Curator’s statement
Nestled in the heart of the Californian desert, Palm Springs is a sun-soaked paradise known for its glamorous history, breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture. Palm Springs is synonymous with luxury and its boutique hotels are no exception. From mid-century-modern gems to sleek contemporary escapes, the city boasts a range of chic accommodations. In this travel guide, we'll explore the best boutique hotels this desert oasis has to offer.
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Where to stay
L'Horizon Resort & Spa
Luxurious boutique property from 1952 with modern, bright rooms.
La Serena Villas, A Kirkwood Collection Hotel
Where elegance and tranquility embrace, a gem in the heart of Kirkwood Collection hotels.
Korakia Pensione
Journey to a Moroccan and Mediterranean oasis in the heart of Palm Springs, where old-world charm and desert tranquility create a timeless escape.
Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs
Sleek property in downtown Palm Springs with chic rooms that offer views of the San Jacinto Mountains.
Fora Perks
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$50 hotel credit.
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Welcome amenities.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & late check-out whenever possible.
The Saguaro Palm Springs
Candy-colored converted motel away from the downtown fray, with hotspot restaurants and a huge pool.
Parker Palm Springs
Classic Palm Springs accommodation with stylish decor, plenty of leisurely areas and a private Yacht Club.
Fora Perks
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$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Sparrows Lodge
Once a popular resort getaway for the Hollywood elite, Sparrows Lodge is Palm Springs’ only ranch-style boutique hotel and has been beautifully restored with a modern rustic vibe.
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L'Horizon Resort & Spa, Palm Springs: A Midcentury Oasis of Luxury
With 25 bungalows and one historic Residence, L'Horizon Resort & Spa Palm Springs spans three acres, resembling more of a boutique resort than just a hotel, yet it maintains an intimate ambiance where staff quickly become acquainted with your name. Amenities abound, from a pool and poolside bar catering to cabana loungers, the adult-only So-Pa restaurant offering a sophisticated dining experience, to the indoor-outdoor spa with rejuvenating treatments and weekend yoga classes. Designed by midcentury architect William F. Cody in 1952, the resort has seamlessly blended original design elements with contemporary upgrades like Nest thermostats, Nespresso machines, Tivoli speakers and Apple TVs in each of its 25 accommodations. While you may never want to leave this desert oasis, it's conveniently located less than a mile from downtown Palm Springs, where numerous restaurants and cultural attractions await exploration.
La Serena Villas: A Luxurious Mediterranean Hideaway in Palm Springs
La Serena Villas, nestled in the heart of Palm Springs, offers an exquisite and luxurious Mediterranean-inspired escape that embodies elegance and serenity. From the moment you step onto the property, you are transported to a world of Mediterranean ambiance, with its architectural beauty, arched doorways and lush gardens that evoke the coastal charm of Europe. This boutique hotel is a true gem that seamlessly blends Old World charm with modern comfort.
What sets La Serena Villas apart is its commitment to intimacy. The property is designed with privacy in mind, featuring a collection of private villas, each meticulously appointed with lavish furnishings and thoughtful amenities. Many villas boast private patios or balconies, creating an atmosphere of seclusion and romance, making it an ideal destination for couples or those seeking a tranquil retreat. Dining at the on-site restaurant, Azúcar, is a culinary delight, offering a delectable fusion of Mediterranean and California cuisine served under the desert sky, where the ambiance is as delightful as the food. The hotel also offers a serene pool area and an indoor-outdoor spa where guests can indulge in rejuvenating treatments, creating a sanctuary for relaxation. La Serena Villa's' attentive staff provides warm and personalized service, ensuring that your stay is seamless and memorable. For those seeking a Mediterranean-inspired oasis in the heart of Palm Springs, La Serena Villas beckons as the perfect destination to immerse yourself in timeless beauty and luxurious desert living.
Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs Hotel: Contemporary Luxury in Downtown Oasis
The Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs Hotel is a premier luxury establishment situated in the heart of downtown Palm Springs, California. Renowned for its contemporary and upscale design, the hotel offers a sleek and stylish ambiance, making it a favored choice among discerning travelers seeking opulence in the desert. With a variety of well-appointed guest rooms and suites, many featuring stunning views of the surrounding mountains and desert landscape, it combines modern comfort with stunning aesthetics. The hotel's crown jewel is "4 Saints," a rooftop bar and restaurant offering panoramic vistas of the city and San Jacinto Mountains. Here, guests can savor innovative cuisine and craft cocktails while immersing themselves in the captivating Palm Springs skyline. The Kimpton Rowan Hotel also typically boasts a rooftop pool area with cabanas, a fitness center, and spa services, ensuring relaxation and rejuvenation. Its central downtown location grants convenient access to Palm Springs' vibrant dining, shopping and cultural scene, making it an ideal base for exploration. With Kimpton's signature attentive and personalized service, including daily wine hours and a pet-friendly policy, the Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs Hotel promises a luxurious and memorable desert getaway.
Sparrows Lodge: A Rustic Desert Oasis in Palm Springs
Sparrows Lodge, a true original boutique concept for Palm Springs, stands as a rustic and tranquil desert retreat with a storied past. Originally built in the 1950s as a haven for Hollywood luminaries, the lodge retains its historic charm while seamlessly blending modern comforts. Accommodations include thoughtfully designed guest rooms and suites, often characterized by minimalist and rustic aesthetics, complemented by private outdoor spaces. A highlight of Sparrows Lodge is its farm-to-table dining experience, showcasing locally sourced ingredients in a menu that captures the essence of the region. The serene courtyard and pool area invite relaxation, offering a heated pool and a fire pit for evening gatherings. With its peaceful setting and equestrian heritage reflected in the old horse stalls and barn, Sparrows Lodge offers a retreat where guests can escape the city's hustle and bustle, making it a favored choice for those seeking a tranquil and rustic Palm Springs experience.
The Parker: An Essential Inclusion in Palm Springs' Finest Hotel Selection
Situated just a brief 30-minute drive from Coachella, The Parker holds a special place in the hearts of festival-goers and Hollywood celebrities alike. What sets it apart is its unique ability to offer a sense of seclusion, cleverly achieved through the extensive hedge that envelops the entire property, effectively shielding it from the bustling main road. Designed by the visionary Jonathan Adler, this architectural masterpiece showcases iconic mid-century-modern design, transporting guests to an era of Frank Sinatra and Marilyn Monroe. The hotel's lush gardens and whimsical courtyards invite exploration and relaxation, with hidden nooks adorned in playful sculptures and fountains. Inside, eclectic furnishings and vintage accents create an atmosphere that exudes sophistication with a touch of whimsy. Dining options at Norma's and Mister Parker's offer exceptional culinary journeys, while the hotel's amenities, including heated pools, a spa, pétanque and a chic poolside bar, provide a playground for the senses. A stay at the Parker Palm Springs is an enchanting journey through the golden age of Hollywood, where luxury, style and whimsy converge in the heart of the desert.
Korakia Pensione: Where Mediterranean Magic Meets Desert Serenity
Korakia Pensione is a truly unique boutique hotel that embodies Mediterranean allure and has earned its reputation as one of North America's sexiest getaways. Inspired by Mediterranean aesthetics, the hotel's architecture showcases whitewashed walls, clay-tiled roofs, and enchanting courtyards. Accommodations, including guest rooms, suites, and standalone bungalows, are adorned with vintage furnishings, and many offer private patios or balconies. The serene courtyard, with its saltwater pool, fountains and Moroccan lanterns, creates an intimate and idyllic setting for relaxation. Guests can savor complimentary gourmet breakfasts in the Mediterranean-style courtyard and indulge in Mediterranean and Moroccan-inspired cuisine and cocktails at the on-site restaurant and bar. With a rich history dating to the 1920s and a secluded ambiance, Korakia Pensione beckons as a seductive boutique escape in Palm Springs.
The Saguaro Palm Springs: A Vibrant Oasis in the Desert
The Saguaro Palm Springs is a lively and iconic boutique hotel that adds a burst of color to the Palm Springs desert landscape. Its exterior is a vibrant masterpiece, adorned with a rainbow of vivid hues, from lime green walls to purple carpeting, pink headboards, orange curtains and cheerful yellow accents. Beyond its colorful façade, the hotel offers an array of guest rooms and suites designed in a modern and playful style, ensuring both comfort and a continuation of the lively atmosphere. The pool area is a social hub, with comfortable loungers, cabanas, and a poolside bar serving refreshing drinks and snacks, creating an ideal space for relaxation and socializing. Whether you're seeking a lively getaway, a vibrant pool scene or a central base for exploring Palm Springs' attractions, The Saguaro Palm Springs promises a memorable and Instagram-worthy stay in the heart of the desert.
Need to know
Palm Springs itself boasts vibrant dining, shopping, and cultural attractions, while Coachella, just a short drive away, lures festival-goers with its world-class music events and celebrity allure. Together, this dynamic duo promises a getaway filled with relaxation, artistic inspiration and unforgettable desert adventures. Still dreaming of desert chic in a boutique hotel under the stars and surrounded by the enchantment of the Coachella Valley? Reach out to me and let me plan your perfect Palm Springs Boutique Hotel Getaway.
This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Palm Springs. In need of further inspiration? Check out Dan Howarth’s guide, Things to Do in Palm Springs: Mid-Century Heaven.
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Travel Advisor
Kris Weir
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