1. Desert Hot Springs Spa Hotel
City: Desert Hot Springs, CA
Category: Accommodations
Telephone: (760) 329-6000, (800) 808-7727
Address: 10805 Palm Dr.
Description: One of the oldest spa hotels in Desert Hot Springs, this one is a favorite for fans of natural hot mineral springs. Everything—including the 50 rooms, lounge/bar, and restaurant—is centered around the pool area. An Olympic-sized main pool and seven smaller soaking pools, all natural mineral water, plus a large Jacuzzi offer a lot of soaking and sunning. The hotel also has a fitness center. Rooms are basic and serviceable, with decor and soft goods that date back several years.
2. Living Waters Spa
City: Desert Hot Springs, CA
Category: Accommodations
Telephone: (760) 329-9988, (866) 329-9988
Address: 13340 Mountain View Rd.
Description: Despite the fame achieved by Palm Springs for its springs, for hot water perking up through the desert floor, the north side of the valley has the big spigot, so it’s logical several clothing-optional retreats would follow the water to Desert Hot Springs. The resort features nine poolside rooms, most with kitchens and a half-dozen two-bedroom condos. The story here is sun, relaxation, the natural spring waters and, well, more sun, relaxation and natural spring waters, so au naturel beach volleyballers and racket-wielders should look elsewhere. Spa services are offered and day-use access is available.
3. Capri Italian Restaurant
City: Desert Hot Springs, CA
Category: Restaurants
Telephone: (760) 329-6833
Address: 12260 Palm Dr.
Description: One of the best restaurants in the desert and certainly the best in Desert Hot Springs, this busy, casually elegant place is famous for its thick, juicy steaks—either USDA Prime or Choice—as much as its more traditional Italian fare, be that shrimp fra diavolo or tortellini. The atmosphere is warm and noisy. You’ll leave feeling like a very well-fed member of a large Italian family. Open for dinner only, closed Mondays.
4. Desert Hot Springs Spa Hotel
City: Desert Hot Springs, CA
Category: Tours & Attractions
Telephone: (760) 329-6000, (800) 808-7727
Address: 10805 Palm Dr.
Description: This medium-size hotel features eight natural hot mineral pools and is set up for family use, with a lot of locals coming for the day just to soak and take it easy. There are separate men’s and women’s saunas and lockers rooms. In the less busy low season, the hotel often offers a special day rate for rooms and spa admission. It’s always a good idea to call for availability. There is no fitness center, steam room, or beauty salon.