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!
Hiking & Photography in Indio & Coachella: Desert Trails, Golden Light & Hidden Gems
Explore the breathtaking desert landscapes of Indio, Coachella, and the surrounding Coachella Valley through the lens of a portrait photographer. This in-depth guide highlights the best hiking trails and photo locations for capturing golden hour portraits, dreamy desert editorials, and nature-inspired content. Discover hidden gems like the McCallum Trail at the Coachella Valley Preserve, the rippling sand textures of East Valley Dune Trail, and the lakeside serenity of Lake Cahuilla in La Quinta. Whether you're planning a creative shoot, scouting a unique location for engagement portraits, or simply looking to enhance your portfolio with stunning natural light, this blog offers expert photography tips, must-have gear, and inspiration for capturing soulful, light-filled images in one of Southern California’s most photogenic desert regions. Ideal for photographers, models, influencers, and outdoor creatives looking to combine hiking adventures with visually rich storytelling.
Tucked in the heart of the Coachella Valley, the cities of Indio and Coachella are known for their music festivals, date farms, and desert heat—but what many people don’t realize is just how photogenic this area really is, especially if you love hiking and photography.
Whether you're capturing a dreamy sunrise over the dunes, practicing portraits against the earthy terrain, or just vibing with the textures of nature, this region is a hidden gem for creatives who want to explore off the beaten path.
Here’s my guide to hiking with your camera in hand around Indio and Coachella—plus a few tips to make your shots shine.
Top Hiking Trails Around Indio & Coachella for Photographers
East Valley Dune Trail – Coachella Preserve Area
📍 Near Thousand Palms, ~25 mins from Indio
This short, sandy loop winds through undisturbed desert dunes, with gorgeous ripples in the sand and wide-open views. It's best photographed at sunrise or just before sunset, when shadows create dreamy texture.
📸 Photo Tip: Bring a wide-angle lens and shoot low to the ground to exaggerate the rolling dunes. Bonus: Footprints can add storytelling, or ruin a perfect shot—walk carefully!
Coachella Valley Preserve – McCallum Trail
📍 29200 Thousand Palms Canyon Rd, Thousand Palms, CA 92276
This protected desert oasis is full of surprises—palm groves, water springs, and wildlife tucked beneath towering fan palms. It feels like a mirage and photographs like a hidden jungle in the middle of the desert.
📸 Shoot Idea: Portrait session in the palms—play with light filtering through the leaves for a naturally dramatic look. Great for dreamy, editorial-style shots.
🌅 Lake Cahuilla Veterans Regional Park
📍 58075 Jefferson St, La Quinta, CA 92253
While technically just outside Indio, this spot offers mountain backdrops, lakeside reflections, and a peaceful desert vibe. It’s a great golden hour location, especially in cooler months.
🧺 Bonus: Pack a picnic or create a styled shoot by the water—bring thrifted props or flowy fabric for movement.
Miles Avenue Park Desert Path – Indio
📍 82540 Miles Ave, Indio, CA 92201
Right in town, this trail is a local secret. It’s not long, but you’ll find desert plants, murals, and mountains in the distance. It’s perfect for quick, creative sessions without needing to drive far.
📸 Use Case: Great for fashion shoots with minimal hiking. Early morning light is soft and warm against the muted terrain.
What to Pack for a Desert Photo Hike
Camera (DSLR or mirrorless) + fully charged batteries
Lens: A wide angle (18-35mm) and a portrait lens (50mm or 85mm)
Neutral density filter (for harsh midday light)
Plenty of water + snacks
Tripod (for low light or self-portraits)
Sun protection: Hat, SPF, sunglasses
Props: Scarves, vintage bags, sun umbrellas, film cameras
Optional: Drone—check park rules first!
Photography Tips for Desert Light
Golden Hour Rules: Sunrise and sunset are magic. Shadows dance and colors warm up.
Use Backlighting for that soft, dreamy glow—especially with portraiture.
Find Contrast: Light on dark rocks or subjects against sky = visual punch.
Embrace Simplicity: Let the vastness and texture of the desert speak. Clean compositions feel powerful here.
Final Thoughts: A Desert Escape for Creatives
Indio and Coachella are more than festival destinations—they're rich with natural beauty, light, and texture, perfect for photographers who love mixing adventure with creativity.
Whether you’re capturing content for a brand, shooting an engagement, or simply finding peace with your camera in hand, these desert trails offer inspiration in every direction.
📍 Bonus Tip: If you’re staying in Indio for Coachella or Stagecoach and need last-minute outfits, camera accessories, or styled looks—check out nearby thrift stores or stop by Desert Hills Premium Outlets in Cabazon. Sign up for their VIP Shopper Club to unlock extra discounts on brands like Levi’s, AllSaints, and Coach.
Want more vintage finds and styling inspo? Don’t miss our full thrifting guide to Palm Springs!
🎒 Want to plan a styled desert shoot together? Let’s make it happen.
📸 Book a shoot with us
📍 Based in Southern California – Available across San Diego, Temecula, Riverside, Palm Springs, Laguna Hills & Los Angeles.