The Best Hotels Near Joshua Tree National Park

The 12 Best Hotels Near Joshua Tree National Park

With its quirky Joshua trees and otherworldly rock formations, it’s no wonder why Joshua Tree National Park is one of the most visited destinations in southern California. Plus, its proximity to Los Angeles and Palm Springs makes it a popular stop on a California road trip!

Joshua Tree is best known for its Instagrammable attractions like the beautiful Arch Rock, the eerie Skull Rock, and the incredible Keys View lookout point. Hiking enthusiasts will love making the trek to the picture-perfect Barker Dam, traipsing their way through Cholla Cactus Garden, and journeying to Lost Horse Mine. And you can take your pick of Joshua Tree’s 8,000 climbing routes – from the Room to Shroom trail to the Yabba Dabba Don’t trail!

When it comes to searching for places to stay in Joshua Tree National Park, the only option is to camp. But if you prefer a nice hotel over a tent, don’t worry! The towns and cities surrounding Joshua Tree National Park just happen to be brimming with retro motels, art-filled boutique hotels, and luxurious adults-only retreats. 

There are so many options you might have a hard time choosing the perfect one. So we’ve created a list of the 12 best hotels near Joshua Tree to help you plan your perfect getaway!

  • Short on time and don’t want to read the whole article? Here are our top 3 picks!
  1. Sands Hotel and Spa
  2. L’Horizon Resort & Spa
  3. Les Cactus

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 12 Best Hotels Near Joshua Tree National Park

Where to Stay Near Joshua Tree National Park

Where to Stay near Joshua Tree National Park: Best Hotels

While there are no hotels inside the park, you’ll find plenty of options scattered around the towns surrounding Joshua Tree National Park. If you don’t want to camp and are looking for a comfortable hotel as close to the park’s entrance as possible, choose a hotel in the village of Joshua Tree. That way, you’ll be directly outside the entrance for easy access to Joshua Tree’s best trails and attractions.

The towns of Twentynine Palms, Yucca Valley, and Pioneertown are three other popular options. Not only will you find some cool hotels and motels in these areas, but you’ll be near all sorts of bars and restaurants. Alternately, if you’re looking for the coolest boutique hotels near Joshua Tree National Park, Palm Desert has something to suit all budgets and is a 40-minute drive away. 

Or, if you don’t mind being a bit more removed, you’ll find some of the best Joshua Tree hotels in Palm Springs. You can choose from revamped mid-century gems or luxurious adults-only resorts. If you go this route, you can spend your days hiking in Joshua Tree and your evenings indulging in everything Palm Springs has to offer!


The 12 Best Hotels Near Joshua Tree National Park

1. Sands Hotel and Spa

Best Hotels Near Joshua Tree National Park: Sands Hotel and Spa
Photos: Sands Hotel and Spa

Sands Hotel and Spa is easily the coolest hotel near Joshua Tree if you’re looking for the perfect blend of style and luxury. This place is the first designer boutique hotel in Indian Wells, so you know it’s something special. Plus, Joshua Tree National Park is an easy 40-minute drive away.

You can choose from 46 beautifully decorated guest rooms, each designed by English interior designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard. Expect bespoke furniture, custom textiles, and spa-like Carrara marble baths with Diptyque bath amenities. 

If you want to go all out or are in town for a special occasion, the “Le Riad” guest room is the best in the house. Designed to mimic a Moroccan Palace, this two-story suite boasts two mosaicked patios, a lavish living room with a billiards table, and a full kitchen with Viking appliances. 

When you’re not adventuring around Joshua Tree, you can get massages in the Moroccan-style spa, soak up the sun from the pool, and sip seasonal cocktails influenced by the Great Spice Route at The Pink Cabana. If you’re feeling peckish, The Pink Cabana also serves up Mediterranean dishes with a Moroccan twist for breakfast, brunch, and dinner.


2. AutoCamp Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree National Park Hotels in California: AutoCamp Joshua Tree
Photos: AutoCamp Joshua Tree

Autocamp Joshua Tree is one of the best hotels in Joshua Tree if you’re searching for a completely unique stay. Not only is this place an Instagram dream, but it’s nestled right at the entrance to Joshua Tree National Park, making it the perfect place to base yourself.

Explore the grounds, and you’ll find the mid-century modern Quonset Hut Clubhouse, a seasonal heated pool, and plenty of outdoor seating around cozy fire pits. There’s also the General Store, where you can pick up provisions, wine, and drinks. 

If you opt for the 31-foot Classic Airstream Suite, you’ll get mid-century decor, a sun-drenched sitting area, and a full kitchenette. Plus, you can enjoy your morning coffee and evening drinks on your private patio, complete with a fire pit and dining area. You’ll also have the option of booking the Vista Airstream Suite, which is situated in a blissfully remote location.

For more space, the Vista X Suites are outfitted with queen memory foam beds underneath floor-to-ceiling picture windows, living areas with couches, and spa-like baths with Ursa Major organic bath products. Plus, you can prepare meals in the kitchenette and enjoy al fresco meals on your private patio.


3. The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage

California Hotels Near Joshua Tree National Park: The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage
Photos: The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage

The epitome of luxury, The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage is situated between Palm Springs and Palm Desert, just 45 minutes from Joshua Tree National Park. But with so many incredible amenities, you’ll never have to step foot off of this property if you don’t want to!

You can spend your days relaxing in a deluxe poolside cabana, getting indigenous-inspired treatments at the world-class spa, and taking yoga classes in the wellness center. 

When hunger strikes, State Fare Bar & Kitchen serves up an excellent selection of seasonal dishes and local wines. And for sweeping views of Coachella Valley, The Edge Steakhouse is the perfect place to gather for refined meals and carefully crafted cocktails. 

If that’s not enough, you’ll love the luxurious guest rooms and suites. Even the most standard rooms offer 450 square feet of space, plush beds with Frette linens, and private balconies with beautiful mountain views. Plus, you’ll appreciate the thoughtful extras like the oversized soaking tubs, complimentary Asprey bath amenities, and Nespresso coffee and espresso makers.


4. The Castle House Estate

Where to Stay in Joshua Tree National Park: The Castle House Estate
Photos: The Castle House Estate

If you’re looking for an unforgettable glamping experience near Joshua Tree, look no further than The Castle House Estate. Nestled on 12 beautiful acres just minutes from Joshua Tree, this is definitely one of the most unique Joshua Tree hotels!

You can opt to stay in a yurt, a revamped container room, or one of the two medieval-style guard towers. The Instagrammable yurts are popular picks for their luxurious Moroccan aesthetic, plush beds, hand-loomed rugs, and carpeted outdoor areas.

Alternately, the circular tower guest rooms boast boho-chic living areas on the bottom floor, cozy bedrooms on the second story, and a ladder that leads to a pillow-clad rooftop deck. This is the perfect place to do some serious stargazing at night!

Explore the grounds, and you’ll find a heated pool and a communal solar-powered shower. If you’re hungry, order room service, and the staff will bring a carefully curated selection of locally sourced fare to your “room” until midnight.


5. L’Horizon Resort & Spa

Best Hotels Near Joshua Tree National Park: L’Horizon Resort & Spa
Photos: L’Horizon Resort & Spa

If big hotel chains aren’t your thing, the adults-only L’Horizon Resort & Spa is one of the coolest boutique hotels near Joshua Tree. Housed in a 1952 building, this place oozes chic, mid-century charm. Plus, you know a place is cool when it once attracted A-listers from Hollywood’s golden era! 

You’ll find 25 ultra-stylish bungalows scattered across three acres of lush land. Each bungalow boasts plush beds with Frette linens, marble baths with Le Labo toiletries, and furnished private patios. Plus, you’ll love the handy extras, including the large flat-screens with Apple TV and the fully stocked minibar. 

When you’re not luxuriating in your bungalow, soak in the hot tub, swim in the zero-edge pool, or indulge in massages and aromatherapy at the spa. 

You’ll be a stone’s throw from all of Palm Springs’ best restaurants, but if you want to dine at the hotel, SO•PA serves up refined farm-to-table dishes. Or, if you’re feeling totally lazy, wrap yourself in the sumptuous robe and have your meals delivered right to your room!


6. JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa

Where to Stay in Joshua Tree National Park: JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa
Photos: JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa

JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa is a luxurious resort in Palm Desert. It’s the perfect reprieve if you want to spend your days hiking in Joshua Tree and your evenings indulging in all of this hotel’s incredible amenities. 

When you’re not adventuring around town, you can lounge around one of the outdoor pools, tee off on the golf course, play tennis on one of the courts, or get rejuvenated in the luxurious spa. Plus, when it comes to drinking and dining, you’ll be spoiled for choice with 10 dining outlets! 

You can get your morning jolt at the onsite Starbucks, sip alfresco drinks at Blue Star Lounge, treat yourself to innovative Japanese dishes at Aquifer65 & The JW Sushi Bar or Mikado Japanese Steakhouse, or enjoy seafood meals at the award-winning Fisherman’s Landing.

Once you’ve had your fill, you’ll love relaxing in your mid-century-style room at the end of a long day. Even the most standard rooms boast plush pillow-top beds, 50-inch smart TVs with Netflix, and private balconies. If you need more space, the suites offer cool extras like stylish living rooms and huge bathrooms with deep soaking tubs.


7. Sacred Sands

California Hotels Near Joshua Tree National Park: Sacred Sands
Photos: Sacred Sands

If you’re searching for a unique place to stay, Sacred Sands is an excellent option. With so many cool nooks and crannies, you’re sure to make your friends and family jealous with all of your Instagram photos! Not only will you have an unforgettable vacation, but the West Entrance of Joshua Tree National Park is just one mile away. 

This romantic retreat only has two guestrooms. Both the Onyx Room and Jade Room boast earthen straw-bale walls, a California king mattress with Southwest-style textiles, and a rain shower with river rock floors. Plus, you’ll get fun extras like record players and in-room coffee makers. 

The coolest thing about the Sacred Sands is the communal yard. You can easily spend hours reading on one of the plush day beds, snapping selfies from the boho-style swings, or taking in desert views from the outdoor soaking tubs.


8. Les Cactus

Joshua Tree National Park Hotels in California: Les Cactus
Photos: Les Cactus

Les Cactus is a hip boutique hotel set right in the heart of Palm Springs. You can spend your days adventuring around Joshua Tree and your evenings checking out all of Palm Spring’s awesome attractions and eateries.  

Named after the ’60s French rock and roll song by Jacques Dutronc, the adorable mid-century motel has been completely reimagined. Explore the adults-only property, and you’ll find a picture-perfect saltwater pool lined by loungers, an outdoor fire pit, and a hammock garden. You’ll also have access to free bicycles whenever you feel like cruising around town. 

You can start your day off by filling up on the complimentary breakfast. The friendly staff will also serve free snacks and a selection of wine and beer throughout the day and night.

It’s possible to choose from four room types: Petite, Cozy, Comfortable, and Le Suite. The Insta-worthy Comfortable rooms have everything you need for a comfortable stay, including at least 300-square-feet of space, large flat-screen TVs, and a spacious wet bar area. Upgrade to the Le Suite, and you’ll be treated to a separate living room and a kitchenette, perfect for preparing basic meals in your suite. 


9. The Colony Palms Hotel and Bungalows

Where to Stay Near Joshua Tree National Park: The Colony Palms Hotel and Bungalows
Photos: The Colony Palms Hotel and Bungalows

If you want to stay in one of the best hotels near Joshua Tree, you really can’t go wrong with The Colony Palms Hotel and Bungalows. Step inside the Gatsby-esque lobby, and you’ll immediately feel like you’ve been transported to the golden age of Hollywood!

Housed in a 1936 building, this luxurious hotel recently received a multi-million dollar renovation, so expect everything to be new, modern, and top of the line. The Colony Palm is an adults-only hotel, making it an ideal option for a couple’s or girl’s getaway.

This boutique hotel boasts 57 magazine-worthy rooms with custom velvet beds with Italian Frette linens, 40-inch smart TVs, and luxe ensuites with 12-inch rain showers and Le Labo bath products. Plus, you’ll love the artisanal minibar, which is stocked with bespoke amenities. If you choose one of the Bungalows with a Private Courtyard, you’ll love the private patio with its plush wrap-around couch, fire pit, and soaking tub.

If that’s not enough, you can treat yourself to a holistic treatment at the spa or soak up the California sun from a poolside lounge chair. Whenever you’re feeling peckish, head over to The Colony Club for innovative takes on California classics.


10. Pioneertown Motel

Where to Stay in Joshua Tree National Park: Pioneertown Motel
Photos: Pioneertown Motel

One of the many things that makes this historic motel so unique is that it was built as a movie set by Roy Rogers in 1946. Gene Autry once played poker in room No.9 until sunrise! Plus, it’s situated an easy 25 minutes from the West Entrance of Joshua Tree National Park, so the location can’t be beat. 

You can choose from a variety of rooms, which offer a blend of Southwestern flair and mid-century accents. Some rooms boast giant cactuses, while others are named after movie stars. But no matter which you choose, you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. 

Room No.1 is called “The Canteen,” and it’s actually a 24-hour lounge where you can mix and mingle with fellow guests. For meals and drinks, The Red Dog Saloon serves up refined Mexican fare alongside a long list of ciders, beers, and cocktails. Carnivores will devour the Wagyu beef tacos, while vegans will love digging into the mushroom asada tacos.


11. Hotel Paseo, Autograph Collection

Where to Stay Near Joshua Tree National Park: Hotel Paseo, Autograph Collection
Photos: Hotel Paseo, Autograph Collection

Located in Palm Desert – just 40 minutes from the entrance to Joshua Tree – Hotel Paseo is the perfect pick if you’re looking for a unique boutique hotel near Joshua Tree. Plus, El Paseo is known as “The Rodeo Drive of the Desert,” so you’ll have endless dining and shopping options right outside your door. 

When you’re not out exploring Joshua Tree, you can spend your time soaking up the sunshine at the pool and sipping fruity cocktails in a private poolside cabana. There’s also an onsite spa for massages and facials and a state-of-the-art gym for your daily workouts. If you prefer to dine at the hotel, you can choose from a cafe, pool bar, and the Larkspur Grill.   

Head to your room after a long day, and you’ll find retro-chic decor, unique artwork curated by local artists, and spa-like ensuites with designer toiletries. For a truly unique stay, book the 26-foot 1950 Airstream Cruiser Suite! The entire space has been fully revamped, so expect nothing but luxury.


12. Holiday House Palm Springs

Joshua Tree National Park Hotels in California: Holiday House Palm Springs
Photos: Holiday House Palm Springs

Step inside the Holiday House Palm Springs, and you’ll immediately see why this boutique gem is one of the best hotels near Joshua Tree National Park. Filled with original artwork by David Hockney and Roy Liechtenstein and located a five-minute walk from the Palm Springs Art Museum, this is the perfect pick for art lovers.

This adults-only hotel first opened its doors in 1951 and is now home to 28 carefully curated rooms. Expect mid-century decor, Mark D. Sikes custom textiles, and original artwork in each and every guest room. 

The standard “Good” rooms are outfitted with cool amenities like a lavish minibar with a full selection of liquors and ensuites with Waterworks bath hardware and Cowshed toiletries. Upgrade to the “Best” rooms, and you’ll get a deep soaking tub and a private balcony or patio with mountain views.

In the mornings, you can fill up for the day with the complimentary continental breakfast and unlimited Vittoria coffee. Other freebies include Wi-Fi, parking, and use of the beautiful outdoor pool. Plus, if you want to dine at the hotel, The Pantry serves up delicious “Americana” cuisine for lunch and dinner.

That completes our list of the 12 best hotels near Joshua Tree! Did we miss any cool boutique hotels near Joshua Tree National Park? Comment below so we can add them to the list!


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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most unique hotel near Joshua Tree National Park?

Autocamp Joshua Tree is one of the best hotels in Joshua Tree if you’re searching for a completely unique stay. Not only is this place an Instagram dream, but it’s nestled right at the entrance to Joshua Tree National Park, making it the perfect place to base yourself.

What hotel near Joshua Tree National Park has the best amenities?

The epitome of luxury, The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage is situated between Palm Springs and Palm Desert, just 45 minutes from Joshua Tree National Park. And with so many incredible amenities, you’ll never have to step foot off of this property if you don’t want to! You can spend your days relaxing in a deluxe poolside cabana, getting indigenous-inspired treatments at the world-class spa, and taking yoga classes in the wellness center. When hunger strikes, State Fare Bar & Kitchen serves up an excellent selection of seasonal dishes and local wines. And for sweeping views of Coachella Valley, The Edge Steakhouse is the perfect place to gather for refined meals and carefully crafted cocktails.

What is the most luxurious hotel near Joshua Tree National Park?

JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa is a luxurious resort in Palm Desert. It’s the perfect reprieve if you want to spend your days hiking in Joshua Tree and your evenings indulging in all of this hotel’s incredible amenities. When you’re not adventuring around town, you can lounge around one of the outdoor pools, tee off on the golf course, play tennis on one of the courts, or get rejuvenated in the luxurious spa. Plus, when it comes to drinking and dining, you’ll be spoiled for choice with 10 dining outlets!

What is the best historic hotel near Joshua Tree National Park?

One of the many things that makes this historic motel so unique is that it was built as a movie set by Roy Rogers in 1946. Gene Autry once played poker in room No.9 until sunrise! Plus, it’s situated an easy 25 minutes from the West Entrance of Joshua Tree National Park, so the location can’t be beat.

What is the best hotel for couples near Joshua Tree National Park has the best spa?

If you want to stay in one of the best hotels near Joshua Tree, you really can’t go wrong with The Colony Palms Hotel and Bungalows. The Colony Palm is an adults-only hotel, making it an ideal option for a couple’s or girl’s getaway.If you choose one of the Bungalows with a Private Courtyard, you’ll love the private patio with its plush wrap-around couch, fire pit, and soaking tub. If that’s not enough, you can treat yourself to a holistic treatment at the spa or soak up the California sun from a poolside lounge chair.


About the Author:

  • Justine Lopez

    Justine is a writer and editor who always seems to take the unconventional route in life. She also suffers from a serious case of wanderlust!

    In 2013, she left her hometown in California and set off on a yearlong round-the-world journey with her now-husband – they never looked back. Since then, she’s lived the expat life in Indonesia, Cambodia, China, Vietnam, Mexico, and now Dubai. Along the way, she's written and edited for magazines, newspapers, and websites in Asia and beyond.

    When she's not stoking her wanderlust by working on travel articles for Wandering Wheatleys, Justine is busy caring for her many foster cats in Dubai, seeking out all the delicious vegetarian food, and taking every chance she gets to explore a new corner of the world!

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