Things To Do
in Twentynine Palms
Twentynine Palms sits in the Mojave Desert just north of Joshua Tree National Park, offering a gateway to rugged landscapes and starlit skies. This small desert town blends a tight-knit community, art spaces, and casual eateries with access to some of Southern California's most iconic rock formations. Downtown Twentynine Palms has galleries, cafes, and retro charm, while nearby parks provide outdoor adventures.
Plan for dramatic desert weather, wide-open horizons, and memorable sunrises and night skies.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Twentynine Palms and check into your accommodation, taking in the stunning desert landscape that surrounds you. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring the flavors of the region. Spend some time hiring bikes or preparing for your upcoming adventures through the Joshua Tree National Park.
Head out to Joshua Tree National Park to explore the unique rock formations and iconic Joshua trees. Take a guided hike to discover the flora and fauna of this breathtaking area, while learning about its geology. Capture the beauty of the desert with your camera, ensuring you document the experience.
As the sun sets over the desert, find a scenic spot to unwind and watch the colors change in the sky. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, relishing regional dishes that reflect the essence of the Mojave Desert. Cap off your day by stargazing, taking advantage of the clear desert skies filled with brilliant stars.
Start your day with an early breakfast and pack essentials for a day in Joshua Tree National Park. Choose a trail, like Hidden Valley, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty as you hike through boulders and unusual yucca plants. The morning sun casts a golden hue, enhancing the experience as you breathe in the fresh desert air.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a packed lunch at one of the picnic areas amidst the stunning surrounds. Continue your adventure by visiting Cholla Cactus Garden, where cacti seem to dance in the sunlight. Take the winding trail through the garden, ensuring to capture the essence of this vibrant area.
Return to Twentynine Palms for a delicious home-cooked meal at a local diner. Share stories of your day's adventures with fellow travelers, exchanging tips and recommendations. Later, relax at your accommodation or around the fire pit, feeling the cool desert breeze while reminiscing about the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee/latte | $3-6 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $90-180 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $4-6 |
| 🥗Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Joshua Tree National Park and striking desert landscapes
- Strong sense of community with art, cafés, and outdoor activities
- Very hot summers and limited amenities compared to bigger cities
- Less public transportation and longer distances between some sights
Places to Visit in Twentynine Palms
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic rock formations near Joshua Tree National Park with expansive desert views, ideal for sunset photography.
A dense circle of cholla cacti that creates dramatic silhouettes, especially during golden hour.
Panoramic overlook with views across the Coachella Valley and San Andreas Fault lines; spectacular at sunset.
Historic mine site offering desert views and a moderate light hike for landscape photography.
Food in Twentynine Palms
Twentynine Palms Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A refreshing drink made with prickly pear cactus fruit, lime, and sugar; widely available at cafes and Mexican eateries.
Must-Try!
Grilled steak tacos with cilantro, onions, lime, and salsa; a staple at local taquerias.
Citrus-marinated chicken with roasted vegetables; commonly found on menus in desert bistros.
Elote served with chili-lime seasoning and cotija cheese; popular at street stalls and weekend markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly markets offering locally grown produce, breads, crafts, and food trucks. Great for tasting regional specialties.
Evening pop-ups and food trucks near downtown featuring tacos, bowls, and desserts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect the desert; pack out trash and stay on designated trails.
Obey signage about wildlife areas, cultural sites, and restricted lands; ask for permission when needed.
Ask before taking photos of people; avoid private properties without consent.
Safety
Tipping in Twentynine Palms
Ensure a smooth experience
In the U.S., 15-20% is customary in restaurants; some places add a service charge for larger groups. Cash is welcome, but most businesses accept cards.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still useful at markets and some cafes; ATMs are common in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect extreme heat; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening, stay hydrated, wear sunscreen and a hat.
Cool days and cold nights; pack layers, and be prepared for sudden temperature drops after sunset.
Mild days with blooming desert wildflowers; good for hiking and photography, but can be windy.
Clear skies and pleasant temperatures; ideal for stargazing and outdoor exploration.
Twentynine Palms at Night
Hiking in Twentynine Palms
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic, palm-fringed hike close to town with a notable oasis at the end.
Historic mine site offering desert views and a moderate loop.
Pairs of short and longer trails offering varied landscapes and views.
Airports
How to reach Twentynine Palms by plane.
Regional gateway with numerous domestic flights; about an hour’s drive to Twentynine Palms depending on traffic.
Larger airport with more flight options; longer drive to the high desert.
Major international hub; farthest of the listed options but provides extensive connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Active-duty personnel and families connected to MCAGCC Twentynine Palms.
Long-time desert locals and retirees; artists and outdoor enthusiasts are common.
People visiting Joshua Tree National Park and nearby attractions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Joshua Tree area is renowned for climbing routes of varying difficulty.
Desert trails offer scenic workouts and photography opportunities.
Clear desert skies attract amateur and professional astrophotographers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Twentynine Palms.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most cafes and Mexican eateries offer veggie burritos, tacos, and salads; ask for meat-free preparations and dairy-free options.