The desert guide we give our friends.
70+ picks for Joshua Tree, Palm Springs and Los Angeles from Viktor & Meghan, who host three houses here (rated 4.9 across 422 reviews). Where to eat, which hikes are worth it, and the practical stuff nobody tells you.
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What's inside
The High Desert
Where to eat and drink in Joshua Tree, Yucca Valley and Pioneertown, a weekend already planned, and the stargazing calendar.
13 Joshua Tree Hikes
From 15-minute strolls to summit climbs, plus park fees, entrances and where dogs can go.
Palm Springs
Dinners worth dressing up for, brunch, cocktail bars, canyons, architecture tours and day trips.
Los Angeles
Trails, beaches and breakfasts from Woodland Hills, with the 2025 fire closures to know about.
The Year at a Glance
Modernism Week, Coachella, meteor showers and when to avoid the heat, for the 2026–27 season.
Look inside
Real pages, not a teaser. Plans you can follow, tables you can skim, and the reasons behind every pick.
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A weekend near Joshua Tree -
13 hikes, compared -
A Palm Springs day for two
A taste of the guide
70+ picks in the full guide: dining, hikes, hidden spots and practical desert tips, checked for the 2026–27 season.
La Copine
Seasonal California cooking in a roadside room that punches far above the desert. They now take reservations by text, about four weeks out. Walk-ins get whatever's left.
Ryan Mountain
3 miles round trip, about 1,000 ft of climbing, and a 360° view of Joshua Tree National Park. Go at sunrise and bring a headlamp: you'll start in the dark.
Mr. Lyons + Seymour's
A 1945 Palm Springs steakhouse reborn: prime rib and martinis, then the tiny speakeasy hidden inside. Book dinner, then find the unmarked door.
Free. Yours instantly.
It's yours — the guide is downloading.
Didn't start? Download the PDF.
Planning a trip? See which house fits →
Need a place to stay?
Our three houses are near Joshua Tree, in Palm Springs and in Los Angeles. Book here and skip Airbnb's fees.
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