Desert Hot Springs, CA
- About the city
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Museums
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Healthcare Facilities and Wellness
Desert Hot Springs is a desert city in California, famously known as the "Mineral Water Capital of the World" for its odorless natural hot and cold mineral springs.
About the city
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Full Official Name: Desert Hot Springs (often referred to by its initials, DHS) .
- Administrative Center: Desert Hot Springs is a city in Riverside County, California, United States . It is not a county seat but is one of the nine cities that make up the Greater Palm Springs area in the Coachella Valley .
- Region: The city is located in Southern California's Riverside County. The region is world-renowned for its desert resort communities, including Palm Springs, and is a major hub for tourism, mid-century modern architecture, and outdoor recreation .
Historical Names and Nicknames
- Historical Names: The area was known as Sec-he ("boiling water") by the native Cahuilla people who used the hot springs for centuries. In the 1820s, Mexican explorer Don José Romero called it Agua Caliente ("hot water") . The modern name was chosen by founder L. W. Coffee in 1941 because of the area's natural hot springs .
- Nicknames: Desert Hot Springs is most famously known as the "Mineral Water Capital of the World" . This nickname stems from its unique geographical position atop two separate aquifers, providing both naturally hot and cold mineral water, which is also odorless .
Founding Date and Age
- Founding Date: The town was founded by L. W. Coffee on July 12, 1941. The original town site was just one square mile, centered at the intersection of Palm Drive and Pierson Boulevard .
- Age: The city was incorporated on September 25, 1963 . As of 2026, the city is 63 years old.
- Founders and Early Settlers: While L. W. Coffee is credited as the founder of the town, homesteader Cabot Yerxa arrived in 1913 and is a pivotal historical figure. He famously discovered the hot water aquifer on what he called "Miracle Hill" and spent over 20 years building his Pueblo Revival Style structure, which is now the Cabot's Pueblo Museum .
Geographical Position and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: Latitude 33°57′40″N, Longitude 116°30′06″W .
- Location and Landscape: Desert Hot Springs is nestled between the San Bernardino Mountains and the San Jacinto Mountains in the Colorado Desert region of the Sonoran Desert . It is located just south of Big Morongo Canyon Preserve and Joshua Tree National Park .
- Elevation: The center of the city sits at an elevation of approximately 1,076 feet (328 meters) above sea level. This higher elevation, compared to other Coachella Valley cities, provides many residents with magnificent views of both Mount San Jacinto and Mount San Gorgonio .
City Type and Economic Specialization
- Tourism and Wellness Hub: Desert Hot Springs is primarily a world-class wellness and spa destination. Its economy is driven by more than 20 natural mineral spring lodgings and boutique spa hotels that leverage the unique, odorless hot and cold mineral waters .
- Historic Agricultural and Film History: The area was also known for the B-Bar-H Ranch, frequented by movie stars like Mary Pickford during the 1940s and 1950s, adding a layer of Hollywood history to its identity .
Population and Demographics
- Population: The population was 32,512 as of the 2020 census .
- City Class: Based on its population, Desert Hot Springs is considered a small to medium-sized city. It has experienced rapid growth since the 1970s when it had only 2,700 residents .
City's "Calling Card"
Desert Hot Springs is a tranquil desert oasis famed for being one of the few places on earth with naturally occurring, odorless hot and cold mineral springs. Visitors come to "take the waters" at its world-renowned spas, enjoy breathtaking mountain views, and use it as a serene gateway to the rugged landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park .
Geography
Mountains and Mountain Ranges
- San Jacinto Mountains (Mount San Jacinto): Located to the southwest, this mountain range is a dominant feature of the horizon. Mount San Jacinto, with its peak towering over the valley, is accessible via the nearby Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which leads to the Mount San Jacinto State Park with its 50 miles of hiking trails .
- San Bernardino Mountains (Mount San Gorgonio): To the north and west, this range includes Mount San Gorgonio, the highest peak in Southern California. The mountains are not only scenic but also act as a crucial water source, with meteoric water flowing from them along the Mission Creek fault to feed the area's famous aquifers .
Deserts, Canyons, and Unique Landscapes
- Joshua Tree National Park: Located just north of the city, this iconic national park is a major attraction. It is renowned for its otherworldly desert landscapes, featuring the namesake Joshua trees, unique rock formations, and exceptional stargazing opportunities, less than a 70-minute drive away .
- Big Morongo Canyon Preserve: Situated adjacent to the city, this preserve is one of the most important desert riparian habitats in California. It offers lush wetlands fed by the Mission Creek fault, creating a verdant oasis in the desert with boardwalk trails for birdwatching and hiking .
National and Nature Parks
- Mount San Jacinto State Park: While the mountain is visible from Desert Hot Springs, the state park is located about 30-40 minutes away via the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. The park features over 50 miles of hiking trails through alpine forest, a dramatic contrast to the desert floor below .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
- Climate Type: Desert Hot Springs features a hot desert climate (Köppen: BWh) , characteristic of the Colorado Desert region .
- General Description: The city is known for its very hot summers, mild winters, and an abundance of sunshine with less than six inches of precipitation per year. Due to its higher elevation (approx. 1,076 ft), summer temperatures in Desert Hot Springs are often 5–7°F cooler than in other Coachella Valley communities .
Average Temperatures by Month
The climate data is based on the nearby Palm Springs International Airport and averages for Desert Hot Springs .
- Hottest Month: July, with an average daily maximum of 102°F (38.9°C) and an average low of 75°F (23.9°C). Daytime highs frequently exceed 107°F (41.7°C) in July and August .
- Coldest Month: December, with an average daily maximum of 61°F (16.1°C) and an average low of 41°F (5°C) .
- Average Monthly Temperatures:
- January: High 62°F (16.7°C), Low 41°F (5°C) .
- February: High 64°F (17.8°C), Low 41°F (5°C) .
- March: High 70°F (21.1°C), Low 45°F (7.2°C) .
- April: High 77°F (25°C), Low 48°F (8.9°C) .
- May: High 84°F (28.9°C), Low 54°F (12.2°C) .
- June: High 95°F (35°C), Low 61°F (16.1°C) .
- July: High 102°F (38.9°C), Low 70°F (21.1°C) .
- August: High 102°F (38.9°C), Low 70°F (21.1°C) .
- September: High 95°F (35°C), Low 64°F (17.8°C) .
- October: High 84°F (28.9°C), Low 55°F (12.8°C) .
- November: High 72°F (22.2°C), Low 46°F (7.8°C) .
- December: High 61°F (16.1°C), Low 39°F (3.9°C) .
- Record High and Low: Record high temperatures can reach up to 123°F (51°C). The record low is 19°F (-7°C) .
Precipitation and Humidity
- Average Annual Rainfall: Approximately 4.8 inches (123 mm) .
- Wettest Month: February, with about 1.16 inches (29 mm) of rain .
- Driest Month: June, with an average of only 0.02 inches (1 mm) of rain .
- Rainy Days: The city averages only about 18 days per year with measurable precipitation .
- Average Humidity: Humidity is low year-round, ranging from 25% in June to 42% in December, making the summer heat more tolerable .
Sun Days and UV Index
- Sunny Days: Desert Hot Springs enjoys an exceptionally sunny climate with over 300 sunny days per year. The sky is described as "almost completely cloud-free" from May through October .
- Sunshine Hours: The city averages between 8.0 hours of sunshine per day in December to 13.0 hours per day in June and July .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
- Winter (December - February): Days are mild and sunny, perfect for hiking and spa visits, but nights can be cold, often dropping into the low 40s°F (4-5°C) . This is a popular time for "snowbirds" escaping colder climates .
- Spring (March - May): Considered one of the best times to visit, with warm, pleasant daytime temperatures ranging from the low 70s to mid-80s°F (21-29°C) and very little rain .
- Summer (June - September): Features extreme heat, with daytime highs consistently above 100°F (38°C) . Activities are centered around air-conditioned resorts, pool lounging, and enjoying the naturally hot springs. The low humidity makes the heat more bearable.
- Fall (October - November): Another ideal period for a visit. The scorching summer heat subsides, giving way to warm, sunny days and cool evenings, perfect for outdoor exploration and enjoying the local spas .
Specific Weather Phenomena
- Higher Elevation Benefit: Unlike the lower parts of the Coachella Valley, the winter season in Desert Hot Springs can be warmer due to the surrounding mountains blocking cold north winds. Cold air drains into the lower elevations, creating a thermal inversion that results in warmer nighttime lows in the city .
Landmarks
[Cabot's Pueblo Museum]
- Full Name: Cabot's Pueblo Museum (Cabot's Trading Post & Gallery).
- Architect and Year: Built single-handedly by homesteader Cabot Yerxa (Cabot Abram Yerxa) over a period of 20 years, starting in 1913 and finishing in the 1940s. It opened as a museum after his death in 1965 .
- Description: This extraordinary four-story, 35-room structure is built in the Pueblo Revival Style architecture using found and recycled materials. It stands on "Miracle Hill," the very spot where Yerxa discovered the area's hot water aquifer in 1914 .
- Historical Significance: It is one of the oldest adobe-style buildings in Riverside County and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It stands as a testament to early 20th-century pioneer spirit and desert living .
- Location: In Desert Hot Springs, on the hill where Yerxa first homesteaded.
[Two Bunch Palms Resort and Spa]
- Description: A historic and exclusive resort and spa, known as a legendary celebrity hideaway for decades. It is famous for its use of the area's natural hot mineral springs, with a history dating back to the early homesteading days .
- Historical Significance: The springs at Two Bunch Palms were described by Cabot Yerxa in his writings. The resort itself has become a landmark synonymous with luxury, wellness, and discretion in the desert .
Natural Landmark: Miracle Hill
- Description: This is the specific geographic location where Cabot Yerxa first drilled and discovered the hot water aquifer in 1913. It is the site of his pueblo museum.
- Geological Significance: Miracle Hill sits atop the Mission Creek Branch of the San Andreas Fault. This unique geological position is why one side of the hill has access to a hot water aquifer and the other to a cold water aquifer, a rare phenomenon that defines the city .
Architecture: John Lautner's Desert Commission
- Description: Desert Hot Springs is the location of renowned architect John Lautner's (John Lautner) first desert commission. Lautner, a seminal figure in mid-century modern architecture, designed a home here, adding to the region's reputation as a hub for modernist design .
Transport
Main Airports
The primary airport for air travelers is located in the neighboring city of Palm Springs.
- Palm Springs International Airport (PSP): Located about 9 miles (15 km) south of Desert Hot Springs . It is the main commercial airport serving the Coachella Valley, offering numerous flights from major U.S. and Canadian cities. The airport code IATA is PSP .
- LA/Ontario International Airport (ONT): Another major airport option, located about 63 miles (101 km) west of Desert Hot Springs . It offers a wider range of domestic and some international flights. The airport code IATA is ONT .
Major Highways and Roads
The main artery for accessing Desert Hot Springs from the rest of the Coachella Valley is:
- Palm Drive (California State Route 62): This is the principal north-south thoroughfare through the city, connecting it directly to Interstate 10 to the south, which links to Palm Springs, Los Angeles, and Phoenix .
Public Transportation System
Public transit in Desert Hot Springs is provided by the Sunline Transit Agency.
- Sunline Bus Routes: Several bus lines serve the city, connecting it to other parts of the Coachella Valley. Key routes include:
- Route 3: This is a primary local route within Desert Hot Springs, running between Dillon at Corkill and West at Pierson .
- Route 5: This route connects Desert Hot Springs to the nearby city of Palm Springs and other valley cities, with stops like Palm at Buena Vista .
- Route 11: This line connects to transfer points like Town Center & Hahn, where passengers can connect to Route 5 to reach Desert Hot Springs .
Museums
Cabot's Pueblo Museum
The most unique and significant museum in Desert Hot Springs is Cabot's Pueblo Museum . This historic site is not a traditional museum but rather a four-story, 35-room Hopi-inspired pueblo home built by hand by the explorer, artist, and naturalist Cabot Yerxa between 1941 and 1945 . The structure itself is the museum's main artifact, constructed from found objects and unconventional materials like adobe mud, railroad ties, and discarded windows . The museum offers a glimpse into the life and vision of its creator, showcasing his collections of Native American art and artifacts from his travels around the world, including to the Arctic and Europe . The pueblo is a testament to early 20th-century pioneer spirit and stands as a unique architectural and historical landmark in the Coachella Valley. It is a must-see for history and culture enthusiasts visiting the area .
Museums in Nearby Palm Springs
For a wider array of museum experiences, the neighboring city of Palm Springs, just a short drive away, offers several notable institutions .
Palm Springs Air Museum: This museum is one of the world's largest flying aviation museums, dedicated to preserving and displaying American warplanes from World War II, Korea, and Vietnam . Its collection features over 70 flyable aircraft, many of which are still in operating condition and can be seen taking off and landing on the adjacent runway against the backdrop of the San Jacinto Mountains . It is a significant attraction for aviation enthusiasts.
Palm Springs Art Museum: Located in downtown Palm Springs, this is the primary fine arts institution in the region . The museum features a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art, with a strong focus on works from the American West, including renowned Native American art, Western sculpture, and photography . The museum building itself is an architectural landmark and provides a cool respite from the desert heat .
Sport and Sports Legends
Sports in the Greater Palm Springs Area
While the city of Desert Hot Springs itself is not home to any major professional sports teams or large stadiums, it is situated within the vibrant sporting landscape of the Coachella Valley . Residents and visitors have access to a plethora of entertainment, leisure, and outdoor activities, including the renowned golf courses of the Coachella Valley and exciting sports events .
Professional Sports in Nearby Cities
For those seeking professional sports, the wider region offers several options:
- Inland Empire 66ers (San Bernardino): Located about 46 miles away in San Bernardino, this minor league baseball team, a California League affiliate, provides family-friendly entertainment . Games are held at San Bernardino Stadium, offering a classic American pastime experience with affordable concessions .
Major Sporting Events
- BNP Paribas Open (Indian Wells): One of the most significant sporting events in the area is the BNP Paribas Open, one of the world's largest tennis tournaments outside of the Grand Slams . Held annually in nearby Indian Wells, it attracts the biggest names in men's and women's tennis to the desert.
Outdoor Sports and Recreation
The natural geography around Desert Hot Springs is a magnet for outdoor sports enthusiasts .
- Hiking and Trail Running: The city is cradled by the San Jacinto and San Bernardino mountains, offering stunning hiking trails right on its doorstep, including the Long Canyon Trailhead . The nearby desert and mountain preserves provide ample opportunities for exploration .
- Golf: The area is a stone's throw from the world-class golf courses of the Coachella Valley, making it a prime location for golfers .
- Water Sports: For a different kind of activity, the nearby Euchee Marina offers opportunities for serene boat rides .
Healthcare Facilities and Wellness
Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs)
The primary healthcare infrastructure in Desert Hot Springs is built around Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), which provide comprehensive medical services to the community regardless of ability to pay .
DAP Health-Desert Hot Spring-Main Campus: Located at 66675 Pierson Blvd, this is a major healthcare provider for the city . Operating as a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) under the non-profit organization DAP Health, it offers a wide range of services including family medicine, HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment (including Ryan White Services), PrEP/PEP navigation, STI testing and treatment, and mental health services . The center accepts various insurance plans and offers a sliding fee scale for uninsured patients . Other DAP Health locations in the city include the Desert Hot Springs Health and Wellness Center at 11750 Cholla Dr, Suite B .
Borrego Health-Desert Hot Springs Community Health Center: Another key healthcare provider is the Borrego Health center, also located at 66675 Pierson Blvd . It is classified as a public health facility and a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), offering primary and specialty care services . A separate Borrego Health Specialty Care Center is situated at 12520 Palm Dr, with physicians specializing in Family Medicine, Hepatology, and Infectious Disease, among others .
The City's Namesake: Hot Mineral Water Spas
While not a traditional healthcare facility, the very identity of Desert Hot Springs is intertwined with wellness through its world-famous natural hot mineral water spas . The city is renowned for its therapeutic hot mineral water spas, which are fed by underground aquifers deep within the earth .
- Two Bunch Palms Resort and Spa: One of the most famous and historic of these is the 50-acre Two Bunch Palms Resort and Spa, which features pools fed by a nearby natural hot spring .
- Sagewater Spa: Another notable spot is the Sagewater Spa, known for its peaceful and beautiful setting . These spas are a major draw for tourists and locals seeking relaxation and the purported healing benefits of the mineral-rich waters, cementing the city's reputation as a premier wellness destination .