Nestled in the foothills of Southeastern California’s Mojave Desert, 134 miles from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles and 157 miles from the busy beaches of San Diego, lies a perfect and peaceful getaway in Joshua Tree, California. Joshua Tree homes a national park, unique shops, and several quaint restaurants. Whether you are looking for the ultimate adventure or to completely disconnect, you’ve come to the right place! The magic of the desert’s serene beauty will leave you asking yourself “when can I come back?”
Here’s my Joshua Tree getaway guide
Where to Stay?
Stay at the j t v i l l a g e r
This light, bright, charming, and original 1947 home is located in the heart of Joshua Tree. While it may be little and cozy, this 1 bedroom/1 bath AirBnB does not fall short of it’s deluxe amenities including a hot tub, an outdoor claw foot tub, a comfy King sized bed, retro decor + appliances, and an overall fun + relaxed vibe. From the vintage dishware, tree swings, and whimsical lighting, you will fall in love with the small touches throughout. The entire property is fenced in, making for not only a romantic, but a very private and safe escape. Whether you catch a sunset from the outdoor claw foot tub, sip on a cup of Joshua Tree coffee from the breakfast nook bench, or stargaze under the desert skies from the hot tub, this place will be sure to make all your enchanting and relaxing dreams come true!
Click here to find the j t v i l l a g e r on AirBnB!
Where to Eat?
Eat Breakfast at Crossroads Cafe
Crossroads Cafe is a casual and local hot-spot with yummy and unique options. Order the ‘Messie Jessie’- eggs scrambled with home fried potatoes, ‘Soy-Rizo’ [vegan chorizo] & mushroom, topped with jack & cheddar, tomato, sour cream & cilantro. Where it lacks in meat, it does not lack in flavor.
Eat a Healthy Lunch or Dinner at Natural Sisters Cafe
Natural Sisters Cafe is another local favorite. This place is known for their fresh juices & smoothies paired with their delicious salads & sandwiches. Their food is highly rated, organic, plant based, and locally sourced. It’s no wonder why this place is always busy! Some of my favorites include: the Avocado Black Bean Burger, the Veggie + Hummus Wrap with Quinoa Salad, & the Killer Bee Smoothie.
Grab a Coffee at Joshua Tree Coffee Company
Joshua Tree Coffee Company may just be some of the best coffee in all of Southern California! Loved by both visitors and Joshua Tree residents alike. Order the Nitro Cold Brew. This yummy caffeine beverage is so smooth and flavorful on it’s own there’s no need for cream and sugar!
*Other food recommendations: Pie for the People & Joshua Tree Saloon
What to do?
Go Hiking at Joshua Tree National Park
You didn’t come to Joshua Tree to hang out in your AirBnB the whole time, did you? Well maybe you did and that’s okay, but visiting the park is an absolute must! Go for a hike! Try Split Rock Loop Trail. This trail is a less populated and an easy 1.9 mile loop (takes about an hour) full of wildlife (bunnies + birds), incredible views, beautiful rock formations, unique cacti, and of course, the iconic Joshua trees. This hike is about 7.3 miles in from the park’s north entrance and takes about 35 minutes to get to from downtown Joshua Tree!
*Helpful Tip: Be sure to pay attention– some parts of the trail are not easily marked.
Check out Joshua Tree’s Farmers Market
If you find yourself in Joshua Tree over the weekend, be sure to check out the Joshua Tree Farmer’s Market on Saturdays from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm in Downtown JT (near Natural Sister’s Cafe). Here you’ll find fresh tree + vine ripened produce, flowers, and local arts + crafts.
Stop in Joshua Tree Health Foods
A small market, with friendly and helpful staff, complete with fresh produce, fun + healthy snacks, and a surprisingly decent wine selection. Pick up a bottle of red and grab yourself some of my favorite healthy snacks: Bob’s Red Mill PB & Jelly Oat Bars for your hike and these delicious plant based cookies for your sweet tooth cravings Maxine’s Heavenly Cookies.
Where to Indulge?
Go to Naturalives Day Spa
Naturalives Day Spa has traditional waxing, massage, and facial services, but if you are looking to fully create a meditative state of physical & spiritual wholeness, they offer holistic health services such as reiki, chakra, infrared sauna, and sound baths. For the ultimate indulgent experience, try their ‘Renewed You’ package, complete with a combination of some of their best services. This package includes a 15 min infrared sauna session, an hour massage, a facial, and a full body scrub- it’s definitely worth the splurge!
Where to Shop?
Shop in Downtown Joshua Tree
While Joshua Tree might be small, it’s an eclectic shoppers paradise. Think vintage antiques/boots/clothing, bohemian fashion, quirky stickers, funny T-Shirts, funky knick-knacks, unique jewelry, small boutiques, and locally made gifts. You will be sure to discover some good finds at The Station, Ricochet Vintage Wears, Jen’s Pirate Booty, & BKB Ceramics
And…
On your way out of town, be sure to check out these other favorite shops + boutiques Hoof & the Horn, Pioneer Crossing Antiques, The End, and Cactus Mart (where you can dig up your own cactus!)
Kyla Benson 