When it comes to reconnecting, few places offer the kind of space and serenity that you’ll find during Valentine’s Day in Desert Hot Springs. The Onsen Hotel & Spa, nestled just outside Palm Springs, isn’t about flash or spectacle—it’s about slowing down, breathing deeper, and enjoying each other’s company in an unhurried, peaceful setting. For couples seeking a quiet getaway with the option to explore nearby happenings, this desert hideaway may be just the place to recharge and reconnect.
Starting the Day with Stillness
Valentine’s morning begins in the most relaxed way possible: in silence. The desert has its own rhythm—cool air, soft light, and wide skies that seem to stretch forever. At Onsen Hotel & Spa, you might start your day in the mineral spa, letting the warmth soak into your skin as steam curls gently into the air. With the San Jacinto Mountains in the distance, even the most ordinary moments feel intentional here.
A quiet breakfast nearby, perhaps at a local café like Swiss Donut or Capri, sets the tone for the rest of the day. There’s no need to plan every minute. The joy of being here lies in the space between plans—the quiet walks, shared glances, and comfort of knowing there’s nothing urgent pulling you away.
Exploring the Local Charm
While Desert Hot Springs keeps things low-key, there are a few unique ways to spend the afternoon. One of the most iconic local stops is Cabot’s Pueblo Museum, a hand-built Hopi-style pueblo made from reclaimed materials. It’s not just a historic site—it’s a deeply personal story about artistry, craftsmanship, and resilience. Exploring the rooms and outdoor spaces together gives couples the chance to share curiosity and conversation.
If you’re feeling adventurous, a short drive into Palm Springs opens up a range of options. The 2026 edition of Modernism Week will be in full swing from February 12–22, offering a fascinating look at mid-century architecture and design. From open house tours to vintage expos and sunset cocktails in restored homes, it’s a playful and stylish way to spend the day. For couples who appreciate design, nostalgia, or just want to see something new, it’s an ideal way to experience a different kind of Valentine’s vibe.
Moments in Nature
The surrounding landscape of Desert Hot Springs is an experience in itself. For couples who prefer quiet beauty over big events, nearby trails like the Mission Creek Preserve or sections of the San Bernardino foothills offer light hiking with incredible desert views. The air is dry, the sky open, and the experience feels personal. Even just sitting outside and watching the colors change across the valley can feel like a ritual worth remembering.
Another seasonal highlight: the Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival in nearby Indio. In 2026, it’s expected to run from February 13–23. While the fair has traditional rides, games, and food booths, it also features cultural performances and a celebration of the region’s most famous crop—the Medjool date. For couples looking to balance quiet spa time with a festive afternoon, the fair adds a fun, nostalgic note to the trip.
Evening in the Desert
As the sun starts to set, the desert air cools and the stars begin to show. Desert evenings are for winding down. One option is to head back into Palm Springs for dinner—many restaurants will offer Valentine’s specials on February 14. Favorites like Workshop Kitchen + Bar or Le Vallauris are known for their intimate settings and seasonal menus.
But for some, the better choice is to stay close. Grab dinner from a nearby restaurant like Casa Blanca or South of The Border and bring it back to the quiet of your room. With the warmth of the mineral pool, soft robes, and a bottle of wine on hand, there’s no reason to leave once you’re settled. It’s in this kind of simplicity that meaningful memories are made.
The Beauty of Doing Less
Valentine’s Day in Desert Hot Springs isn’t about extravagant gestures or elaborate planning. It’s about having the time and space to be present with the person you love. Whether you’re soaking in a mineral bath, standing in silence under a star-filled sky, or laughing over fried fair food in Indio, the beauty of this getaway is in how relaxed and natural it feels.
The Onsen Hotel & Spa understands that. It doesn’t overpromise—it simply invites you to step away from the noise, settle into the moment, and reconnect with what matters. You don’t need much to make a Valentine’s Day meaningful. A warm soak, good conversation, and time away from daily routines are sometimes more powerful than anything grand.
Your Valentine’s Day, Your Way
Whether you fill your day with design tours, spa treatments, desert hikes, or absolutely nothing at all, the magic of this region lies in its ability to hold space for whatever kind of romance you bring to it. The quiet charm of Desert Hot Springs, the playful energy of Palm Springs, and the peaceful retreat at Onsen Hotel & Spa combine to offer something rare—a Valentine’s Day that’s exactly what you need it to be.
