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Insider's Guide To Joshua Tree!

Posted by Anna Atlea · October 31, 2016

A unique desert oasis ~ 3 hours from San Diego | 2.5 hours from Los Angeles is among our favorite escapes.

Joshua Tree is home to one of America's 58 National Parks and stretches 1,234 sq miles across southern California. It's characterized by rugged rock formations and stark desert landscapes. Named for the region’s twisted, bristled Joshua trees, the park straddles the cactus-dotted Colorado Desert and the Mojave Desert, which is higher and cooler.

Our Favorite Things to Do

Sunrise is something ALWAYS waking up for..

Joshua Tree National Park- Awesome place to free climb, hike, camp, go off roading, etc. Basically pick any rock formation and climb it to the top. Jumbo Rocks, Hidden Valley, Keys Ranch, Keys View, Barkers Dam, etc. They each have their own different terrain and landscapes. Take any dirt road to go off the beaten path if driving 4 wheel drive.

Giant Rock - located in California's Mojave Desert, is roughly seven stories high and covers almost 6,000 square feet. Some say it is the largest freestanding boulder in the world.

Joshua Tree Farmers Market - Cute little Farmer’s Market in downtown JT. Usually happens on Saturday mornings with a couple of dozen vendors, fresh fruits and veggies, and little nick-knacks to take home with you.

Noah Purifoy Foundation - This is a very interesting place. Must see to understand.

Joshua Tree National Park Store (Coyote Corner) - Great shop to buy JT souvenirs and t-shirts before you leave!

Gallery 62 Art Tours - Always check out the local artists. JT brings some unique inspiration to the table
Joshua Tree Music Festival - Twice a year, come experience a friendly global music experience

Our Favorite Places to Eat

Pappy & Harriet’s - Usually best to call in advance to make reservation. If not just go there grab a cocktail and enjoy the outside patio area. Our personal favorite’s delicious BBQ racks of ribs, the chicken bowl, and of course the mac and cheese. It’s always packed with great live music and those Wild West vibes.*

Pie for the People! - Great Pizza spot, if you are looking to chill back at the house with friends and do your own desert experience, or bring back to your campsite etc.

Joshua Tree Saloon- Great spot for some middle of the day brews after a long hike in the park. Great time if you enjoy a happening spot filled with townies and tourists. Friday night karaoke is never something you want to miss. Make sure to order the (Desert Donkeys) desert version of Moscow mules. They have a great outdoor area filled with picnic tables and live music.

Crossroads Café & Tavern - Eggcellent breakfast selection.

Country Kitchen - Tiny place with some good homemade food. Serving breakfast all day!

La Copine Kitchen - Yummy Brunch

*Not technically Joshua Tree - Located one town over in Pioneer Town

Our Recommend Places To Stay

Air B&B Houses - There is a slew of VERY unique homes that add to your JT Experience. Check out our top ones!

Campsites - Because what is better than a night under the stars?!

In Park - These fill up quickly so book in advanced

Outside Park - Always good to have a back-up plan. Cell service is spotty once there

Pioneer Motel - Iconic motel serving as the set for many Western films boasts cozy, rustic rooms with kitchenettes

Joshua Tree House - a 1949 house, and a 1958 casita, and redesigned each space with a 'slow' pace in mind

Joshua Tree Inn - The Inn has long been known for the warmth, charm, and comfortable lodging it provides for guests visiting California's extraordinary Mojave Desert

Spin & Margie’s Desert Hideaway-

Mojave Sands Hotel - built in the 50´s, and hosts just five rooms. It has been called "an Eco-chic Moroccan Desert Refuge

Sacred Sands Bed & Breakfast - Poised on a hill at the west entrance to Joshua Tree National Park, Sacred Sands offers luxury accommodations unlike anything in the high desert.