I found a new favorite place to visit that is the true definition of affordable luxury. Desert Hot Springs is the perfect destination if you are looking for sunshine, quirky culture, and a bit of relaxation without the Palm Springs price tag.
Known as California's “spa city,” this little desert town completely surprised me. I thought I would spend the day soaking my troubles in mineral pools.
Instead, I found myself exploring a hand-built rock house, learning the story of Cabot's Pueblo Museum, and even walking through a soothing mineral rock river that released tension I didn't even realize I was carrying in my feet.
What makes Desert Hot Springs truly unique is its natural aquifer, where both hot and cold mineral waters flow directly from the ground.
This rare phenomenon gives rise to the city's 25+ boutique spas, each drawing directly from the aquifer, where you can soak in healing waters known for their high mineral content.
Unlike Palm Springs, which has a glitzier, more polished vibe, Desert Hot Springs feels different: more eclectic and more accessible.
In fact, Desert Hot Springs was shaped by people who weren't always welcomed in nearby Palm Springs. Instead of fighting for a seat at someone else's table, they built their own, creating their own country clubs and communities.
One of the first was Desi Arnaz and Lucille Ball in the 1950s, after being turned away in Palm Springs for being Cuban American. That independent, do-it-yourself spirit is still alive here today.
And here's something new I learned during our visit: Desert Hot Springs is one of just a handful of global energy vortex cities right up there with places like Sedona and even Cairo. Combine that energy with the area's unique microclimate, and it makes sense why people flock here for renewal, not just relaxation.
There are so many ways to experience Desert Hot Springs. Whether you want to soak in naturally heated mineral pools, discover quirky small-town history, or simply enjoy a quiet desert escape, Desert Hot Springs has a way of grounding you. And the best part? You can experience it all in just one day.
Enjoy the Healing Waters of Desert Hot Springs
The top thing to do in Desert Hot Springs is enjoy the mineral-rich waters. You can either get a day pass to enjoy the springs or even splurge and stay for the night in several places.
I will say that considering what you get (and how beautiful these spas are), it is much more affordable than you think. I was very surprised by this.
I assumed that if I wanted to stay, I would have to take a second mortgage out on my home. Luckily, that was not the case here, which was a welcome surprise.
Top Hot Springs and Spas to Visit
Desert Hot Springs is home to several excellent hotels and spas, but to make it easy, I have narrowed it down to my top three.
Two Bunch Palms
Two Bunch Palms is one of the most popular hot springs in Desert Hot Springs, and for good reason. The mineral pools are heated naturally to around 99 to 104°F and do not have that strong sulfur smell you sometimes get at other hot springs. The moment you step in, you are instantly relaxed.
The property is quiet, adults only, and has plenty of space to spread out with palm trees, hammocks, and desert views. The spa is another highlight offering several treatments and bungalows that make the whole experience even more peaceful.
And the food is excellent. They serve creative, healthy dishes that feel as special as the soaking experience.
If you plan a visit, I recommend it as a day trip spot. You can grab a day pass, enjoy the pools, book a treatment, and maybe stay for a meal.
That way, you get the best of what Two Bunch Palms is known for without worrying about the overnight side.
Pro tip: Reserve one of the private tubs or grotto soaks if you want a little extra peace and quiet, and try to go midweek when it is calmer and a bit easier on the budget.
👉 Ready to unwind? Check current rates and availability at Two Bunch Palms →
Azure Palm Hot Springs
Azure Palm Hot Springs was one of my favorite stops. When we arrived, we felt peaceful, quiet, and like we were in our own private club. The views are incredible, with mountains in the distance and desert light all around. The whole space has a calming energy that makes you instantly slow down.
The mineral pools are beautiful, but the extra touches make Azure stand out. They have an ice room, a Himalayan salt room, and plenty of indoor and outdoor soaking options.
We even had the chance to do the reflexology walk, which looks simple but is surprisingly relaxing (and a little eye-opening about how much tension your feet hold).
If you want to splurge, they also have suites with private tubs filled with natural hot spring water.
If you don't want to stay overnight, day passes are available, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the pools, spa, and café. But, if you can swing a night or two, it's worth it for the whole experience.
Pro tip: Plan your soak around sunset. Watching the sky change colors over the mountains while you're in the water is pure magic.
👉 Ready to unwind? Check current rates and availability at Azure Palm Hot Springs →
Mi Kasa Hot Springs
If you are looking for a spot that feels more like a hidden retreat than a polished resort, Mi Kasa Hot Springs is it. It is LGBTQIA+ owned, adults only, clothing optional, and 420 friendly. The vibe here is all about freedom, relaxation, and community. It is not a party spot. Instead, it is a place to fully unwind, soak in natural mineral waters, and feel completely at ease.
The property is small, intimate, and run with heart. The hosts are known for their warm hospitality and make you feel like family the minute you arrive. The mineral pool, hot tub, and tubs are open 24 hours, and the water comes straight from the natural aquifer with no chemicals. You can even control the temperature in the smaller tubs, anywhere from a cool 85 degrees to a hot 115. The setup feels personal and private, and there is always space to relax, whether you want to float in the pool, sit by the fire pits, or just nap in the desert sun.
Mi Kasa is welcoming and judgment-free. The crowd tends to be friendly, open, and diverse, which adds to the easygoing atmosphere. If you are looking at exploring a clothing-optional property, this would be the perfect place to try.
One thing to know is that Mi Kasa does not have a restaurant or food service. Most guests bring groceries, use the outdoor kitchen, or quickly drive to nearby markets and restaurants. Once settled in, you do not need to leave unless you want to.
This may not be the right fit if you want a bigger spa resort with all the bells and whistles. But if you are looking for a smaller, affordable, and unique hot springs experience that feels personal and relaxed, Mi Kasa is the kind of place you will want to come back to again and again.
Pro tip: Book one of the poolfront rooms if you can. You will have quick access to the mineral pools and some of the best views on the property.
👉 Ready to unwind? Check current rates and availability at Mi Kasa Hot Springs →
Choosing Your Hot Spring Experience
If it is your first time in Desert Hot Springs, I would start with a day pass at Azure Palm or Two Bunch Palms. Both allow you to soak in the mineral pools, wander the grounds, and maybe even get a quick massage.
A few hours is all it takes to understand why people swear the water makes them feel lighter. Spend some time just floating and let the minerals do their thing.
Mi Kasa Hot Springs is an excellent choice if you are craving something smaller and more personal. It has a laid-back, welcoming vibe that feels more like staying with friends than visiting a resort. It is affordable, friendly, and the kind of place where you can truly unplug.
No matter which spot you choose, give yourself the gift of slowing down. The desert reminds you to breathe, rest, and reset.
Packing tip: Bring flip flops, a towel, and a reusable water bottle.
Explore Local Art, History, and Culture
Sure, the healing mineral springs are the star attraction here. But, Desert Hot Springs has so much history, local art, and culture that you will want to make time to experience it. You have to check out the art and local history scene before or after you're done soaking.
Miracle Hill and Cabot's Pueblo Museum Immersive Experience
Cabot's Pueblo Museum is one of the most fascinating pieces of architecture you will ever walk through. Built almost entirely by hand from adobe, stone, and salvaged wood, the four-story, 35-room home is filled with history and personality at every turn.
What makes it even more impressive is how it came to be. When Cabot Yerxa arrived in Desert Hot Springs in 1913, he claimed 160 acres of land. In those early years, survival was tough.
With no local water source, he often walked or rode several miles round-trip just to haul buckets of water from Palm Springs. Everything changed when he started digging his own well.
Cabot worked closely with the local Cahuilla people, who shared their knowledge of the desert landscape and helped him understand where water could be found.
Eventually, he struck 132-degree mineral water, the same healing hot springs that feed many of the spas in town today. Later, a second well revealed cool, fresh water. The combination of hot and cold wells so close together became known as Miracle Hill.
From there, Cabot poured his life into building his Pueblo, four stories, 35 rooms, and more than 150 windows (some even on the inside), all crafted from adobe, stone, and salvaged wood. The result is part fortress, part folk art, and entirely unique.
When you wander through, look for:
- Original adobe construction with thick, desert-friendly walls, arches, and built-in nooks that have stood for nearly a century
- Eclectic art and artifacts, including the curious two-faced statue in the “earth room”
- Pioneer stories, like those of trailblazing women such as Hilda Gray, one of the area's first female homesteaders
Pro tip: Take the guided tour. The guides bring the space to life, sharing Cabot's deeper connection with the land and the Cahuilla people.
If you time it right, you may also catch one of the outdoor art shows or cultural events hosted on the grounds, which keep Cabot's vision of creativity and community alive.
Pil-o-Rox rock house
Pil-O-Rox Rock House (also called the Historic Rock House) is one of the first homes built in Desert Hot Springs and a real piece of desert history.
It was built in 1946 by Lee A. Watkins, a mining businessman from Colorado, who started building it when he was 70. He built it by hand using stones from the desert, salvaged materials, and cactus wood.
Watkins made almost everything inside himself, furniture, lamps, shelves, picture frames, all from cholla cactus wood. When you visit you can see the detail and craftmanship that went into making these items.
The house has held up remarkably well despite decades of desert weather and occasional earthquakes. Thick walls, strong arches, and careful construction have favored it.
In 2019, the Desert Hot Springs Historical Society acquired the house. It was officially designated a Historic Landmark in January 2024, giving it extra protection.
Since then, it has been restored and preserved to keep the original character intact. The home now serves as the historical society's headquarters, museum, and venue for public events and exhibits.
When you visit, here's what to look for:
- The cactus-wood furniture, lamps, and art pieces that Lee Watkins built.
- The architectural features included arches, built-in shelves, thick stone walls, and a “door within a door” that helped with ventilation and kept rattlesnakes out.
- The size and layout: about 1,300 square feet, preserved in its original form.
Houses like this are disappearing. As modern development expands, most of the vernacular “rock homes” that were built by homesteaders in the area have been demolished and replace with modern homes.
Pil-O-Rox is one of the rare ones left in its original form, and the only way to really appreciate that is up close.
Pro tip: The house is open for tours (check their schedule). If you can, plan a visit during one of their public events to see the exhibits, learn from the local historical society, and soak in the atmosphere.
Mission Creek Preserve and Local Events
Mission Creek Preserve is just a short drive from Desert Hot Springs and is an excellent spot if you want to get outside for a few hours.
The trails are easy to follow, the creek adds a nice change from the dry desert around it, and the wildflowers really pop in spring. You may even see wildlife like bighorn sheep or desert birds along the way.
The preserve has an easy trail system that takes you past historic stone cabins and leads to the Stone House, where you will find restrooms, shaded picnic tables, and access to longer hikes.
If you want to push further, you can connect to the Pacific Crest Trail just a few miles away. Families and dog owners especially love this spot since it is kid-friendly and has plenty of places to rest and explore.
The creek is a highlight, with running water most of the year, making this part of the desert feel like an unexpected oasis.
A few tips from locals and visitors:
- If you take it slowly, the dirt road into the preserve is bumpy but manageable in any car.
- The trails have little shade, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
- Spring is the best time to visit if you want cooler weather and fields of wildflowers.
Along with outdoor escapes, Desert Hot Springs has a creative side that shows up in its community events.
The city celebrates Riverside County Arts & Culture Month every April with art pop-ups, gallery shows, and hands-on workshops. You will find guided art hikes, clay classes, and evenings with music, food, and plenty of friendly locals.
The vibe is casual and welcoming. You will see locals set up in lawn chairs connecting with each other. It is a fun way to meet artists, hear their stories, and get a feel for the community.
If you are planning your visit, pair a morning hike at Mission Creek with an afternoon at one of the local art events. Together, they give you a fuller picture of Desert Hot Springs: nature, history, and creativity all rolled into one.
Other Outdoor Options
After a long spa soak or a stop at one of the museums, you might find yourself craving some fresh air and open space. Locals don't spend all their time in mineral pools, and sometimes the perfect desert day ends with something as simple as a sunset walk while the mountains turn lavender.
Locals recommend checking out a few of the city parks if you've had your spa time. Mission Springs Park is a good pick if you're traveling with kids or want room for a picnic.
Wardman Park offers a quieter vibe with shady spots to sit and relax. For a more scenic option, Highland Springs Park has walking loops and is popular with birdwatchers.
I didn't make it to the parks on this trip, but if you're looking for a free, low-key way to spend an afternoon, these are easy options that give you a taste of the local side of Desert Hot Springs.
Plan Your Day Trip or Stay in Desert Hot Springs
Planning goes a long way if you want to make the most of your time in Desert Hot Springs. You can come in for the day, book a night to enjoy the mineral waters without rushing, or even use the city as a base to explore nearby spots like Palm Springs and Joshua Tree.
Knowing where to stay, eat, and explore will help you spend less time figuring things out and more time actually enjoying yourself.
Where to Stay for Maximum Value
If you want to experience Desert Hot Springs, stay at one of the boutique resorts or cozy inns that tap into the mineral aquifer. That way, you're soaking in the same healing waters people travel all over to enjoy without blowing your budget.
Here are a few options that balance comfort, character, and value.
The Spring Resort & Spa
If you're craving peace, quiet, and a touch of luxury without the big Palm Springs scene, The Spring Resort & Spa is a solid choice.
This adults-only spot is built around three mineral pools and saunas, all set in a calm, garden-like setting. Guests rave about the serenity (there's even a no-loud-cell-phone policy), so it's perfect if you want real downtime.
The rooms are simple but comfortable, and the staff often goes the extra mile with thoughtful touches like surprising you with a chilled bottle of wine for your birthday. The spa menu is extensive, with more than 30 treatments.
Good for: Couples or solo travelers who want a serene, spa-focused getaway.
💡 Tip: If you want to save extra money check out off season rates in the summer where you can stay for less.
👉 Ready to unwind? Check current rates and availability at The Spring Resort and Spa
Azure Palm Hot Springs
Azure Palm feels like a full retreat (and it is one of my faves), with mineral pools, salt rooms, saunas, yoga classes, and even an on-site café. The grounds are beautifully kept, and the mountain views make every soak feel like a reset.
I love that you can rotate between the tubs, pool, and spa amenities all day, then grab fresh salads or juices before returning to your room for a nap.
Accommodations are spacious and comfortable. We had a chance to visit the spa suite, which has views of the springs and a private tub that taps right into the springs. It was stunning.
Good for: Couples, groups, or solo travelers who want a quiet but full-service spa stay.
💡 Tip: Spring for a spa suite with a private tub. Day passes are also available if you don't want to book a room.
👉 Ready to unwind? Check current rates and availability at Azure Palms Hot Springs
Lido Palms Resort & Spa
Lido Palms is a longtime favorite for regulars. It's small (about 10 rooms), adults-only, and centered around three mineral pools, one indoors and two outdoors, that guests describe as “truly magical.” Because of its intimate size, it never feels crowded.
Each room has a full kitchen, which makes it easy to cook a meal or two and saves you money on treatments. It's not flashy; it has more of an old-school motel vibe. But it's clean, comfortable, and well cared for by the new owners.
Good for: Travelers who want healing waters and a restorative stay without fuss. It's also great if you like the option of cooking your own meals.
💡 Tip: Don't miss a soak under the stars. This is one of the most peaceful nighttime experiences in town.
👉 Ready to unwind? Check current rates and availability at Lido Palms
Hope Springs Resort
Hope Springs is a small, stylish hideaway designed for total relaxation. With three mineral pools, hot tubs, and clean, modern rooms that open right onto the water, it feels like your private desert retreat.
The outside might not wow you at first glance, but inside, it's a true hidden gem. Breakfast is included, along with light bites and drinks, which is always a bonus for me. The calm atmosphere makes it especially popular with couples looking to slow down.
Good for: Couples seeking a quiet, romantic getaway or solo travelers who appreciate boutique style and thoughtful design.
💡 Tip: Catch sunrise or sunset from the pool. The views over the valley are unforgettable.
👉 Ready to unwind? Check current rates and availability at Hope Springs
Desert Hot Springs Inn
This six-room boutique inn feels more like a casual B&B than a resort. The mineral pool and hot tub are the main draws, and evenings around the fire pit with twinkle lights and mountain views add to the charm.
What makes this place unique is how pet-friendly it is. Dogs are welcome with no fees, no size limits, and even a little park in the back. Rooms are basic but clean, many with kitchenettes for easy meals.
It's good for Pet parents, budget-conscious travelers, and anyone who prefers a simple soak over a resort-style stay.
💡 Tip: Ask for a room by the pool if lounging there is your main plan.
👉 Ready to unwind? Check current rates and availability at Desert Hot Springs Inn
Onsen Hotel & Spa
Onsen blends boutique style with mineral spring relaxation. Rooms are modern and thoughtfully designed, with details like yoga mats, robes, and dog-friendly extras like bowls and treats. Here, you find a calm atmosphere with a mineral-fed pool and hot tub and staff who go above and beyond.
The breakfast spread is fantastic here. They offer fresh omelets, fruit, baked goods, and coffee that actually hits the spot.
Good for: Couples on a romantic escape, pet parents, and anyone looking for a stylish but low-key base between Palm Springs and Joshua Tree.
💡 Tip: Call ahead if you're celebrating something. Staff often add small surprises to make your stay extra special.
👉 Ready to unwind? Check current rates and availability at Onsen Hotel and Spa
Tips for Getting the Best Value
- Book midweek for lower rates and fewer crowds.
- Choose a property with direct mineral pool access or private soaking tubs. That's where you will get the real Desert Hot Springs experience.
- Don't judge a spot by the exterior. Some of the most low-key inns hide incredible mineral pools inside.
Check if breakfast is included. It can save you cash for spa treatments or an extra dinner out.
Desert Hot Springs Day Trip from Palm Springs
One of the best parts about Desert Hot Springs is how easy it is to make a full day of it. Twenty minutes from Palm Springs, you can spend the morning soaking in mineral pools, wander through hand-built desert architecture, grab a casual lunch, and even squeeze in a hike before returning.
The hardest part is deciding whether to start the day slow or end it that way.
Start with a soak if you're more of a slow morning person. Azure Palm Hot Springs is an easy choice for day passes, with multiple mineral pools, saunas, and a café that serves healthy bowls, juices, and salads. You can settle in for a couple of hours, then have lunch right there without changing out of “spa mode.”
Once fully blissed out, head over to Cabot's Pueblo Museum and the nearby Pil-O-Rox Rock House. Together, they give you a peek into the area's history of self-made homesteaders, complete with cactus wood furniture, stone arches, and more than a few quirky design choices.
Wrap things up with a short afternoon walk at Mission Creek Preserve, where the trails are easy, the views stretch for miles, and you might even catch wildflowers in spring.
If you'd rather earn your soak, flip the order.
Begin at Mission Creek Preserve while it's still cool in the morning. Even a short loop is enough to take in the mountain views and get a feel for the desert's quieter side.
From there, head into town for Cabot's and the Rock House, then end the day at Azure. A late afternoon soak as the sun starts to drop behind the mountains is pure magic, and you can grab an early dinner at the café before cruising back to Palm Springs.
If you want to mix it up, Desert Hot Springs also has a handful of local lunch spots worth checking out. Las Palmas serves hearty Mexican food, Delicias Mexican Cuisine is loved for its housemade tortillas and mezcal flights, and Dillon's Burgers covers the bases with classic American comfort fare.
💡 Pro Tips:
- Bring a towel and plenty of water if you're hiking.
- Pair Cabot's and the Rock House together. They're close, and the stories behind both really bring the town's history to life.
- For the best value, stretch your pass the furthest by sightseeing and hiking first, then a late-day soak at Azure.
And if you're looking to tack on more adventure, consider day-tripping to Joshua Tree National Park while you're already in the area. The scenery is out of this world, and you can hop back to your mineral pool in time for a sunset soak.
Dining and Local Restaurants
Let's talk food. The dining scene in Desert Hot Springs isn't huge. But, what it lacks in volume it makes up for with heartfelt plates and a mix of unexpected flavors. Plus, most meals come without that desert resort price hike.
Azure Palm Café
Located inside Azure Palm Hot Springs, this café surprises many first-time visitors. The menu leans healthy with plenty of vegetarian and vegan choices like think avocado toast, quiche, fresh juices, and hearty grain bowls but they also have sandwiches and burger.
Here you will find fresh ingredients, gorgeous views, and that relaxing spa setting. Just know portions can be on the smaller side and prices a little higher, but that's the trade-off for dining at one of the area's most serene settings.
Dillon's Burgers & Beers
A true desert dive in the best way, Dillon's is where you go for a cold beer, a burger stacked just right, and maybe some live music or karaoke if you hit it on the right night.
The wings and blue cheese bacon burger are must trys, and the atmosphere is welcoming once you step inside. Expect a mix of locals and travelers, plus an old-school bar vibe.
Don Tacorriendo
This mom-and-pop Mexican restaurant serves up handmade tortillas, flavorful tacos, and big plates of enchiladas or chilaquiles that taste like they came straight from a family kitchen.
Portions are generous, prices are fair, and service is warm. Don't miss the carne asada fries or the tacos al pastor. We've been told by the locals that they're some of the best in town.
Other Local Eats Worth Checking Out
If you're hanging around longer or just want more variety, a couple of other local favorites include:
- The Cottage Too – A go-to breakfast and brunch spot known for hearty omelets, fluffy biscuits, and breakfast burritos that locals swear by.
- Kam Lun Chinese Food – Simple, no-frills takeout that hits the spot after hiking or soaking, especially the orange chicken or shrimp fried rice.
Visiting Desert Hot Springs in the Coachella Valley
Desert Hot Springs showed up for me when I visited. It is affrodable, luxurious, quirky and relaxing all at the same time. I didn't even think that was possible. Between mineral pools, rock houses, and that under-the-radar artist energy, the city is a break from usual.
And you can enjoy it without emptying your wallet or needing a whole week off. You can make it a day trip, or use it as your landing pad for side trips to other places like Palm Springs and Joshua Tree National Park. You have so many options.
I walked away from my own first visit both relaxed and genuinely surprised by how much I found to explore.
Ready for your own adventure? Comment with your favorite thing to do in Desert Hot Springs, or let me know what you want to see next time. I hope to see you in Desert Hot Springs.
