Known for its mid-century modern architecture, vibrant arts scene, and year-round sunshine, the best boutique hotels in Palm Springs have become a haven for travelers seeking a chic, poolside getaway near Los Angeles.
Nestled against the majestic backdrop of the San Jacinto Mountains, this desert paradise offers a plethora of Palm Springs boutique hotels that embody the city’s unique charm and personality.
From intimate hideaways for two to trendy retreats, each of the best hotels in Palm Springs boasts its own distinct character and allure. Let’s help you choose the best place to stay!
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Planning your trip to Palm Springs last minute? Here are the tours and hotels we recommend. You’ll also find our Things to do in Joshua Tree post helpful if you have a car or you can take an organized day trip to Joshua Tree.
- TOP EXPERIENCES & TOURS IN PALM SPRINGS
- Palm Springs Aerial Tramway – venture up in a cable car to see Palm Springs from above
- Palm Springs Indian Canyons Bike and Hike – one of the prettiest hiking spots
- San Andreas Fault Jeep Tour from Palm Desert – see the infamous faultline in California
- BEST HOTELS IN PALM SPRINGS
- La Serena Villas – Spanish colonial style desert chic oasis
- Sparrows Lodge – disconnect in rustic comfort
- Azure Sky Hotel – coolest hotel in Palm Springs where you can chill out and relax by the pool
- PRACTICAL INFORMATION FOR PALM SPRINGS
- Get Travel Insurance for California with Safety Wing.
- Check Discover Cars for great car rental prices in California.
- Find the best flight deals to Palm Springs on Skyscanner.
Where to Stay in Palm Springs
California’s famous desert city is relatively compact and walkable, making the coolest hotels in Palm Springs easy to access. Nonetheless, some areas stand out more than others.
Keep in mind many hotels in Palm Springs have resort fees, which are usually around $25-$40 a night and include your bike rental, breakfast, and other amenities.
Also, most of these boutique hotels are for guests 21 and up only. Here’s where to stay in Palm Springs, CA.
Downtown Palm Springs
The vibrant and historic Downtown Palm Springs is a popular choice for anyone looking for a lively and convenient stay. This area is brimming with trendy shops, art galleries, restaurants, and lively nightlife.
Staying in Downtown Palm Springs puts you within easy walking distance of Palm Springs Art Museum and the famous Palm Canyon Drive.
The variety of boutique hotels and mid-century modern accommodations in this area add to the city’s unique charm!
Old Las Palmas
Nestled against the San Jacinto Mountains, the Old Las Palmas neighborhood is stunning. This upscale residential area features stunning mid-century modern homes and upscale estates, many of which have hosted celebrities over the years.
Staying in Old Las Palmas offers a glimpse into the glamorous past of Palm Springs and provides a peaceful and serene atmosphere. While accommodations in this area are limited, you’ll still find some of the best Palm Springs boutique hotels here.
The Movie Colony Area
The Movie Colony neighborhood is a classic Palm Springs neighborhood that gained fame during Hollywood’s Golden Age when stars flocked here to get away and relax.
Staying in the Movie Colony Area immerses you in the city’s history and architecture, and it’s just a short distance from downtown. This way, it’s the best for relaxation and convenient exploration.
Best Boutique Hotels in Palm Springs
La Serena Villas (Best Hotel in Palm Springs with Private Hot Tub Studios)
A desert-chic oasis in the heart of Palm Springs, the adults-only La Serena Villas, A Kirkwood Collection Hotel (9.2) is set on an acre of gardens made up of white-washed buildings in a Spanish-colonial style.
With both studios and suites, each one is original and beautifully designed with modern amenities. Some patios and private in-ground hot tubs and others have luxurious free-standing tubs with separate walk-in showers.
Onsite amenities include an outdoor saltwater pool, a lively rooftop lounge offering views of the San Jacinto Mountains, a tranquil spa, and complimentary breakfast and bikes – all of which create one of the best Palm Springs boutique hotels.
What guests like most: in-room breakfast, beautiful location • Consideration: each room has different perks
Sparrows Lodge (Small Hotel in Palm Springs with Rustic Retro Vibe)
Embracing the best of rustic chic with a Sonoran Desert twist, Sparrows Lodge (9) is a beautiful adult-only Palm Springs retro hotel designed to invoke a sense of nostalgia for simpler times.
This converted 1950s retreat boasts a rustic farm-style aesthetic, featuring reclaimed wood, cozy fireplaces, and vintage furnishings.
The rooms and suites, inspired by mid-century design, offer comfort and authentic flair. Some come with outdoor patios for stargazing and lounging.
During your stay, indulge in farm-to-table dining at the onsite Barn Kitchen and take a dip in the outdoor pool. There’s also complimentary breakfast and loaner bikers.
What guests like most: unique style, great food/drinks • Consideration: no TVS in rooms
Azure Sky Hotel (Relaxed Boutique Hotels in Palm Springs, CA)
Set in a 1950s building, Azure Sky Hotel – Adults Only (9.5) is a modern boutique hotel that celebrates Palm Springs’ retro flair. It’s a 21-and-up hotel in a picturesque, tucked-away location for a serene getaway.
The rooms and suites are thoughtfully appointed, featuring modern amenities and bright accents. Some have private balconies or patios to soak in the desert vistas.
Enjoy the outdoor swimming pool, jacuzzi, and fire pits. There’s also a poolside bar, free bike rentals and a complimentary continental breakfast.
It’s a new favorite among the best boutique hotels in Palm Springs!
What guests like most: relaxing, beautiful views, well-renovated • Consideration: breakfast is simple
Dive Palm Springs (Trendy Boutique Hotel in Palm Springs With Hot Tub Suite)
Dive Palm Springs (9.3) is a hip hotel in Palm Springs that boasts a vibrant, 1960s French Riviera-inspired design, characterized by playful patterns, pops of color, and stylish neutral furnishings.
The 11 rooms and suites are full of charm. We love the hardwood floors, tiled bathrooms, and rattan furniture. Some have private patios, hot tubs, and putt putt.
With its lively pool area, complete with poolside cabanas and a tiki bar, Dive Palm Springs offers a fun and nostalgic stay.
What guests like most: trendy, good breakfast, private feel • Consideration: its central location may have street noise
The Weekend Palm Springs (Cozy Palm Springs Boutique Hotel with 2-bedroom Suite)
Nestled amidst lush gardens and desert palm trees in the Old Las Palmas neighborhood, the Weekend Palm Springs (9.4) is a luxury small hotel in Palm Springs designed for adults only. It’s located near plenty of bars and restaurants.
The rooms and suites feature neutral decor in shades of white and gray with modern-vintage furniture. Bathrooms have marble countertops with walk-in showers.
There’s also a 2-bedroom suite with a private patio that sleeps up to 4 guests.
Unwind by the pool or relax on the patio, making The Weekend Palm Springs a cozy and quiet getaway!
What guests like most: stylish Palm Springs boutique hotel, nice location • Consideration: no complimentary breakfast
Villa Royale (Best of Hip Hotels in Palm Springs, California)
Stepping into Villa Royale (9) feels like entering a Mediterranean paradise in the heart of Palm Springs. This boutique hotel exudes old-world charm and luxury, with its Spanish-style architecture, lush courtyard gardens, and retro charm.
The rooms and suites showcase elegant and unique decor with wooden walls and vanities. Upgraded suites have spacious walk-in showers and a jacuzzi. Many have cool seating areas with mini-bars and fireplaces.
During your stay, take advantage of the onsite Spanish tapas-style restaurant, offering great views of the San Jacinto Mountains. There are multiple swimming pools with sun loungers and parasols.
What guests like most: perfect location, feels private, loaner bikes • Consideration: rooms are a little darker
Fleur Noire Hotel (Coolest Hotel in Palm Springs with Floral Murals)
Fleur Noire Hotel (9.4) is a chic and trendy boutique hotel in Palm Springs full of floral wall murals, cozy fire pits, and inviting spaces. You’ll also find cornhole and other fun ways to kick back in the California desert.
There are 21 bright studios and suites all featuring premium amenities and terraces/porches.
Relax at the lively garden courtyard with fire pits and games or cool off in the refreshing pool. There’s also an ultra-chic speakeasy bar, and it’s one of our favorite fun hotels in Palm Springs.
What guests like most: amazing staff, cute hotel, amenities • Consideration: no jacuzzis
Holiday House Palm Springs (Beachy Palm Springs Hotel with Beautiful Views)
Like a boho beach house in the desert, Holiday House Palm Springs (9.4) offers a chic and playful stay. The hotel’s white and blue whimsical designs create a fun ambiance and a great place to stay.
The rooms and suites are thoughtfully decorated with a mix of retro and modern touches. Some feature terraces and/or mountain views.
Swim at the charming pool area, chill out under palm trees, take a dip in the hot tub, ride bikes around town, and enjoy meals and drinks at the restaurant and bar.
Plus, its free breakfast and ideal location make it one of the best cute hotels in Palm Springs!
What guests like most: great bar drinks, good food, beautiful decor • Consideration: no TVs in rooms
Les Cactus (Newest & Cutest Palm Springs Boutique Hotel)
Les Cactus (9.3) is a hidden gem that captures the essence of Palm Springs’ mid-century modern charm. It has an inviting whimsical design and is just a 5-minute drive from downtown.
The 2 rooms and studios are bright and well-styled with rattan furniture. All come with high-end Casper mattresses, and are available only to those 21 and up.
Amenities include a saltwater pool and hot tub, free bicycles, a massage room, fire pits, complimentary snacks, and a hammock garden.
There’s also a selection of beer, wine, and cocktails along with a daily continental breakfast.
What guests like most: beautiful rooms, pool, relaxing • Consideration: no onsite meals available
L’Horizon Resort & Spa (Best Historic Luxury Palm Springs Boutique Hotel)
Steeped in old Hollywood history, L’Horizon Resort & Spa (8.7) is a luxurious boutique hotel that fully embraces the glamour of the past. Built in 1952, this historic Palm Springs hotel attracted Golden era stars like Marilyn Monroe and Betty Grable.
The rooms, bungalows, and suites feature lavish amenities in beautiful, bright spaces with patios. Some have free-standing tubs and/or chic outdoor showers. Upgraded suites have private hot tubs.
Pamper yourself at the spa or lounge by the poolside cabanas with mountain desert views. There’s also a stunning outdoor restaurant and bar and complimentary yoga classes on the weekends.
What guests like most: amazing staff, private bungalows, picture-perfect • Consideration: not far from downtown
Alcazar Palm Springs (Best Hotel in Palm Springs for Cool Modern Rooms & Dining)
Right in the center of downtown Palm Springs, Alcazar Palm Springs (9) has a laid-back yet trendy atmosphere in The Movie Colony neighborhood.
Plus, the hotel’s Spanish-style architecture and vibrant courtyard make it one of the best boutique hotels in Palm Springs.
White-washed rooms are all individually decorated and feature walk-in showers and plush linens. Upgraded rooms will also have whirlpool tubs.
During your visit, you’ll find a saltwater pool, a farm-to-table cafe, Italian restaurant, breakfast pastries, and loaner bikes.
What guests like most: very clean, great garden, excellent food • Consideration: pool is open until midnight so may hear noise
ARRIVE Palm Springs (Best Downtown Palm Springs Hotel with Amenities)
Set in a unique low-rise building in the Uptown Design District, ARRIVE Palm Springs (8.8) is one of the top hip hotels in Palm Springs.
The rooms and suites showcase trendy furnishings and locally inspired artwork. There are also rainfall showers and upgraded rooms that benefit from patios and/or fireplaces.
Enjoy craft cocktails at the trendy poolside bar, play lawn games and table tennis, or relax with friends by the fire pits.
And that’s not it! There’s even a coffee shop, ice cream parlor, and organic restaurant to top it all off.
What guests like most: quiet rooms, fun pool area, bar • Consideration: music by the pool
Final Thoughts on Best Boutique Hotels in Palm Springs, California
These hotels in Palm Springs embody the allure of Hollywood in the 1950s with poolside cabanas, desert mountain vistas, and relaxation at its finest.
This desert city definitely makes for one of the best places to visit in California!
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