10 Stunning Boutique Hotels in Palm Springs, California

There’s nothing like Palm Springs. It’s a California desert town with its own special vibe. And we absolutely love it! It also helps that it’s a mere two-hour trip from San Diego – perfect for a weekend getaway! And the road trip is relaxing and picturesque. Palm Springs is a wonderfully eclectic mix of the old and the new, celebrating the history, art, architecture, great food, and a whole lot of fun. Don’t forget to check out our guide on the best things to do in Palm Springs!

Though this desert oasis has its share of big, beautiful resorts, when we visit, we prefer the smaller, more boutique hotels in Palm Springs. Why? Simply because these provide the best of the best authentic Palm Springs experiences. Most all are locally owned and operated, encapsulate the history of the region, and provide a personal service that’s hard to find in larger hotels and resorts.

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Palm Springs is home to almost 80 extraordinary small boutique hotels sporting fascinating architectural & cultural diversity.  These jewels of the desert range from clothing-optional, couples-only, family-friendly, dog-friendly, historic, kitschy modern, and charming. 

Whatever guests are looking for, Palm Springs can deliver. Being in the heart of the town makes it convenient to explore downtown Palm Springs’s eclectic cultural flavor, tantalizing restaurants, beautiful art galleries, and unique boutique shopping.

And most hotels offer free bikes on-site for exploring the town. Here are some of our favorite places to stay, play, chill, relax, or do whatever it is you most enjoy on your weekend getaway. Just know that any of our recommended boutique hotels will provide you with a true-blue, quintessential, and unforgettable Palm Springs experience. 

ALCAZAR PALM SPRINGS

Address: 622 Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, 92262  
Phone: (760) 318-9850
Website

This stunning Palm Springs boutique hotel in the Uptown Design District is classic Palm Springs with a sleek modern but very warm ambiance. Alcazar describes itself as a “serene, peaceful oasis”– an absolutely impeccable description.

Each of the rooms is a unique experience, its queen and king rooms and suites elegantly appointed with luxury touches, and high-end bedding and imported Italian linens. Complimentary coffee, espresso, tea, juice, and fresh pastries are available in the hotel’s beautiful lobby.

If the rooms aren’t lovely enough, the outdoor spaces reflecting its Spanish/Mediterranean architecture are simply magnificent. Alcazar features a saltwater purified pool, jacuzzi, cooling misters, picturesque garden courtyard, and fire and water walls. For those looking for a romantic getaway, we highly recommend a stay at Alcazar. Its Zen-like atmosphere is so impressive. Book your stay here>>

LA SERENA VILLAS

Address: 339 Belardo Rd., Palm Springs, 92262
Phone: (844) 932-8044
Website

Originally built in 1933, this lovely historic hotel set in the shadows of the picturesque San Jacinto Mountains was redeveloped as a luxury boutique hotel in 1996. The property caters to the over-21 crowd looking for top-end accommodations in an impressive romantic setting.

So impressive that you’ll almost have to almost force yourself to leave the property to explore the rest of Palm Springs. The architecture of this 18-guest room venue is a delightful mix of Mid-Century Modern and Spanish/Mediterranean, and it all magically melds together.

Each of the awe-inspiring secluded private villas sports a private patio, complete with a claw foot tub, fire-pit, built-in benches, and hanging basket chairs. We love the crystalline pool here as well as the colorful pool furniture.

La Serena also features a full-service, award-winning spa on site. Its magnificent restaurant, Azúcar serves contemporary modern cuisine, and a rooftop deck offers stunning vistas. We absolutely love this place! This romantic place would be ideal for a honeymoon, anniversary, couples’ getaway, or celebratory event. It’s that gorgeous. Book your stay here>>

INN AT PALM SPRINGS

Address: 2525 North Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs, 92262
Phone: (888) 788-8466
Website

This delightfully funky hotel has rooms to accommodate any guest – from small families to those traveling with their family pets. The colorful inn is ideally located in the heart of Palm Springs Its laid-back vibe is perfect for those looking to chill at a cost-effective but lovely venue. 18-room types vary from doubles, queens, and kings designed for comfort, with either hardwood or tile floors.

Guests are welcome to relax at the pool in loungers, take a dip, hang out in the garden area, or reserve a cruiser bike to check out downtown Palm Springs. An easy stroll leads to some of the town’s most fun restaurants, galleries, and other nearby shops and businesses. For those looking for comfy, clean, and convenient, this is a perfect Palm Springs choice. Book your stay here>>

LOS ARBOLES HOTEL

Address: 784 N Indian Canyon Dr., Palm Springs, 92262
Phone: (760) 459-3605
Website

Travelers into a combination of history, charm, incredible service, and stunning mountain views will love Los Arboles. The 21-room boutique hotel surrounded by lush bougainvillea is ideal for couples, families, girl getaways, and those who love traditional Mexican touches.

Accommodations here vary from cozy petite rooms and kings to suites. And each room is beautifully appointed and some even include a fireplace or jetted tub. Views from Los Arboles deck are magnificent, overlooking the sparkling pool and hot tub, and San Jacinto Mountains. It’s a perfect spot to be at sunset with a tequila toast. We know!

Both the hotel and resident restaurant El Mirasol are family-owned and operated. Many of El Mirasol’s Mexican dishes are prepared from multi-generational recipes. Which explains why they’re so amazing.  Los Arboles is such a lovely place to relax and enjoy an authentic Palm Springs experience. Book your stay here>>

THE OLD RANCH INN

Address: 220. S. Patencio Road, Palm Springs, 92262
Phone: (760) 778-8900
Website

Celebrating the “spirit of the Old West,” this historic inn inspired by the history of the Coachella Valley is located in the heart of the Tennis Club area, steps away from the Downtown Palm Springs Village.

Dating back to the 1930s, the intimate desert hideaway with its cactus-covered grounds features studio, queen, and king suites with picturesque garden and pool views. And because the Old Ranch Inn is gated and walled, it provides ultimate privacy for its guests. Not only is it LGBT friendly, but pet friendly as well.

The inn’s 8 suites include kitchenettes with refrigerators, microwaves, and Keurig coffeemakers. Other amenities include a lovely outdoor heated pool and private outdoor patios.  If you’re looking for privacy and anonymity all while surrounded by history, Old Ranch Inn is your place. Book your stay here>>

INGLESIDE INN

Address: 220 W. Ramon Road, Palm Springs, 92264
Phone: (800) 722-6655
Website

An official Spanish Revival Palm Springs landmark, the Ingleside Inn is an absolute Palm Springs throwback to a more glamorous time when the Hollywood elite escaped to this desert hideaway. “If only walls could talk” we exclaimed more than once during our stay. This amazingly picturesque property has hosted such celebrities as Elizabeth Taylor and Ava Gardner to Marlon Brando and John Wayne. Carole Lombard and Clark Gable honeymooned at this historic inn originally built in the 1920s.

The 30-room boutique hotel in Palm Springs fashioned from a glorious estate is secluded and quiet, yet only one block from the heart of downtown. Accommodations reflect the romance and glamour of Hollywood’s golden age. Guests can unwind at the pool or explore the picturesque grounds.

Probably the best part of staying here is enjoying fine dining at the world-famous Melvyn’s Restaurant, which hosted not only celebrities but presidents and some of the world’s most famous foreign dignitaries. It’s an absolute journey back in time to a bygone era and an experience you’ll never forget. Book your stay here>>

SPARROWS LODGE

Address: 1330 E. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs, 92264
Phone: (760) 327-2300
Website

They call this lodge a “summer camp for adults” due to its myriad of outdoor activities. Guests can play horseshoes, gather in a central communal barn, visit around the outdoor fire pits, relax in the pool, and explore the property’s lush gardens. 

Sparrows Lodge was originally known as Castle’s Red Barn when it was built in 1951 for MGM actor Don Castle and his wife, Zetta. It was also one of the original Palm Springs resort getaways for the Hollywood elite. Legend has it that iconic actress Elizabeth Montgomery had her first wedding at the Red Barn.

In 2013, the lodge whose logo features two sparrows, underwent a complete restoration while still retaining its uniquely rustic vibe. The property’s 20 rooms feature exposed beam ceilings, russet red walls, concrete floors with inlaid pebbles, and beautiful butterfly chairs. 

Poolside rooms sport steel horse trough bathtubs. Light continental breakfast is included in the stay. With no televisions or phones in the rooms, there is definitely an unplugged and off-the-grid vibe here. If that’s what you’re looking for, Sparrows Lodge is the place. Book your stay here>>

THE WEEKEND

Address: 111 S Via Las Palmas, Palm Springs, 92262
Phone: (760) 303-4162
Website 

Located right in the center of celebrity-studded Las Palmas district, The Weekend is a small, mid-century modern hotel built in the 1960s. The venue recently underwent a massive renovation, bringing the impressive property back to the timeless glory days of the Hollywood and Palm Springs connection. Another locally owned and operated Palm Springs property, the chic luxury hotel lined with palm trees is escapism at its finest.

The all-suites venue is a mix of modern and throwback and is ideal for families and larger groups sporting 700 to 850-square feet of living space.  Rooms feature one and two bedrooms with all the amenities of a home away from home including a microwave, full refrigerator, and dining area. Bathrooms are spacious with high-end luxury products. And of no surprise, as it is Palm Springs, there’s a lovely pool on site. As one happy patron declared “Forget the weekend. I stayed for five days and didn’t want to leave.” Book your stay here>>

LA MAISON HOTEL

Address: 1600 East Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs, 92264
Phone: (760) 325-1600 
Website

Staying at La Maison Hotel is like experiencing a taste of Southern France in the desert.  This gorgeous Mediterranean-inspired boutique hotel is one of Palm Springs’s most charming places to stay, and one of our favorites. Rooms are beautifully appointed with French inspiration along with feather beds dressed in luxury linens and down duvets. The grounds of the hotel sport terracotta floors, red clay roof tiles, a picturesque courtyard, three fountains, and a stunning pool and jacuzzi surrounded by walled gardens.

The hotel includes 14 different room types ranging from upstairs and downstairs queen and kings. Luxurious marble and granite baths contain L’Occitane shower amenities, and guests delight in the lavender sachet left on your bed pillow.

A continental breakfast is included in the stay along with complimentary water and sodas. La Maison is a great choice for a couple’s getaway or for anyone who loves to be pampered and spoiled. Book your stay here>>

VILLA ROYALE

Address: 1620 South Indian Trail, Palm Springs, 92264
Phone: (760) 327-2314
Website

Built in 1947, Villa Royale sprung to life in Palm Springs during a period of Post-World War II expansion in the Coachella Valley.  The eclectic and visually stunning California ranch-style hotel underwent an immense renovation, reopening in 2018 with new mahogany woodwork, vintage mid-century furniture, and original oil paintings.

In-room cocktail parlors feature liquor, mixers, cocktail books, and bar tools. Hotel designer Anne L’Esperance also added colorful graphic tiles from Portugal, Spain, and Mexico throughout the property. 

Continental breakfast here is complimentary and guests also have access to a beautiful swimming pool. The lovely onsite restaurant, Del Rey offers libations and small plates with Spanish and Mediterranean influences. Del Rey has an impressive 12-seat oak and marble bar, as well as indoor booths and an outdoor patio complete with an inviting firepit. Book your stay here>>

The next time you’re planning a Palm Springs getaway, think small. The charming boutique hotels in Palm Springs will set the tone for a memorable visit. And goodness knows, there are plenty of beauties to choose from.

Best boutique hotels in Palm Springs was written by Noreen Kompanik for San Diego Explorer.

Of note: Common to the travel industry, the destination hosted some of the hotels mentioned in this post. However, this does not influence my review. Some photos in this article were provided by Visit Palm Springs.

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Last Updated on July 20, 2023 by Maria Haase

The post 10 Stunning Boutique Hotels in Palm Springs, California appeared first on San Diego Explorer.