Gay Holidays to Palm Springs

Famed for its poolside glamour, mid-century design, and all-year sunshine, gay holidays to Palm Springs are more than just a vibe—they’re a full queer fantasy. Nestled in California’s Coachella Valley, this retro-meets-modern resort town is a long-time haven for LGBT+ travellers, artists and dreamers.

With more gay resorts than any other small city in America and a social calendar packed with queer events, Palm Springs is out, proud, and unapologetically fabulous.

Poolside Perfection Meets Desert Chic

In Palm Springs, every day feels like a curated Instagram moment—except it’s real. Think vintage convertibles, rainbow floaties, mountain views and cocktails by the litre. But beneath the glam is a deep-rooted history of queer activism and creative expression.

This is a destination where same-sex couples kiss by the pool, drag queens host bingo brunches, and rainbow flags are as common as palm trees. It’s not just gay-friendly. It’s gay-designed.

Top Things to Do on a Gay Holiday to Palm Springs

It’s not all sun loungers and spa days—though you’ll want those too. Palm Springs offers:

Lounging at a gay resort – clothing optional or not, the choice is yours
Exploring Palm Canyon Drive – full of queer-owned boutiques, cafés and art galleries
Riding the Aerial Tramway for stunning desert views and cooler hikes above the valley
Admiring mid-century modern architecture on a self-guided tour or design walk
Visiting the Palm Springs Art Museum – featuring both queer artists and local legends
Day trips to Joshua Tree for stargazing and surreal desert landscapes

And if your perfect day involves staying horizontal on a sun lounger until 4pm? That’s valid too.

LGBT+ Nightlife: Intimate, Iconic and Irresistible

Palm Springs has a unique gay nightlife scene: intimate, playful, and always on point. Expect pool parties in the afternoon, drag shows at dusk, and retro dancing until late.

Key spots include:

Hunters Nightclub – the heart of the scene, with strong drinks and a stronger dancefloor
Quadz – video bar heaven with themed nights and fabulous regulars
Toucans Tiki Lounge – tropical camp, drag shows, and dance vibes
Chill Bar – stylish, friendly, and perfect for people-watching
StreetBar – the oldest gay bar in town, with a loyal crowd and relaxed charm

Whether you’re into low-key wine and gossip or pool floats and pop hits, Palm Springs delivers.

Pride and Queer Festivals in Palm Springs

Palm Springs Pride takes place in early November, with temperatures cooler but energy still sky-high. It’s a celebration that brings the whole city alive:

Pride Parade through downtown
Free street festival with multiple stages and community stalls
Sunset T-dances and pool parties across town
Queer art exhibits and community talks

Other annual favourites include:

White Party Palm Springs (April) – legendary international circuit party weekend
Dinah Shore Weekend (late March/early April) – the world’s biggest lesbian party
Palm Springs International Film Festival & ShortFest – with strong LGBT+ programming
Desert X – an art festival across the valley with queer-friendly installations

Basically, if you love queer culture, there’s always something going on.

LGBT+ Rights and Safety in Palm Springs

Palm Springs isn’t just tolerant—it’s governed by pride. The city council is entirely LGBT+ (a global first), and the town’s political and business leaders actively support the queer community.

California has some of the strongest protections for LGBT+ people anywhere in the world. Here, being yourself is the default. Palm Springs is one of the safest, most welcoming LGBT+ travel destinations in the USA.

Why Book With Wide Awake Holidays?

At Wide Awake Holidays, we know that “sometimes gay-friendly isn’t friendly enough.” Palm Springs is already amazing—but with the right planning, it becomes unforgettable.

We offer:

Full ATOL protection and Protected Trust Services
Tailor-made gay holidays with the best boutique resorts, spas, and nightlife
Options for solo travellers, romantic escapes, or party-packed weekends
Always included: Supplier Failure Insurance and Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance
LGBT+ travel specialists who know the best-kept secrets (and the best brunches)

From rooftop views to retro vibes, we help you make the most of every sun-drenched second.

Ready to Sashay Into the Desert?

Gay holidays to Palm Springs are like nowhere else: glittery, golden, and gorgeously gay. Whether you’re poolside with prosecco, hiking in sequins, or dancing under desert stars—this is your space to shine.

Tell us your Palm Springs mood, and we’ll turn it into your next great escape.