Hidden Bars & Secret Shots: Discovering Coachella’s Speakeasies Through the Lens
Hidden behind unmarked doors and tucked away in the vibrant chaos of Coachella, speakeasy bars like PDTiki, The Cabin, and Mixteca offer more than just exclusive cocktails — they’re a playground for creative event photography. In this blog, we take you behind the lens and into these secret spaces, where moody lighting, bold aesthetics, and intimate moments set the stage for storytelling through photography. Whether you're capturing the golden hour glow at Golden Hour or snapping candid portraits under neon lights, these hidden bars in Indio, California, are perfect for elevating your festival photography portfolio. Dive in to discover their locations, the visual vibe of each, and how to photograph them like a pro.
Coachella is known for more than just headliners and desert fashion — it's also home to a series of hidden speakeasy bars that elevate the entire festival experience. Tucked away in corners of the grounds, behind red doors, or hidden within art installations, these secret spots are perfect for those in search of exclusive drinks, chill vibes, and — you guessed it — next-level photo ops.
As photographers, we’re always chasing light, color, and raw emotion. And what better way to capture the soul of Coachella than inside the mystery and moodiness of its speakeasies? Here's a list of some hidden gems — plus tips on how to photograph them without killing the vibe.
1. PDTiki – A Tropical Escape
Inspired by NYC’s famous "Please Don’t Tell" bar, PDTiki at Coachella is a fully themed tiki oasis that feels like a portal to another world. With soft lighting, vibrant colors, and handcrafted drinks, this place is a dream to photograph — especially if you love moody tones and candid laughter mid-sip.
Photography Tip:
Use a low aperture to capture the ambiance — think wide open at f/1.8 to embrace the soft lighting. Focus on hands holding cocktails, decor details, or portraits with neon reflections.
2. The Cabin – Rustic and Retro
Hidden near the Beer Barn, The Cabin looks like a cozy lodge dropped into the middle of Indio. Created by the Houston Brothers (you might know them from L.A.’s Good Times at Davey Wayne’s), the vibe is old-school and warm — perfect for a vintage-style shoot.
Photography Tip:
Push your ISO and lean into the grain for that film-inspired look. Capture moments between friends on couches or detail shots of retro signage and string lights.
3. Golden Hour – If You Can Find It
Golden Hour isn’t just a time of day — at Coachella, it’s also a hidden bar known for its smooth beats and killer drinks. The only catch? You have to find it. No official map. No signs. Just whispers and a good sense of direction.
Photography Tip:
Golden Hour is perfect for — well, golden hour lighting. Try backlighting your subjects just before sunset or focus on dramatic shadows cast across textured walls.
4. Mixteca – Agave & Ambiance
A speakeasy focused on agave spirits? Count us in. Mixteca is another hidden gem that combines the rich flavors of mezcal with equally rich visual settings. Low lights, vibrant bar setups, and cozy corners make this spot feel cinematic.
Photography Tip:
Bring your fast prime lens and play with foreground elements like plants, candles, or cocktail glasses to frame your shots creatively.
How to Find These Hidden Bars
Follow the Clues: Look for odd doors, buzzing crowds near quiet corners, or even random phone booths.
Check TikTok & IG Stories: Many users share their discoveries — sometimes even the secret passwords. Hashtags like #CoachellaSpeakeasy or #HiddenCoachella can lead you straight to them.
Ask Around: The Coachella Reddit community often drops hints, including last year’s password “Chúpamela” for a secret disco bar.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Just Drink It — Shoot It
As photographers, these hidden bars are pure magic. They blend personality, intimacy, and artistry into one unforgettable vibe. Whether you're documenting your own experience, capturing content for a brand, or just adding to your festival portfolio, these secret spots offer a unique backdrop to create something special.
So next time you're at Coachella, keep your lens ready and your curiosity high. That unmarked door? It might just lead to your favorite shot of the weekend.
P.S. Big thanks to creators like @hungrytrish and @secret.losangeles on Instagram for sharing their Coachella speakeasy finds. Check out their journey and give them a follow for more behind-the-scenes gems!