Our first favorite place to kick back for happy hour are the hammocks at the WKNDR Starside getaway (click here to envision yourself laying in our hammocks). However, there is also something to be said about enjoying good drinks among great company.

Here are the top 3 happy hour hangs around Joshua Tree National Park.

1. Kitchen In The Desert

While known for bringing their Carribean flavors with a twist and a relaxed high-end experience to 29Palms, Kitchen in the Desert is also a great spot for happy hour. Why? This restaurant provides a unique backdrop and an expansive porch, as well as delivers live music to add next level ambience to your happy hour. The eatery is located in Tintown, a property filled with history and unique charm. Plus it also has an amazing menu on which you will find a range of options and flavors, from Jerk Chicken and Doubles, to a wide selection of burgers.

Our Favorite Drink: La Salvia 

Check It Out: @kitcheninthedesert29

Take Out / Delivery / Dine In: Take Out, Dine In Only, Dine In 

Hours of Operation: 

• Monday - Sunday: 4:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Address: 6427 Mesquite Ave, 29Palms, CA 92277

Phone: (760) 865-0245

2. Pappy & Harriet’s

This is a destination in and of itself. Although a bit of a drive, no one comes to the high desert without a visit to Pappy and Harriet’s. This is an institution and an iconic landmark that has been serving as the spot for locals and travelers alike in Pioneertown since 1982. It’s known for its good times, eats and drinks. As well as its rich history and stage. Many a legendary musician has performed here, from Paul McCartney to Lizzo to Lorde to Lucinda Williams to Peaches and many more. Between the great food and service to the likelihood to hear some iconic music make this a must visit for your happy hour itinerary. It is also the perfect Instagram/TikTok backdrop as the bar is nestled in an old western movie set, with themed shops.   

Our Favorite Drink: Strawberry Margarita  

Check It Out: @pappyandharriets

Take Out / Delivery / Dine In: Dine In Only

Hours of Operation: 

• Thursday - Sunday: 11:00 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.

• Monday: 5:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Address: 53688 Pioneertown Rd, Pioneertown, CA 92268

Phone: (760) 228-2222

3. Joshua Tree Saloon

This local drinking jaunt has been slinging up beverages since 1983 and is the perfect place to land after a day in the park. Here you will find a mixture of out-of-town hikers and climbers, as well as locals, including Marines from the nearby base. And if after a long day of hiking you are in need of a bite to eat, the Saloon has a fairly expansive menu with bar food favorites from burgers to jalapeno poppers. 

Our Favorite Drink: Loaded Bloody Mary

Check It Out: @jt_saloon

Take Out / Delivery / Dine In: Dine In / Take Out 

Hours of Operation: 

• Monday - Sunday: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Address: 61835 Twentynine Palms Highway, Joshua Tree, CA 92252

Phone: (760) 366-2250

Click here to see where to get the best local coffee in Joshua Tree.

Let us know in the comments what your favorite happy hour spot and drink are or if you found a new spot.