Boutique Hotel Bliss in Palm Desert: Crafting Memorable Escapes for Adventurous Couples Who Love Fine Dining

I recently had the incredible opportunity to explore the enchanting Sands Hotel & Spa, situated in the serene surroundings of Palm Desert, CA. As a passionate luxury travel planner and adventure and culinary enthusiast, this journey was fun as my husband and I headed that way day trip and brunch. What made this experience truly exceptional was the unique opportunity to sight-visit a boutique hotel I had previously curated a customized itinerary for my clients, individuals who share a profound passion for adventurous activities, gourmet dining and the desire for a romantic weekend getaway.

Let's begin with the Sands Hotel & Spa, a place where design and luxury merge seamlessly. Designed by the renowned Martyn Lawrence Bullard, this oasis combines Moroccan-inspired elements with a mid-century charm that perfectly complements the timeless desert landscape. The exterior, bathed in a soft desert rose pink, is accented by rich emerald greens and deep blues, creating a visually captivating contrast. Hints of the Rat Pack era add a touch of glamor and nostalgia, reflecting the rich history of the desert and the Palm Springs era.

You won't believe the cozy vibes at the Sands Hotel & Spa. This boutique gem a few minutes from Palm Desert in Indian Wells is where wellness and adventure blend seamlessly with luxury. They've got 46 guest rooms that are pure comfort heaven. Think Acqua di Parma bath goodies, Revival New York bed linens for that cloud-like sleep and super fancy Sonifi entertainment systems. And oh, the in-room mini-bars are stocked with the fanciest barware and glasses. Best part? Some of the rooms offer epic views of the property and private patios shaded by lush palm trees. It's like stepping into a desert paradise!

For culinary enthusiasts, The Pink Cabana restaurant is a true gem. Executive Chef Jason Niederkorn, trained at San Francisco's Culinary Academy, has crafted a menu that blends seasonal ingredients with modern French techniques, infused with hints of Moroccan and Mediterranean influences. The menu offers a delightful array of shareable dishes, locally sourced produce, sustainable seafood and premium meats. Craft cocktails and a curated wine list perfectly complement the culinary experience.

If you think the Pink Cabana is just your average hotel restaurant, think again! It's a whole experience on its own. Picture this: You walk through the grand arched entrance to the hotel and suddenly, you're in this lush courtyard that leads you right into the restaurant. Inside, the Pink Cabana oozes retro-glam and it's got that maximalist decor that's just too charming. Perfect for a cute brunch date, trust me.

During my visit, I had the opportunity to stop for brunch, so let me tell you, as I mentioned, gastronomy is a must for my clients and me. So, even if you are just doing a day trip from Los Angeles to Palm Springs, I recommend it.

Speaking of brunch, we were head over heels for the menu. I can't stress this enough: try the Turkish coffee—it's a game-changer. While I can't vouch for the other daily menus, the brunch was divine. The French toast and Eggs Benedict were clear winners. Our server was top-notch—super attentive, hilarious and always on the ball.

Now, let's cover some practical stuff. I noticed if you're a vegetarian, they do have options, but most of them lean towards the sweeter side or are meant for sharing. However, if it is put in a request at the time of booking or as a guest, you let the server know, the chef can provide some vegetarian options.

If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, fear not. My client had various dietary needs (like allergies to tomatoes and nuts), and the Pink Cabana had no trouble finding suitable options on the menu.

Recommended dishes: Crab Benedict, Cabana Colada

If relaxation is on the agenda, the hotel's signature spa offers Moroccan-inspired treatments using naturally sourced ingredients to detoxify, hydrate and rejuvenate the skin and body. The spa's tranquil entrance, adorned with olive trees, creates a serene oasis for guests to unwind and embrace their inner beauty.

Location and accessibility: The Sands Hotel & Spa enjoys a strategic location near the Indian Wells Tennis Gardens, the chic El Paseo Shopping District, a short 27-minute drive from Palm Springs and the renowned Coachella Polo Grounds, making it an ideal hub for exploration, in the heart of California’s desert.

As for wheelchair accessibility, no worries there. Everything is on ground level from the moment you step in, so it's smooth sailing for anyone in a wheelchair.

The Sands Hotel & Spa offers an exceptional blend of luxury, style and adventure. It's the perfect destination for those seeking relaxation, culinary delights and outdoor exploration. I wholeheartedly recommend it for a rejuvenating long weekend gateway.