Joshua Tree is a beautiful + relaxing wellness destination. Located about 100 miles from LA, it makes the perfect weekend getaway. I find Joshua Tree to be a sacred space with healing desert energy and it has served as an artist’s getaway + retreat decades.
Joshua Tree is named for a its unique species of tree. Joshua Trees have upward growing branches that reminded Mormon settlers of Joshua stretching his arms up to God. These Joshua Trees are on full display at Joshua Tree National Park but can also be seen everywhere in Joshua Tree and the nearby towns of Twentynine Palms, Wonder Valley, and Yucca Valley.
I’ve gone to Joshua Tree a few times since moving to LA. Each time, I use my trips as a Fierce Reset retreat in order to recenter + gain clarity. If you’re heading to JT — make sure you take our Fierce Reset: Digital Edition so you can do the same! The vibes are perfect to unplug + reset.
Below you’ll find my top Joshua Tree recommendations.
Accommodations + The Vibe
Joshua Tree is remote which means no hotels and only AirBnBs. It’s a small, desert town meant to return you to a simpler way of living. The accommodations all take on a desert chic vibe which is fun! Pro-Tip: Make sure your accommodation has outdoor lounge space. Due to the remote quality of JT, you’ll be spending a lot of time relaxing + rejuvenating at your AirBnb. Outdoor lounge space ensures you can comfortably chill and watch the dreamy sunsets + beautiful stars in the night sky.
AirBnb Recommendations: Desert Yacht Club, Palo Verde Ranch, The Joshua Tree House, *Private Hot Springs* Palo Verde House, Planet Juniper, Joshua Tree Mojave Fleur, Yucca Valley Flamingo Ranch, Joshua Tree Ravenrock, Two Bunch Palms
Where to Eat
Let go of the idea of UberEats and get back to the basics! Due to COVID, you’ll have to check restaurant hours beforehand but there are some delicious spots in JT. Pro-Tip: My recommendation is to stop by the grocery store and stock your AirBnb with breakfast + snack essentials and venture into town for takeout options for lunch/dinner. Many restaurants (except Natural Sisters) operate on a Wednesday-Sunday schedule so keep that in mind when planning your trip.
JT Restaurants: Natural Sisters Cafe, Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace
Grocery Stores: Vons, Joshua Tree Health Food Store
What to Do
Joshua Tree is perfect for getting some much needed R&R. I highly advise against packing your schedule. Instead, keep a few things in mind and see how you feel while you’re there. COVID NOTE — many places are operating on limited schedules/occupancy due to COVID. Make sure you call to double check while making your plans. Pro-Tip: Make sure you have two full days in JT. AirBnb check-in is around 3pm and check-out is at 11am so stay two nights to ensure you have two full days. That way, one day can be for relaxing + resettting and the other can be for venturing out.
Places + Spaces: Joshua Tree National Park, Pioneertown, Route 62 Vintage, Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Art Museum, Integratron Sound Baths, Smith’s Ranch Drive-In (Closed due to COVID), Salvation Mountain (~2 hours away)
Why You Should Visit
Joshua Tree is the absolute best place to unplug and get off the grid for a bit. I highly recommend creating your own wellness retreat while in Joshua Tree using our Fierce Reset: Digital Edition. You’ll get access to yoga classes and our signature workshops to help you gain clarity and reconnect with yourself. What are you waiting for? Join us now!
