Tailor-made Holiday · Greater Palm Springs
Outdoor Adventures in Greater Palm Springs & San Diego
Tailor-made, always
Every trip built from scratch around your dates, pace and preferences.
Your own specialist
One named person and a 24-hour number while you travel.
Hundreds of five-star reviews
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot across ten years of LGBTQ+ luxury travel.
At a glance
Set off on a thrilling outdoor adventure in the stunning landscapes of Greater Palm Springs and San Diego with our luxury itinerary. This nine-day escape is designed for those who crave both relaxation and adventure, set against the backdrop of the majestic desert scenery that typifies Greater Palm Springs, and the ocean views that San Diego is famed for.
Begin your adventure at The Ritz Carlton Rancho Mirage, a haven of luxury nestled in the Santa Rosa Mountain range. Here, you’ll spend your days indulging in the hotel’s world-class amenities and your evenings enjoying breathtaking mountain views.
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Venture into the heart of the historic Indian Canyons for a jeep and walking tour that reveals the ancient landscapes and cultural significance of this sacred area, the ancestral home of the Ague Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. Embark on a rock climbing expedition in the iconic Joshua Tree National Park, offering both novice and experienced climbers a challenging and rewarding experience amidst the park’s famed rugged terrain. Ascend the breathtaking cliffs of Chino Canyon via the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, experiencing the world’s largest rotating tramcar. Once at the top, explore the pristine wilderness of the mountains, filled with ample hiking opportunities and stunning vistas. The next morning, greet the day with a sunrise hike in the San Jacinto mountains, offering unparalleled views of the awakening valley below, before dining al fresco at SO.PA, an outdoor eatery known for its chic atmosphere and exquisite cuisine.
Then trade the desert's splendor for the laid-back beachside bliss of San Diego. Your home for the next four nights is the chic Alila Marea Beach Resort, a stunning luxury resort providing direct access to the area's pristine golden shores and coastal adventures. From snorkeling and sailing to sunset walks on the sand, you'll experience the best of SoCal's laid-back waterfront lifestyle. Explore iconic San Diego spots like the Botanic Garden and the Gaslamp Quarter.
This seamless blend of desert and sea, relaxation and exploration, luxury, and natural wonder promises an invigorating yet indulgent escape.
Day by day
This is a sample plan, not a fixed departure. Days can be added, removed or reordered, and almost every client changes something. Prices are an entry-level guide; your quote will be exact.
Day 1: Arrival at Ritz Carlton Rancho Mirage
Your adventure begins with a stay at the Ritz Carlton Rancho Mirage, an oasis of luxury set against the backdrop of the Santa Rosa Mountains. Here, you’ll find a perfect blend of natural beauty and refined comfort.
Upon arrival, take the day to unwind and acclimate to the serene desert environment. Enjoy the resort’s spa facilities or relax by the pool with stunning views of the valley, setting the tone for a rejuvenating retreat.
Day 2: Indian Canyons Adventure
Step into the breathtaking landscapes of the Indian Canyons on a guided walking and jeep tour. This area, rich in Native American heritage, features stunning geological formations and an oasis-like environment with native palm species.
Your tour will provide fascinating insights into the cultural history of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, as well as the unique ecosystem of the canyons. The combination of jeep exploration and walking allows for an engaging and comprehensive experience of this sacred land.
Day 3: Joshua Tree Rock Climbing
Challenge yourself with a rock climbing adventure in Joshua Tree National Park, renowned for its otherworldly landscapes and rugged rock formations. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced climber, the park offers a wide range of routes and the opportunity to improve your climbing skills under the desert sun.
Expert guides will ensure your safety and provide tips to enhance your climbing technique, making this day not only thrilling but also enriching.
Day 4: Palm Springs Exploration
Spend your day delving into the urban charms of Palm Springs. This city is famous for its architectural tours, vibrant art scene, and unique shopping experiences. After a day of cultural immersion, enjoy a sophisticated culinary experience at Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey.
This restaurant is celebrated for its fusion of traditional sushi techniques with modern flavors, served in a contemporary setting that mirrors the artistic flair of Palm Springs.
Day 5: Palm Springs Aerial Tram Adventure
Experience the majestic views of Chino Canyon via the Palm Springs Aerial Tram, an engineering marvel that offers an exciting ascent to the mountain station. At the top, you’re greeted with breathtaking views of the valley below.
Spend the day hiking among the mountain’s natural flora and fauna, visit the Natural History Museum to learn about the region’s geology, or simply relax on the observation deck.
Day 6: San Jacinto Sunrise Hike
Embark on a transformative sunrise hike in the San Jacinto Mountains. This early morning adventure provides an opportunity to see wildlife, enjoy the serene morning atmosphere, and witness the spectacular sunrise over the desert landscape. It’s a perfect way to connect with nature and experience the quiet beauty of the dawn.
In the evening, dine under the stars at SO.PA, which offers an intimate outdoor setting and a menu that highlights local ingredients with a Mediterranean twist, creating a memorable dining experience that epitomizes Palm Springs’ luxury lifestyle.
Day 7-9: Relax at Alila Marea Beach Resort
After your desert adventures, a private driver will whisk you away to the laid-back, sun-drenched shores of San Diego. For the next four nights, you’ll call the luxurious Alila Marea Beach Resort home – a chic beachfront resort providing direct access to the city’s iconic stretches of golden sand.
Spend two days relaxing and experiencing the best of the SoCal waterfront lifestyle. Wake up to serene ocean views before strolling the beach just steps from your room. Find your adventurous side by booking water sports like surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, or a kayaking tour through the calm La Jolla sea caves. Or simply laze on the sand with a good book before catching the fiery sunset over the Pacific.
Day 10: San Diego Exploration
Trade the coastal scenes for the vibrant culture and nightlife of downtown San Diego. Start by exploring the historic Gaslamp Quarter, famous for its Victorian-era architecture, lively bars, and delectable eateries.
Then, head to sprawling Mission Bay Park, a waterfront playground perfect for bike rides along the shoreline paths or renting kayaks, jet skis, or sailboats to get out on the bay’s calm waters. For an adrenaline rush, try hydroflying with water-powered jetpacks that let you soar 30 feet above the surface!
Day 11: San Diego Botanic Garden
After active days on the coast, spend a rejuvenating morning wandering the tranquil paths and themed gardens of the San Diego Botanic Garden. This 37-acre urban oasis features four miles of trails lined with bamboo groves, tropical rainforests, and the largest collection of bamboo in the West.
Admire rare botanicals and stop to relax in scenic meditation courtyards. In the afternoon, return to the beach for one last blissful evening of sea breezes and ocean views.
Day 12: Departure
As your outdoor adventure concludes, reflect on the memories made and the breathtaking sights experienced throughout your stay.
From scaling rocky heights to exploring vibrant city streets and swimming in the Pacific, each moment was crafted to provide a deep sense of connection—to nature, to culture, and to luxury.
Our Experts
Palm Springs is an absolutely fabulous spot for a dreamy gay vacation. It's such a friendly place to visit - you feel right at home the moment you arrive.
Joshua Tree is such a special place to visit, and is within easy reach of Palm Springs if you want to combine both, for the perfect wellness experience.
Stellar service. Stellar products. Stellar people and it gets so much better when you pick up the phone and call.
Anthony S.
Super client centred service. From first contact I have had warm, efficient, friendly and flexible service.
John
I’m confident in giving Out Of Office a 5-star review! They are one of the leaders in this space without a doubt.
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Frequently asked questions
What does Out Of Office do?
Out Of Office is a luxury LGBTQ+ travel company specialising in tailor-made holidays and extraordinary journeys around the world. We create bespoke luxury holidays, LGBTQ+ honeymoons, safaris, cruises, beach escapes, private tours and group trips, with every itinerary designed around you. Our travel specialists combine global expertise, first-hand destination knowledge and trusted local partners to create seamless, highly personalised experiences.
Is Out Of Office a gay travel agency?
Out Of Office is an LGBTQ+ owned and run luxury travel specialist, with particular expertise in gay and LGBTQ+ travel. We understand the additional considerations that can come with travelling as an LGBTQ+ person or couple, from local laws and customs to finding genuinely welcoming hotels and experiences.
We welcome every traveller, including friends, families and allies. Many of our clients are not members of the LGBTQ+ community, but choose Out Of Office for our luxury travel expertise, personalised service and discretion.
Do you create tailor-made LGBTQ+ holidays?
Yes. Every tailor-made trip with Out Of Office is designed from scratch around your interests, travel style, budget and the way you want to experience a destination. We can arrange luxury hotels, private transfers, flights, guides, excursions, cruises and special experiences as part of one personalised itinerary. The journeys shown on our website are there to inspire you rather than restrict you; only clearly identified group departures operate as fixed itineraries.
How do you choose LGBTQ+ friendly hotels and destinations?
We combine first-hand destination knowledge with trusted local expertise to recommend luxury hotels, resorts and experiences where LGBTQ+ travellers can feel informed and welcome. We also consider the laws, customs and attitudes of each destination, because LGBTQ+ rights and experiences differ around the world. Our team regularly visit many of the properties we work with and where a destination requires greater awareness, we give you clear and considered advice so that you can make an informed decision about where and how you travel.
We plant trees for every booking
For every booking made with Out Of Office we commit to planting trees in your name to help reduce the impact of travel on future generations. You'll even get a link to see where your trees are planted in the world via our partner Ecologi.
We donate to Rainbow Railroad with every booking
Rainbow Railroad helps LGBTQ+ people escape state-sponsored violence and persecution. A donation goes with every trip we sell, funded by us and never added to your price.
Start Planning Your Trip
Tell us where you would love to go, when you are thinking of travelling and what kind of trip you have in mind. One of our LGBTQ+ travel specialists will create a tailor-made itinerary designed around your destination, style and preferences.
One named specialist, first enquiry to homecoming. No call centre, and nothing is charged until you decide to book.