First-timer guide
Your first time, minus the nerves.
Most of the awkwardness is gone in ten minutes. These are the house rules you'll find almost everywhere in the valley, and the answers people are too shy to ask the front desk.
The unwritten rules
Six things every resort expects
Different resorts, different moods. These hold almost everywhere.
- Bring a towel and sit on it.Every chair, lounger, hot-tub ledge and barstool. Most resorts supply towels; carry one anyway.
- No photos of other guests.A camera pointed anywhere near the pool will get you a warning, or asked to leave.
- Optional means optional.Nobody should pressure you to undress, and you shouldn't comment on whether others do.
- Normal eye contact, no comments on bodies.Conversation is welcome. Remarks about anyone's body are not.
- Know which kind of place you booked.Naturist resorts forbid sexual behaviour in common areas. Some men's resorts and lifestyle clubs are more permissive.
- Sunscreen everywhere, often.Skin that never sees the sun burns fast in the desert. Reapply after every swim.
Planning
When to go
71°Jan
74°Feb
81°Mar
87°Apr
95°May
104°Jun
108°Jul
107°Aug
101°Sep
92°Oct
80°Nov
70°Dec
Best monthsVery hot, lowest ratesAverage daily high, °F
Packing list
Two beach towels, a light robe or sarong, sandals, high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, a refillable bottle and clothes for dinner in town.
Try a day pass
Several resorts sell day or evening passes. It's a cheaper way to test the waters before booking a full stay.
Getting there
Palm Springs International (PSP) is 5–10 minutes from most resorts. From LAX, allow 90 minutes to two hours by car.