Shopping in La Quinta, CA centers on two spots: Old Town La Quinta, a walkable strip of Spanish colonial-style storefronts, and Washington Park Shopping Center a few minutes away. Between the two, residents and visitors can cover fashion, gourmet food, golf and activewear, kids' gifts, and outdoor furniture in a single afternoon. Kathleen Galigher, a La Quinta, CA real estate agent, shares these seven stops with clients settling into their new La Quinta home.
Old Town La Quinta
Old Town La Quinta runs along Main Street and Calle Estado, with Spanish colonial-style buildings, palm-lined walkways, and patio dining mixed in between the shops. It's the easiest place in the city to spend a few hours browsing, eating, and people-watching, and four of the seven stops below are located here.
1. Coco Rose Beach & Resort Wear
Coco Rose, at 78065 Main St, is run by a mother-daughter team who hand-select resort wear, swimwear, and accessories during buying trips to Bali and beyond. It's a solid stop for a trendy swimsuit or a breezy sundress that fits the desert's laid-back, sun-first lifestyle. The store is open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
2. Elizabeth & Prince
Elizabeth & Prince, at 78075 Main St, Suite 101, has anchored Old Town since Analisa and Shawn Holoubek opened it in 2007 after working in New York's fashion industry. The shop carries women's clothing and accessories in fine fabrics, from casual pieces to more polished options, and has since grown into a small three-location desert group. Hours are Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
3. Alexandrite Active & Golf Wear
At 78100 Main St, Suite 103, Alexandrite Active & Golf Wear stocks men's and women's golf, tennis, pickleball, yoga, and everyday fitness apparel and accessories, a natural fit for a city built around its golf courses. Hours run Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
4. La Quinta Olive Oil Company
La Quinta Olive Oil Company, also at 78075 Main St, has poured tastings for shoppers since 2011. Its tasting room carries more than 70 flavors of olive oils and balsamic vinegars sourced from Italy, Spain, Greece, Morocco, and Egypt, along with gift sets that travel well for holidays or hostess gifts. The shop is open Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Washington Park Shopping Center
A short drive from Old Town, Washington Park Shopping Center pairs national retail chains with a few independent boutiques, useful when one trip needs to cover more ground.
5. Apricot Lane Boutique
Apricot Lane Boutique is known for trendy, affordably priced women's clothing and accessories, with inventory that rotates often enough to reward repeat visits.
6. JadaBug's Kids Boutique
JadaBug's Kids Boutique focuses on children's clothing, toys, and gifts, and is a reliable stop for parents who want something a little more distinctive than a big-box find.
7. California Patio
California Patio, at 79305 Highway 111, carries outdoor furniture, fire pits, umbrellas, and pavilions built to hold up in the desert climate, which matters given how much of La Quinta life happens on a patio or by the pool. Hours are Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Shopping Quick Reference
Store | Location | Best For |
|---|---|---|
Coco Rose Beach & Resort Wear | 78065 Main St | Swimwear & resort wear |
Elizabeth & Prince | 78075 Main St, Ste 101 | Women's fashion |
Alexandrite Active & Golf Wear | 78100 Main St, Ste 103 | Golf & activewear |
La Quinta Olive Oil Company | 78075 Main St | Olive oil, vinegar & gifts |
Apricot Lane Boutique | Washington Park Shopping Center | Trendy women's wear |
JadaBug's Kids Boutique | Washington Park Shopping Center | Kids' clothing & toys |
California Patio | 79305 Highway 111 | Outdoor furniture |
Beyond the Boutiques: Art, Markets, and Local Events
Local Art and Craft Shops
Several galleries and craft stores around La Quinta showcase pottery, handmade jewelry, and paintings from local artists, a good option for a one-of-a-kind piece to bring home or gift.
Old Town La Quinta Certified Farmers Market
The Old Town La Quinta Certified Farmers Market runs seasonally from October through May, with fresh, locally grown produce, artisan foods, and handmade goods from area vendors.
Local Tip: Pair a farmers market morning with an afternoon in Old Town's boutiques, the market wraps up before the midday heat and most shops don't open until 9:30 or 10 a.m. anyway.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
La Quinta hosts festivals and vendor events throughout the year, offering more chances to shop local goods, catch live entertainment, and take part in family-friendly activities beyond the regular retail calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best place to shop in La Quinta, CA?
Old Town La Quinta is the city's main shopping district, with four boutiques within a short walk of each other along Main Street and Calle Estado.
Is Old Town La Quinta walkable?
Yes. Old Town's storefronts, restaurants, and patios are arranged along a few connected blocks, making it easy to park once and shop on foot.
When is the La Quinta farmers market open?
The Old Town La Quinta Certified Farmers Market runs seasonally from October through May, closing for the hottest summer months.
Are there shopping options outside of Old Town?
Yes. Washington Park Shopping Center and Highway 111 corridor stores like California Patio round out the city's retail options beyond Old Town.
Find Your Perfect Home in La Quinta with Kathleen Galigher
Settling into your perfect home in La Quinta, CA is easier with the right local guidance. With her extensive knowledge of the La Quinta real estate market, Kathleen Galigher is dedicated to helping you find a home that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations. Contact Kathleen Galigher today to start your search.
