The 2026 Guide to Palm Springs Hotels: Boutique Stays, Resorts & Desert Hideaways

This guide covers the most relevant places to stay in 2026, from grand resorts to intimate boutique properties, providing a clear view of the current hospitality landscape.

The Current State of Palm Springs Accommodations

The Palm Springs hospitality sector remains a significant economic driver for the region. Recent data indicate that tourism supports a substantial portion of local jobs, with direct visitor spending in the Coachella Valley reaching billions in recent years, a significant percentage of which is allocated to lodging. The market is characterized by distinct seasonal patterns. A January 2025 report showed paid guest occupancy in vacation rentals at 33.3%, a slight increase from the previous year, illustrating the slower winter season dynamic .

New developments continue to shape the destination. The Acrisure Arena, a $300-million venue with over 11,000 seats, has been a game-changer since its opening in 2022, driving hotel demand during traditionally slower periods by hosting more than 120 major events annually . Furthermore, the ongoing expansion of luxury properties signals strong market confidence. For instance, The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage, received city council approval in January 2026 for a major expansion that includes 106 new condominiums, additional event space, and a new restaurant .

rand Resorts & Classic Luxury

For travelers seeking a full-service experience with extensive amenities, the larger resorts in and around Palm Springs offer a self-contained environment.

JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa in Palm Desert remains a benchmark for classic luxury on a grand scale. The property features recently redesigned rooms with private balconies overlooking its lakes and the Santa Rosa Mountains. Its offering is comprehensive: five pools, championship golf courses, tennis facilities, and the Spa Desert Springs, which includes a Wellness Lounge . The dining program is extensive, with ten distinct restaurants and lounges, providing a range of options from poolside casual to high-end tasting menus . For groups, the Blue Star Lounge offers fire pit seating and craft cocktails .

TheRitz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage is a hillside retreat offering panoramic views of the Coachella Valley. Known for its understated elegance, the property includes a destination spa and fine dining. The approved 2026 expansion, adding 106 condos and new amenities, points to its long-term evolution as a residential-style luxury hub .

La Qinta Resort & Club, a legendary Hollywood hideaway nestled on 45 acres at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains, is currently completing a centennial renovation, set to wrap in 2025. The project aims to preserve the resort’s historic legacy while refreshing its core elements, including a renewed lobby with hand-painted tiles and modernized guest rooms .

Boutique & Design-Forward Hotels

This segment is where Palm Springs’ reputation for distinctive style and midcentury modern heritage truly shines. These properties offer personality and a more intimate scale.

Recent Openings & Major Renovations

Thompson Palm Springs, part of Hyatt, opened in October 2024 and has quickly established itself as a central hub. Located between downtown and the Uptown Design District, the 168-key hotel features bungalow-style rooms with mountain views, two outdoor pools, and a rooftop area . Its signature restaurant, Lola Rose, offers Middle Eastern cuisine. Guest reviews consistently praise the walkable location, friendly staff, and modern, stylish rooms .

The Skyark, a 28-room property, completed a sweeping reimagination in early 2026. The renovation positions it as a modern hangout for couples and small groups. Guestrooms blend mid-century nostalgia with contemporary comfort. The most significant change is on the food and beverage side, with the introduction of The Lost Property, a restaurant serving Coastal American fare, and The Skylark Bar, a poolside spot with a ’90s vinyl theme where bartenders also double as DJs. With over 4,300 square feet of indoor and outdoor space, the hotel is also targeting the private events market.

Ace Hotel & Swim Club, a pioneer of the desert cool aesthetic, completed comprehensive room renovations in early 2025. However, recent guest feedback suggests some inconsistency. Reviews from late 2025 and early 2026 mention ongoing construction, issues with amenities like cold pools and non-functioning jacuzzis, and noise disturbances, leading some long-time guests to feel the property is currently not living up to its former standard. It is advisable to check on the current status of amenities before booking .

Distinctive & Personality-Driven Stays

Parker Palm Springs is an iconic 13-acre estate with a rich history, formerly Gene Autry’s private hideaway. Renowned for its rule-breaking design by Jonathan Adler, the property layers Moroccan influences, Hollywood Regency details, and midcentury silhouettes. It features 144 rooms, five dining concepts, two pools, and the tongue-in-cheek PSYC spa. The hotel recently added padel courts, embracing a sport gaining momentum in the U.S. .The Gene Autry House, a 2,200-square-foot, two-bedroom hideaway with a hidden screening room, represents the pinnacle of its accommodations.

Avalon Hotel & Bungalows Palm Springs, a member of Design Hotels, offers an Old Hollywood feel with a modern twist. Staged around three distinct courtyards with pools and citrus trees, its rooms feature a contemporary Hollywood Regency style with a signature white, black, and yellow palette. The on-site restaurant, Chi Chi, serves soulful Latin dishes in partnership with Tara Lazar, the force behind local favorites like Cheeky’s . The Avalon also features an indoor/outdoor spa with private treatment cabanas .

olony Palms Hotel offers a more intimate luxury experience steeped in history. Originally opened in the 1930s by a former Purple Gang member, this Spanish colonial-style property has hosted Hollywood stars for decades. With just 57 rooms, it provides personalized service and a sophisticated, adults-only atmosphere. Its location puts guests within walking distance of the Uptown Design District .

LHorizon Resort & Spa, Hermann Bungalows, is a serene, adults-only retreat in the Twin Palms neighborhood. Originally designed in 1952 by William F. Cody, the property features 49 bungalows and has been meticulously restored. It is known for its soothing atmosphere, excellent pool, and attentive service, making it a top choice for those looking to unwind and unplug . Guests have noted the quiet comfort and refreshing drinks from the poolside service .

Move Colony Hotel is a classic 16-room property offering an authentic Old Hollywood feel in a quiet, central location. It is consistently praised for its friendly staff, relaxing vibe, and complimentary breakfast and happy hour. The adults-only policy ensures a peaceful environment, and rooms with private balconies are a popular choice for guests seeking extra privacy .

TheRixiee Motel, owned by drag superstar Trixie Mattel, represents a bold and unique entry in the boutique market. Located in the Old Las Palmas neighborhood, its seven thematically distinct rooms, including the Queen of Hearts, have garnered perfect ratings for their personality and execution. Its cultural cachet was solidified by an 8-part reality series documenting its transformation.

Location Strategy: Aligning Place with Preference

The choice of location in Palm Springs can significantly influence a guest’s experience.

Downtown & Uptown Design District: This area is ideal for travelers who prioritize walkability and immediate access to the scene. Properties like the Thompson Palm Springs and the Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel place guests within minutes of the main tthoroughfares’shops, restaurants, and nightlife. The Movie Colony Hotel also offers a quiet residential feel while being a short walk from the action. This central location minimizes the need for rideshares or rental cars for those focused on the urban core.

Indian Wells, Rancho Mirage & Outlying Areas: This region is suited for travelers who intend to spend most of their time on the resort property. Properties like the JW Marriott Desert Springs, The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage, and the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa in Indian Wells offer expansive grounds, multiple pools, golf courses, and full-service spas . The trade-off is a sense of seclusion; guests will need to drive to reach the restaurants and bars of downtown Palm Springs. This area often provides more space and, in some cases, lower rates than the central city.

Distinct Neighborhoods: Areas like Twin Palms, home to L’Horizon Resort, offer a quiet, residential setting with a focus on design and tranquility. The choice ultimately depends on whether a visitor’s priority is on-property amenities or external exploration.

Practical Considerations for Booking

Understanding the market dynamics can help in planning a trip. Historically, Palm Springs has maintained annual occupancy levels in the low-to-mid 60% range since 1996, with average daily rates consistently rising above inflation . Weekend demand remains robust year-round, while weekday rates are more variable and can offer better value, especially during the hotter summer months.

For the most up-to-date information on pricing, availability, and specific amenities, it is recommended to checkthet hotel websites or major booking platforms. Given the rapid evolution of the hospitality scene, directly verifying details ensures a stay that meets specific expectati