The 8 BEST Christmas Resorts for Families in Palm Springs 2026
Discover Palm Springs resorts where families can enjoy festive activities, relaxing amenities, and a memorable Christmas getaway. Finding Palm Springs resorts with festive Christmas fun and family-friendly amenities can take time. This list highlights stays that make holiday planning easier.
41000 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage
Holiday crafts, Santa, and a lazy river under desert skies. Christmas feels lively with cookie decorating, ornament crafts, Mrs. Claus storytime and Santa by the holiday tree. Between seasonal activities, kids can splash at Splashtopia, with its lazy river, waterslides and sandy beach. The River, an open-air dining and shopping center, is just steps away. You get a full-on family resort holiday, with plenty of sunny pool time between festive traditions.
74-855 Country Club Drive, Palm Desert
A twinkling holiday boat ride ends with Santa. The Jingle Bell boat cruise glides past twinkling lakeside lights before Santa and Mrs. Claus greet your family at the dock. Family-by-JW holiday activities add crafts, games and movie nights, while flamingos, mini golf and the arcade keep the fun going. The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is about 5 miles away. You get a polished, activity-packed Christmas escape that still leaves room for laid-back pool days.
68900 Frank Sinatra Drive, Rancho Mirage
Carolers, candlelit concerts, and Christmas lawn games. A tree-lighting with carolers and holiday décor brings Christmas cheer to the resort’s mountain setting. Candlelight concerts and chestnut roasting with lawn games add festive evenings for the whole family. Sunnylands Center and Gardens, an estate museum and garden, is about 3.3 miles away. You get a more elegant holiday stay, with seasonal traditions and desert views in place of wintry weather.
44400 Indian Wells Lane, Indian Wells
A sandy-entry pool and Camp Esmeralda for kids. Christmas week comes with an easygoing family-resort feel, with roomy family rooms and five on-site restaurants for relaxed meals together. Kids can make a splash in the beach-entry pool, while Camp Esmeralda adds a little more to do between swims. El Paseo’s shops and restaurants are about a 5-minute drive away. You get a sunny, sociable holiday stay where family time takes center stage.
49-499 Eisenhower Drive, La Quinta
Adobe casitas and a remarkable 41 resort pools. Adobe casitas and mountain-framed courtyards give Christmas here a warm, classic desert-resort backdrop. With 41 pools and family-friendly restaurants, you can shape the days around swim breaks and leisurely meals. Old Town La Quinta’s shops and restaurants are about a mile away. You get a relaxed, spacious holiday escape that suits families who want resort time to set the pace.
44600 Indian Wells Lane, Indian Wells, California, 92210, Indian Wells
Dueling waterslides and a lazy river for holiday fun. A Christmas getaway gets a playful twist at HyTides Water Park, with dueling slides, a lazy river and a splash pad. Spacious rooms, suites and villas give families room to settle in after a day of desert sunshine. El Paseo’s shopping district is about 3 miles away. You get an upbeat, waterpark-centered family stay with a sunny resort atmosphere for the holidays.
71777 Dinah Shore Dr, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Villa-style stays with a pool, whirlpool, and waterslide. Villa-style rooms with kitchens and living space make it easy for your family to settle in for Christmas week. A pool waterslide and whirlpool add a splash of holiday downtime beneath the desert palms. The Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert is about 2.6 miles away. You get a comfortable, home-like resort stay, especially welcome when you want room to spread out.
9003 Shadow Ridge Road, Palm Desert
Poolside waterslide, kitchenettes, and a kids’ activity center. A Christmas stay feels easy with villa-style rooms, kitchenettes and space for the family to unwind. The heated pool with waterslide and MAZE Center, with art classes, movies and arcade games, give kids plenty to look forward to. The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is about 8 miles away. You get a relaxed, self-contained family break with plenty of ways to keep little ones happily busy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What family-friendly activities are available at resorts in Palm Springs during Christmas?
Many resorts in Palm Springs offer festive activities such as holiday-themed crafts, storytelling sessions, and visits from Santa. Look for resorts that organize Christmas events, including light displays and outdoor movie nights.
Are there any resorts with kid-friendly dining options in Palm Springs?
Yes, several resorts feature restaurants that cater to children with special menus and buffet options. Look for resorts that offer family-style dining or have on-site casual eateries for convenience.
What is the weather like in Palm Springs during December for families planning outdoor activities?
In December, Palm Springs typically enjoys mild weather with daytime temperatures ranging from 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This is ideal for outdoor activities, so pack layers for cooler evenings.
Which resorts in Palm Springs have spacious accommodations suitable for families?
Look for resorts with suite-style accommodations or villas that offer multiple bedrooms and kitchens. These options provide more space and convenience for families traveling together.
Are there any resorts that offer shuttle services to local attractions in Palm Springs?
Many resorts provide complimentary shuttle services to popular attractions, shopping areas, and dining spots. Check with your resort to see if they offer this service for convenience during your stay.
What holiday events or festivals take place near Palm Springs during Christmas?
Palm Springs hosts festive events such as the Festival of Lights Parade and various holiday markets. Check local event calendars for specific dates and activities happening during your visit.
Can families find pools or water parks at resorts in Palm Springs?
Yes, many family-friendly resorts have pools, some of which feature water slides or splash pads. Look for resorts that emphasize water activities as part of their family offerings.
Are there any pet-friendly resorts in Palm Springs for families traveling with pets?
Several resorts in Palm Springs welcome pets. Look for those that offer pet amenities and nearby parks where you can take your furry family members for walks.
What safety measures do resorts in Palm Springs have in place for families during the holiday season?
Most resorts prioritize family safety by implementing measures such as enhanced cleaning protocols, social distancing in common areas, and staff training. Inquire directly with your resort for specific precautions.
Which resorts in Palm Springs have easy access to local hiking trails for family adventures?
Some resorts are located near popular hiking trails, making it convenient for families to explore the outdoors. Check with your resort for recommendations on suitable trails for various skill levels.
