Escape the January Blues With a Weekend Getaway in the Desert
When the desert sun calls, there’s no better way to answer than with a luxurious winter escape to Palm Springs. With its striking landscapes, rich history and iconic design, the city is a haven for those looking to escape the coastal fog. Whether you’re craving midcentury modern elegance, Old Hollywood glamour or Moroccan-inspired serenity, the city’s collection of boutique hotels is sure to sweep you off your feet (right into a lounge chair). Here are seven of our favorite boutique hotels in Palm Springs for a “winter” getaway.
Holiday House
The Vibe: Midcentury chic with a touch of whimsy.
Tucked in the heart of downtown Palm Springs, Holiday House blends midcentury charm with an eclectic twist. Originally designed by Herbert W. Burns in 1951, this adults-only retreat was reimagined in 2017 by designer Mark D. Sikes, creating a serene space in calming shades of blue. Meanwhile, art lovers will delight in the works by icons like David Hockney, Roy Lichtenstein and Herb Ritts, while the bar’s Gio Ponti-inspired tilework adds a splash of whimsy. Guests can enjoy meals at The Pantry helmed by Chef Jon Butler, which serves a stellar lobster roll and hosts special events like the Fried Chicken Family Dinner twice a month. With no televisions or phones in the rooms, this Palm Springs hotel is designed for those seeking true tranquility this winter.
Sparrows Lodge
The Vibe: Rustic chic meets laid-back luxury.
Originally built in 1952 as Castle’s Red Barn, Sparrows Lodge exudes warmth and charm with its russet-red walls, exposed beam ceilings and concrete floors adorned with inlaid pebbles. This adults-only property has been lovingly restored to feel like a summer camp for grown-ups, complete with butterfly chairs, Swiss Army blankets and a communal fire pit perfect for evening gatherings.
Days at this boutique hotel in Palm Springs start with a simple breakfast featuring muffins, yogurt and granola. Lunches are light and refreshing, while Chicken Wednesdays and Steak Saturdays offer communal dinners that feel like a family reunion—prepared by Chef Jon Butler and served in the rustic barn. End your day by the pool, surrounded by umbrellas, misters and desert breezes.
Korakia Pensione
The Vibe: Moroccan mystique with Mediterranean charm.
A 1.5-acre oasis of lush gardens, turquoise pools and historic villas, Korakia Pensione transports guests to another world. Originally built in the 1920s by painter Gordon Coutts to recreate his life in Tangier, the property combines Moroccan and Mediterranean influences, making it a little slice of paradise in the desert.
Each of the 28 villas and rooms is uniquely designed with vintage furniture, turntables and thoughtful touches. Meanwhile, silent-screen star J. Carrol Naish’s former Mediterranean villa adds to the property’s storied charm. Begin your morning with a fresh breakfast served in the citrus-scented courtyard, then relax by the pool or explore the surrounding neighborhood. In the evening, enjoy cocktails from the Moroccan Bar, delivered straight to your lounge chair.
El Mirasol Villas
The Vibe: Spanish style meets laid-back luxury.
Originally built in the 1940s by Howard Hughes, El Mirasol Villas, poetically known as “flower in the sun,” offers a unique blend of Spanish architecture and Old Hollywood charm. The property features bungalows and studios with private patios, custom furnishings and access to two pools, a 10-man spa and a eucalyptus steam room. The lush, garden-filled grounds display Mexican paver pathways and soothing fountains. This boutique hotel in Palm Springs a haven for winter wellness! Breakfast is served daily on the patio by the fireplace, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere ensures every guest feels right at home. Be sure to check out nearby gems like the Mojave Flea Trading Post for vintage treasures and Sherman’s Deli & Bakery for some of the best sandwiches in the desert—both just a short walk or bike ride away!
Amin Casa
The Vibe: Glamorous elegance steeped in Hollywood history.
Once home to screen legend Gloria Swanson, Amin Casa is a Palm Springs boutique hotel that oozes sophistication and intimacy. With just four private bungalows and a stunning two-bedroom residence, this property offers an exclusive and serene experience for those seeking a warm-weather winter escape. And in terms of landscaping, the grounds are impeccably maintained, with lush gardens and shaded walkways creating a peaceful ambiance. Each bungalow features a full kitchen, making it perfect for longer stays or those who enjoy the comforts of home. Amin Casa also doubles as a charming wedding venue. The property offers breathtaking views of the San Jacinto Mountains as a backdrop for your special day.
Andreas Hotel & Spa
The Vibe: Spanish Revival elegance with pampered relaxation.
Built in 1935, the Andreas Hotel & Spa is a hidden gem in the heart of downtown Palm Springs. This adults-only property features 25 rooms and suites, each decorated in warm tones with pillow-topped beds and oversized Jacuzzi tubs. The on-site spa is a standout, offering treatments like the Desert Honey Facial and California Orange Blossom Scrub. Spend your days lounging by the shaded pool deck, where the poolside bar serves refreshing drinks. Or, explore the vibrant downtown scene just steps away. Andreas offers an intimate and luxe escape with unbeatable convenience.
Desert Paradise Resort Hotel
The Vibe: A welcoming gay men’s retreat.
Located in the the Warm Sands neighborhood, Desert Paradise is a clothing-optional boutique hotel designed for relaxation and connection. The 14-room hotel features a saltwater pool, spa, outdoor shower, steam room, dry sauna and lush grounds. Together, these create a tranquil atmosphere for guests. In terms of fare, a continental breakfast is served daily, and plans for kitchenette-equipped rooms make this an ideal spot for extended stays. And with an intimate, home-away-from-home vibe, guests often book their next stay before leaving.
