How to Get to Palm Desert from Los Angeles [2025 Guide]
The best way to get from Los Angeles to Palm Desert without a car is to bus and line 11 bus which takes 3h 22m and costs $22 – $50.
🌴 Why Visit Palm Desert from Los Angeles?
Palm Desert, located in the Coachella Valley of Southern California, is a favorite desert escape for Angelenos. Just east of Palm Springs, Palm Desert offers luxury resorts, golf courses, hiking trails, and desert landscapes.
Since it’s only about 120 miles from Los Angeles, Palm Desert makes a perfect weekend trip or day trip. There are multiple ways to get there — by car, bus, shuttle, or even train + taxi.
🚗 Option 1: Driving from Los Angeles to Palm Desert
Driving is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Palm Desert.
- Distance: ~120 miles
- Drive Time: 2 to 2.5 hours (depending on traffic)
- Best Route: I-10 East through San Bernardino → Palm Desert
- Cost: ~$25–$40 in gas (round trip, depending on vehicle)
👉 Driving gives you flexibility, plus you can stop at Cabazon Outlets, Joshua Tree turn-offs, or Palm Springs along the way.
🚌 Option 2: Bus from Los Angeles to Palm Desert
If you don’t want to drive, several bus companies connect LA with Palm Desert.
- Greyhound / FlixBus: Services from Los Angeles Union Station or Hollywood to Palm Springs or Palm Desert stops
- Travel Time: ~3.5 to 4.5 hours
- Cost (2025): $25–$45 one way
- Perk: Affordable and eco-friendly
👉 Buses are best if you want to save money and avoid the stress of driving.
✅ Compare the best hotel deals and offers in your destination before you book.
🚐 Option 3: Airport Shuttle or Private Transfers
Shuttle services and private transfers are convenient, especially if you’re traveling from LAX, Burbank, or Long Beach airports directly to Palm Desert.
- Travel Time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours (depending on pick-up location)
- Cost: $80–$120 per person (shared shuttle) | $200–$350 (private car service)
- Companies: Prime Time Shuttle, Desert Shuttle Services
👉 Perfect for travelers who prefer door-to-door service without driving.
🚉 Option 4: Train + Taxi/Uber from Los Angeles to Palm Desert
While there’s no direct train to Palm Desert, you can take Amtrak’s Sunset Limited or Texas Eagle route to Palm Springs Station and then transfer.
- Route: LAX → Union Station → Amtrak to Palm Springs → Taxi/Uber to Palm Desert (~20 minutes)
- Train Time: ~2.5 hours
- Total Travel Time: ~3–3.5 hours
- Cost: $30–$55 train ticket + ~$25–$40 Uber/Lyft
- Perk: Comfortable scenic ride through the desert
👉 Best for travelers who want a unique train experience plus flexibility.
✅ Compare the best hotel deals and offers in your destination before you book.
📊 Quick Comparison Table
| Option | Travel Time | Cost (One Way) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🚗 Drive (I-10 East) | 2–2.5 hrs | $25–$40 gas | Flexibility & quick trips |
| 🚌 Bus (Greyhound/FlixBus) | 3.5–4.5 hrs | $25–$45 | Budget-friendly travel |
| 🚐 Shuttle/Private Transfer | 2.5–3.5 hrs | $80–$350 | No driving hassle |
| 🚉 Train + Taxi/Uber | 3–3.5 hrs | $55–$95 | Scenic & comfortable |
🙋 FAQs About Getting to Palm Desert from Los Angeles
1. How far is Palm Desert from Los Angeles?
Palm Desert is about 120 miles east of Los Angeles, roughly a 2 to 2.5-hour drive via I-10 East.
2. What is the fastest way to get to Palm Desert from Los Angeles?
Driving is the fastest, taking about 2 hours without traffic.
3. Is there a train from Los Angeles to Palm Desert?
No direct train exists, but you can take Amtrak to Palm Springs and then a short ride-share or taxi to Palm Desert.
4. How much does a shuttle from LAX to Palm Desert cost?
Shared shuttles cost around $80–$120 per person, while private transfers range from $200–$350.
5. Can I take a bus directly from Los Angeles to Palm Desert?
Yes, Greyhound and FlixBus offer service with travel times of 3.5–4.5 hours.
6. What’s the cheapest way to get to Palm Desert from LA?
The bus is usually the cheapest, with fares starting at $25 one way.
7. What’s the best time to drive to Palm Desert?
To avoid heavy LA traffic, it’s best to leave early morning or late evening, especially on weekends.
✅ Final Tip: In 2025, the easiest and quickest way to reach Palm Desert from Los Angeles is to drive via I-10 East, but for budget travelers, bus services are a great alternative. Shuttles and Amtrak add comfort if you prefer not to drive.