Overview
A classic Desert Hot Springs soak setup, simple and built around the water
This is one of the older-school mineral pool hotels in Desert Hot Springs, the kind of place where the main plan is just, soak, cool off, repeat. You’re here for multiple pools and spa tubs fed by local mineral water, not for a big resort scene. The property sits in town, close to Palm Springs, so it works for a short stay or a day soak if day passes are available.
What it feels like on the ground
Expect a courtyard layout with pools at the center of the experience. It’s more practical than polished. That’s part of the appeal, you can keep your expectations realistic and still have a good time. Bring your own reading material, plan for downtime, and treat it like a low-key mineral water break in the desert.
What not to assume
Don’t assume every pool will be the same temperature, or that the quietest time is always the same day to day. If you have specific needs (step-free entry, day-use rules, or pool access hours), check current details before you drive.
Location & Access
Where it is
The Desert Hot Springs Spa Hotel is in Desert Hot Springs, northeast of Palm Springs, at 10805 Palm Dr, Desert Hot Springs, CA 92240. It’s a town location, not a hike-in spring, so you can build it into a Palm Springs area itinerary without special planning.
By car
Access is straightforward on paved roads. Most visitors come via I-10 and local streets. Parking is on-site. This is regular-car friendly year-round, the main variable is traffic during busy weekends and event seasons in the Coachella Valley.
Day use and entry
The hotel advertises a pool day pass option at times, but availability can change. If day soaking is your goal, confirm current day-use rules before you show up so you don’t waste a drive.
What to bring
Swimsuit, towel (even if towels are offered, having your own is easier), water bottle, sandals with traction for wet decking, and a light layer for evenings. Desert air cools fast after sunset, even when the daytime feels hot.
Seasonality
Summer heat is real here. In warm months, plan to soak early or late, then spend the hottest hours resting or in shade. In winter, evenings can feel cold as soon as you step out of the water.
Suitability & Accessibility
This is a good fit if you want mineral-water pools without wilderness logistics, and you’re fine with an older, practical hotel style. It’s easiest for travelers who value access and soak time over design and extras.
Best for
Weekenders from Southern California, road trippers passing through the Palm Springs area, and anyone who likes the classic Desert Hot Springs format of multiple pools and spa tubs in one place.
Families
This is one of the more realistic “family can work” options in town because it’s drive-up and contained. The tradeoff is you need to supervise closely around pools and wet decking, and you’ll want to keep expectations simple, soak breaks, hydration, and shade matter more than activities.
Mobility realities
Even at drive-up properties, pool areas often have wet surfaces, small curbs, and steps. If you use a wheelchair or have limited mobility, plan on slower pacing and ask staff about the most step-free route to the pool deck. I would not assume a lift or ramped pool entry unless you confirm it directly.
Expectations vs reality
If you want a polished spa resort, this may feel basic. If you want a dependable place to soak in mineral water and keep the rest of your day flexible, it does the job.
Safety & Etiquette
Heat management
Hot water plus desert air can sneak up on you. Keep sessions short, cool off between soaks, and drink water even if you don’t feel thirsty. If you feel lightheaded, get out, sit down, and reset in shade.
Footing and pool-deck basics
Wet tile and concrete are slippery. Walk, don’t run, and use sandals with decent grip. Keep phones and glass away from pool edges.
Shared-space etiquette
Give people room in smaller tubs. Keep voices low if others are clearly there to unwind. If you’re taking photos, avoid framing other guests. It’s a soaking space, not a photo set.
Hygiene and courtesy
Rinse before getting in when possible, and don’t bring oils, lotions, or drinks into the water. If you’re using sunscreen, let it absorb before you soak, it helps keep the water cleaner for everyone.
Night and cold snaps
Evenings can turn chilly fast. Have a robe or warm layer ready so you’re not shivering between tubs, and watch for sudden temperature changes if you’re soaking at night.
FAQs
Can you visit Desert Hot Springs Spa Hotel with a day pass?
The hotel advertises a pool day pass option at times, but day-use access can change. Confirm current day-use rules before you drive so you’re planning off real availability.
Is this a natural hot spring you hike to?
No. This is a developed, drive-up mineral pool property in town. You’re soaking in pools and tubs filled with mineral water, not sitting in a backcountry spring.
What should I pack for a day soak?
Swimsuit, water, sandals with traction, and a towel. Add a light layer for evenings, desert temperatures drop quickly once the sun goes down.
Is it good for families?
It can be, mainly because it’s easy to reach and contained. The key is close supervision around pools, keeping soak sessions short, and planning shade and hydration breaks.
Do the pools have a single set temperature?
Don’t assume that. Properties with multiple pools and tubs often have different feel and heat levels. If you’re sensitive to hotter water, test with a hand and ease in slowly.