From an Adults-Only Oasis to Cozy Bungalows, Check In to These New Spots

The Greater Palm Springs area has no shortage of iconic hotels with endless mountain views, sexy pools and top-notch restaurants, making it a desirable vacation spot year-round–and not just for people escaping Los Angeles! As the area continues to evolve into one of California’s most-loved regions, new accommodations are rivaling the legendary resorts. Although we love the classics, the unique hotels moving in have piqued our interest, and we’re spilling the tea on the best new places to stay. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway to recalibrate your chakras or to just chill poolside all day with a cocktail, the Coachella Valley has the right spot to live out your dream desert vacation. 

 

Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa

Island living meets desert luxury at the first ever Tommy Bahama resort in Indian Wells. With 215 guest rooms and thoughtfully designed villa suites nestled on 11 acres of lush gardens and citrus trees, Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa encourages their guests to embrace their island state of mind.

Every inch of this luxury resort now features that unique Tommy Bahama charm we know and love. Upon check-in, guests can expect an elevated yet laid-back vibe, along with design details like tropical wallpaper and teakwood. The oasis vibes continue at the property’s new Spa Rosa, which features outdoor soaking pools and a bounty of rejuvenating treatments inspired by island endeavors. Book the Perfect Escape Spa Package for a fully customizable wellness experience that includes a massage, a facial and a complimentary glass of champagne. 

When it comes time to dine, enjoy a locally sourced brunch (including mimosas) on the olive grove patio at Grapefruit Basil—the resort’s signature restaurant and bar. Or, chill poolside while sipping on a Frozen Icy 808—their twist on a Hawaiian Mai Tai—at Chiki Palm, where you’ll find a smattering of pink-and-white striped umbrellas and comfy loungers. There’s no better place to set your watch to island time than at Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa in Indian Wells.

 

Drift Palm Springs

Drift Palm Springs is positioned downtown in a prime location—a short walking distance to many of the city’s main attractions. Organic materials, natural colors and textures that reflect the desert’s energy are layered throughout the hotel to create a stylish Cabo-inspired hideaway with a relaxed feel. Private outdoor spaces with swaying hammocks and lounge furniture accompany each room and invite you to settle in. The gentle rocking of the hammock can make you too relaxed and late for plans; this is the type of place where you might want to drift through the day without a solid itinerary. All suites (except the studios) come with a full kitchen for those who love to cook, but if not, Maleza, the hotel’s eclectic indoor-outdoor Baja restaurant, is fully stocked for breakfast, lunch and dinner with boujee tacos, churros and rare mezcals. Grab a cocktail at the bar (we loved the Mexican Firing Squad with tequila, lime, grenadine and Angostura bitters!) and chill the day away on one of the cushioned poolside loungers or in a misty cabana. Guests can expect DJ beats by the pool every Saturday from noon-4 p.m. as well as soothing yoga flow classes on Sol Studio’s outdoor terrace on Saturday mornings. This Palm Springs newbie is worth staying at—catch our drift?

11/18

 

Sensei Porcupine Creek

Sensei Porcupine Creek in Rancho Mirage is a luxurious sanctuary offering a wellness experience with 22 rooms, casitas and villas in a Japanese minimalist-style with a California vibe. The 230-acre sanctuary at the foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains will encourage ideas of connecting with yourself while disconnecting with the outside world with lush spa gardens, an elite golf course and state-of-the-art tennis facilities. If you need help finding your inner peace, Sensei has programs and packages designed to guide you to your higher self. Whether you want more of a self-guided experience or something more structured, there are plenty of options to choose from, all centered around Sensei’s belief system of rest, movement and nourishment. The latter is a collaboration between chef Nobu Matsuhisa and Sensei co-founder Dr. David Agus. Nobu in the desert: need we say more?

12/13

 

Hermann Bungalows

The Hermann Bungalows are elite accommodations in a league of their own. This midcentury modern hotel feels like staying in a billionaire’s chic AF vacation house with 24 modern bungalows bearing exposed wood and beam ceilings, Venetian marble and private outdoor living rooms. A central 85-foot zero-edge pool drenched in sunlight opens to unobstructed mountain views. Loungers submerged just below the water’s surface will help you decompress while you cool off, and craft cocktails are ready to enhance your experience. The resort’s restaurant SO.PA offers al fresco dining in an intimate or family-style setting with fire pits and fountains. The mood will still be personal and alluring in whichever style you dine in. With multiple bars and an elegant spa, leaving this paradise will be challenging, so book enough time to soak in all the refined luxury you only get in Palm Springs.

 

Thompson Palm Springs

The highly anticipated Thompson Palm Springs by Hyatt is set to open later this year. Located in the heart of the city on the iconic Palm Canyon Dr, the hotel will feature 168 bungalow-inspired rooms and 18 suites, all with personal outdoor spaces giving way to views of the San Jacinto Mountains. Perched above the street level below, guests can find retail shops, a restaurant and a wine-tasting room. Inspired by the desert landscape and culture, the property will reflect a midcentury modern design that embodies the Palm Springs lifestyle. Custom art throughout the hotel will add a unique personal touch. The hotel will offer a signature Mediterranean restaurant, two expansive pools, a spa and fitness center and lounge areas to unwind with a craft cocktail. This stylish new addition is set to become a favorite amongst locals and visitors.

12/15

 

Blackhaus Hotel by AvantStay

Blackhaus Hotel is for people who love staying in hotels but want something more long-term or an elevated travel experience. It’s a one-story hybrid hotel with a gorgeous black exterior and a sun-filled natural interior. The property was designed by Chris Pardo, who also designed ARRIVE Palm Springs. These super-modern private studios and suites can host a variety of travelers, as long as they are 25 years or older (sorry, no kiddos allowed). From multiple bedrooms to studios, there’s a room for a solo business traveler, a couple on a romantic getaway and even a suite big enough for a girls weekend. Each bedroom has an ensuite bathroom and a private patio perfect for morning coffee. A large pool is centered amidst the rooms as well as a fire pit and bocce ball court adjacent, making it easy to enjoy the outdoor lifestyle of the desert.

 

Mahala

Mahala in Palm Springs has an ultra-cool urban vibe for adults’ enjoyment only. The contemporary feel is offset by the eclectic art and splashes of color throughout the resort. Private, quiet and quaint, this hotel has all the amenities for a relaxing and enjoyable stay; plus, complimentary snacks for all guests. Each room has a sizable walk-in rain shower and cozy beds ready for you to get your best rest–or none at all, depending on what kind of trip you’re planning. The heated pool is equipped with loungers for the sunbathers looking for a spot to read their next Colleen Hoover novel while soaking in some rays. With many coffee shops and restaurants within walking distance and downtown Palm Springs just a short walk away, we’re sure this new spot will fill up quickly! Remember: no kids are allowed on this vacation.