It’s no secret why both A-listers and weary travelers flock to the alluring Greater Palm Springs region seeking world-class R&R. Whether it’s seaweed wraps, aromatherapy, or the healing powers of hot springs, these Southern California desert destinations offer a wide selection of unique treatments designed to soothe the mind, body, and soul. Recharge and pamper yourself in style at these five luxurious desert spas.
1. Palm Springs Yacht Club, Parker Palm Springs
This Jonathan Adler–designed spa in Palm Springs plays up its yacht-club motif: cruise-liner deck chairs, porthole windows, and mermaid and seashell art. Kickstart your pampering with a seaweed wrap, hot oil scalp treatment, or salty sea body buffing, then lounge in peace by the saline pool. When you run out of things to think about, sip a cucumber-infused cocktail and scan for celebrities. Then, retreat to your impeccably styled room or one of the resort’s elegant dining establishments to cap off your desert getaway.
2. Moroccan Spa, Sands Hotel & Spa
Marrakech glamour marries Coachella chic at this Indian Wells spa decked out in rosy pink hues, Carrara marble, and bold mosaic tiles. Stroll down an olive tree–lined walkway to three intimate treatment rooms, then relax into a North African–inspired massage, facial, or body scrub. Stress vanishes like a mirage with the Royal Rhassoul Body Treatment, a blissful masque of rose petals, coconut milk, honey, and Moroccan clay.
3. Spa La Quinta, La Quinta Resort
Just walking through this tranquil resort is enough to make you break up with your to-do list, but once your chosen treatment begins—agave nectar body therapy, desert-inspired facial, or “wine-down” massage—you’ll cast off any lingering cares. The spa’s pools, steam saunas, therapy rooms, Pilates and yoga classes, and hair-and-nail salon check off every self-care need, but its most rejuvenating feature may be the stunning views of the Santa Rosa Mountains.
4. Spa Las Palmas, Omni Rancho Las Palmas
Kids have a blast at this Rancho Mirage resort’s pools and water park, but parents prefer the 20,000-square- foot spa, with aromatherapy showers, a sanctuary pool, fitness center, and salon. Start with a cactus massage—your therapist places nopal cactus pads on your skin to aid in detoxification, then kneads your muscles into serenity. Follow that up with a guava sugar scrub or a chi energy-balance facial.
5. Azure Palm Hot Springs Resort & Day Spa Oasis
In Desert Hot Springs, located 12 miles from downtown Palm Springs, mineral water emerges from the ground rich in restorative elements. Warm-water bliss comes standard in this town, but this resort stands out thanks to such extras as the Himalayan Salt Room, juice fasting and yoga retreats, and come-as-you-are vibes. Kiss your skin’s impurities goodbye while floating in a spring-fed lap pool or any of five outdoor hot tubs, then melt into a cocoon wrap of desert sage clay.
When it comes to wellness, the Golden State offers no shortage of transformative experiences for the health-conscious traveler. Whether you gravitate towards traditional healing therapies like Ayurvedic treatments and hot stone massages, or prefer cutting-edge wellness practices like cryotherapy and sound healing, California has something for everyone. Learn to perfect your tree pose at an oceanside yoga retreat or indulge in some much needed self-care at one of the state’s renowned spas and wellness destinations.