The Hotel Guru
California
20 Luxury Hotels Southern California

20 Luxury Hotels Southern California

America is exceptionally good at ‘big’ and ‘luxurious’, and Southern California is a great place to prove that statement, over and over and over again. You can find it on the glamorous streets of Los Angeles; on the glorious sunny, sandy beaches of Malibu, Venice Beach and Santa Monica; in amongst the wineries and Spanish-style architecture of the Santa Barbara region; and even in the sweepingly spectacular desert regions around Palm Springs, the Colorado and Mojave Deserts, and the Joshua Tree National Park. Our Hotel Gurus have discovered luxury in both the places they expected it, and in places where they didn’t, so if you’re looking for a luxury hotel in Southern California, this list is a really excellent place to start your search. Instead of categorising by location, they’ve picked their favourites by landscape and guest type, so we have recommendations for luxury beach hotels, and family friendly luxury hotels in Southern California — plus those in urban or desert landscapes. Use our guide and start planning your luxury getaway.

For Luxury By the Ocean

L'Auberge del Mar overlooks the Pacific Ocean from the edge of the picturesque village of Del Mar. There’s a whiff of the nautical in the creamy decor, and the best rooms and suites of the 120 have ocean views. The treatments in the spa focus on the healing power of the ocean too; plus there’s a private walking trail from the hotel to the beach, complimentary beach gear and a beach valet in season.
Sitting very pretty atop a cliff overlooking the Pacific, Terranea is a huge resort hotel, just 30minutes from LA. The views are spectacular from pretty much every room, suite and villa — the hotel is perfectly positioned on a tiny peninsula amid 102 acres, and most rooms have a sea-facing window. Great for relaxing, but also perfect for snorkelling, diving, sailing, playing golf, horseback riding etc..

In the Desert

La Serena Villas is a collection of just 18 stylish villas, in one of the trendiest parts of Palm Springs. Outside might be the desert and bright lights of this fun area, but inside is an oasis of calm privacy, geared up for sun-drenched relaxation. There’s a beautiful spa onsite, and the Mediterranean restaurant is worth staying in for. After which you might want to spend the evening on the roof terrace watching the rest of the world go by…

For Urban Luxury

The name Beverly Hills is synonymous with luxury the world over, but add Waldorf Astoria to Beverly Hills and you’ve got yourself and exceptionally poised hotel stay. There are 170 elegant rooms and suites, the best with private terraces, but all of them with fantastic views, and a rooftop terrace with a restaurant, bar and saltwater pool. The marrying of timeless Art Deco elegance with all the mod. cons. really defines luxury.
For when big and grand is best, you need the Four Seasons Beverly Wilshire, a wonderfully grand hotel in all the senses of the word. Prestigious from the spa to the restaurant, this is a hotel that can be as lavish or understated as your tastes prefer — there are around 400 rooms and suites, so there’s plenty of choice when it comes to size as well as style. The location, between Rodeo Drive and Wilshire Boulevard, is unbeatable.
Big but cool, the Pendry San Diego in the Gaslight District, is a great base for eating well, seeing the sights, and enjoying the nightlife. In luxury. The hotel has six bars and restaurants, including one on the roof — where you’ll also find a pool and spa. Expect fantastic views and plenty of space.

For Rural Luxury

The San Ysidro Ranch is a collection of just 40 suites and cottages on 500 acres of Pacific Ocean-view land. Spacious and private, the accommodation feels intimate and luxurious, and features outdoor rain showers and four poster beds. The ranch also welcomes families — because they have enough space to give everyone the perfect holiday.
Set on 200 acres of beautiful landscape between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, the Ojai Valley Inn is a large, but relaxed retreat. There’s so much space here that you might feel entirely alone as you stroll through the lush gardens of the grounds, but there are also around 240 rooms, suites and villas. That means the choice of facilities is excellent, and the cocktail bars and restaurants have a cheerful, holiday buzz. The kids club is an added bonus.

For Couples

Santa Monica’s Casa del Mar is a stylish guesthouse-style hotel with 129 airy rooms and suites. The hotel is right up against the sand of Santa Monica Beach, so the pool, and the majority of rooms have sea views, and you’re close to the pier. Interiors feature dark wood and white linen, and there are eclectic objets d’art to make each room feel entirely original. All the suites have a spa bath with a view.
The Chateau at Lake La Quinta is just outside Palm Springs, surrounded by enough desert to make the lake this little resort sits upon seem a positive luxury. There are just 24 rooms and suites, all of them individually styled for contemporary tastes, and featuring private patios or balconies over the lake. Adults only.

For Families

Large and luxurious, the Montage Laguna Beach is the kind of resort you really don’t need to leave. The 30 acres of grounds are right up against the ocean, and include a stretch of sandy beach. There are two pools too — one adults only, and one for families. And there’s a kids club, and three restaurants. There’s also a spa and gym and complimentary bike hire.
The Rosewood Miramar Beach is a large and luxurious hotel right up against the sand of Miramar Beach, Santa Barbara. The 160+ rooms, suites and villas are light, airy and elegant, with huge marble bathrooms and sea views. The beach and the ocean are the big draw here, but there are great facilities for kids, including a kids’ spa, and club. There are also two pools — one for families — three bars and a farm-to-table restaurant.

For Top-notch Facilities

The Rancho Valencia is a country resort spread across 43 acres of beautiful groves and gardens, and featuring an impressive list of facilities, including a golf course, tennis courts, a spin studio and a pilates studio, space for Zumba classes, boxing, TRX classes and yoga. The spa has an adults-only pool, sauna and steam room too. But there’s also a kids club. The restaurant grows a lot onsite, including producing their own honey, so it’s a pretty impressive experience all round!
The Four Seasons The Biltmore sits on 20 lush, Pacific Ocean-adjacent acres, surrounded by palms and spectacular views of the ocean or the mountains. There’s something of a Spanish Mission to the design and decor of the hotel, but then among the restaurants is an Italian option to surprise you — the other restaurants specialise in seafood. The choice of facilities might surprise you too, with everything from golf to fishing to surfing, tennis and wine tasting.
The Fairmont Grand del Mar is an opulent resort in the foothills of Del Mar, Sand Diego, with a graceful, Mediterranean feel. Expect columns, fountains, private terraces and balconies, and spacious marble bathrooms. But that’s just for starters, because this resort also has a five-star spa, a Championship golf course, five pools, six restaurants, and a private beach.

For Style and Luxury

Spectacularly set in Malibu wine country, the Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club also has one foot in the Pacific Ocean — hence the Beach Club! There are just 56 rooms, suites and cottages, with configurations to suit both couples and families; the bungalows have private patios and separate living space. The style offers a blend of rustic fittings with boutique furniture to create a seriously chic stay.
If you love the glamour of California’s Hollywood heyday the Parker Palm Springs is the ideal property for you. It's a modern version of the sumptuous, classic luxury Palm Springs hotels, with great design features, three pools and two restaurants. The fact that even the spa evokes 60s cool really impresses the Gurus.

For Total Relaxation

The Belmond El Encanto is a seven acre property with 92 stylish rooms and bungalow suites dotted around the lush, tranquil gardens. Despite being only minutes from Santa Barbara and the beaches of the Pacific ocean, this is a serene, as well as luxurious choice. All the rooms feature private balconies, patios or terraces, and elegant fabrics. There’s an impressive spa, exceptional serve and an excellent restaurant with unobstructed ocean views.

For Great Value

The Langham Huntington is a classic five star hotel in a peaceful Pasadena spot. The hotel is large, there are almost 400 rooms and suites, and the country club-style facilities are excellent. Expect dark wood antiques, high ceilings, leather furnishings, lush gardens and lots of space offered at very reasonable rates.
Surrounded by its own vines, the Ponte Vineyard Inn is a monastery turned boutique resort, with 90 spacious, contemporary rooms and suites. The large private balconies with their incredible views of the valley, and the pool terrace with the same view, really steal the show. As will the wines. Excellent value for money!

Still not sure where to book?

You could browse our recommendations for the 20 Best Luxury Hotels in California,
Or stick with the best hotels in Southern California.
Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.
- Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles (Beverly Hills) 395 rooms from AU$1312
  
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  City Style  -  Located between Wilshire Boulevard and Rodeo Drive, with access to the best restaurants and designer shopping in the city
  Foodies  -  The Michelin starred CUT by Wolfgang Puck delivers a contemporary twist on the classic steakhouse
  Luxury  -  A hotel that is renowned for hosting royals and celebrities, ensuring a truly luxurious stay
  Restaurant  -  CUT - steakhouse
  
  If you’ve ever wanted to pretend you’re Julia Roberts in the film Pretty Woman, your wish is granted at this ornate and opulent landmark hotel where part of the movie was shot, with a stellar location overlooking Rodeo Drive, an extravagant spa and a sleek Michelin-starred steakhouse. Heaven. See More
  
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- La Serena Villas Palm Springs (Historic Tennis Club) 18 rooms from AU$953
  
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  Romantic Break  -  Private villas, couples massage, and lots of privacy mark this property as an ideal romantic destination
  City Style  -  A stylish and bright collection of villas in one of Palm Springs' most trendy areas
  Restaurant  -  Dining at on-site Azúcar Restaurant is a fresh, elegant experience in Mediterranean cuisine and cocktails
  Local markets  -  Palm Springs Village Fest is a short drive away, offering fresh local produce
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  Stylish and attractive villas make up this charming and elegant resort in one of Palm Springs' most trendy neighbourhoods. Boasting a cool and cultured Mediterranean restaurant, a serene massage and skin treatment spa, and a year-round outdoor pool; the resort is ideal for a sunny couples retreat. See More
  
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- Fairmont Grand del Mar San Diego 249 rooms from AU$1010
  
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  Beach Life  -  The resort offers transport to Del Mar’s 18th Street beach with access to beach chairs and umbrellas, beach towels and water
  Families  -  With four outdoor pools, spacious suites and children-menus, this resort is a family's dream
  Spa breaks  -  The resort's spa is one of only 60 Forbes five-star spas in the world
  Sailing  -  From dinner cruises and whale watching to speedboat thrill rides and sunset sails, an array of scenic adventures awaits
  
  An opulent Mediterranean style resort in the foothills of Del Mar. Rooms are elegant with spacious marble bathrooms with deep tubs and expansive balconies. With the choice of 5 pools, 6 restaurants, a golf course, private beach access, tennis courts and a world-class spa - there's something for all. See More
  
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- L'Auberge del Mar San Diego (Del Mar) 120 rooms from AU$586
  
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  Beach Life  -  The resort offers a private walking path down to the local beach, as well as complimentary beach gear and a seasonal beach valet
  Sights nearby  -  Balboa Park is the cultural heart of San Diego, with fifteen museums, eight gardens, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo
  Spa  -  The spa's treatments focus on the healing powers of the ocean
  Restaurant  -  Coastline uses seasonal ingredients with a true SoCal style
  
  A luxury resort overlooking the Pacific Ocean in the picturesque village of Del Mar. Rooms are bright and airy with coastal themes, private outdoor spaces and white marble bathrooms. Discover the healing powers of the ocean at the spa or relax in a cabana poolside. A spoiling escape. See More
  
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- The Langham Huntington Los Angeles (Pasadena) 379 rooms from AU$433
  
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  Spa breaks  -  The spa, Chuan, is a destination on its own - offering a range of treatments inspired by traditional Chinese medicine
  Foodies  -  Dine in the sopisticated Royce Wood-Fired Steakhouse serving up Wagyu and Kobe cuts of beef
  5* Luxury  -  A secluded five star offering old-world charm with the feel of a country club
  Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
  
  A sophisticated 5* boasting a quiet location in Pasadena. Suites and doubles have some real old-world charm, with dark-wood antiques, high ceilings, and Persian rugs. Dining is an equally elegant affair and the spa is a destination in its own right. With the feel of a country club; secluded luxury. See More
  
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- Terranea Los Angeles (California) 582 rooms from AU$421
  
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  Local markets  -  Seaport Village is worth a visit if you are interested in seeing the daily fishermans catch.
  Hideaway  -  In 102 acres of oceanfront.
  Kids Club  -  Fully staffed.
  Outstanding location
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  102 acres of oceanfront more Mediterranean in feel than South California. Stunning spot, activities for all and only 30 minutes away from LA. Rooms are light, spacious and capture the spectacular view. In-house restaurants and bars are inside or by the pool or ocean. Great retreat for all the family See More
  
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- Casa del Mar, Santa Monica Santa Monica 129 rooms from AU$628
  
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  Local exploring  -  Wander down to the Santa Monica pier or into the city, with lots to explore close to the hotel
  Beach Life  -  Set on the seafront in Santa Monica, this hotel makes a great option for a luxury beach break
  Romantic Break  -  The bright and airy suites are perfect for a romantic getaway, with a spa bath in every room
  Sights nearby  -  Visit the neighbouring Santa Monica pier, featuring a classic seafront amusement park and aquarium
  
  This stylish hotel is located on the oceanfront in Santa Monica, California. Airy guestrooms create a luxury Mediterranean feel with white linens against oyster accents and dark wood furniture. Meanwhile, the suites feel homely with eclectic objets d'art. Head to the chic Terrazza for nightly music. See More
  
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- Belmond El Encanto Santa Barbara (California) 92 rooms from AU$507
  
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  Local exploring  -  Only 5 minutes' drive from central Santa Barbara, with the Mission, Botanical Gardens and Municipal Golf Course all featuring
  Beach Life  -  The hotel has a free shuttle service and electric bikes to reach the Pacific beaches of Santa Barbara
  Spa breaks
  Restaurant  -  Serving seasonal Californian cuisine in a bright dining room or outdoor terrace with unobstructed ocean views
  Recommended by  -  Tablet, Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  Serene hotel with stylish bungalows dotted around the lush 7-acre gardens, minutes from Santa Barbara and the Pacific beaches. The refined rooms are furnished with rich fabrics, and all feature a private balcony or patio. The infinity-pool, spa, and restaurant all boast spectacular ocean views See More
  
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- Rancho Valencia San Diego, California from AU$601
  
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  Active Holiday  -  Spin studio, Pilates studio, Zumba space, boxing and TRX classes, tennis coaching, yoga classes, hikes, and other activities
  Country Escape  -  The resort is spread over 43 acres of flowering trees and gardens, olive groves, tennis courts and croquet fields.
  Beach Life  -  Del Mar and Solana Beach have classic California beaches
  Spa breaks
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Relais & Chateaux
  
  Beautiful cluster of Spanish-style bungalows in 43-acres of gardens and olive groves in Rancho Santa Fe, inland from stunning Californian beaches. The grand rooms are luxuriously furnished each with a fireplace. There is a renowned tennis coaching program, an excellent spa and countless activities. See More
  
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- Rosewood Miramar Beach Santa Barbara (California) 161 rooms from AU$1050
  
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  Beach Life  -  Take advantage of the hotel's complimentary chairs & umbrellas, beach butler, beach toys and sports activity equipment
  Families  -  From children's spa services, beach games, kids menus and a special tailored program, children will not be kept busy!
  Total relaxation  -  Relax in the spa, by the pool or on the beach
  Spa  -  Sense spa the only Forbes Five-Star spa in Santa Barbara. Treatments focus on healing traditions and using native plants
  
  A luxury family-friendly hotel situated right on Miramar beach. Rooms are elegant and light with incredible marble bathrooms. Spend a day relaxing by the beach, spa or pool. A choice of three bars serve innovative cocktails and the cuisine is farm-to-table. Beach perfection. See More
  
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- San Ysidro Ranch Santa Barbara (California) 41 rooms from AU$1019
  
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  Great walks  -  Explore the grounds.
  Romantic  -  Good for couples.
  Views  -  Great views from hotel
  Outstanding location
  
  This romantic ranch sits in 500 acres with Pacific Ocean views, a pool and private hot tubs. Cottages and suites are luxurious, intimate and with outdoor rain showers. The Stonehouse uses locally sourced produce. Family and pets are welcome to this adventure haven. See More
  
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- Pendry San Diego San Diego (Gaslamp District) 317 rooms from AU$457
  
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  Total relaxation  -  Perfect for a relaxing city break, with an expansive spa, six wonderful restaurants, large comfortable suites and a rooftop pool
  Foodies  -  The six eateries all bring something to the table but Lionfish steals the show with inventive & flavoursome sustainable seafood
  Views  -  Great views from hotel
  Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.
  Recommended by  -  Tablet, Kiwi Collection
  
  A young and vibrant addition to the Montage family, sitting in the happening Gaslamp District, San Diego. Expansive and indulgent rooms offer plush linens, fab views and whimsical wallpaper. Unwind in style, with six restaurants and bars, a rooftop pool and spa. A welcome addition to the scene. See More
  
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- Four Seasons The Biltmore Santa Barbara (California) 207 rooms from AU$946
  
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  Sailing  -  Santa Barbara Harbour and Waterfront has a lot of sailing opportunities.
  Great walks  -  Along Butterfly Beach, or even East Beach just a bit up the coast.
  Sights nearby  -  Stearns Wharf nearby for art galleries, restaurants and bars.
  Fishing  -  Readily avaliable at the local harbour or ask at reception.
  
  The 20 acres of lush garden on the oceanfront give a Mediterranean feel and beautiful Pacific views. The spacious are Spanish-esqe, with fabulous views of garden, sea or pool. Bella Vista offers organic Italian food or seafood at Tydes, with cocktails at Ty Lounge. Loads to do and a brilliant spa. See More
  
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- Ojai Valley Inn Ojai 238 rooms from AU$453
  
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  Swimming Pool - Three enormous outdoor swimming pools
  Secluded setting - For escaping.
  Back to Nature
  Private Hot Tub
  
  A stunning 5* resort. Offers a relaxing retreat overlooking the mountainous surroundings. Beautiful, modern rooms feature a chic and elegant decor, many with private patios. Luxurious pools and gardens. A variety of activities including tennis, hiking, art classes and cocktail making. See More
  
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- Calamigos Guest Ranch & Beach Club Malibu (CA) 56 rooms from AU$963
  
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  Local exploring  -  Set in the verdant plains of the Malibu wine country, this hotel is perfectly placed for local vineyard exploring
  Romantic Break  -  Couples love the romantic private suites at this hotel; book a couples' massage for a romantic evening in
  Beach Life  -  With an exclusive beach club within the resort, this hotel is perfect for a relaxing seaside getaway
  Barefoot Luxury  -  For total relaxation.
  
  This hotel is located on an exclusive ranch on the Malibu coast in California. Guestrooms blend rustic fittings with boutique furniture for a luxury home feel; book a bungalow for a private patio and separate living space. Unwind at the VIP beach club after a wine tasting; a chic country stay. See More
  
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- Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills Los Angeles (Beverly Hills) 170 rooms from AU$1019
  
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  City Style  -  A rooftop with 360-degree views is complete with a restaurant, bar, and saltwater pool; hangouts don't get much better than this
  Local exploring  -  Set on the famed Wilshire Boulevard, one of the best postcodes in Beverly Hills. Plus, a Rolls Royce is offered for local trips
  5* Luxury  -  Five-star luxury seen at its finest with attentive service, luxurious suites, and elegant design
  Restaurant  -  Various restaurant options overseen by renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten
  
  Luxury doesn't get much more polished than at the Waldorf Astoria. Elegant suites have a stately feel with private terraces, rain showers, enormous tubs, and far-reaching views. With slick service, a hip roof terrace complete with a saltwater pool, bar, and a restaurant - this is an indugent choice. See More
  
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- Ponte Vineyard Inn Temecula (California) 90 rooms from AU$308
  
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  Total relaxation  -  There's no need to venture out as everything you need is on-site; pool, hot tub, in-room massages, restaurants and valley views
  Weddings  -  A wonderful venue for outdoor weddings with vineyards and wine country views - as well as mountain vistas in the background
  Wine tasting  -  This is proper wine country; It's walking distance to 3 local vineyards, including the property's working winery, Ponte
  Local exploring  -  Should the 3 local vineyards not be enough, explore the wider Temecula Valley Wine Country by car
  
  Mediterranean monastery meets California chic at this brand new boutique resort. Rooms are comfortable and spacious; interiors are contemporary classic in style with antique touches. Large balconies come with sit-out furniture & scenic valley vistas, while the outdoor pool has views over the vines. 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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- 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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