By Ersilia Pompilio
If you haven’t heard, Palm Springs is the vibe of the moment for bachelorette parties, girls’ trips, and basically anyone looking for some sun-soaked, Insta-worthy relaxation. And after interviewing over 100 bachelorettes and ladies who love leisure in 2024, we’re here to spill the tea on why this desert haven is officially the it spot for your next getaway. Spoiler: it’s not just about the pools and perfect weather (but, okay, that definitely helps). Palm Springs is a whole mood.
Why Palm Springs? The Ultimate Relaxation Destination
First off—let’s talk vibes. Palm Springs offers that perfect combo of sunny temps, a mid-century modern aesthetic, and a relaxation energy you can’t get anywhere else. For most of the ladies we talked to, the escape from colder climates was a major draw. Think Chicago winters, Minnesota snowstorms, and those icy North Carolina nights—Palm Springs is the sun-kissed antidote to all that chill. Plus, the mid-century modern look? You’re practically stepping into a Pinterest board, but IRL.
And let’s not forget about the accommodations. Whether you’re booking an Airbnb or a hotel, Palm Springs has an abundance of places to chill and vibe out with your crew. Over 90% of the bachelorettes we interviewed stayed at Airbnb’s to maximize their poolside lounging game. We’re talking private pools, backyard BBQs, and room for all your besties. Some groups, like one squad from Orange County, opted for the Saguaro Hotel for their cabana poolside hangouts (hello, cocktail service).
The Ladies Are Coming from Everywhere
You know a destination is seriously good when it draws ladies from all over the map. Whether they’re flying in from Chicago, Minnesota, Texas, or even Ontario, Canada, Palm Springs is the go-to spot for women craving sunshine and quality R&R. Some of our favorites were the gals road-tripping from Arizona and Utah, while California locals made a quick escape for a microvacation (hello, roundtrip from LA and OC!).
What Are the Bachelorettes Doing? Poolside Perfection + Self-Care
So, what’s on the itinerary for these desert-bound bachelorettes? It’s all about the chill, fam. From shopping in downtown Palm Springs to lounging poolside, the activities are all about relaxing with your closest friends. Some of the most common squad vibes include booking massage therapists to come to their Airbnb’s (yes, please), hiring a private chef to cook up the finest brunch spreads, and turning the whole weekend
into a self-care weekend with yoga and Pilates.
We also heard about some seriously extra touches, like having Manservants (no, we’re not kidding) to help with photos, games, and keeping those cocktails topped off. Whatever the squad vibe, Palm Springs delivers on making every moment a luxe experience.
The Bachelorette Squad Faves: Food, Drinks, and Good Times
Palm Springs isn’t just about lounging in the sun—it’s also a foodie paradise. From tiki cocktails to farm-to-table bites, these are the spots the bachelorettes are living for:
Tropical: A must for tropical vibes and those Instagrammable cocktails.
Workshop Kitchen: Where farm-to-table meets chic.
Boozehounds: Dogs and drinks? Sign us up.
Truss & Twine: Craft cocktails and that cool vibe that’s perfect for pre-game pics.
Las Casuelas: For those authentic Mexican dishes and margs that’ll have you feeling like you’re on a beach vacation.
Day Trips for the Adventurous
For the more adventurous bachelorette squads (or those who just want a change of scenery), there’s a ton to do around Palm Springs. Day trips to Joshua Tree National Park for some hiking and shopping are always a good idea, as is hitting the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for some of the best views in the area. If you’re into retail therapy, make sure to swing by the Cabazon Outlets—bargains and sunshine? Yes, please.
Themes That Had Us LOL’ing and Loving Life
Okay, so let’s talk about themes—because these bachelorettes are not showing up in boring old matching t-shirts. One group told us they channeled their inner Taylor Swift with an “Eras” theme, where each member of the squad dressed up in a version of the bride’s life, from her college era to her dating era, and of course, the engaged era. Another squad totally stole our hearts by holding up face masks of the groom—he may not be there physically, but his face was front and center in every pic. But the best of the best? A whole squad of bachelorettes dressed up as Guy Fieri from Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives (YES, really)—we're talking flame shirts and all. Chef’s kiss.
The 4-Day Weekend: A Typical Bachelorette Stay
Most bachelorette squads roll into Palm Springs on Thursdays, ready to kick off a perfect 4-day weekend—ending the fun on Sunday. And Thursday in Palm Springs? You’re already winning! Head over to VillageFest in downtown, where the streets are buzzing with over 100 local vendors. We're talking everything from street food to handmade candles to unique art, and so much more. It’s the ultimate way to start your weekend vibes a little early. The pace is laid-back, yet packed with those unforgettable moments—no rush, just basking in the desert sun, making memories, and living it up with your besties!
Travel Vibes
Palm Springs is super accessible for most of the
squad, whether you’re flying in via Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) or taking a road trip from nearby spots like Los Angeles, Orange County, or even Arizona. It’s an easy hop for those Californians taking a microvacation, or a scenic road trip for out-of-towners.
TL;DR: Palm Springs is the bachelorette destination. The sun, the mid-century modern vibes, the private Airbnbs, and the mix of luxe relaxation and fun activities make it the ultimate squad escape. Plus, with endless photo ops and hilarious themes (we see you, Guy Fieri), it's practically impossible to leave without a smile and a killer Insta feed. Pack your bags, call your besties, and get ready to soak up all the desert goodness.
Are you planning a bachelorette or ladies who love to leisure trip to Palm Springs, California? SQUAD Magazine is here to help you with your Palm Springs itinerary click the link for more info.
About the Author
Ersilia Pompilio is the Editor in Chief of SQUAD Magazine, a Palm Springs guide for bachelorettes and ladies who love to leisure. With over two decades of experience in performing, producing live storytelling shows, and hosting a podcast, she has also taught storytelling classes and written professionally for several media outlets. Originally from Los Angeles, Ersilia is also a twenty-year resident of Palm Springs, California.
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