Answer: Palm Desert itself doesn’t have natural mineral springs, but you’re staying very close to one of the best and most accessible hot spring areas in California: Desert Hot Springs, located about 25–35 minutes north of Palm Desert. This small town sits directly on top of a natural aquifer and is famous for its simple, classic mineral hot springs—many of which are affordable, low-key, and far from the “fancy spa” vibe.

Answer: Both JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort and Shadow Ridge Golf Club offer quality golf experiences, but they have distinct characteristics that may influence your choice depending on your preferences and skill level (HDCP 7-8) for a mid-March round in Palm Desert.

Answer: Driving to the airport in the Palm Desert area can sometimes be unpredictable due to construction, traffic, and local road conditions. Ramon Road, in particular, is a major route near the Palm Springs International Airport and is often subject to construction or maintenance projects, which can cause delays.

Answer: Joshua Tree National Park is one of the easiest national parks to enjoy, even if you're not big hikers. The park is very scenic from the car, most highlights are located close to parking areas, and short, flat walks give you a great experience without needing long trails.

Answer: Palm Desert is a beautiful desert destination with a mix of outdoor activities, shopping, art, and dining. Mid-October is a great time to visit as the weather is warm but more comfortable than summer highs.

Answer: The San Andreas Fault is one of the most famous geological features in California, and the Coachella Valley and Greater Palm Springs area offer several accessible locations where you can observe visible fault features without joining a guided tour. While some of the dramatic offsets and plate separations are subtle, there are areas where you can see the effects of fault movement, such as offset roads, shifted river channels, and distinct linear ridges.