THE SAGUARO PALM SPRINGS, Palm Springs

The Saguaro Palm Springs is just south of downtown, about 10 minutes by car from the main dining and shopping hub. Palm Springs International Airport is nearby. While the area is not walkable to downtown, free parking and free bicycle rentals make local errands easy. A Ralph's grocery store is directly across the street for supplies, and several restaurants - including The Purple Room and Smoke Tree BBQ - are within a short walk. Ride-sharing is recommended for trips to downtown or festival venues. The hotel is popular as a base for Coachella, Stagecoach, and Splash House, offering specialised packages.

Rooms are generously sized and decorated in bright retro-inspired colours with Amigo Modern furniture and custom art. Each room includes a private balcony or patio, indoor and outdoor sitting areas, organic bath products, and a small refrigerator. The Two Queen room offers a San Jacinto Mountain view, while the King Suite and Saguaro Suite provide upgraded finishes such as hardwood floors and freestanding soaking tubs. The property shows some signs of age - carpets may be stained and furniture worn - but rooms are generally clean and comfortable. For a quieter stay, choose a mountain or garden view room; pool-view rooms are livelier due to the social atmosphere. Housekeeping must be requested, and some rooms have limited power outlets. Accessible rooms with roll-in showers and visual alarms are available.

The hotel's on-site restaurant, El Jefe Desert Cantina, offers Mexican and Latin American dishes. Breakfast is served from 7am to 12pm, featuring continental and American options. Lunch and dinner run from 11am to 10pm. Happy hour is Monday-Friday, 2pm-6pm, with discounted drinks and appetisers. Taco Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6pm to 9pm are popular, as are Fajita Fridays. In-room dining is available daily from 7am to 10pm (weekends until 6pm). The restaurant is noted for its good food and service, with multiple gluten-free options available. Breakfast is not included in the room rate.

The centrepiece is a large heated outdoor swimming pool, open year-round from 8am to 10pm, surrounded by sun loungers and umbrellas. Two hot tubs provide year-round relaxation, and the pool bar serves drinks and snacks seasonally. Saturday pool parties feature rotating DJs from 1pm to 5pm. The fitness centre is free for guests, and free weekend yoga sessions are offered. For additional pampering, the spa provides massages, facials, and body treatments at an extra cost. Free bicycle hire, table tennis, and a picnic area are also available. The pool area is the social hub, especially on weekends, with a lively atmosphere that makes it ideal for groups and celebrations.

Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel free of charge (though strength may vary in rooms). On-site parking is free and does not require a reservation, with accessible spaces provided. The 24-hour front desk offers luggage storage and can assist with arranging pet-friendly walks. Daily housekeeping is available only on request. Room service is offered during restaurant hours. For business or social events, the hotel has 1800 m² of indoor and outdoor meeting space, including the Sago Ballroom with mountain views. Additional services include a safety deposit box, laundry facilities (extra charge), and a lift. The hotel is wheelchair accessible with accessible routes to all public areas, including the pool and restaurant.