Photo: The Three Fifty Hotel

The Most Iconic Boutique Hotels in Palm Springs

Palm Springs Epic Stays
by Molly O'Brien Mar 28, 2024

There is no shortage of epic boutique retreats in Palm Springs — many of which have stood the test of time for decades, having once served as an elite Hollywood hideaway for celebs and stars of the silver screen back in the Golden Age of LA.

Today, this starstruck city has only upped its options for those seeking an intimate inn with a smaller size for a serene escape. Browse this array of mid-century marvels and buzzy, bohemian desert hotspots — each of which seems to boast its own distinct, boutique personality — and plan the ultimate glam getaway to Palm Springs.

Traveling to Palm Springs? Check out Matador’s accommodations guides to the area:

We hope you love these Palm Springs hotels! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Azure Sky

Photo: Azure Sky
Photo: Azure Sky
Photo: Azure Sky
Photo: Azure Sky

 

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  • Address: 1661 S Calle Palo Fierro, Palm Springs, CA 92264
  • Starting from: $490 per night

The adults-only boutique retreat Azure Sky is one of Palm Springs’s most luxurious hotels. This 14-room property is known for its impressive, forward-thinking design and unobstructed views of the San Jacinto Mountains. Visitors can enjoy relaxing at the large lounge pool with two shallow ends (perfect for settling in with an adult beverage), which is set amongst a scene of desert landscaping. It feels like an intimate getaway with furnishings and decor that reflect its surrounding serene, sandy landscape.

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Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs

Photo: The Rowan Palm Springs
Photo: The Rowan Palm Springs
Photo: The Rowan Palm Springs
Photo: The Rowan Palm Springs

 

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  • Address: 100 W. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262
  • Starting from: $305 per night

The Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs is the only hotel with a rooftop pool and cabanas in the city. Guests can sit at this poolside oasis which is perched seven stories up, and admire the incredible panoramic mountain and desert landscape views while enjoying a bite or a cocktail at High Bar. Or dine at the property’s restaurant, 4 Saints, one of eight Palm Springs restaurants recognized by California’s Michelin Guide. It’s set in a highly walkable area in the middle of downtown Palm Springs, putting it within easy access to dining, shopping, arts & culture, and outdoor hiking trails. Design features include contemporary mid-century modern architecture with light-filled spaces showcasing a balance of “minimalism meeting modern desert urbanity.”

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Korakia Pensione

Photo: Korakia
Photo: Korakia
Photo: Korakia
Photo: Korakia

 

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  • Address: 257 S Patencio Rd, Palm Springs, CA 92262
  • Starting from: $489

Spread out across 1.5 acres but hosting just 28 exquisite Mediterranean and Moroccan-inspired bungalows, guesthouses and villas, Korakia Pensione feels like a peaceful retreat in the heart of Palm Springs. This property hosts an oasis of lush gardens, courtyards, pools, lounges, and water features and has been known as a safe haven desert retreat for decades. Drink tea in the Moroccan courtyard or traditional tea lounge space, gather around the fire pits, sink into a book at the library, opt for a massage at the spa, or go for a guided hike through sacred grounds in Tahquitz Canyon.

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La Serena Villas

Photo: La Serena Villas
Photo: La Serena Villas
Photo: La Serena Villas
Photo: La Serena Villas

 

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  • Address: 339 S Belardo Rd, Palm Springs, CA 92262
  • Starting from: $995 per night

This boutique hacienda-style property was built in 1933 but feels like a retro daydream, set on more than an acre of space and boasting 18 upscale bungalows. It’s a luxurious and contemporary traveler destination to enjoy access to the best Palm Springs entertainment and nightlife scene while offering a spot to escape in serene privacy. Sip a cocktail poolside in the sunshine, sign up for a therapeutic spa treatment on-site, dine at the Spanish-inspired Azucar restaurant, and enjoy the views from the scenic rooftop bar, Sugar High.

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Del Marcos Hotel

Photo: Del Marcos Hotel
Photo: Del Marcos Hotel
Photo: Del Marcos Hotel
Photo: Del Marcos Hotel

 

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  • Address: 225 W Baristo Rd, Palm Springs, CA 92262
  • Starting from: $495 per night

This hotel was named after one of the “pioneers of Palm Springs,” William. F Cody, a celebrated desert architect. The property was built in 1947 and has since become an officially designated historic site. It has been awarded numerous architectural honors. There are 17 rooms, each feeling like a trip back to the height of the mid-century modern movement. Classic building materials like native stone and redwood are blended with contemporary, elegant design touches that bring the property into the 21st century. The spirit of the 1950s and 1960s is still felt on-site by way of the retro furnishing and décor. Each unique room is named after famous artists like Don Wexler, Nat Reed, Julius Shulman and Shag, and it’s almost like their legendary presence is looking out over the property.

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The Three Fifty Hotel

Photo: The Three Fifty Hotel
Photo: The Three Fifty Hotel
Photo: The Three Fifty Hotel
Photo: The Three Fifty Hotel

 

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  • Address: 350 S Belardo Road, Palm Springs, CA 92262
  • Starting from: $505 per night

This intimate, 10-room mid-century hotel feels like an oasis in the desert dating back to 1950. It still boasts the original flair it has always been famed for but underwent a complete renovation in 2017 to add a hint of chic, minimalist flair to the architecture and design mix. One of this timeless retreat’s best features is its unobstructed views of the San Jacinto Mountains from the pool — the best view for sipping on a cold cocktail and sunbathing. The spacious and airy rooms feel like taking a trip to the simpler days of the “Mad Men era,” but blended with contemporary comforts that modern travelers have come to expect in the age of technology. Plus, it’s even within walking distance of the city’s hottest dining destinations, shopping spots, hiking trails, and museums.

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Drift Palm Springs

Photo: Drift Palm Springs
Photo: Drift Palm Springs
Photo: Drift Palm Springs
Photo: Drift Palm Springs

 

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  • Address: 284 S Indian Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262
  • Starting from: $400 per night

This boutique property is nestled into downtown Palm Springs, boasting a design-forward desert-inspired aesthetic. Classic Palm Springs mid-century modern touches blend with tributes to the brand’s Baja California roots through a sense of hippie flair — a bohemian vision and contemporary architecture. There are 84 guestrooms and suites, a resort-style pool with cabanas, an on-site Baja-inspired eatery called Maleza (home to the largest selection of tequila in the area), and sweeping sights of the mountains.

Those who are wellness-inclined will love the dreamy programming. There’s a free “Savasana” session hosted every Saturday morning on an outdoor terrace consisting of an hour-long yoga flow, and each new moon, Drift hosts an hour-long Good Vibrations Sound Bath to usher in a special sense of peace. Other unique amenities include a personalized digital concierge named Eve, as well as complimentary bikes and yoga equipment.

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YARA Hotel

Photo: Yara Hotel
Photo: Yara Hotel
Photo: Yara Hotel
Photo: Yara Hotel

 

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  • Address: 221 E Sonora Rd, Palm Springs, CA 92264
  • Starting from: $603 per night

This 10-room, Spanish-style property isn’t the traditional mid-century style property typically seen in the Palm Springs area — which makes it a unique find. The word “Yara” itself translates to “water goddess” or “little butterfly,” which feels fitting for this delicate property. There are ten total warm, welcoming guest accommodations, including seven rooms and three suites — each with a “Tulum meets the Mediterranean” design aesthetic. Each accommodation faces the heated saltwater pool and courtyard which is dotted with loungers and a firepit. Grab a complimentary breakfast in La Sagrada, the lobby lounge, or grab a drink at the poolside bar. It’s an especially intimate space that feels like vacationing worldwide at a bohemian desert destination.

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Casa Cody

Photo: Casa Cody
Photo: Casa Cody
Photo: Casa Cody
Photo: Casa Cody

 

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  • Address: 175 S Cahuilla Rd, Palm Springs, CA 92262
  • Starting from: $559 per night

Casa Cody is the oldest hotel operating in Palm Springs. It was initially founded by Harriet Cody, Buffalo Bill’s cousin, in the 1920s. The property recently underwent a historic preservation and revitalization project (its designated Class One historic site), which breathed new life into the space. Guests can enjoy contemporary amenities and updated modernist aesthetics while admiring how the hotel has paid homage to its heritage by preserving the original on-site essence. Admire the lush landscaping elements, including flourishing bougainvillea flowers, native desert plants, and fruit trees. Start the day with a fresh breakfast included in each stay and grab a bite later at the breezy on-site bistro, The Marketplace. Cool off in one of the two swimming pools, or book a massage treatment. There are 30 accommodations, many hosting kitchenettes or full kitchens and private patios or fireplaces.

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Life House Palm Springs

Photo: Life House Palm Springs
Photo: Life House Palm Springs
Photo: Life House Palm Springs
Photo: Life House Palm Springs

 

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  • Address: 1700 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92264
  • Starting from: $559 per night

Feel like a Golden Age celebrity at one of Palm Springs’s hottest new hotels — the 66-room Life House Palm Springs, which opened at the end of 2023. This property resembles a blend of traditional Hollywood and mid-century modern glam combined with a unique zen factor that gives it a relaxing atmosphere and aesthetic. The color scheme includes an array of burnt oranges and rusty red tones contrasted with shades of green and taupe — bringing the outside desert landscape in. Relax in the lounge or get some fresh air and sunshine at the pool on one of the luxurious, classic chaise lounge chairs under a bright red umbrella or in a cool cabana. Grab a bite a the outdoor poolside bar and restaurant, which preps fresh, California-inspired bites, or retreat inside for a cocktail at the lounge with its bright, floral wallpaper and classic booth-style seating. Explore the property and spend time in the desert garden clubhouse outfitted with a gazebo and cozy fire pits.

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Villa Royale

Photo: Villa Royale
Photo: Villa Royale
Photo: Villa Royale
Photo: Villa Royale

 

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  • Address: 1620 S Indian Trail Palm Springs, CA 92264
  • Starting from: $539 per night

This romantic, eclectic 38-room villa-style property dates back to 1947, serving as a chic Hollywood retreat for movie stars to get some peace back in the day — and has since transformed into a tranquil, modern oasis for guests 21 and over. Guests can admire detailed design work like terracotta-roofed structures surrounding courtyards dotted with Spanish fountains and decor like black-and-white tiles and bold artwork. The lush landscaping makes the space feel alive, with tall palm trees, bougainvillea flowers, and rich mahogany wood paneling. Dine at Del Rey, which serves Spanish and Mediterranean-inspired cocktails and bites.

Admire the on-site artwork, which includes 50 originals commissioned exclusively for the hotel and a spray-painted mural stating, “Welcome to Your Paradise,” welcoming guests upon arrival at the property. Sign up for a massage to fully unwind. Other on-site amenities include bicycles, morning coffee service, and a “welcome drink” at check-in.

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The Colony Palms

Photo: The Colony Palms Hotel and Bungalows
Photo: The Colony Palms Hotel and Bungalows
Photo: The Colony Palms Hotel and Bungalows
Photo: The Colony Palms Hotel and Bungalows

 

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  • Address: 572 N Indian Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262
  • Starting from: $400 per night

This 57-room property was established in 1936 as a “Colonial House” by Al Wertheimer, a reputed mobster and member of the infamous “Purple Gang.” The Spanish Colonial-style hotel changed hands a few times over the decades but has continued its legacy until today, as it has since been transformed into a modern, adults-only retreat.

The hotel feels more exclusive than some other similar spots in the neighborhood, with intimate little private nook areas scattered throughout the property, along with cozy fire pits and the pièce de ré·sis·tance — the pool, which showcases a stunning view of the San Jacinto mountains, and cocktail service. Dine at The Colony Club, which serves American Continental and classic European dishes — or sign up for a restorative treatment at the full on-site spa. The guest rooms are spread out throughout the property to offer a sense of peace and privacy and are furnished to feel comfortable and spacious – each seemingly featuring unique decor to reflect their distinctive personalities.

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Fleur Noire

Photo: Fleur Noire Hotel
Photo: Fleur Noire Hotel
Photo: Fleur Noire Hotel
Photo: Fleur Noire Hotel

 

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  • Address: 1555 N Indian Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262
  • Starting from: $342 per night

The highlight of this newer 21-and-over oasis is likely the striking graphic floral wall murals by internationally renowned artist Louise Jones — but that’s far from its only draw (the inn is also adorned in endless flower wallpaper inside and real flora and fauna flourishing outside). There are 21 uniquely designed casitas, bungalows, and suites in Spanish-style stucco buildings outfitted with romantic tiled roofs. Adirondack chairs encircle fire pits dotting the courtyard space, along with oversized board games, a cornhole set, and a centrally located pool. Don’t miss the on-site speakeasy champagne rosé bar called La Boisson (and of course, guests can order drinks to be delivered poolside, too).

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L’Horizon Resort & Spa, Hermann Bungalows

Photo: L'Horizon
Photo: L'Horizon
Photo: L'Horizon
Photo: L'Horizon

 

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  • Address: 1050 E Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92264
  • Starting from: $600 per night

The 21-and-over L’Horizon Resort & Spa is just minutes from downtown Palm Springs. It was built in 1952 by famed architect William F. Cody. This luxurious desert escape has a rich history associated with hosting the Hollywood elite, and today is a private retreat boasting unparalleled service. Dine at the intimate alfresco on-site eatery, SO•PA, which is outfitted with fire pits and fountains to create the ultimate outdoor dining experience. Set an appointment at the on-site spa, which boasts amazing mountain views from its peaceful white canvas cabanas and tranquil indoor-outdoor space. Guests will spend the night in one of the beautiful bungalows spread out over three acres of space — offering a sense of privacy and seclusion on their own private patio equipped with an outdoor shower.

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