Best Hot Springs To Relax At After A Hike At Joshua Tree National Park
The desert is a great road trip that I love - wide open roads, beautiful sunsets, and the quiet - great for this introvert. The desert offers a unique kind of clarity. Whether you are floating in the lithium-rich grotto of Two Bunch or looking at the stars from the minimalist pool at Sagewater, you are participating in a tectonic ritual that spans millennia.
Joshua Tree National Park is a landscape defined by verticality and void. It is a place of monzogranite boulders and twisted Yucca brevifolia, where the Mojave and Colorado deserts collide in a silent, sun-bleached roar. Fun fact - California recently listed the joshua tree as an endangered species.
Unlike the alpine seeps of the Tetons or the volcanic terraces of the Sierras, the "natural" hot springs near Joshua Tree are largely sequestered in a unique aquifer beneath Desert Hot Springs. This area, specifically the "Miracle Hill" district, is home to a world-renowned odorless mineral water.
1. Two Bunch Palms
This is the historic "capstone" of desert wellness. Legend has it Al Capone sought refuge here, but today’s "capone" is a leader in sustainability—it was the first carbon-neutral resort in North America.
A more eco friendly stay than at other spas, check out their solar field, natural waters, local food, local wine, and walking trails.
Two Bunch feels like it's integrated with the dessert itself- an oasis that feels more natural and grounded. The rooms are spacious and feel like bungalows.
The resort grounds are expansive, well maintained, and beautiful with lush tropical/local trees/plants. Various ponds, streams of hot natural springs flowing throughout the grounds. I recommend staying in the Grove or Spring rooms as they are closer to the soaking tubs.
The public tubs are nice but in the cold they cool down quickly. I highly recommend making reservations for the larger cement pools which you can do on their site or with reception. The water is famous for its high lithium content, often described as "nature's antidepressant."
They do offer a "mud" bath which they call pungent and I called "putrid" so it may be a good idea to try to see or smell one before committing to the booking
The grounds are obviously cared for but wildlife is abundant and free to roam. A short list of what we saw was roadrunners (you will see these), lizards, rabbits, and owls.
Water Quality: 5 Stars: Crystal clear, naturally filtered, and free of any unpleasant odors or contaminants.
Ease of Access: 5 Stars: Easily accessible by paved road, with ample parking and clear signage.
Ability to be Alone: 5 Stars: Secluded pools or private soaking areas with minimal crowds; sprawling grounds ensure peace.
Water Temperature: 5 Stars: Multiple pools with varying temperatures to suit individual preferences, including the iconic Grotto.
Health Benefits: 5 Stars: Rich mineral content (specifically lithium) with documented therapeutic benefits for mood and relaxation.
Nearby Amenities: 5 Stars: Spa services, high-end "soil-to-table" restaurant, and lodging within walking distance.
2. Azure Palm Hot Springs Resort & Day Spa
One of the newer additions to the Miracle Hill skyline, Azure Palm offers a massive layout with an emphasis on the "Himalayan Salt Room" and in-room mineral tubs. It provides a more contemporary, airy take on the desert soak compared to the older, more enclosed boutique hotels. ADULTS ONLY RESORT, so no kids running around!
The spa is about a 25-minute drive from Palm Springs proper, which isn't necessarily a drawback but is worth noting for planning purposes. The surrounding neighborhood can appear a bit rough around the edges, and we did notice some homeless individuals in the area as we departed.
The multiple natural mineral hot spring tubs within a natural desert landscape—with quail and roadrunners visiting—are energizing, connecting us back to our essence.
The large mineral hot springs pool on the property is wonderful too, with chairs for sunning and views overlooking Mt. San Jacinto and the Coachella Valley. Large outdoor swimming pool and 2 outdoor hot tubs open 24 hours.
I took in the day pass for $70 which gives access to several mineral pools, many of which are small, quaint and under cabanas. The pass also includes other spa experiences like a reflexology water walk, dry sauna, and larger soaking pool.
The salt room and Ice room, the mineral baths, the sauna, and the pool are amazing and all included as part of the room cost. Salt room was my favorite as well as eucalyptus outdoor sauna was so therapeutic.
While the locker rooms are spacious, clean, and well-appointed with plenty of seating and pristine showers, the toiletry offerings could be enhanced. Unlike some other high-end spas we've visited, there weren't amenities like hair styling products, brushes, combs, flat irons, toothbrushes, toothpaste, makeup removers, or mouthwash available.
Water Quality: 5 Stars: Crystal clear, naturally filtered, and free of any unpleasant odors or contaminants.
Ease of Access: 5 Stars: Easily accessible by paved road, with ample parking and clear signage.
Ability to be Alone: 4 Stars: Larger pools with designated quiet zones or secluded areas available; very spacious courtyard.
Water Temperature: 5 Stars: Multiple pools with varying temperatures to suit individual preferences.
Health Benefits: 4 Stars: Noticeable mineral presence with potential health advantages, especially in the sauna and salt room.
Nearby Amenities: 5 Stars: Spa services, a healthy cafe, and extensive lodging options on-site.
3. The Spring Resort & Spa
If you are a researcher of "Quietude," The Spring Resort and Spa is your data set. It has won numerous awards for its serene atmosphere. This is an adults-only sanctuary where the sound of the desert wind is usually the loudest thing you’ll hear.
The Spring Resort and Spa is an adults-only resort and is located in Desert Hot Springs. The Spring Resort & Spa is like a private house, do not expect a huge building with open front gates. If you are a first-time visitor, just ring the bell outside to get in.
The free, self-service breakfast included the basics: boiled eggs, bread, cheese, juice, cereal fruits, coffee. There is no café for lunch or dinner, but if you rent one of their rooms with kitchens, you’re free to make your own meals.
Large towels, rubber slippers and a robe are in the room to use them when you walk out to the pool area.
The mineral pools were phenomenal, we really enjoyed both pools, the Jacuzzi, and both saunas. You are also able to be enjoy the entire facility 24/7 if you feel like it as long as you are quiet.
Infrared, with Color Therapy, Sauna and Finnish Sauna are available 24 hours to guests, as well.
Water Quality: 5 Stars: Crystal clear, naturally filtered, and free of any unpleasant odors or contaminants.
Ease of Access: 5 Stars: Easily accessible by paved road, with ample parking and clear signage.
Ability to be Alone: 5 Stars: Secluded pools or private soaking areas with minimal crowds.
Water Temperature: 4 Stars: Comfortable soaking temperature with room for slight adjustment; multiple pool options.
Health Benefits: 4 Stars: Noticeable mineral presence with potential health advantages; great for joint relief.
Nearby Amenities: 4 Stars: Some amenities available nearby, requiring short travel to main DHS or Palm Springs.
4. El Morocco Inn & Spa
For those who want a "transportive" experience, El Morocco delivers a Moroccan-themed oasis complete with mint tea, nightly "Moroccotinis," and 24-hour access to the mineral pools. It feels like a hidden riad tucked away in the California high desert. It was a good location for our goals of visiting The Palm Springs Aerial Tram and Joshua Tree National Park.
At El Morocco Inn & Spa it feels like you’re in Morocco when you’re here with the warm sun and Casablanca playing in the background with the beautiful mineral spa.
There is one 93 degree outdoor pool and a 103 degree covered hot pool area. Plenty of poolside sitting areas, with two fireplaces. The pools are open 24 hours. Floating on your back in the pool you could see the night sky with the moon and stars.
The small size of the hotel, exceptional decor and no-children policy allows guests a truly relaxing experience.
A nightly happy hour is offered at the property, where guests can enjoy the property's signature cocktail the "Morocco-Tini".
Water Quality: 5 Stars: Crystal clear, naturally filtered, and free of any unpleasant odors or contaminants.
Ease of Access: 5 Stars: Easily accessible by paved road, with ample parking and clear signage.
Ability to be Alone: 4 Stars: Larger pools with designated quiet zones; generally a very respectful, adult atmosphere.
Water Temperature: 5 Stars: Multiple pools with varying temperatures to suit individual preferences.
Health Benefits: 3 Stars: Moderate mineral content, may offer general relaxation benefits.
Nearby Amenities: 4 Stars: Some amenities available nearby, including breakfast and evening social hours on-site.
5. Hope Springs Resort
A masterpiece of mid-century modern design, Hope Springs Resort is a minimalist's dream. With only 10 rooms, it ensures that your soaking experience is intimate. The three pools are fed by a 24/7 flow of naturally hot mineral water that feels distinctively soft on the skin.
If you're looking for quiet serenity, and to have the place mostly to yourself (or at least, it feels that way), go to Hope Springs. It's a restored mid-century modern motel with a lot of kitschy and fun details that have been preserved - such as the sunken fire pit (now a fountain), vintage-looking kitchen appliances, and the huge 50s-era sign that is still lit-up, but is now blank.
The free breakfast is amazing - a loaf of fresh bread, a pan of coffee cake or apple crumble, a frittata, muffins, dried fruit, fresh berries, various yogurts, cereal, fruit juice, and coffee (both iced and hot). There was a communal kitchen and grill, as well. The coffee is great too, as they use Joshua Tree organic coffee.
There are three pools, each with a different water temperature, invite you to listen to your body and slow down.
The views are breathtaking, stretching across the valley to Mount San Jacinto. Whether at sunrise or dusk, the desert light makes everything glow. The atmosphere is serene and unhurried — no noise, no crowds, just the soothing sound of flowing water and warm desert air.
Very quiet property and all guests were respectful of this, though many were engaging and all delightful. No loud parties or messy guests, respectful adults who were all trying to disconnect and relax.
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Water Quality: 5 Stars: Crystal clear, naturally filtered, and free of any unpleasant odors or contaminants.
Ease of Access: 5 Stars: Easily accessible by paved road, with ample parking and clear signage.
Ability to be Alone: 5 Stars: Very secluded due to the limited number of rooms and strict "no-visitor" policy.
Water Temperature: 4 Stars: Comfortable soaking temperature with room for slight adjustment across three distinct pools.
Health Benefits: 4 Stars: Noticeable mineral presence with potential health advantages; water is sourced from their own deep well.
Nearby Amenities: 3 Stars: Limited amenities; requiring some effort to find necessities in the town of DHS.
6. Desert Hot Springs Spa Hotel
This is the "classic" choice for those who want a broad, accessible entry point into the DHS aquifer. Desert Hot Springs Spa Hotel is a larger facility that feels more like a traditional resort, making it an excellent choice for those coming down from a long day of hiking in Joshua Tree who don't want the "silence" of the smaller boutiques.
This is an old Mafia hangout. Full of nostalgia. Old but clean with 7 pools, full restaurant, full bar, and great employees. The pools rang from 104⁰ to 59⁰. The best part is they are open 24 hours a day.
Water Quality: 4 Stars: Minor sediment or slight sulfur smell, but still clean and enjoyable; very high turnover in large pools.
Ease of Access: 5 Stars: Easily accessible by paved road, with ample parking and clear signage.
Ability to be Alone: 2 Stars: Busy atmosphere, shared pools with limited privacy; a more social "Old Vegas" vibe.
Water Temperature: 5 Stars: Multiple pools (up to 8) with varying temperatures to suit individual preferences.
Health Benefits: 3 Stars: Moderate mineral content, may offer general relaxation benefits.
Nearby Amenities: 5 Stars: Spa services, restaurants, and lodging all on-site; very convenient.
7. The Good House - Hot Spring Hideaway
The Good House is a boutique hotel that emphasizes the "hideaway" aspect. It is a quiet, adults-only environment that feels like visiting a wealthy friend's desert estate. The water is kept at temperatures that encourage long, contemplative soaks.
The Good House- Hot Spring Hideaway in Desert Hot Springs offers an adults-only hotel with a hot spring bath, spa facilities, swimming pool with a view, sauna, and a beautiful garden. Guests can relax on the terrace or enjoy the outdoor fireplace. This is an adults-only resort.
The room was clean and well decorated - just perfect with a mini kitchen and a patio with a hammock!
There was a hot pool at 103-105 and another at 90-something. Both were great. No sulfur smell. The hot spring pools in the shade of 70 year old trees are super cozy.
I dipped into a perfect temp 92 degree pool of hot springs mineral water with no sulphur (so no rotten egg smell) but plenty of magnesium that made my skin buttery smooth. I was encouraged to get into their hotter mineral spa hot tub before my massage to relax my muscles. The massage was incredible and with it I could stay at the spa all day for 30 dollars or 2 hours for free, which was well worth it.
Water Quality: 5 Stars: Crystal clear, naturally filtered, and free of any unpleasant odors or contaminants.
Ease of Access: 5 Stars: Easily accessible by paved road, with ample parking and clear signage.
Ability to be Alone: 5 Stars: Secluded pools or private soaking areas with minimal crowds.
Water Temperature: 4 Stars: Comfortable soaking temperature with room for slight adjustment.
Health Benefits: 3 Stars: Moderate mineral content, offering general relaxation benefits.
Nearby Amenities: 3 Stars: Limited amenities on-site; requires short travel for dining.
8. Tuscan Springs Hotel & Spa
Tuscan Springs Hotel and Spa brings an Italian-inspired aesthetic to the Coachella Valley. The water here is pumped from a 350-foot well that is naturally heated to 117°F before being cooled into three distinct pools. It is a highly curated experience with a focus on professional spa treatments.
Hotel has a pool, two hot tubs, one in a covered tiled patio. Perched at the top of a hill, the pool area has an expansive view of the Palm Springs area.
The property is a 21 and up serene oasis, perfect for anyone looking to relax. No kids, no piped-in music, no rules other than don't be too noisy. Want to swim under the stars at 3 AM? Please do.
Not much nearby so you can head west for grub or down town. Thai Palms Restaurant, small place was great and food generous portions, so don't order too much.
Notes: they charge $35 extra for each person over a reservation for 2.
Water Quality: 5 Stars: Crystal clear, naturally filtered, and free of any unpleasant odors or contaminants.
Ease of Access: 5 Stars: Easily accessible by paved road, with ample parking and clear signage.
Ability to be Alone: 4 Stars: Larger pools with designated quiet zones available; boutique size limits crowds.
Water Temperature: 5 Stars: Multiple pools with varying temperatures to suit individual preferences.
Health Benefits: 4 Stars: Noticeable mineral presence with potential health advantages.
Nearby Amenities: 4 Stars: Spa services on-site; some dining within a short drive.
9. The Sagewater Spa
Sagewater Spa is for the minimalist traveler. It offers expansive views of the San Jacinto Mountains and an immaculate 24-hour pool. With only eight rooms, the "Silent Operator" protocol is in full effect here—you may go an entire day without seeing another guest.
Sagewater Springs is styled with a true 1950s vibe, featuring a fresh renovation, a gorgeous teal-peach-and-white color palette, and a space that feels spotless and thoughtfully cared for.
The mountain views from the rooms were beautiful and the rooms themselves were very comfortable. Wonderfully comfortable beds and organic cotton robes for lounging. The fair trade coffee, tea and chocolates were a delight.
It's a very small hotel with 8 rooms arrayed around a pool and hot tub that are both fed by mineral wells. While there were other guests at the hotel, we often felt like we had the place to ourselves. My favorite part of the stay was being able to float in the heated waters and watch the stars at night.
I also highly recommend visiting the Red Dog Saloon in Pioneertown!
Water Quality: 5 Stars: Crystal clear, naturally filtered, and free of any unpleasant odors or contaminants.
Ease of Access: 5 Stars: Easily accessible by paved road, with ample parking and clear signage.
Ability to be Alone: 5 Stars: Secluded pools or private soaking areas with minimal crowds.
Water Temperature: 4 Stars: Comfortable soaking temperature with room for slight adjustment (Hot Tub at 104°F, Pool at 90°F).
Health Benefits: 5 Stars: Rich mineral content with documented therapeutic benefits; focuses on "mineral immersion."
Nearby Amenities: 3 Stars: Limited amenities; requiring some effort to find necessities (kitchenettes in rooms help).
