I N
F O C U S
POSH TIMES IN PALM SPRINGS By Ellen Paris
Stay When visiting, consider Indian Wells. About 12 miles east of Palm Springs, this upscale enclave boasts exclusive country clubs, resorts and spas, stylish boutique hotels, and unique dining. In the heart of Indian Wells is the Sands Hotel & Spa, with a Moroccan MidCentury style. Renowned designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard created its tranquil interiors. With 46 guest rooms, including two suites, a bi-level Presidential suite, and a luxury spa, this boutique property (circa late ’50s) welcomes all. The hotel’s Pink Cabana has become a popular restaurant destination. Dine Recently garnering a coveted California Michelin Guide recommendation, The Barn Kitchen at the rustic 20-room Sparrows Lodge (one of the early
14
resort getaways for Hollywood celebrities) in Palm Springs is a delightful discovery. A communal dining atmosphere fosters connections over classic American cuisine inspired by the Coachella Valley. The chef sources local farms for his signature dishes. Lunch and dinner require reservations for non-hotel guests. Play When the Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert opened, it made headlines. The American Hockey League’s Coachella Valley Firebirds call the 11,000-seat sports and entertainment center home—and finished near the top of the league in their first season. The Eagles and John Mayer performed there while future headliners include Sting, KISS, Stevie Nicks, and Madonna. It’s the IG place to be. Relax The new spa at Séc-he at the Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza in Palm Springs is a 75,000-square-foot complex destination. Enjoy mineral water yoga, hot mineral springs, and a full menu of treatments and services. Bridal parties can amp up the girls-justwanna-have-fun vibes by reserving a private spa suite with a fireplace lounge, mineral whirlpool, large screen TV, and private patio deck. Relax at the main pool to enjoy the waterfall and grotto.
Top: The pool at the Sands Hotel & Spa is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Bottom: The Sands Hotel & Spa features a Moroccan MidCentury design throughout.
Photos courtesy of Sands Hotel & Spa
Palm Springs has something for everyone. Dwayne Carrier, broker and branch manager at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties in Palm Springs, finds much to love. “Palm Springs offers year-round activities. The summer has Splash House, concerts, art museum events, the street fair, the air museum, and more. In the winter, we have the glamorous International Film Festival and the star-studded gala. Dining options are limitless from dinner theater and fine dining, to farm-to-table local fare. There’s hiking, biking, art, and so much more.”