Luxury California Escape: LA, Palm Springs & Joshua Tree

Your California luxury escape begins with a seamless arrival in Los Angeles (LAX), where you’ll step into the world of elevated comfort and exclusivity.

• Fly in style: Arrive on a premium flight, such as British Airways’ Club Suites, ensuring a relaxed and refined journey.

• Private transfer to Bel-Air: A smooth, chauffeured drive takes you to Hotel Bel-Air, a hidden oasis nestled in the hills, just moments from Beverly Hills.

• Check-in at Hotel Bel-Air: One of LA’s most iconic luxury retreats, this Dorchester Collection gem offers serene gardens, a world-class spa and elegant suites for the perfect start to your journey.

• Indulge in fine dining: Enjoy a Michelin-starred dinner at Wolfgang Puck at Hotel Bel-Air, where seasonal California cuisine meets impeccable service.

• Unwind and relax: Whether it’s an evening spa session, cocktails at the bar and lounge or simply soaking in the tranquility of your private suite, your first night in LA is all about elegance and relaxation.

This sets the tone for an unforgettable luxury California adventure — with Palm Springs and Joshua Tree still ahead!

Wake up to the serene beauty of Hotel Bel-Air, surrounded by lush gardens and the sounds of nature — a true oasis in the city.

• Morning at leisure: Start your day with a leisurely breakfast on your private terrace or at the restaurant at Hotel Bel-Air. Indulge in seasonal California cuisine by Wolfgang Puck.

• Cultural highlights: Spend the morning exploring Los Angeles’ iconic attractions. Options include:
  1. The Getty Center for breathtaking art and architecture
  2. Griffith Observatory for stunning city views
  3. A scenic drive through Beverly Hills & Rodeo Drive

• Fly in style to Palm Springs: In the afternoon, take a luxury semi-private jet experience with Aero from Los Angeles to Thermal Airport (TRM), a short drive from Palm Springs. This seamless and stylish flight offers a VIP lounge experience, priority boarding and a relaxed, crowd-free journey.

• Check-in at Korakia Pensione: Arrive in Palm Springs and settle into your charming Moroccan and Mediterranean-inspired retreat, known for its secluded courtyards, candlelit pathways and tranquil pools — the perfect setting for relaxation.

• Evening at leisure: Enjoy a sunset cocktail by the pool or dine at one of Palm Springs’ best restaurants, such as Bar Cecil or The Colony Club, before unwinding under the desert stars.

Day two blends Los Angeles' luxury with the effortless charm of Palm Springs, setting the stage for desert-inspired relaxation and exploration.

Wake up to the tranquil beauty of Korakia Pensione, where mornings begin with complimentary breakfast in the courtyard, surrounded by palm trees and stunning mountain views.

• Morning relaxation & exploration: Spend your mornings embracing desert serenity with a poolside yoga session or a leisurely bike ride through the charming streets of Palm Springs.

• Modernism Week & architectural tours: If visiting during Modernism Week, dive into Palm Springs’ iconic mid-century architecture with exclusive home tours, design talks and vintage shopping events. Highlights include:
  1. The Palm Springs Modernism Show
  2. Frank Sinatra’s Twin Palms Estate Tour
  3. Exclusive access to Steve McQueen’s former residence

• Afternoon strolling & boutique shopping: Wander through downtown Palm Springs, discovering vintage boutiques, art galleries and designer stores.

• Sunset & cocktail hour: Enjoy a golden hour cocktail at the rooftop bar at Azúcar, or sip a classic martini at Melvyn’s, a legendary Rat Pack haunt.

• Indulgent dinners & Palm Springs nightlife: Evenings are all about unforgettable dining at spots like:
  1. Bar Cecil: Elevated bistro fare in a stylish setting.
  2. Eight4Nine: Modern California cuisine with a chic ambiance.
  3. The Tropicale: A retro-glam supper club with lively cocktails.

• Unwind under the stars: End the night with a spa treatment at The Parker’s Palm Springs Yacht Club or a quiet night by Korakia’s candlelit pool, soaking in the desert magic.

Days three and four are the perfect mix of Palm Springs glamor, relaxation and design inspiration, setting the stage for the adventure ahead in Joshua Tree.

Wake up at Korakia Pensione, where the morning light filters through rustic wooden doors and the scent of freshly brewed coffee fills the air.

• Slow morning at Korakia: Enjoy a final, peaceful morning at this bohemian desert hideaway. Perhaps with a leisurely breakfast in the courtyard or a quiet moment by the reflecting pool before checking out.

• Check-in at The Parker Palm Springs: By midday, transition to the iconic Parker Palm Springs. A whimsical luxury retreat known for its lush gardens, eclectic design and world-class spa.

• Afternoon at leisure: Relax by one of The Parker’s pools, shaded by yellow-striped umbrellas. Wander the lush grounds designed by Jonathan Adler, where hidden nooks and fire pits create a secluded oasis. Or book a spa treatment at The Palm Springs Yacht Club, a playful yet ultra-luxurious wellness space with its saltwater pool, steam rooms and private cabanas

• Golden hour cocktails at Counter Reformation: As the sun sets, sip on a perfectly crafted martini or a rare vintage wine at The Parker’s hidden speakeasy-style bar. Known for its intimate ambiance and curated selection of drinks.

• Dinner at Mister Parker’s: End the evening with a decadent meal at The Parker’s moody, stylish supper club, featuring French-inspired cuisine in a candlelit setting.

This day is all about seamless luxury, indulgence and relaxation, as you shift from Korakia’s intimate charm to The Parker’s vibrant, design-forward world. Perfectly setting the stage for more Palm Springs exploration and the journey to Joshua Tree ahead.

Wake up in pure luxury at The Parker Palm Springs, surrounded by lush gardens, retro-chic design and the ultimate sense of escapism. These days are all about slowing down, indulging in world-class hospitality and embracing the relaxed desert lifestyle.

• Morning Bliss at The Parker: Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at Norma’s, known for its decadent French toast and fresh-pressed juices.

• Unwind at The Palm Springs Yacht Club, The Parker’s exclusive spa, offering therapeutic massages, facials and a saltwater pool experience.

• Explore the grounds on a vintage bike, or take a stroll through the resort’s secluded pathways, citrus gardens and hidden fire pits.

• Afternoon Relaxation & Adventures: Lounge by one of The Parker’s iconic pools, under the shade of signature yellow-striped umbrellas. Afternoon cocktails at The Lemonade Stand, a chic poolside bar offering fresh, citrus-infused drinks.
  
  If you’re feeling adventurous, explore more of Palm Springs’ mid-century-modern gems, boutique shops, or visit the Palm Springs Art Museum.

• Evening Elegance & Culinary Delights: Dine at Mister Parker’s, the hotel’s moody, sophisticated supper club, serving elevated French cuisine in a glamorous setting.

• Enjoy a fireside nightcap in one of The Parker’s hidden alcoves, soaking in the desert’s warm evening air under a star-lit sky.

These final days in Palm Springs are the perfect mix of indulgence, relaxation and design-forward experiences, before heading off to your next adventure in Joshua Tree.

Wake up at The Parker Palm Springs and enjoy one last morning of effortless luxury before heading into the raw, untamed beauty of Joshua Tree.

• Final Morning at The Parker: Savor a relaxed breakfast at Norma’s, soaking in the final moments of The Parker’s lush gardens and retro-chic ambiance.

• A last indulgence at The Palm Springs Yacht Club: Whether it's a morning massage or a refreshing dip in the saltwater pool, this is the perfect send-off before heading deeper into the desert.

• Scenic Drive to Joshua Tree (1-hour): Hit the road and drive just an hour east, watching the landscape shift from mid-century glamor to vast open desert, Joshua trees dotting the horizon.

• Check-in at a unique Joshua Tree stay: For this leg of the trip, embrace a modern desert retreat, such as:
  1. A chic, architect-designed home with floor-to-ceiling windows
  2. A secluded luxury glamping experience under the stars
  3. A stay at a boutique property, blending rustic charm with modern comforts

• Afternoon: Exploring Joshua Tree’s natural beauty: Hike at Hidden Valley or Barker Dam – two of the park’s most scenic trails. Unwind with a private sound bath at The Integratron, a one-of-a-kind sonic healing experience. Capture the surreal desert landscapes, especially as golden hour transforms the park into a photographer’s dream.

• Evening Under the Stars: Dine at a local Joshua Tree favorite, like Pappy & Harriet’s, for a mix of live music, great food and a lively desert atmosphere. Stargazing in Joshua Tree National Park, one of the world’s top dark-sky locations — where the Milky Way shines brightly over the rugged landscape.

Day eight marks a shift from the high design of Palm Springs to the untouched beauty of the desert, offering a slower pace and a chance to truly connect with nature.

Your days in Joshua Tree are all about slowing down, embracing the stillness of the desert and experiencing its raw beauty and unique energy.

• Morning serenity in the desert: Wake up to the golden glow of sunrise over the rugged landscapes, with the soft rustling of Joshua trees in the breeze. Enjoy a slow morning with coffee on your private patio, soaking in the vast, open skies.

• Daytime adventures & exploration: Visit Joshua Tree’s unique art scene — from the Noah Purifoy Outdoor Museum to the funky galleries in downtown Joshua Tree.

• Hike through Joshua Tree National Park: choose from iconic trails like:
  1. Hidden Valley: A scenic loop with towering rock formations.
  2. Skull Rock: An easy trek to a surreal, nature-carved boulder.
  3. Keys View: The ultimate panoramic lookout over Coachella Valley.

• Experience a Sound Bath at The Integratron: A deeply meditative and healing experience inside a domed structure designed for acoustic perfection.

• Sunset & evening under the stars: Sip cocktails at a desert retreat or enjoy an intimate dinner at La Copine, a beloved modern desert bistro. Catch live music at Pappy & Harriet’s, an iconic desert roadhouse with a legendary music scene.

• Stargazing in Joshua Tree: With minimal light pollution, this is one of the best places in the world to see the Milky Way.

These final days in Joshua Tree offer a transformative, soul-refreshing experience, blending adventure, art and the pure tranquility of the desert. It’s the perfect way to close out this luxury California journey before heading home.

Your final morning in Joshua Tree is a chance to soak in the last moments of desert serenity before heading back to Los Angeles for your journey home.

• Morning in the desert: Enjoy a peaceful sunrise with coffee in hand, taking in the stillness of the landscape one last time. Breakfast at a local favorite, such as Crossroads Café or Joshua Tree Coffee Co., for a final taste of the desert’s laid-back charm.
  
  Take a short morning hike or scenic drive through Joshua Tree National Park, making a stop at Keys Ranch or Cholla Cactus Garden for one last breathtaking view.

• Drive back to Los Angeles (2.5 hours): Say goodbye to the desert as you make the scenic drive back to LA, where you’ll have time for a relaxed afternoon before your flight.

• Afternoon in LA before departure: If time allows, enjoy a long lunch or an early dinner at a favorite LA hotspot, such as:
  1. The Polo Lounge at The Beverly Hills Hotel: An iconic, old-Hollywood favorite.
  2. Republique: A chic, modern brasserie for a final indulgence in California cuisine.
  3. Bestia or Bavel: For those craving an innovative, fine-dining experience before heading home.

• Evening flight home: After an unforgettable journey through California, return to LAX for a smooth departure — perhaps already dreaming about your next visit.

From the glamor of LA and the chic charm of Palm Springs to the soul-refreshing beauty of Joshua Tree, this itinerary is the ultimate mix of luxury, adventure and relaxation. Until next time, California!

After an incredible luxury adventure through California, you arrive back home, filled with unforgettable memories, stunning photos and a refreshed sense of wanderlust.

• Smooth arrival & transition home: Whether returning from a seamless long-haul flight or a short domestic connection, take time to unwind and reflect on your journey.

• Sort through your travel moments — perhaps revisiting highlights from LA’s glamor, Palm Springs’ retro-chic charm and Joshua Tree’s desert magic.

• Final thoughts & next steps: Already inspired for your next luxury escape? Start planning your future adventures with personalized travel insights and VIP perks through The Private Traveller & Fora Travel.

Stay connected — share your experience, tag @theprivatetraveller and let’s start crafting your next dream trip!

From private jet journeys and five-star stays to breathtaking desert landscapes, this California itinerary is the perfect blend of indulgence, adventure and relaxation. Until next time!