Have you ever caught an ocean wave in the middle of the desert while looking at palm trees and massive mountain peaks? If that sounds like a fever dream, you haven’t been to The Palm Springs Surf Club yet.
Built on the grounds of the old Wet ‘n’ Wild water park, this 21-acre oasis took the classic desert getaway and completely turned it on its head. It’s a place where world-class wave technology meets a vintage Palm Springs day club.
The best part? You don’t even need to touch a surfboard to have an incredible time here. Whether you’re looking to catch your very first wave, float down a lazy river with a craft cocktail in hand, or kick back in a private cabana with your favorite people, this place has a spot saved for you.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about the desert’s coolest playground—and why you’re seriously missing out if you haven’t dropped by yet!
The Main Attraction: The Surfloch Wave Pool
If you’ve ever tried surfing in the ocean, you know the drill: you paddle out, fight the current, wait 20 minutes for a set, and maybe get a few seconds on a wave before it closes out.
The wave pool at The Palm Springs Surf Club throws all that hassle out the window.
Powered by Surfloch Pneumatic technology, this pool uses high-powered air pressure to punch out pristine, ocean-quality waves on demand. It sends out up to 450 waves an hour, meaning you get more wave time in a single 60-minute session than most surfers get in an entire week at the beach!
The beauty of this setup is that the waves are totally customizable. The crew can adjust the height, shape, and speed of the water at the press of a button to match whoever is in the pool.
Here is how the waves break down by skill level:
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Waikiki (Beginners): Soft, slow-peeling whitewater and gentle waist-high waves. It’s the ultimate zero-stress setting for popping up on a longboard for the first time with coaches right by your side.
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Intermediate A-Frames: Chest-high peaks that split into a left and a right wave. Perfect for practicing your turns, building speed, and working on your stance without getting crushed.
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Advanced A-Frames & Point Walls: Punchy, head-high walls designed for fast maneuvers, air sections, and slick carving.
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The Slab (Experts & Pros): Heavy, thick, overhead barrels that spit. Reserved for private bookings and advanced sessions, this wave throws out genuine tubes for surfers looking to get barrelled in the desert.
Whether you’re brand new to a surfboard or have been riding for years, you get predictable, glass-smooth water every single time—all framed by towering palm trees and desert mountain peaks.
What Non-Surfers Search About
Here’s the secret most people miss: you don’t have to set foot on a surfboard to enjoy a full day at The Palm Springs Surf Club. In fact, thousands of non-surfers drop in every month just to soak up the high-energy day club scene and kick back in the sun.
If you’re wondering what the resort side looks like, here is what everyone is searching for before they go:
Day Passes: Your Ticket to the Oasis
You don’t need a surf booking to enter. Buying a standard Club Day Pass unlocks general access to the entire resort grounds. It gives you entry to the main lounge pools, sun beds, outdoor showers, and dining venues, making it one of the best pool day deals in the Coachella Valley.
Waterpark Attractions for Total Chill (or Thrills)
Beyond the main ocean wave lagoon, the venue holds onto its historic roots with upgraded water park features:
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The Lazy River: Grab a tube and float along a winding river that meanders through the property—perfect for drifting with a cold drink.
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Waterslides: If you want a quick surge of adrenaline between lounge sessions, the park features high-speed slides for a fast splashdown.
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Splash Pads & Lounge Pools: Dedicated splash zones keep younger kids entertained, while the expansive lounge pool offers plenty of space to swim and socialize.
Cabana Culture & VIP Daybeds
If you want to level up your day, renting a private cabana or island daybed is where the luxury kicks in:
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Front-Row Wave Viewing: Cabanas lined right along the edge of the wave lagoon let you watch surfers get barreled while you relax in the shade.
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VIP Amenities: Cabanas come outfitted with plush sectional seating, built-in cooling misters, flat-screen TVs, and even private plunge pools.
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Dedicated Service: Skip the lines entirely with personal servers bringing craft cocktails, fresh snacks, and ice-cold towels straight to your loungers.
Whether you’re working on your tan, floating down the lazy river, or cheering on the surfers from a shaded couch, the resort side delivers pure Palm Springs relaxation.
Food, Drinks, and Nightlife
A day at the surf club isn’t complete without incredible food and a cold drink, and this place goes way beyond standard theme park snacks. The culinary program is designed like a high-end coastal resort, serving up fresh, flavor-packed dishes that hit the spot after a long session in the sun.
Here is where you’ll be refueling and kicking back:
The Restaurant at PSSC
For a sit-down meal with unbeatable views, head to The Restaurant. Designed with an open-air indoor-outdoor layout, you can dine while looking straight out over the wave lagoon and the San Jacinto Mountains.
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The Vibe: Elevated yet completely casual—swimsuits and cover-ups are totally welcome during the day, while evenings turn into a stylish desert lounge setting.
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The Food: Think fresh California-inspired coastal cuisine. The menu features everything from fresh ceviche and tuna tartar to short rib barbacoa, smash burgers, and crisp, farm-to-table salads.
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No Ticket Needed: Here’s a quick local tip—The Restaurant is open to the public! You don’t need a resort or surf pass just to drop in for dinner or weekend brunch.
Drifters & The Island Bar
When you’re in the middle of a pool day and don’t want to leave the water’s edge, Drifters and the Island Bar have you covered:
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Drifters: The go-to spot for quick, casual bites. Grab fish tacos, loaded fries, churros, or a fresh smoothie between lounge sessions.
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Craft Cocktail Program: Sip on signature desert drinks like spicy mezcal margaritas, icy mai tais, and local craft beers right from your sunbed.
The Desert After Dark: Nightlife & Events
When the sun dips behind the mountains, the energy at the club shifts. The pool lights turn on, the volume turns up, and the venue transforms into a buzzing nightlife destination.
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Night Swim Sessions: Catching a wave under the stadium lights at night is a bucket-list experience. The lit-up turquoise water against the dark desert sky makes for an incredible atmosphere.
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Live DJs & Concerts: The club regularly hosts weekend pool parties, sunset DJ sets, and live music performances at the outdoor amphitheater.
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Golden Hour Cocktails: Even if you aren’t staying late, sticking around for golden hour with a drink at the outdoor bar is worth the trip alone—watching the mountains glow pink as surfers catch their final waves of the day.
How to Plan Your Trip
Got a few quick questions before planning your trip? You’re not alone! Here are the answers to the most common things people search for before heading to the club:
Do I need to know how to surf to visit?
Not at all! Over half the people visiting on any given day are there just to hang out by the resort pool, float on the lazy river, grab lunch, and enjoy the sun. A standard Club Day Pass gives you complete access to the resort side without ever touching a surfboard.
How much do day passes and surf sessions cost?
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General Admission Day Passes: Generally run between $40 and $50 for adults (pricing varies slightly between weekdays and weekends), giving you full access to the resort pools, lazy river, slides, and dining areas.
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Surf Sessions: 60-minute surf sessions usually range from $100 to $200+ depending on the wave setting, time of day, and whether it’s a public or private session. This includes board rentals and safety instruction.
Are surfboards and gear provided?
Yes! Every surf session booking includes soft-top surfboard rentals and safety gear. If you prefer to ride your own hardboard, you are welcome to bring it along—just make sure it has soft fins or a leash attached as required by pool safety guidelines. Wetsuits are also available to rent during cooler months.
Is The Palm Springs Surf Club family-friendly?
Absolutely. Families love it here because there is something for every age group. Kids can spend hours in the splash zones, waterslides, and lazy river while parents relax nearby. Keep in mind that kids must meet specific height requirements and pass a basic swim test to join the main surf pool sessions.
What should I pack for my visit?
Pack like you’re going to a luxury beach resort! Bring:
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A swimsuit and cover-up
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Sunscreen and sunglasses
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Sandals or water shoes for walking on the deck
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A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated in the desert heat
Towels are available for guest use, and there are secure lockers on-site to hold your personal belongings while you hit the water.
Why You’re Missing Out (The Verdict)
If you haven’t visited The Palm Springs Surf Club yet, you are truly missing out on one of the most unique experiences in Southern California. Where else can you catch ocean-quality barrels in the middle of the desert, surrounded by towering palm trees and snow-capped mountain peaks?
It completely rewrites the script on what a desert vacation looks like. You get all the fun and adrenaline of ocean surfing without the unpredictable conditions, heavy crowds, or icy water temperatures. And if surfing isn’t your thing, the resort side delivers an elite day-club experience with luxury cabanas, incredible coastal food, and craft cocktails served pool-side.
Whether you’re a seasoned surfer looking for guaranteed wave counts, a family seeking the ultimate summer day trip, or a group of friends planning a weekend getaway, this 21-acre oasis checks every box.
Ready to Catch Your Wave?
Don’t wait until peak season fills up! Head over to The Palm Springs Surf Club online to lock in your Club Day Passes, reserve a private shaded cabana, or book your first surf session before spots sell out. Your desert oasis is waiting!
Call to Action
Ready to turn your desert getaway into an unforgettable experience? Don’t leave your spot to chance—popular surf sessions and weekend cabana rentals fill up fast!
Head over to The Palm Springs Surf Club right now to lock in your trip:
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Book Your Surf Session: Secure your 60-minute wave slot, whether you’re trying out the soft whitewater waves or taking on the advanced A-Frames.
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Grab Your Club Day Passes: Claim your entry for a full day of swimming, sliding, and floating down the lazy river.
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Reserve a VIP Cabana: Upgrade your day with private shade, personal pool servers, and front-row seats to all the surf action.
Pack your swimsuit, grab your sunglasses, and get ready to experience the ultimate desert oasis. Your waves are waiting!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I visit just to eat at The Restaurant without paying for a resort pass?
Yes! The Restaurant at PSSC and the main bar areas are open to the general public for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. You don’t need a Club Day Pass or a surf reservation if you are only visiting for dining or drinks.
2. Is parking available on-site, and is there a fee?
On-site parking is available directly in front of the property. Self-parking and valet options are offered during peak hours and weekend events, with clear signage directing you as you enter off Gene Autry Trail.
3. Can I bring my own food, drinks, or cooler into the venue?
Outside food, beverages, and coolers are strictly prohibited inside the park. However, guests are permitted to bring empty reusable water bottles to fill at hydration stations throughout the property. Exceptions are made for infant formula or specific medical needs.
4. What happens if there is bad weather or strong desert winds?
The venue operates rain or shine, but safety comes first. In the event of severe weather, lightning within the immediate area, or unsafe wind conditions, water attractions and surf sessions may be temporarily paused. If a surf session is canceled due to severe weather, the club provides rescheduling options or session credits.
5. Are lockers and changing facilities available for guests?
Yes. Modern locker rooms equipped with private changing stalls, keyless digital lockers, outdoor showers, and restroom facilities are available on-site so you can comfortably transition from the water to dining or evening events.
6. Do I need to bring my own towel, or are towels provided?
Towel rentals are available on-site, and complimentary towel service is included with private cabana rentals. You are also welcome to bring your own beach towel if you prefer.
7. Can I photograph or film my surf session?
Personal photography with phones or small action cameras (like a GoPro with a secure mount) is generally allowed in spectator areas. However, for safety reasons, loose cameras are not permitted in the surf pool during sessions. Professional media rigs and commercial filming require prior authorization from management.
8. Is the facility accessible for guests with mobility impairments?
Yes. The Palm Springs Surf Club is ADA-compliant, featuring accessible pathways, zero-entry access points to pool areas, accessible restroom facilities, and reserved parking stalls near the main entrance.
9. Can I host a private event, corporate party, or wedding at the club?
Absolutely. The property offers customizable event spaces, including full venue buyouts, private lounge buyouts, and catered packages for corporate retreats, birthday parties, brand activations, and private celebrations.
10. What is the cancellation policy for surf sessions and cabana rentals?
Reservations for surf sessions and private cabanas can typically be canceled or rescheduled up to 48 to 72 hours prior to your scheduled time slot for a full refund or credit. Same-day cancellations or no-shows are generally non-refundable due to limited availability.
Hotels, Resorts and Vacation Home Booking
If you’re planning an upcoming trip, feel free to browse our directory of Palm Springs and Palm Desert hotels and resorts.
If you prefer extra privacy and a private pool? You can browse Palm Springs and Palm Desert vacation rental homes for your stay.
This article was written and edited by Collins Omaghe.
