Quick FactsOverview
About El Morocco Inn and Spa
El Morocco Inn and Spa, California is a 13-room Moroccan-themed boutique hotel in Desert Hot Springs, Riverside County, built in the late 1950s directly on top of a vein of mineral-rich thermal water. Originally known as the Caravan Spa-tel, the property was transformed in 2001 into a Moroccan-inspired experience with authentic furnishings imported from Morocco. A mineral water swimming pool and a covered jacuzzi-style spa with over 15 jets are open 24 hours for overnight guests. Desert Hot Springs, on the north side of the San Andreas Fault, is the immediate community.
All 13 guestrooms feature California King beds with imported Moroccan fabrics and exotic furnishings. The Kasbah Lounge and Library holds over 1,000 DVDs and a large screen playing Casablanca on continuous loop. Two far-infrared dry saunas are available 24 hours. A Spa Garden with a giant chess board, bocce ball, and hammocks provides outdoor relaxation. Spa services include the Marrakesh Massage (Swedish, deep tissue, and Lomi Lomi blend), Moroccan Mystical Ritual with Rhassoul clay from the Atlas Mountains, facials, and body scrubs.
A complimentary continental breakfast is served daily. A nightly happy hour features the signature Morocco-tini cocktail.
Location & Access
Getting to El Morocco Inn and Spa
El Morocco Inn and Spa is located at 66810 4th Street in Desert Hot Springs, approximately 12 miles from downtown Palm Springs and 16 kilometers from Palm Springs International Airport. The drive from Los Angeles takes approximately 2 hours via Interstate 10. Free parking is available on site with an ADA-accessible parking spot in front of the building.
From Palm Springs, drive north on Indian Canyon Drive, turn right onto Pierson Boulevard, left onto Palm Drive, and right onto 4th Street. The inn is on the left. The drive takes approximately 20 minutes. Joshua Tree National Park is approximately 30 minutes east.
Desert Hot Springs Context
Desert Hot Springs was once known as California Spa City, with giant highway billboards pointing to over 120 mineral water inns. Due to the high cost of maintaining hot mineral water wells, most closed and fewer than 25 hot springs resorts remain today. For visitors seeking hot springs near Palm Springs, El Morocco is one of the more characterful and affordable options in Desert Hot Springs, combining genuine mineral water with a distinctive Moroccan atmosphere that sets it apart from the minimalist boutique properties on Miracle Hill.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who Should Visit El Morocco Inn and Spa
El Morocco Inn and Spa suits adults seeking a romantic, themed getaway with genuine mineral water soaking and full spa services. The property was voted one of the most romantic inns in the country. The Moroccan decor creates an immersive experience that transports guests to another world. The 24-hour pool and sauna access means overnight guests can soak at midnight under the desert stars.
Day-use access is available from 9am to 4pm for $70, waived with any one-hour or longer spa treatment. The property is adults only with a maximum of two guests per room. Well-behaved dogs are allowed in some rooms with a $30 per night cleaning fee. The complimentary breakfast and happy hour add value to the overnight experience.
Accessibility at El Morocco Inn and Spa
The property has ADA-accessible parking and a chair lift for pool entry. Contact the inn for specific accessibility details. Those seeking a hot spring resort California offers near Palm Springs with a more minimalist or wellness-focused atmosphere should explore the boutique properties on Miracle Hill such as Miracle Manor or Sagewater Springs, both on Miracle Hill with smaller, more design-focused properties. El Morocco provides a distinctive themed experience that stands apart from the minimalist aesthetic of many Desert Hot Springs boutique hotels.
Safety & Etiquette
El Morocco Inn and Spa Safety Tips
El Morocco Inn and Spa is a managed hotel with staff available, making it generally safe for all guests. The mineral water pool and covered spa are at comfortable soaking temperatures. Stay hydrated and limit time in the warmer spa pool, especially during hot desert months. The two far-infrared saunas provide a penetrating dry heat that differs from traditional steam saunas. Limit sauna sessions and drink water before and after.
Swimsuits are required in all pool areas. The property is adults only (maximum two per room). ADA service animals are welcome. The covered spa structure provides shade from direct desert sun during daytime soaking.
Desert Travel Notes
Desert Hot Springs summer temperatures regularly exceed 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Stay hydrated and use sun protection. The best months for comfortable outdoor soaking are October through April. The outdoor shower is available for rinsing before and after pool use.
Booking and Policies
Reservations for overnight stays and spa packages are available through the inn website at elmoroccoinn.com or by phone at 760-288-2527. Day-use guests should arrive between 9am and 4pm. The Kasbah Lounge provides a comfortable indoor gathering space with entertainment and complimentary snacks for overnight guests. The Cabazon Outlets shopping center is a short drive away for visitors who want to combine retail therapy with mineral water relaxation. The inn is conveniently located near downtown Desert Hot Springs, with restaurants and shops within a short drive.
