Quick FactsOverview
About Sagewater Springs
Sagewater Springs, California is an intimate mid-century modern seven-room spa hotel on Miracle Hill in Desert Hot Springs, Riverside County, built in 1954. Source water at approximately 150 degrees Fahrenheit emerges from the ground on the property and flows through a cascading system: into the spa at 102 to 104 degrees, over a ledge into the swimming pool at 90 to 92 degrees, then out into the desert to recharge the aquifer. The mineral water contains sulfate, calcium, iron, magnesium, iodine, manganese, and selenium. Desert Hot Springs is the immediate community.
Miracle Hill is a tiny six-block area in Desert Hot Springs that sits atop the hottest and richest mineral aquifer in southern California. Sagewater is located near the central and hottest point of this area. The property has been recognized as one of the top 50 boutique hotels in the world. The 360-degree panoramic views from the hilltop setting encompass the Coachella Valley and surrounding mountain ranges, with sunrise and sunset soaks a particular draw for guests.
The Cahuilla People are acknowledged as the original stewards of this land, with a history in the Coachella Valley extending back thousands of years.
Location & Access
Getting to Sagewater Springs
Sagewater Springs is located at 12689 Eliseo Road on Miracle Hill in Desert Hot Springs, approximately 15 minutes east of Palm Springs and 30 minutes from Joshua Tree National Park. The drive from Los Angeles takes approximately 2 hours via Interstate 10. Palm Springs International Airport is approximately 15 minutes away.
From Palm Springs, take Gene Autry Trail and Palm Drive to Two Bunch Palms Trail in Desert Hot Springs. Continue on Two Bunch Palms Trail to Hacienda Avenue, turn right, then left onto Eliseo Road. The property is on the left. On-site parking is available.
Desert Hot Springs Context
Miracle Hill is the geothermal heart of Desert Hot Springs, where the hottest mineral water surfaces. For visitors seeking hot springs near Palm Springs, the Miracle Hill area has several highly rated boutique spa hotels all drawing from the same exceptionally hot aquifer. Sagewater sister property The Spring offers additional spa services. Joshua Tree National Park to the east and Palm Springs to the west provide additional recreation and dining options within a short drive. The Coachella Valley offers world-class golf, dining, museums, and annual music festivals, all accessible from Desert Hot Springs.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who Should Visit Sagewater Springs
Sagewater Springs suits adults seeking an intimate, quiet mineral water spa experience in one of the most geothermally rich locations in southern California. The seven-room property ensures a small, exclusive atmosphere. The flow-through mineral water system with spa at 102 to 104 degrees and pool at 90 to 92 degrees allows guests to alternate between hot and warm soaking throughout the day and night.
The property is primarily adults only (18 and older). Supervised children are welcome only with a full hotel buyout. One well-behaved pet per room is allowed with an extra fee. A quiet policy is in effect throughout the property. Spa treatments including massages, facials, energy work, and reflexology are available through the sister hotel The Spring.
Accessibility at Sagewater Springs
Contact the property for specific accessibility information. The hilltop location is accessible by standard vehicle with on-site parking. Those seeking a hot spring resort California offers near Palm Springs with larger pools or a more social atmosphere should consider one of the bigger Desert Hot Springs resorts or the commercial facilities in the Palm Springs area, which offer day-use options and larger groups. The Miracle Hill location gives Sagewater access to some of the richest mineral water in southern California.
Safety & Etiquette
Sagewater Springs Safety Tips
Sagewater Springs is a managed hotel with staff available, making it generally safe for all guests. The spa temperature of 102 to 104 degrees and pool at 90 to 92 degrees are comfortable for soaking. Stay hydrated and limit time in the hotter spa, particularly in warm weather. The pools are available around the clock to overnight guests.
The mineral water is treated for pool use. Swimsuits are required. The quiet policy is central to the guest experience. Respect low volume indoors and around shared spaces.
Desert Travel Notes
Desert Hot Springs summer temperatures regularly exceed 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Bring sun protection and stay hydrated even when poolside. The best months for visiting are October through April when the desert climate is at its most pleasant and the contrast between warm mineral water and cool evening air is especially enjoyable.
Booking and Guidelines at Sagewater Springs
Reservations are required. Book directly through the resort website or by phone at 760-333-3313. Some rooms have kitchenettes with stovetops, refrigerators, and microwaves. All rooms include private bathrooms. The Miracle Hill location offers outstanding sunrise and sunset views from the pools. The mid-century modern architecture, intimate scale, and rich mineral water have earned Sagewater recognition as one of the top boutique hotels in the world. The property continues a tradition of wellness that dates back to the Cahuilla People, the original stewards of this land who used these waters for healing.
