Catch a Wave
Surfing in the middle of the desert? With the opening of the new Palm Springs Surf Club, the impossible is now possible… and we’ve heard it’s a blast. Whether you’re a newbie wanting to catch your first wave or an experienced surfer looking to get barreled in the tube, the state-of-the-art wave pool at the Surf Club offers a little something for everyone. And if you’re not into big waves, there’s also a water park that frequently transforms into an adults-only venue for music events and nighttime pool parties. Count us in!
Surf Sessions & Lessons
If you’ve never surfed before (or it’s been since your childhood), Surf Club’s one-hour Learn to Surf session on their gentle Waikiki wave setting is the perfect place to start. Each class is led by two experienced instructors and limited to 8 surfers, ensuring plenty of wave time and personal attention in a safe, controlled environment.
For intermediate and advanced surfers, 1- to 2-hour public surf sessions are available every day of the week. Waves are calibrated by skill level, ranging from Lefts and Rights to A-Frames and the expert-level 5 Slabs. According to a friend who went recently for a 2-hour session, “It’s definitely a cool experience, and very different from surfing in the ocean. This steep A-Frame wave kinda pops up out of nowhere, and you ride one end while somebody else takes the other. The staff tells you where to drop in, so you catch lots of waves. It was super fun.”
No need to bring your own gear, as the club has a variety of surf boards and wet suits available to rent for an additional fee. If you’re traveling with a group or want exclusivity, private surf sessions and hourly wave pool rentals are also available.
More Than Surf: Waterpark Vibes & Chill Zones
In addition to riding the waves, the Surf Club is an entertaining place to hang out for a few hours. If you’re into VIP treatment, there are cabanas and daybeds you can reserve. Many of these have exclusive dip pools, privacy, and food and drink service.
There’s also a seasonal waterpark, complete with a lazy river, crazy water slides, and a relaxing lounging pool. Admission to the waterpark is included with all surf sessions when the waterpark is open, late Spring through early Fall. The waterpark is becoming a popular family destination (lots of kiddos).
Drinks and bites are available at two on-site restaurants: Drifters, a casual snack spot by the surf pool; and The Restaurant, a relaxed dining room serving up California seasonal cuisine with a view of all the action. If you’re curious about the park and want to get a look at the wave action, the Restaurant is a fun stop for lunch or happy hour.
Adult Swims & Special Events
This club frequently hosts nighttime Adult Swim Saturdays from 6pm to 10pm, offering an entertaining 21+ party scene with DJs, drinks, and twilight pool lounging. We’re also excited to see the venue host a growing number of special events, like Wave Fest, a multi-day surf + live music celebration, the occasional Drag Brunch, and even an Official Pride Pool Party during Palm Springs’ Pride festivities. Check the Events page on their website to see what’s on tap during your visit.
Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind surfing experience or an adults-only pool party complete with lazy river and water slides, the Palm Springs Surf Club is a completely novel experience worth adding to your next desert escape.