Desert Hot Springs in September
Good time to visit
Heat starts backing off but it's still seriously hot. Smart travelers wait another month for more comfortable conditions.
Weather
September starts the gradual cooldown with highs dropping to a more manageable 39°C, though nights stay warm at 24°C. Monsoon season can bring brief but intense thunderstorms.
39°C high24°C low2 rain days
Crowds & Cost
low crowds
~$105/day average
September Tips
- •Still too hot for most outdoor activities but prices remain rock-bottom
- •Watch for sudden desert thunderstorms - they're spectacular but brief
- •Pool time extends later into evening as temperatures become bearable
All Months
October through April offers the best weather for hot springs soaking. Daytime temperatures hover in the 70s and 80s, perfect for alternating between the warm mineral pools and the cool desert air. January and February are peak season, when LA residents escape the marine layer for guaranteed sunshine.
Summer gets brutal. July and August regularly hit 115°F, and even the hot springs feel less appealing when the air temperature matches the water. Some hotels offer significant discounts during these months, but you'll spend most of your time indoors with the AC cranked.
March brings the annual Hot Springs Festival, with live music, wellness workshops, and food vendors. It's fun but crowded – book accommodations well in advance. November offers a sweet spot: warm days, cool nights, and smaller crowds.
Weekends fill up fast year-round, especially at the popular spas. Midweek visits often come with better rates and more availability for spa treatments. The mineral pools never get too crowded since most properties limit day-use access to guests only.
Desert Hot Springs Scores
Solo
7/10
Couples
8/10
Families
6/10
Adventure
4/10
Budget
6/10
Luxury
7/10
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