Things to do in La Quinta, CA

Surrounded by the majestic Santa Rosa Mountains and offering year-round sunshine, it’s no surprise that La Quinta has been named the "Gem of the Desert." For decades, visitors have been drawn to this California city to experience the best in leisure and luxury. And this gem does not disappoint.

Long hailed as an exclusive resort getaway, La Quinta hosts some of the top golf courses in all of the desert, as well as dining, shopping in the quaint village area, biking along the Bear Creek Trail, and hiking in the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto mountains.

History of La Quinta, CA

The most prominent feature of this area is the mountain ranges. First populated by the Cahuilla people—one of a few Native American tribes that dug wells—the San Jacinto Mountains are known for their natural beauty. The "Palm Springs" segment of "Soarin’ over California"—Disney’s famous simulator tour of the state—was actually shot at the famous PGA WEST golf complex in La Quinta, with the Santa Rosa Mountains clearly visible.

Golf Courses

La Quinta boasts more than 20 golf courses, including PGA WEST, which hosts the Humana Challenge (formerly the Bob Hope Desert Classic) each January. The city’s public SilverRock resort owns the Arnold Palmer Classic Course, and La Quinta Resort & Club has six courses open to its guests.

And golf is not the only draw to the La Quinta Resort and Club. In 1926, Walter Morgan built it as a secluded hideaway for nearby Hollywood celebrities and socialites. Blessed with the natural beauty of the mountains and the desert, it began as a private retreat for such Hollywood legends as Greta Garbo and Clark Gable. Today, La Quinta has grown into a retail, restaurant, art and entertainment hub tucked in this quaint mountain cove.

Lodging 

While La Quinta has some of the most beautiful housing communities in the country, it is also home to a wide range of lodging accommodations. From the quiet solitude of a bed and breakfast to world-class resort facilities, the needs of the business traveler to that of the visiting tourist can be met. Nestled into the community, these beautiful retreats provide breathtaking views and service to meet the needs of the most discriminating traveler. While the La Quinta Resort’s 800 casitas, suites, and villas spread over 45 acres of lushly landscaped grounds and citrus groves, Homewood Suites, Lake La Quinta Inn and the Embassy Suites each offer their own quaint charm and a variety of accommodations.

Local Attractions

Full of local charm, Old Town La Quinta boasts a picturesque Main Street, lined with restaurants, antiques, cafes, and shops. At Old Town, you can pass the day with friends, run a quick errand or relax at a sidewalk café. The area is alive with outdoor concerts, art shows, seasonal activities and a weekly in-season farmers’ market, and the nearby La Quinta Museum features historical artifacts from the area. No matter your pleasure, you’re sure to find plenty of reasons to come and enjoy this little piece of paradise.

Related Article: Best Golf Courses in the California Desert