The Perfect Dog-Friendly Day in Desert Hot Springs
Guest relaxing poolside with their dog at The Good House boutique hotel in Desert Hot Springs.
Vacation is better when your best friend comes along.
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or just passing through, Desert Hot Springs offers a relaxing mix of outdoor adventure, local flavor and plenty of time to unwind. Here's how we'd spend the perfect dog-friendly day in our favorite desert town.
8:00 AM | Start the Day with Coffee
Every great day starts with coffee.
Kick things off at Espresso Self, one of Desert Hot Springs' favorite local coffee shops. Leashed dogs are welcome while you order, so you can grab your coffee to go before making the short drive to Mission Creek Preserve. There's no better way to begin a day of fresh air, beautiful scenery and time spent with your best friend.
9:00 AM | Explore Mission Creek Preserve
Next, head to Mission Creek Preserve for one of the most beautiful dog-friendly hikes in Desert Hot Springs.
Leashed dogs are welcome on the preserve's scenic trail system, where you'll discover native desert plants, towering mountain views and the peaceful beauty that makes this area so special. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a longer adventure, it's the perfect way to experience the desert together.
Desert Tip: Even during cooler months, bring plenty of water for both you and your pup, and plan to hike early before the desert heat arrives.
11:00 AM | Let Your Pup Play
After your hike, head to DHS Rotary Dog Park.
With separate areas for large and small dogs, shaded seating and plenty of room to run, it's the perfect place to let your pup burn off any remaining energy before a relaxing afternoon.
Noon | Relax at The Good House
Now it's your turn to unwind.
Spend the afternoon with a Day Pass , paired with a Pup Pass at The Good House.
While you soak in our natural mineral hot springs, your four-legged travel companion can settle in beside you and enjoy a vacation of their own.
As one of Desert Hot Springs' favorite dog-friendly hotels, we've put together everything you need to know about staying with your pup, from pet policies to special amenities. Find more information here: The Good House: Dog-Friendly Guide
It's just one more way we make every member of the family feel at home.
Lunch at The Good House
After your soak, settle in for a leisurely lunch at The Hideaway Cafe.
Pair a handcrafted cocktail or refreshing mocktail with one of our wood-fired pizzas, fresh seasonal salads or other café favorites while your pup relaxes nearby. It's the kind of slow lunch that turns into an afternoon, and we wouldn't have it any other way.
Afternoon | Slow Down Together
One of the best things about Desert Hot Springs is that you don't have to keep moving.
Spend the afternoon strolling The Good House's peaceful grounds with your pup, relaxing beneath the shade of our mature trees or stretching out together on the lawn while the desert breeze rolls through. When you're ready, slip back into the mineral pools for one more soak before heading out to dinner.
Sometimes the best part of vacation is simply having nowhere to be.
Dinner at Delicias Mexican Cuisine
Colorful patio at Delicias Mexican Cuisine, a dog-friendly restaurant in Desert Hot Springs, California.
When you're ready for dinner, head to Delicias Mexican Cuisine, one of Desert Hot Springs' favorite local restaurants.
Their dog-friendly patio makes it easy to enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine without leaving your travel companion behind. It's the perfect ending to a day spent exploring together.
Helpful Resources for Traveling with Your Dog
We hope you never need them, but it's always reassuring to know where help is available if your pet needs care during your stay.
Veterinary Clinics
VCA Desert Dunes Animal Hospital
📍 42430 Washington Street, Bermuda Dunes, CA 92203
📞 (760) 345-8227
Animal Hospital of the Desert
📍 44350 Monterey Avenue, Palm Desert, CA 92260
📞 (760) 568-5151
24-Hour Emergency Veterinary Care
Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG) – Palm Desert
📍 73495 Highway 111, Palm Desert, CA 92260
📞 (760) 249-2279
🕒 Open 24/7
VCA Desert Animal Hospital – Palm Springs
📍 4299 E. Ramon Road, Palm Springs, CA 92264
📞 (760) 778-9999
