Booking a vacation rental house or condo in Palm Springs is a popular alternative to staying in a hotel or a resort. The popularity of renting a vacation rental home in the desert has reached new heights during the last few years, with travelers from all over the world choosing the comfort and convenience of renting a private property for a short- or long-term vacation in the desert.

Vacation rentals range from small studios and one-bedroom condos to the more spacious three and four bedroom homes, which can accommodate a large family or a group of families or friends wanting to vacation together. Some properties even offer estate accommodations, featuring five bedrooms (and more) and are suitable for family reunions, business retreats, and weddings. An example of an architecturally-significant private home available as a vacation rental or for small gatherings and weddings is the Alan Ladd Estate - the former home of movie star Alan Ladd (link to property provided below).

Vacation rentals in Palm Springs and the surrounding desert range in price from the very moderate (around $200.00 per night) to the ultra luxury (up to $1000 per night). At the highest price level you should expect flawless accommodations comparable to a luxury hotel (but much more spacious than a typical hotel suite).

Many vacation rentals in Palm Springs include amenities such as free wireless internet, private pool and SPA, fully stocked kitchen, quality linens, flat screen TVs with DVD in every room, maid service upon request, private chef service, stunning mountain views, BBQ, and much more.

It is important to make sure to avoid any scams when renting a vacation home. Please make sure to only rent a home from a credible vacation rental company. It is always a good idea to call the company office and ask to speak with someone who can provide information about available properties that may be suitable for you and your family. You may also want to inquire about the proximity of the rental property to the city center and other tourist attractions. Many visitors prefer to stay in the area closest to the historic Palm Springs Downtown - also called "the Loop" - which features many of the local attractions.

The most common areas to rent a vacation home in Palm Springs would be the various neighborhoods surrounding Downtown Palm Springs such as the Movie Colony, Las Palmas, DeepWell, and Ruth Hardy Park just to name a few. Another popular area would be South Palm Springs located along South and East Palm Canyon Drive. The area offers a variety of attractions including some good restaurants and shopping outlets.

Some vacation rental companies in Palm Springs may also offer a complete list of restaurants and other local activities that you can enjoy while visiting the desert:  The Aerial Tram, the weekly Downtown Street Festival on Thursday evenings, the Palm Springs Museum, and the Morton Botanical Gardens. Vacationers visiting for longer periods of time might also choose to visit other nearby attractions, such as the Joshua Tree National park and the picturesque city of Idyllwild located about 45 minutes from Palm Springs.  The trip to Idyllwild offers a picturesque view of the San Jacinto Mountains.