We love living at the beach and the San Diego area is just so beautiful. But everyone needs a quick getaway once in awhile, and sometimes the desert is the answer. There’s no hustle and bustle of the city, just a natural atmosphere to enjoy. Luckily for us, there are several drivable desert getaways that are worth checking out. Here’s our list of 5 desert getaways you can enjoy for a quick weekend:
Kate’s Lazy Desert
The brainchild of the musical group “The B52’s” singer Katie Pierson and her partner, Kate’s Lazy Desert is comprised of six vintage Airstream Trailers for anyone who wants to try a glamping experience.
Image: facebook.com/kate’s lazy desert
It’s located in the Mojave High Desert in California, which is about a 2 1/2 hour drive from San Diego, and a quick 20-minute drive from Joshua Tree National Park. Here you’ll experience incredible views, starry nights, and the magical experience of the desert!Enjoy hiking in Yucca Valley, and when you get hungry, head into town and visit Pappy and Harriet’s Pioneer Town Palace for entertainment and great BBQ. Kate’s Lazy Desert also isn’t far from the Riverside Astronomical Society which holds Star Parties where you can catch a glimpse of the stars complete with a potluck BBQ.
Miracle Manor (Desert Hot Springs)
Take a two-and-a-half hour drive from San Diego to Miracle Manor for a relaxing and unique experience at Miracle Manor. Miracle Manor is a hot springs motel located on the edge of Joshua Tree National Park.
Amenities include two therapeutic geothermal pools and customized spa treatments. Relaxing in the geothermal pools restores and revitalizes the body while cleansing the body from the inside out.
This is truly a unique experience that makes Miracle Manor stand out among other getaways. Besides the relaxing benefits of the hot springs, take advantage of other activities offered near Miracle Manor. Because of its close proximity to the Joshua Tree National Park, go on a hike or take a leisurely walk. There are also several nearby art museums to visit such as Cabot’s Pueblo Museum and the Palm Springs Art Museum.
Borrego Valley Inn
Located in Borrego Springs, the Borrego Valley Inn is a less than two-hour drive from San Diego.
Image: Facebook/Borrego Valley Inn
Unwind as you take in the natural beauty of the desert and enjoy a dip in the pool or relax in the hot tub. During your stay be sure to explore the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park as well as the Borrego Springs village full of shops and restaurants. There are also bike and ATV rentals available. If you’re looking for daily excursions, the Borrego Valley Inn isn’t far from Galleta Meadows which is home to several sculptures made by artist Ricardo Breceda. The Borrego Art Institute also makes a great day trip.
Sparrows Lodge (Palm Springs)
Sparrows Lodge has quite the history as it was originally built in 1952 by MGM actor Don Castle and his wife. It was one of the original getaways for the Hollywood elite.
The Lodge was completely restored in 2013 with 20 rooms that give off a modern rustic vibe. When you take the two-and-a-half hour drive from San Diego and arrive at the Lodge, you’ll enjoy simplicity and relaxation as there are no televisions or phones in any of the rooms. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy the surroundings and unwind. There is a large pool as well as private patios that accompany many rooms. When you want to explore the area, choose from several attractions, including the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway which houses the world’s largest rotating tramcar.
La Quinta Resort and Club
If you’re looking for a luxurious desert getaway, look no further than La Quinta Resort and Club in La Quinta.
Image: yelp.com/La Quinta Resort & Club
If you’re thinking about make the drive from San Diego, it will take you just a little over two hours. La Quinta Resort and Club offers suites as well as casitas and villas; the casitas and villas are more spacious than the suites and many offer things like secluded patios and yards as well as poolside locations.
Speaking of pools, you’ll find 41 of them around the La Quinta Property, so you’re certain to find one that fits you, whether you have kids with you or are on an adult getaway. Golf is also extremely popular in La Quinta, as well as yoga.
So next time you need a little desert rest and relaxation, choose one of these, jump in the car and get ready for a great weekend!
