Palm Springs, CA

Modern Tiki culture evolved in the USA starting in California based on western interpretations of Polynesian cultures.

Ernest Raymond Beaumont-Gantt later known as Donn Beach in 1934 opened the famous Don the Beachcomber Cafe in Los Angeles. which became a hot spot for many Hollywood stars.

Palm Springs became a natural gateway for tiki culture as a desert oasis destination. Don the Beachcomber opened across 16 locations nationwide with one right in Downtown Palm Springs in 1953. The local hot spot was frequented by Hollywood celebrities such as Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope, and Bing Cosby.

Although the famous Don the Beachcomber officially closed its doors in Palm Springs, the Tiki culture is alive and well with other hot spots popping up in its place.

Here are 3 tiki spots to checkout in Palm Springs:

Bootlegger Tiki

Bootlegger Tiki is tucked in the original Don the Beachcomber location in Downtown Palm Springs and serves original and tiki classic drinks that pack a punch. Set in an intimate setting, Bootlegger Tiki is meant to spend “quality time spent with friends over delicious tiki cocktails made with equal measure of rum + fruit + love.” courtesy of Bootlegger Tiki website

Located at 1101 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262

Tonga Hut Palm Springs

Located in the heart of Downtown Palm Springs with its original location surviving as the oldest Tiki Bar in Los Angeles established in 1958, Tonga Hut, is a tropical escape restaurant and bar serving potent and colorful tiki classic cocktails, local creations, and Tonga Hut originals mixed with Hawaiian inspired food options like pu pu platters, loco mocos and spam sliders.

Located at 254 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262

The Reef

The Reef is a tropical themed libation sanctuary for all located at the tiki inspired Caliente Tropics hotel (pictured above) overlooking the colorful Caliente Tropics pool.

The menu includes tiki classics such as the Mai-Tai, mixed with local creations like the Palm Springs Punch and the Reef Daiquiri. Food options include burger options and coconut shrimp mixed with Hawaiian favorites like the Loco Moco, and Kalua Pork with Pineapple Sauce.

Located at 411 E Palm Canyon Rd, Palm Springs, CA 92264 in the Caliente Tropics Hotel

Shag

In addition to these three tiki spots, Shag Store, located in the Downtown Palm Springs Design Districts periodically hosts Tiki events at the Shag Store with original arts, merchandise, and exclusive products.

Located at 745 N Palm Canyon Dr Palm Springs, CA 92262