Review: Colony Palms Hotel

Why book?

This luxuriously private adults-only hotel from celebrated celebrity designer Steve Hermann is in the heart of Palm Springs, but has a more laid-back, exclusive vibe than its neighbors. Think Beverly Hills Hotel meets the desert.

Set the scene:

Fire pits and private nooks are sprinkled throughout the property. But it’s the verdant, palm tree-lined pool, with its backdrop of the San Jacinto Mountains, that’s the centerpiece for the silk headscarf-adorned jet-set crowd—much more concerned with sipping spritzes poolside than playing “who’s who” at a desert dance party.

The backstory

Since it first opened in the 1930s, the Spanish Colonial Revival hotel has seen several owners, most recently getting a multimillion dollar makeover from Hermann, who’s made a career of designing for A-listers and execs. Hermann first planted his flag in the desert with the opening of the ultra-private, laid-back L’Horizon Resort, with the attached ultra-exclusive Hermann Bungalows anticipated to open later this year.

The rooms

Each of the 57 rooms channels Hollywood regency glam while still nodding to the classic Palm Springs mid-century aesthetic. Bold statement wallpapering, sky-high ceilings, and plenty of greenery are the through lines across the room categories, with suites offering private verandas with garden seating, Italian Frette robes and linens, and Le Labo amenities. The real splurge is Hermann’s eponymous two-story Residence, where you’ll get steam showers, a fully functional kitchen, and a citrus tree-dotted backyard with a hot tub perfectly suited for stargazing.

Food and drink

A veteran of luxury hotel dining, chef Micheal Hung has upped the ante for poolside dining at The Colony Club, where you’ll find excellent spins on California Mediterranean cooking, like Valencian-style paella punched up with smoky linguica sausage, as well as what are quite possibly the world’s best truffle fries. Dine al fresco or inside the ultra-glam Art Deco-inspired dining room during brunch hour, and don’t miss the strawberry cream cheese brioche French toast and cheddar biscuits with seeded honey from Biscuit & Counter.

The spa

Seeing as the spa caters to the Hollywood elite, you shouldn’t be surprised to find the latest trends in beauty, like gua sha facials and sound healing. But it’s not all woo-woo: The estheticians and therapists are the real deal and will tailor the services to your goals, and you’ll float out feeling anew.

The neighborhood/area

Located in the Movie Colony neighborhood, where Hollywood starlets stayed when visiting Palm Springs in its heyday, the hotel boasts the same aura of exclusivity today.

The service

White glove service starts on arrival, when you’re greeted with a glass of complimentary champagne. Be sure to have the concierge book one of the property’s complimentary beach cruisers (painted in the signature green color, of course) and pedal to local favorites like Birba and Cheekys, right around the corner; or a daybed by the pool if you want to guarantee a great spot to lounge for the day.

For families

Adults-only, as mentioned previously.

Anything left to mention?

With the desert’s festival season back in full swing after a two-year shutdown, be sure to book far in advance to avoid crowds and price hikes.

Finally, in 100 words or less, what makes this hotel worthy of Hot List?

A feather in the cap of designer Steve Hermann’s hotel offerings, this property offers a retreat-like environment with a sprinkle of Hollywood glam.