72 Hours in the Desert: The Perfect Resort Itinerary

While we’re living for denim-drenched fall style, we can’t help but long for sunshine-filled summer days. And though we can't change the season, we can welcome you to a little slice of year-round paradise: The Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa. Autumn is the perfect time of year to book a quick getaway to the desert and get some much-needed vitamin D.

Our recently renovated oasis in Indian Wells puts an island-inspired spin on Spanish-Mediterranean architecture, while offering breathtaking views of the Santa Rosa Mountains. Whether you’re winding down for relaxation or gearing up for adventure, we’ve got the perfect itinerary for every Relaxologist and Weekend Warrior. So, set your OOO notification, book your stay, and get ready for some sunshine!

Day One
9AM

You’ve arrived in paradise! Start your first day easy by exploring the 11 beautiful acres at the Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa. Wander at your leisure along its garden pathways, flanked by fragrant citrus trees. And don’t forget to borrow a basket—you can pick fruit for fresh juice later. Pro tip: If you’d rather not walk, you can rent bikes for free for two hours a day (and that’s not the only complimentary perk you’ll find here!).

12PM

Are you a pro Relaxologist? Then this is the perfect time to kick back poolside. Soak up some rays, catch up on reading, or take a dip in any of our three saltwater pools—just don’t forget your favorite swimsuit! Whatever you do, make sure to take advantage of the Chiki Palm bar, which offers poolside service for its fresh-made dishes and frozen cocktails. Poke and mai tais by the pool—that’s what we call island living!

For our Weekend Warriors, we recommend a breezy day of sightseeing and exploration. If you’re in touch with your wild side, take a stroll through The Living Desert® Zoo & Gardens. It’s the perfect family-friendly activity where everyone can spot their fair share of rhinos, giraffes, coyotes, and more.

4PM

As the sun starts to set, settle into the Grapefruit Basil®, our signature restaurant and bar exclusively available at our resort. With creative menus inspired by local ingredients, you won’t get delicious dishes and innovative cocktails like these anywhere else. Plus, there’s one extra perk when you make it here at 4PM: You’ll be right in the middle of happy hour. Cheers to that!

7PM

Wind down your first day at the Tommy Bahama Miramonte by heading to the Olive Grove, surrounding yourself with the tranquility of our flourishing olive trees. Lounge al fresco next to a cozy firepit and enjoy the beautiful mountain views during sunset. Plus, you can catch live music 7-9PM every evening. When people dream of paradise, this is what they’re talking about.

Day Two
9AM

There are plenty of ways to chase the sun, but nothing quite beats hitting the links in the morning. Take this time to practice your golf game on the fairway. After all, there aren’t many places this time of year where the fairway is this warm. We provide complimentary golf cart transportation to the Indian Wells Golf Resort nearby as well; it’s convenience on par with none.

1PM

For our Relaxologists, it’s time for the ultimate indulgence: your morning treatment at the award-winning Spa Rosa. Let all your worries wash away with desert-inspired experiences, like the Perfect Escape package. Three hours of uninterrupted bliss starts with an 80-minute full-body massage and an 80-minute facial, finishing with a decadent scalp massage. If you’re short on time, consider Life’s Simple Pleasures, our aptly named 100-minute package that nourishes the skin, alleviates tension, and clears the mind. If you want to spend the whole day here, we don’t blame you—you’ll have access to a private pool, hot tub, and poolside food and drinks service.

Weekend Warriors who need more adventure can get their fill at Joshua Tree National Park. Book an offroad tour through one of the most majestic places in the nation, taking in the rugged beauty from the comfort of a vehicle. If you’re more of a hands-on person, get up close and personal with the desert valley and book a guided rock-climbing tour instead.

5PM

Close out the day with a quick jaunt to the shops on El Paseo, Palm Desert’s main street for shopping and dining. Hit the Tommy Bahama Home Store first to peruse island-inspired home décor that brings paradise home. And of course, with our apparel just across the street at our retail store, it’s the perfect opportunity to see the latest in island-inspired luxury.

Finally, cap off the evening with a trip to the best patio in America: our award-winning Restaurant. Indulge in signature dishes like our World Famous Coconut Shrimp and Kona Coffee-Crusted Ribeye, and pair it with craft cocktails like the Pineapple Paradisio or a Classic Mojito. The cherry on top of it all? The breathtaking view of the San Jacinto Mountains, visible right from the comfort of our patio.

Day Three
9AM

Start your last day on the right foot with a movement class, offered right on our resort grounds. These soothing, energizing classes bring together your mind, body, and spirit, making it the perfect way to ease you into the day. After giving yourself the self-care you deserve, cap off your morning with brunch at the Grapefruit Basil®—the crab cake benedicts are a must.

12PM

It’s time for checkout—but don’t forget to also check out Palm Springs before you jet! The walkable city seamlessly blends urban charm with natural beauty, and there’s a lot to see if you need to kill time before your flight. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway gives you beautiful bird’s-eye views, and the Palm Springs Art Museum is the perfect spot to soak up some culture.

Of course, you can’t say goodbye without one last hurrah at our Marlin Bar on Palm Canyon Drive! Cap off your hot desert getaway with a cool dessert: our organic soft-serve ice cream. What better way is there to end your 72 hours of luxury?