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by Christal Jackson
- March 23, 2025
- 0 Comments
Palm Springs, California, is renowned for its sunny skies, warm temperatures, and desert charm, making it a year-round destination for vacationers. But depending on when you visit, the weather can vary dramatically. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what to expect each month so you can plan your trip with confidence.
January
Temperature Range: Highs around 70°F (21°C); lows dip to the low 40s°F (4-6°C) at night
Rainfall: About 1 inch on average
Sunshine: 8+ hours per day
January in Palm Springs feels like spring in much of the country. Cool mornings make it perfect for brisk walks or hikes along trails like Indian Canyons. Do note that nighttime temperatures can often drop into the low 40s, so a warm jacket is a must for evenings outdoors. You might get a light rain shower, but those moments are rare.
February
Temperature Range: Highs around 73°F (23°C); lows near 48°F (9°C)
Rainfall: Slightly more than January, roughly 1.1 inches on average
Sunshine: Around 9 hours daily
The weather begins to warm slightly, drawing sun-seekers to Palm Springs for Valentine’s Day or President’s Day weekends. The days are pleasant and sunny, though you may still want layers for the cooler nights. This is also the tail end of the region’s rainy season.
March
Temperature Range: Highs of 80°F (27°C); lows around 54°F (12°C)
Rainfall: Less than 1 inch on average
Sunshine: 10 hours per day
Spring is in full swing by March! Warm, sunny days make this a great time to enjoy outdoor activities like golf, tennis, or lounging by the pool. That said, March can also bring strong desert winds, which may create hazy skies and affect outdoor plans. Make sure to check the weather forecast if you’re planning outdoor adventures. Don’t forget your sunscreen!
April
Temperature Range: Highs near 88°F (31°C); lows around 60°F (16°C)
Rainfall: Minimal, about 0.2 inches
Sunshine: 11 glorious hours daily
April in Palm Springs is the definition of desert perfection. This month hosts popular events like Coachella and Stagecoach, and for good reason! The skies are clear, the temperatures are warm but not oppressive, and the evenings are still cool enough to feel refreshing. However, April can sometimes experience high winds, which might factor into your plans for outdoor activities or patio dining.
May
Temperature Range: Highs of 95°F (35°C); lows near 66°F (19°C)
Rainfall: Almost none (just 0.1 inches on average)
Sunshine: Over 12 hours daily
Summer vibes start to take hold in May with nearly cloudless skies. Daytime temperatures climb close to triple digits, but it’s still comfortable to be outside in the morning or evening. The city’s iconic palm trees seem to sparkle under the abundant sunshine.
June
Temperature Range: Highs around 104°F (40°C); lows near 73°F (23°C)
Rainfall: Virtually none
Sunshine: An incredible 13+ hours per day
Welcome to the desert summer! June is hot, dry, and sunny, so midday outdoor activities may be better swapped for lounging by the pool or visiting one of the area’s air-conditioned attractions like the Palm Springs Art Museum. Stay hydrated!
July
Temperature Range: Highs of 108°F (42°C); lows around 78°F (26°C)
Rainfall: Slightly more than June, but still only 0.2 inches on average
Sunshine: 13 hours per day
July is peak summer, and it’s hot. If you’re not used to desert heat, plan to do most activities early in the morning. Surprisingly, locals and regular visitors love the dry sauna effect, and many resorts are quieter this time of year. Bonus? Hotels and pools often offer summer discounts!
August
Temperature Range: Highs near 107°F (42°C); lows around 78°F (26°C)
Rainfall: About 0.3 inches, occasionally influenced by monsoon season
Sunshine: Still 12.5+ hours daily
August mirrors July with searing heat, but it may also bring sporadic summer storms. These dramatic bursts of rain and thunder (thanks to the monsoon season) are short-lived and bring a refreshing change to the dry desert air. Sunset skies after these storms are stunning.
September
Temperature Range: Highs of 101°F (38°C); lows around 72°F (22°C)
Rainfall: Similar to August, about 0.3 inches
Sunshine: 12 hours per day
September offers relief from summer’s brunt as temperatures gradually cool. It’s a great month for evening activities as the desert begins to lose some of its daytime intensity. Pair perfect sunsets with al fresco dining at one of Palm Springs’ many outdoor restaurants.
October
Temperature Range: Highs near 91°F (33°C); lows around 63°F (17°C)
Rainfall: Minimal, usually about 0.2 inches
Sunshine: 11 hours daily
October is a favorite among visitors with sunny skies, warm days, and cooler nights. It’s a fantastic time for hiking or exploring attractions like the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Halloween events and the return of farmers’ markets add a festive fall vibe to the city.
November
Temperature Range: Highs of 78°F (26°C); lows near 52°F (11°C)
Rainfall: Typically around 0.3 inches
Sunshine: 9-10 hours per day
November ushers in cooler weather, making it one of the loveliest months to visit. Sunshine remains abundant, and the cooler nights call for cozy evenings by fire pits or hot tubs. It’s a great time to escape colder weather elsewhere in the U.S.
December
Temperature Range: Highs around 70°F (21°C); lows near 45°F (7°C)
Rainfall: About 1 inch, similar to January
Sunshine: 8+ hours daily
December brings mild winter weather, perfect for holiday visitors. Palm Springs gets decked out for the holiday season with festive lights and events. It feels refreshing here while much of the country shivers in snowstorms.
Planning Your Trip
Whether you’re looking for poolside relaxation in the summer or idyllic hiking weather during fall, Palm Springs offers something for everyone. Just remember the desert can surprise you with its dramatic temperature swings, so pack layers—even for warmer months.
No matter when you visit, one thing stays constant in Palm Springs: the sunshine. Happy travels!
