The 6 Best Places to Stay in Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a destination of distinct neighborhoods, each offering a different version of the desert escape. Some areas put you steps from downtown dining and mid-century landmarks, others trade buzz for privacy and mountain views, and a few strike the perfect balance between convenience and calm.

So what are the best places to stay in Palm Springs? The answer depends on how you want your desert getaway to feel.

Whether you’re planning a design-led retreat, a pool-first escape with friends, a wellness-focused stay, or a longer trip with space to slow down, this guide breaks down the best areas to stay in and around Palm Springs, with local insight on the vibe, what each area is best for, and where to base yourself.

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1. Downtown Palm Springs – Best for Walkability & First-Time Visits

Staying near downtown Palm Springs puts you at the center of the action. This is where you’ll find the city’s best dining, shopping, galleries, and nightlife — all framed by iconic mountain views.

Why stay downtown:

• Walkable access to restaurants, bars, and boutiques

• Close to mid-century landmarks and museums

• Easy base for first-time visitors

Things to know before you book:
Downtown is livelier than other areas, especially on weekends. Expect more activity — and less total seclusion.

Local tip:
Book a home just a few blocks off Palm Canyon Drive for quieter nights without sacrificing walkability.

Wander Homes to Explore Downtown

• Wander Palm Springs Gem – A sleek, modern retreat with a private pool and spa, designed for seamless indoor-outdoor living right in the heart of the city.

• Wander Palm Springs Sapphire – A Hollywood Regency–inspired home with a saltwater pool, refined outdoor spaces, and mountain views just moments from downtown.

2. Movie Colony – Best for Iconic Palm Springs Style

The Movie Colony is one of Palm Springs’ most sought-after neighborhoods, known for its mid-century architecture, palm-lined streets, and historic Hollywood ties.

Why stay in Movie Colony:

• Classic Palm Springs character and design

• Quiet, residential feel close to downtown

• Stunning mountain backdrops

Things to know before you book:
Homes here book quickly during peak season, and prices reflect the neighborhood’s prestige.

Local tip:
Morning walks through the neighborhood are a highlight — the light on the mountains is especially beautiful early in the day.

Wander Homes to Explore in Movie Colony

• Wander Palm Springs Estate – A refined desert oasis with a pool, hot tub, fire pit, and manicured gardens, blending mid-century charm with modern luxury.

• Wander Palm Springs Glow – A modernist retreat in Movie Colony East with striking mountain views, a private pool and spa, fire feature, putting green, and seamless indoor–outdoor living inspired by Palm Springs’ mid-century legacy.

3. Old Las Palmas – Best for Privacy & Historic Charm

Old Las Palmas is one of Palm Springs’ most prestigious and historic neighborhoods. Tucked behind gates and lush landscaping, it offers privacy while remaining close to downtown.

Why stay in Old Las Palmas:

• Large estates with generous outdoor space

• Historic architecture and quiet streets

• Easy access to Uptown and Downtown Palm Springs

Things to know before you book:
This area feels intentionally secluded — perfect if you want a retreat-like stay.

Local tip:
Sunsets here are spectacular. Plan to be home in the early evening to enjoy the light and cooler air.

Wander Homes to Explore in Old Las Palmas

• Wander Palm Springs Buena Vista – A stunning estate with a pool, hot tub, fire pit, and classic Palm Springs design, all within walking distance of Uptown and Downtown hotspots.

• Wander Palm Springs Desert – A private Old Las Palmas retreat with mountain views, a sparkling pool, outdoor dining space, hot tub, and cozy fireplace, designed for effortless indoor–outdoor desert living.

4. South Palm Springs (The Mesa & Surrounding Areas) – Best for Scenic Views & Tranquility

South Palm Springs offers a quieter, more scenic experience, tucked closer to the mountains with fewer crowds and a slower pace.

Why stay in South Palm Springs:

• Dramatic mountain views and desert landscapes

• Less traffic and noise than central areas

• Close to Indian Canyons hiking trails

Things to know before you book:
You’ll want a car for dining and shopping, but drives are short and scenic.

Local tip:
This area cools down faster in the evening — perfect for outdoor dinners and firepit nights.

Wander Homes to Explore in South Palm Springs

• Wander Palm Springs Mesa – A half-acre estate in the historic Mesa neighborhood with a pool, spa, firepit, and game spaces designed for relaxed desert living.

• Wander Palm Springs Haven – A serene retreat with a pool, hot tub, and expansive outdoor dining areas set against mountain views.

5. Rancho Mirage – Best for Resort-Style Living & Space

Located just outside Palm Springs, Rancho Mirage is ideal if you want a resort-style stay with room to spread out.

Why stay in Rancho Mirage:

• Larger properties with extensive amenities

• Quieter atmosphere than central Palm Springs

• Close to golf courses, spas, and nature attractions

Things to know before you book:
Rancho Mirage feels more residential — great for longer stays, less about nightlife.

Local tip:
This area is ideal for groups who plan to spend as much time at the house as they do exploring.

Wander Homes to Explore in Rancho Mirage

• Wander Rancho Mirage Foothills – An elevated modern estate with a pool, hot tub, firepit, putting green, and sweeping mountain views.

6. Palm Springs Foothills & Cahuilla Hills – Best for Views & Design-Led Escapes

Perched slightly above the city, these hillside areas deliver panoramic views and a more architectural, design-forward experience.

Why stay in the foothills:

• Elevated valley and mountain views

• Greater privacy and dramatic scenery

• Cooler evenings, even in summer

Things to know before you book:
Some roads are winding — not difficult, but worth noting if you’re unfamiliar with hillside driving.

Local tip:
Bring layers. Evenings cool quickly at elevation, especially in spring and fall.

Wander Homes to Explore in the Foothills

• Wander Palm Springs Summit – A striking mid-century-inspired retreat with panoramic views, a circular pool, and private patios designed for sunset living.

• Wander Five Palms – A private desert sanctuary with a lap pool, tennis and pickleball courts, fitness center, and expansive indoor-outdoor entertaining spaces.

So, Where Should You Stay in Palm Springs?

If it’s your first visit, Downtown Palm Springs or the Movie Colony are excellent starting points. For privacy and historic charm, Old Las Palmas stands out.

Travelers seeking quieter surroundings and scenery will love South Palm Springs or the Foothills, while Rancho Mirage is ideal for resort-style stays with space to truly unwind.

Where to Stay in Palm Springs with Wander

No matter which area fits your travel style, Wander’s luxury vacation rentals across Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley offer a spacious, private alternative to hotels. These thoughtfully designed homes give you room to relax, swim, cook, and settle into the desert rhythm.

From mid-century estates near downtown to mountain-view retreats with pools, spas, and firepits, Wander makes it easy to experience Palm Springs on your own terms — with hotel-level service, professional cleaning, and 24/7 concierge support.

Explore luxury vacation rentals in Palm Springs with Wander →