Here, old Hollywood glam meets Mid-century modernism and the ghosts of the Rat Pack linger in the red boothed piano bars and iconic movie star homes. There’s something for everybody — even in the accommodations. So, whether you want to stay downtown in the action, or tee off from your hotel, or stay in a celebrity’s home, we’ve listed the best of the best. Each of these hotels are perfectly for enjoying the year-round sunshine, and are dually some of our favorite luxury, wellness or romantic stays as well.
Featured Photo: Dempster desert house in Palm Springs
Ace Hotel & Swim Club
Often dubbed a hipster den, this 179-room hotel was formerly a Westward Ho with a Denny’s attached to it. While it’s centrally located with plenty of restaurants and attractions like Tahquitz Canyon and the aerial tram nearby, the on-site spa, restaurant and bar, two big pools — one with a DJ inside an old school bus playing lush daytime disco — this is just as easily a place you never really have to leave. Dog-friendly with a glamorous Sahara, bohemian-vibe, the rooms feels like being inside an air-conditioned luxury Sibley tent. But no two are exactly alike. Some have a garden patio or a fireplace, others have record players, all have vintage furniture and original artwork created by local artists. Ace Hotel & Swim Club.
Azure Sky
Palm Springs’ newest boutique hotel is a sexy 14-room charmer with its mid-century-modern- design-meets-Zen aesthetic and myriad lounge-y scenes from the firelit living room lobby to the hammock-dotted patios. Palm trees and tres chic black-and-white umbrellas line the kid-free pool at this adults only retreat. Unobstructed views of the San Jacinto Mountains serve as a meditative backdrop when hanging out in “the meadow” by the firepit in the company of olive trees. And when you are ready to leave, the action of Palm Springs is an easy stroll away. Azure Sky Hotel.
La Quinta Resort and Spa
The town of La Quinta was named after the resort, which was established in 1926 as a haven for Hollywood’s rich and famous. A few indications of the good ol’ days remain such as irregular roof tiles on the original casitas which were shaped over the legs of Mexican tile makers — thigh sizes vary! — and Frank Capra’s favorite typewriter, which is still on display. Like a true oasis in the desert, the hacienda-style casitas and suites clustered around 41 pools are situated amongst gardens and pathways. Located at the base of the Santa Rosa mountains, five miles from Empire Polo Club — home to the Coachella and Stagecoach festivals — and ten minutes to several world class golf courses, the resort has no shortage of amenities including eight pickle ball courts, four restaurants and an award-winning spa. La Quinta Resort & Spa.
Hermann Bungalows L’Horizon + Colony
When Los Angeles architectural designer Steve Hermann, the go-to guy for the Hollywood A-listers, revamped the 1952 William Cody bungalow property, L’Horizon, it became the must-stay getaway in Palm Springs. Now he’s opened the Hermann Bungalows, 25 ultra-luxury modern bungalows (a hotel within a hotel), so guests can choose between the nostalgia of the 1950s or the sleek elegance of his forward-thinking bungalow design. Guests enjoy private patios, outdoor showers, custom designed furniture, fluted walnut walls, Frette and more. The natural palettes and organic architecture take inspiration from the surrounding landscape, A zero edge pool with built-in chaise lounges anchors the scene. Guests can also tuck into white canvas cabanas for facials and massages and savor modern contemporary cuisine at SO.PA, L’Horizon’s signature restaurant. Hermann Bungalows L’Horizon & Colony.
Korakia Pensione
Set at the edge of downtown, this Mediterranean-inspired haven has retained its cool vibe and magnetism over the years with its dreamy design and thoughtful touches. Think stone fountains, bougainvillea-laced patios, Moroccan daybeds, colorful textiles, Balinese furnishings, and a vintage book library. After a dip, yoga class or game of bocce, you can shop Korakia’s onsite bazaar or pedal into Palm Springs on their beach cruisers. Traditional Moroccan tea service graces every afternoon, and at night, hundreds of candles and lanterns illuminate the courtyards. As darkness sets in, watch a vintage film on the outdoor screen or float under the stars as the pools are open 24/7. Magic happens here. Korakia Pensione.
House for Rent
In the historic Mesa neighborhood, the stunning Hugh Kaptur-designed On the Rocks house sits high on the hill overlooking Palm Springs. Beloved by A-list celebrities and return guests alike, the home is a perfect example of organic architecture, featuring an open concept layout and endless views soaked in through floor-to-ceiling windows, or from the custom saline infinity pool. ps-ontherocks.com
You can rent Old Blue Eyes’ former home Twin Palms, a four-bedroom that’s filled with Sinatra memorabilia and vintage decor. Splash in the piano-shaped pool where Marilyn Monroe and Tony Curtis used to party with Sinatra tunes filling the air, or make your own music on the original piano in the living room. sinatrahouse.com
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