The Hotel Guru
The 20 Best Hotels Near Joshua Tree National Park

The 20 Best Hotels Near Joshua Tree National Park

The Joshua Tree National Park is a totally unique desert environment typified by its tree-sized yuccas — or Joshua Trees! Sitting between the Colorado Desert and the Mojave, this region is dotted with oases, and rocky outcrops, so there are about a million different types of adventure-y sports this makes the perfect backdrop for. But the hot springs mean it’s also considered a relaxing escape. Palm Springs is the original desert resort escape, and the majority of our Guru’s picks for the best luxury hotels near Joshua Tree National Park can be found in and around Palm Springs, but if you want to be closer to the park and the desert we have some recommendations further afield. We’ve asked our Hotel Gurus to cap their list of the best hotels near Joshua Tree National Park to 20, but if you can’t find your perfect hotel or resort here, don’t hesitate to get in touch — there are some fantastic Joshua Tree hotels that didn’t make the first cut.

For Unforgettable Views

The Pioneertown Motel is just as cute as the name suggests! Built for Hollywood stars working on Wild West films, the motel is a collection of 19 simply styled wooden cabins with private terraces filled with cacti. Beyond its charm, the best thing about staying here is the views, and the frontier vibe.
If you like hotels with individuality the Monkey Tree Hotel might be ideal. Meticulously built and designed, the result riffs on mid-century style beautifully, with 16 individually detailed rooms and suites in a range of sizes. There’s a central pool and a Scandinavian spa. And you’re surrounded by incredible mountain views

For an Escape

Two Bunch Palms is the oldest mineral hot springs spa in the US, but it’s anything but dated. Two Bunch Palms today has 65 elegant rooms and suites, decorated in a rustic, Scandinavian-feeling style with natural wood accents, shapely furniture and indoor plants. In addition to the hot springs the resort offers a range of wellness treatments and activities, 77 acres of beautiful, peaceful grounds, and an adults only policy.
Sparrow’s Lodge is a secluded, boutique-feeling lodge on the Joshua Tree-side outskirts of Palm Springs. Here you’ll find an absence of screens, but in their place wood fires and wooden furnishings in stylish rooms. Outside there’s a pool, bar and fire pits, and beautiful gardens and views.
Korakia Pensione sounds like it belongs more in the Med. than in Palm Springs, but this Mediterranean feeling name, and resort is a perfect match for the desert backdrop. There are just 28 rooms and suites, all individually decorated in a style reminiscent of the Mediterranean and Morocco — think whitewashed walls, muslin drapes and exposed beams. You’ll find all the features you need here, from the pool to spa, but there’s no restaurant, and no children allowed.

For Families

The views from the infinity pool and terraces of the Ritz Carlton Rancho Mirage stretch for miles, taking in Palm Springs and running right through it, a vista of flat desert colours until you get to the mountains. This is a large resort, with more than 240 rooms and suites, in configurations to suit all family sizes, and there’s a special family pool, as well as one just for adults. There’s a kids club, and a spa, and the fantastic restaurant is one for everyone to appreciate.
The large pool of the Ingleside Inn has fantastic views into the San Jacinto Mountains which make you feel as if you’re a long way from Palm Springs — which you’re not. While inside this elegant inn are 30 rooms, decorated with traditional style, and the perennially popular Melvyn’s restaurant. Family-wise they have cribs and rollaway beds plus some inter-connecting rooms.

For Romance

Right by the West Entrance to the National Park, Sacred Sands is a bijou one-of-a-kind property with only two suites — both with outdoor showers, bath and day bed, so you can appreciate the awe and jaw-dropping views of Joshua Tree. There’s no restaurant, but each suite has a kitchenette, and they’ll stock the fridge for you before you arrive.
The Chateau at Lake La Quinta is right on the banks of serene Lake La Quinta, which is close to Palm Springs, but surrounded by desert scenery. There are just 24 suites, all with lake views from private patios and individually imagined decor. In addition to the idyllic views add a very nice spa and a fine dining restaurant and you have yourself a very romantic desert retreat.
The Sands Hotel & Spa is an elegant boutique hotel about 45 minutes from the Joshua Tree National Park, in Indian Wells. The 46 rooms and suites have a Moroccan twist, that works with the desert surrounds. The pool is perfect for sipping cocktails beside, the Pink Cabana restaurant and bar is both foodie and hip, and the spa is first rate. This is a grown up escape.

For Walkers

A beautifully converted historic, stone house, the Campbell House B&B is in a scenic Mojave Desert spot, just a few miles from the National Park, so ten minutes from incredible hiking and nature trails. It has just 12 rooms and cottage suites, but lots of communal living space, so it feels like a spacious property. Inside it feels cosy, with antiques and objets d’art, while outside there’s lots of open space, with a huge pool and shady outdoor seating. The breakfast is hearty, making it a popular choice for walkers and groups.
Triada Palm Springs is designed like a Mediterranean village, with three white, colonial-style buildings surrounding a large pool. Inside you’ll find 56 white, airy rooms and suites, and outside views of palm trees and the mountains. The restaurant on the terrace has a Mexican flavour. And it’s all just two kilometres from the beginning of the Palm and Tahquitz hiking trails.

For Great Value

1960s motel on the outside, contemporary on the inside, the Ace Hotel & Swim Club is fun and affordable, with two pools and an expansive spa to give weight to its name. This hotel is also large enough to offer something for everyone, and it's close to the pleasures of Palm Springs, but also on the Joshua Tree National Park side, and not far from Salton Sea and Salvation Mountain.
The Palm Springs Hotel is an elegant, 15 room hotel just minutes from downtown Palm Springs. The design and decor is simple and stylish, and rooms feature huge marble bathrooms and private cabanas. Shop in Palm Springs one day, and the next visit the Joshua Tree National Park.
The Alcazar Palm Springs is a quiet, Uptown Palm Springs hotel with 34 simple, minimal rooms, a lovely pool and mountain views. See art on the walls around you, and dine well at local restaurants, but do it all very affordably.

For Staying Cool in the Desert

If you love the glamour of Palm Springs’ Hollywood heyday, the Parker Palm Springs is the ideal property for you; a modern version of the sumptuous classics, with great design features, three pools and two restaurants. The fact that even the spa evokes 60s cool really impresses the Gurus.
What people want most when surrounded by mountainous desert on all sides might be ice cream or a cold beer...Either way ARRIVE Palm Springs has anticipated you with their ice-cream parlour and poolside bar serving craft beer. There’s no restaurant, but you’re within a short walk of many. And the 32 rooms and suites are known for their seriously high-end tech.
The Villa Royale is a collection of spacious, beautifully designed villas about a mile and a half from Downtown Palm Springs. Some of the villas are totally private, while some are divided into rooms, but all are carefully decorated and feature an impressive collection of oil paintings. There are also three pools onsite, and a Mediterranean restaurant/bar.
Built in the 1950s, the Holiday House has been totally made-over in a modern mid-century, Scandi style that seems to work beautifully against the desert backdrop There are just 28 rooms and suites, a pool — with cocktail bar — and a Californian restaurant. Adults only.

Still not sure where to book?

You could browse our recommendations for all the best places to stay in Palm Springs?
Or even extend your reach to include the best places to stay in Los Angeles?
Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.
- Campbell House Twentynine Palms, California 12 rooms from AU$220
  
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  Groups  -  The outdoor common areas of this 12 bedroom B&B make this a great choice for groups looking for a remote getaway
  Back to Nature  -  A charming and secluded historic house set in Mojave Desert just 5-miles from Joshua Tree National Park
  Great walks  -  Explore the hiking and nature trails that run through Joshua National Park
  Sights nearby  -  Visit the Mojave Trails National Monuments
  
  A historic house tucked away in Mojave Desert (just a few miles from Joshua National Park). Charming rooms have a homely feel - packed with antiques and objets d'art. Hearty homemade breakfasts are served, there's a large outdoor pool, and plenty of shady outdoor seating areas. A tranquil hideaway. See More
  
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- Sacred Sands California 2 rooms from AU$535
  
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  Back to Nature  -  Soak in the views around you by day and the milky way above by night. Hike to you heart's content from the property
  Hideaway  -  Only 2 suites surrounded by desert landscapes give this a true James Bond villain style hideaway feel
  Weddings  -  For an intimate wedding like no other this is a unique venue. They also offer elopment packages
  Romantic Break  -  From the outdoor bathtub look out over the Mojave Desert into Joshua Tree National Park
  
  One-of-a-kind property located close to the West entrance of California's Joshua Tree National Park. Just 2 suites - Onyx & Jade - make up this desert get-away, each with outdoor bath, shower and day bed to maximise jaw-dropping views at every turn. Check-in with someone special to escape it all. See More
  
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- Pioneertown Motel Pioneertown, California 19 rooms from AU$286
  
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  Back to Nature  -  Surrounded by sweeping views of the desert - this property feels a million miles away from city life
  Boutique  -  A chic and characterful boutique - a contemporary take on Western design
  Full of character
  Romantic  -  Good for couples.
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  A little corner of the Wild West near Joshua Tree. Once built as a waypost for movie stars of old Westerns and now a chic boutique. Wooden cabins mix traditional fabrics with simple clean design while private terraces are filled with cacti. With stunning scenery, this is a perfect hideaway. See More
  
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- Two Bunch Palms Palm Springs (Desert Hot Springs) 65 rooms from AU$456
  
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  Romantic Break  -  With beautifully appointed suites which induce a sense of peace and tranquility, book this hotel for a laid-back couples' stay
  Total relaxation  -  With yoga, a farm-to-table restaurant and a relaxed, adults-only atmosphere, this hotel is perfect for a slow, restful break
  Spa breaks  -  This hotel offers a range of wellness treatments, in addition to the sauna, pool and hot tub facilities
  Sights nearby  -  Take in spectacular views of Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley from the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
  
  Set on 77 lush acres in Palm Springs, this adults-only hotel is the first carbon-neutral resort, and the oldest mineral hot springs spa, in the USA. Suites induce a sense of tranquillity with exposed stone walls, natural wood accents and indoor plants - an ideal place for rest and rejuvenation. See More
  
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- The Chateau at Lake La Quinta La Quinta, California 24 rooms from AU$345
  
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  Views  -  Resort surrounds La Quinta lake and all rooms have a lake view
  Restrictions on children  -  This is an adults only property
  Restaurant  -  Melange- fine dining
  Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
  
  Nestled in the Californian desert near Palm Springs, this contemporary and recently renovated hotel surrounds the serene and beautiful lake La Quinta. The luxurious suites all have individual custom furnishings, fireplaces, lakeside views and a private patio. A grown-up, romantic retreat. See More
  
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- Sands Hotel & Spa Indian Wells, California 46 rooms from AU$306
  
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  Spa breaks  -  A first rate spa offers treatments combining Western techniques with botanicals from the world-over
  Great walks  -  Joshua Tree National Park is 45 mins' drive away; walk among desert landscapes and admire the Park’s twisted Joshua trees
  Tennis  -  A main local pursuit – try Deep Canyon Tennis Club or admire the pros in action at the Indian Well Tennis Garden
  Restrictions on children  -  Adult only
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  This elegant boutique hotel boasts chic design with a moroccan twist by a world-renowned british designer. Sip cocktails by the poolside, relax in the spoiling spa or enjoy fusion cuisine in the trendy Pink Cabana restaurant and bar. A grown up property ideal for indulgent and rejuvenating breaks. See More
  
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- Ritz Carlton Rancho Mirage Palm Springs (Rancho Mirage) 244 rooms from AU$570
  
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  Romantic Break  -  Bathtubs large enough for two, a romantic fine dining restaurant, and couples' treatments in the spa
  Spa breaks  -  The hotel's spa is one of the best in the region with treatments being locally inspired
  Families  -  The whole family will be kept entertained with the huge range of activities on offer
  Views  -  The whole property offers stunning views over the surrounding desert landscape
  
  A luxury resort located near Palm Springs offering far-reaching desert views. Spacious rooms are decorated in neutral hues, each has a large soaking tub and the best have terraces with fire pits. With a fine dining restaurant and one of the best spas in the region, this is a truly spoiling escape. See More
  
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- Monkey Tree Hotel Palm Springs (California) 16 rooms from AU$277
  
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  Total relaxation  -  Surrounded by mountains, complete with a Scandinavian spa and occupying a quiet spot - ideal for a relaxing brak
  Architectural  -  Built in the 1960s by renowned architect Albert Frey and now carefully renovated - ideal for design enthusiasts
  Restrictions on children  -  Children over 14 are welcomed
  Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
  
  A chic design hotel, built by renowned architect Albert Frey, and now having undergone a meticulous renovation. Rooms vary in size but all have whitewashed walls, modern artwork, and vintage furniture. Complete with a large outdoor pool, a Scandinanvian spa, and healthy breakfasts. A relaxing stay. See More
  
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- The Palm Springs Hotel Palm Springs (California) 15 rooms from AU$277
  
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  Local exploring  -  Get the best of both worlds here with all the bright city lights have to offer yet Joshua Tree just an hour away
  Total relaxation  -  In the basking Palm Springs sun, relax by the pool and enjoy the spacious guestrooms with private terraces
  Sights nearby  -  Spend a day at Joshua Tree National Park, an hour away from the hotel, and explore the iconic desert
  Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor heated saltwater pool
  
  An elegant Palm Springs hotel just minutes from downtown. Rooms are spacious and modern with white on white decor accented by pops of colour and huge marble bathrooms with walk-in showers and private cabanas. Relax poolside and soak in the Palm Springs sun. A chic little hotel conveniently located. See More
  
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- ARRIVE Palm Springs Palm Springs 32 rooms from AU$367
  
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  City Style  -  With high-end tech, communal hangouts and chic modern design - this is a very stylish stay
  Great walks  -  Get out the city and spend a day hiking in the desert
  Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
  Adult Only
  
  As the brainchild of one of the first employees of Facebook, it comes as no surprise that this hotel has some seriously high-end tech. Rooms have an industrial feel, the best have terraces with gas fires. Outside there are communal areas, poolside bar serving craft beers, and an ice-cream parlour. See More
  
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- Sparrow's Lodge Palm Springs (California) 20 rooms from AU$293
  
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  Artworks
  Sights nearby  -  5 minutes away from Palm Springs Art Museum.
  Tennis  -  Tennis court is for all to use.
  Restrictions on children
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  Secluded boutique lodge escape with no screens but gorgeous pool and wood fires. Rooms all showcase wooden furnishing to mirror the great outdoors. The Barn Kitchen offers delicious bites and the bar is well stocked. Koffi town is close-by for restaurants. Relax is the theme. See More
  
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- Triada Palm Springs Palm Springs (California) 56 rooms from AU$160
  
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  Total relaxation  -  With the feel of a Mediterranean village, a large pool and a terrace restaurant - this is a great choice for a relaxing escape
  Great walks  -  Just 2km from the beginning of the Palm and Tahquitz canyon hiking trials
  Restaurant  -  Iluminara Restaurants serves Californian cuisine
  Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
  
  Based on the design of a Mediterranean village with 3 white colonial-style buildings surrounding a large pool. Airy whitewashed rooms have boldly designed headboards, tiled bathrooms and the best have balconies. The terrace restaurant serves Mexican inspired cuisine. Perfect for a relaxing escape. See More
  
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- Alcazar Palm Springs Palm Springs (California) 34 rooms from AU$176
  
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  Short break  -  10 minutes drive from Palm Springs International Airport.
  Hideaway  -  Quiet spot in the Palm Spring's neighbourhood.
  Restaurant  -  Recommended.
  Swimming Pool  -  Indoor/outdoor
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  Family owned neighborhood feel hotel in Uptown Palm Springs great for lazy days by the pool and comfortable nights under Italian cotton sheets. White walls with modern art, this hotel has something of the Med about it. Restaurants like Cheeky's on the block. Exploring by bike or by car is possible. See More
  
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- Villa Royale Palm Springs (California) 38 rooms from AU$210
  
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  Romantic Break  -  Stunning rooms in private villas invite romance in the sun at this cosy, adult only resort
  City Style  -  A collection of stylish villas in West Palm Springs, 5 minutes from Downtown
  Retro/Vintage  -  The resort has an air of Hollywood heyday, reminiscient in its design
  Views  -  The resort offers mountain views from windows, terraces and pools
  
  A luxury collection of free-standing villas boasting 3 swimming pools and an on-site restaurant and bar serving Mediterranean/Cali fare, perfect for couples. 5 minutes drive from Downtown, the villas are spacious and comfortable, but it is their bold, arty and vibrant design that really stands out. See More
  
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- Holiday House Palm Springs (California) 28 rooms from AU$321
  
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  Total relaxation  -  An exceptionally cool and stylish spot, who's service is second to none, and surrounds are utterly tranquil
  Restaurant  -  Serves a menu of American fare daily, 11am-4pm. Several nearby restaurants to choose from for dinner. Complimentary breakfast
  Great walks  -  Go for hikes in stark Joshua Tree National Park, around the saline Salton Sea or San Jacinto Peak
  Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool (all year)
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  An elegant boutique hotel set in the desert in a renovated 1950s hotel. Design is Scandi-chic with pale wood furniture set besides bold blue and white patterns. Soak up the slow pace of Palm Springs, lounge by the pool sipping cocktails and enjoy California-inspired cuisine. A chic adult-only spot. See More
  
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- Korakia Pensione Palm Springs (California) 28 rooms from AU$325
  
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  Spa  -  On site spa and fitness facilities.
  Restrictions on children  -  Children cannot be accomodated.
  Swimming Pool  -  Year round outdoor pool.
  Outstanding location
  
  This Moroccan & Mediterranean themed spa resort in Palm Springs is truly a unique experience! Rooms vary in features, think rustic charm, exposed beams, stone walls, whitewash with antique furnishing, Moroccan style day beds and plenty of muslin drapes. A desert fantasy land! See More
  
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- Ingleside Inn Palm Springs 30 rooms from AU$440
  
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  Total relaxation  -  Set in a secluded spot between the San Jacinto Mountains and Palm Springs - perfect for a quiet getaway
  Local exploring  -  Tennis and hiking are nearby as is Palm Springs and its excellent selection of restaurants and shops
  Great walks  -  A wide range of hikes start near the property, with trails to suit all levels of fitness
  Tennis  -  There are a number of floodlit tennis courts nearby
  
  An elegant inn set in a secluded spot between San Jacinto Mountains and downtown Palm Springs. Traditional rooms feature four-posters, hardwood floors, and antiques. A large outdoor pool has wonderful mountain views while the long-standing Melvyn's restaurant serves innovative fine dining. See More
  
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- Parker Palm Springs Palm Springs (Canyon Sands) 144 rooms from AU$447
  
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  Total relaxation  -  Enjoy the lush gardens, excellent restaurants, sumptuous rooms and a top class spa
  City Style  -  A stylish, design rich retreat a short drive from the city centre
  Restaurant  -  Mr Parker's Restaurant specialises in French Cuisine, while Norma's serves up American and World cuisine
  Designer  -  Clean, bright and boldly playful design by Jonathan Adler
  Recommended by  -  Fodors
  
  Sumptuous design features punctuate this luxury resort in Palm Springs, boasting 3 pools, and 2 restaurants. Reminiscent of the city's Hollywood heyday hotels, the stylish PSYC Spa evokes 60s cool while offering an exhaustive range of contemporary treatments. Perfect for design conscious couples. See More
  
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