A Guide To Joshua Tree, California | The Basics

Joshua Tree is on the map as the perfect getaway to do just that- get away. There’s nothing but desert and hiking trails, so essentially a trendy call of the wild. It sits between the Mojave Desert and the Colorado Desert and is named for the yucca tree that, in my mind, resembles something from a Dr. Seuss book. There are a few things to know, but most important to note is that this is a place you go to explore.

Getting There

My Airbnb host suggested I fly into Palm Springs International Airport (PSP), which is the less busy airport closest to Joshua Tree. From the Palm Springs airport to Joshua tree, it’s about a fifty minute scenic drive through the mountains.

Getting Around

Your best bet is to rent a car to get around Joshua Tree, as walking is only feasible in the downtown area. Keeping in mind that it is a desert and such a remote area, Uber, Lyft, and taxi services are not feasible or even available transportation options. Not only are your transportation services limited, but you’ll be advised to have an offline maps app, as GPS is not too reliable in some areas either.

Accommodations

I chose an Airbnb in Joshua Tree because you likely won’t find very many hotels to choose from. My airbnb hosts Esther and Tuan were wonderful and have created a truly unique space to stay in the high desert. It is in a residential area conveniently located five minutes from Joshua Tree National Park and not far from town. You’ll find some lovely touches like a charming pink outdoor bathtub, Vinyl record player, and outdoor fire pit.

Food

For breakfast, I would recommend Natural Sisters Café or Crossroads Café that are substantial enough to prepare you for the days you’ll spend here out and about.

Pappy & Harriets Pioneertown Palace

53688 Pioneertown Rd, Pioneertown, CA 92268

This restaurant is a pretty big deal—so much so that when I arrived just before they opened, there was a very long line of people standing and waiting just to get in. Thankfully, I had made a reservation (highly-advised), so I was the one and only person able to jump line when 5pm came around.

I got the very first order of the night and the food was as delicious as they say. I went back and forth between a burger and a hot dog before finally choosing the chili dog. I had red rice on the side, the cheese fries appetizer, and complementary chips and salsa, which were all very good. The dining area has doors that open to the outside where there’s a really nice holding area for folks waiting to be seated; you can enjoy drinks from the bar while out there. There is also a stage where the restaurant hosts live musicians each night as people enjoy their meals. After eating there, I could see why it came so highly recommended.

Pie for the People

58960 Twentynine Palms Highway, Yucca Valley, CA 92284

This place was recommended online for the food quality; however, as I had read in several reviews, the service quality was low, and I would agree. If you don’t mind waiting 45 minutes for a pizza with no working drink fountain and several pizzas burnt ahead of yours, then you may end up with a delicious pizza.

Things To Do

In Joshua Tree, you’ll spend most of your time in the great outdoors. Joshua Tree National Park is expansive is home to several hiking trails if that’s your thing. You’ll find the beautiful cholla cactus garden in the park, a creative scene at Art Queen in the village, and the incredible Noah Purifoy Museum that is home to many art installations by late African American artist Noah Purifoy. Read more here.

I enjoyed my time in Joshua Tree, because I felt like I really did have the opportunity to rest and reconnect. Being in such a scenic environment quiets your mind and allows you to focus on what’s really important and what you have to be grateful for. Being in open and creative spaces inspires me and gives me a real sense of self.