The Best Things to Do in Palm Springs

"Fifteen minutes northeast of downtown Palm Springs is the hamlet of Desert Hot Springs, whose name makes the top attraction clear. Among the handful of natural mineral spring spa-hotels here is the Azure Palm Hot Springs Resort & Day Spa Oasis, new to the scene in 2021 after a full overhaul of an older property. Compared with larger resort-spas in the vicinity, Azure’s more relaxed, personal vibes stand out. There are 40 hotel rooms, but the day-spa experience (available 8am to 8pm) delivers the right dose of tranquility without an overnight stay, with good rates that are discounted with a spa treatment or day package. Plan ample time before or after a treatment to make good use of the luxurious hot springs here, since this town’s world-famous mineral water is really the essence of your visit. Azure’s modest desert site is surrounded by mountains, and its magic conjures a sense of connection to the landscape, the unending sky, and the free-flowing natural hot mineral water. Soak it all up." - Kelsy Chauvin