert oasis is nestled within the Coachella Valley and is home to some of the most impeccably designed homes. Enjoying your time among palm-lined properties is what we’re known for, but you may be wondering how to get to Palm Springs in the first place.

That’s easy! Between the Palm Springs International Airport and neighboring airports requiring a little longer of a drive, a trip to this sought-after destination is just a click away. Let’s cover just how easy it is to get to Palm Springs.

How to get to Palm Springs? You fly there!

If you’re unfamiliar with the layout of Palm Springs, you may think the only way to get there is by flying into Los Angeles and then making your way in via automobile; however, the Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) removes the hassle of a longer drive. Named one of the “Top 10 Most Stress-Free Airports in America” by SmarterTravel.com, you’ll immediately feel at ease perusing the original artwork adorning the interiors and exploring the gorgeous outdoor walkways.

Offering several direct flights across the United States and Canada, flying into PSP makes you just a hop away from your next mid-mod vacay. Not to mention, PSP has elevated its game when it comes to enjoying your time there, and we’d argue that flying into PSP is an event in itself. Between the PSP Wine Bar, offering a pleasant outdoor venue with a full-service bar and light snacks, and the Buzz by Bar Fly, with sit-down seating in a comfortable setting, you may find yourself grabbing a meal here before heading into Palm Springs. If you’re a golf enthusiast and plan to hit the many courses in the area, swing by the PGA Tour Shop for last-minute essentials that’ll keep you looking great even if your game isn’t on par.

Rental Cars and Other Transportation

The Palm Springs International Airport offers several rental car providers so you can hit the road once you touch ground, as well as taxis and rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft to take you to and from the airport.

Tips For Finding a Deal on Flights

If you think flying into PSP would be pricier than your mortgage bill, think again. As the airport grows and more airlines make Palm Springs a pitstop on their flight plan, you’ll find rates to be comparable to other major airports. Using price-watch apps to set notifications for drops in flight prices will help you determine the best time to book.  

You can also drive!

Whether flying into a major airport like LAX or living within a couple of hours of Palm Springs, driving is a viable option and gives you the luxury of having your car on hand when dashing across town. Between hitting the Palm Springs Air Museum and seeing the sights at the Palm Springs VillageFest, having your own transportation could come in handy if you’re planning to get out and explore.

Other Airports to Drive From

If you decide to drive from another major airport, we have a couple we can recommend.

Driving from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) gets you into Palm Springs in under two hours, where most of your time is spent on the I-10. It’s worth mentioning LAX also offers a flight directly into PSP if you want to cut the drive out altogether.

The San Diego International Airport (SAN) doesn’t offer a direct flight into Palm Springs, but you can get to your destination in a little over two hours by taking the I-15. 

To avoid the LA traffic, consider flying into the Ontario International Airport (ONT) for an easy hour-long drive to Palm Springs.  

Tips For Driving in the Desert

While you can get to Palm Springs from these major airports in just a couple of hours, you want to remember - you’re driving through the desert, so you want to be prepared.

• Have a phone charger handy, particularly one adaptable to your vehicle.

• Bring water. You can easily get dehydrated in hot and dry conditions without knowing it, so keeping fluids in you is key.

• Test the AC! That’s right, ensure your air conditioner is in good working order. In fact, if you’re renting a vehicle, do not leave the airport until you test this out.

• Fill up with gas before heading out to avoid additional stops.

The best tip: enjoy the drive! Driving through the desert is beautiful, and this particular yellow brick road is known for its majestic views of the Palm Springs Windmills as you enter the Coachella Valley, a marvel in its own right.

Ready to get going? ACME is here for you.

Before we close this out, and in the spirit of transportation, we have to give an honorable mention to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Connecting the desert floor to the San Jacinto Mountains, this 2.5-mile aerial tramway is a marvel and must-do when visiting. 

At ACME House Company, we make getting to Palm Springs easy. Now for the fun part - choosing which vacation rental home or condo to stay in once you get here. We have a wide selection of perfectly landscaped and beautifully designed vacation properties to choose from, so get planning! 

Photos courtesy of Palm Springs International Airport, Google, Facebook, Palm Springs Windfarms and Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.

Published by Matthew Bruce
Tuesday, September 19, 2023