Beginner’s Guide: Your First Girls’ Trip to Joshua Tree
If you’re planning your first trip to Joshua Tree with your best friends, you’re in for a magical desert escape. From starlit skies to cozy cafes and unique local shops, the Joshua Tree area has everything you need for a memorable girls’ weekend, bachelorette party, or birthday getaway.
At Little Pipes Ranch in Yucca Valley, we’ve created a simple, easy-to-follow 3-day beginner’s itinerary to take the stress out of planning. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore, or dance the night away, this guide will help you get the most out of your first visit.
👉 Don’t forget to [download the free printable guide here] so you can take it with you!
Day 1 – Friday: Easy Check-In, Cocktails & Stargazing
Check-in at Little Pipes Ranch and settle into your desert home base.
Kick things off at The Copper Room with happy hour (try the burger & spring rolls).
Walk over to Tiny Pony for drinks, pool, dancing, and their fun photobooth.
End your night back at the ranch, watching the stars from outdoor hammocks.
Day 2 – Saturday: Wellness, Markets & Disco Dining
Begin with a walk along the Starlight Trail on property, or try yoga with award-winning instructor Stacy McCarthy.
Head to Mas-o-Menos for a refreshing matcha lemonade or latte.
Visit the Joshua Tree Farmers Market and browse local boutiques for unique desert finds.
Stop at The Dez for lox, salads, pastries, and meat pies.
Spend the afternoon at the House of Wind: lounge by the pool, play bocce ball, and enjoy the hot tub at sunset.
Cook a simple farm-to-table dinner in the Chef’s kitchen, then dine under the disco ball.
Day 3 – Sunday: Brunch & Souvenir Stops
Brunch at La Copine, a desert must for first-timers.
On the way home, swing through downtown Yucca Valley for souvenirs:
Mojave Flea Market
The Hoodoo (vinyl shop)
Local thrift shops full of treasures
Why This Is the Perfect Beginner’s Guide
Planning your first trip can feel overwhelming — especially with so many restaurants, hikes, and photo spots to choose from. This guide keeps it simple and beginner-friendly: three days of the best food, wellness, shopping, and desert experiences, curated to give you a taste of what makes Joshua Tree unforgettable.
Free Download: Girls’ Weekend Guide
Get the printable beginner’s guide to Joshua Tree with all the details, so you can save it to your phone or print it for the trip.
Stay at Little Pipes Ranch
Our boutique desert retreat was designed with first-time visitors and girls’ trips in mind. From the Chef’s kitchen to the pool, hot tub, and hammocks under the stars, it’s the perfect home base for your weekend.
