Yummy place! If I could I would come here weekly because it's so delicious. Nice staff and the store is clean.

MY 600TH REVIEW!!!! I wanted to save #600 for someone special and Desert Star is the best! I was looking for a quality, reasonably priced hotel for a quick trip to Palm Springs and Yelp sent me the right way on this one for sure! These are just some of the things we loved: -calm atmosphere without being stuffy -bikes to use while you are there -bungalows with all the cooking facilities to make you feel at home -postcards pre-stamped in the room so we could write our friends -super stylish digs -nicely maintained pool area with fire pit -our own private patio with fire pit and BBQ -really, really sweet hosts who made us feel totally at home I just can't say enough good things about out experience. I have stayed at some super expensive 5 star hotels all over the world and nothing compared to this. This is hands down my favorite place I have ever stayed. When I am stressed out and wanting a vacation, being at the Desert Star is what I fantasize about! read more

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My partner and I had the pleasure of celebrating our 11th anniversary here in late October 2009. From the moment we booked our room to our final farewell hugs from proprietors Davy and Walter, I could not have been more pleased (read: squeal-worthy) with our visit. So let's move on to the details! 1) When I called to book the rooms, Davy was kind enough to explain, in detail, each of the unique qualities their rooms offer. Like to sunbathe during the day? Prefer to bbq on the back patio? Do you like light airy spaces with vaulted ceilings? No problem, they have a room to fit each of these needs! 2) We arrived late, around 10:30pm, on a Thursday night. Since Davy and Walter live on site and were not sure if they would be up when we arrived, there was a welcome note on the front entrance door with the pass code to get in. Fortunately for us, Walter immediately came to welcome us despite the late hour and even recommended some late night spots to grub. 3) The rooms are G-O-R-G-E-O-U-S. Seriously, the 50s architecture is absolutely stellar but I found the tiny details in our room that really showed the care they put into the hotel. Our room (#5) had tea candles to set the mood, flatware/stemware/etc. should you like to enjoy a cocktail or a home cooked meal, an ipod dock, a gigantic patio to support my dirty cigarette habit, inflatable rafts to float on in the heated salt water pool...the list goes on and on. 4) Walter and Davy are the most amazing hosts! Almost psychic in predicting what we wanted and when. And not in an annoying, hovering kind of way. They really are the "Stars" in this hotel. OK, so by now you're probably thinking that this place is too good to be true. So I dare you: Just try to make me a liar out of me. That just means that me and the handful of yelpers who know about this place get to enjoy Desert Star all to ourselves. read more

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My wife and I stayed here last year over Thanksgiving weekend. It is such a cute little hotel in that mid century modern palm springs vibe. The place was clean and quiet. We had good weather, so spent most our time just sitting by the pool and reading. Only demerit is that there is not many restaurants within walking distance, so you have to get in your car and drive. The downtown area is only about 10 mins away though. read more

The Desert Star - Hotels Near Me - Palm Springs, California

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You people complaining about the old keepers of the hotel not being there any longer, need to grow the hell up. This is a hotel, not your mama's house. What you want from a hotel is a clean, visually appealing room with the amenities as described, and The Desert Star is all that and then some. If you want a martini party, go to a bar. If you want someone to entertain you, go to a comedy club. Working and living in downtown LA can be overwhelming at times. I'm always on the move. It's not a city of calm. Then again, this is what you ask for when residing in an urban neighborhood. So, when I want to getaway for the weekend, th is EXACTLY what I want. A GETAWAY. This means, no children, no loud drunk girls in dresses that are 3 sizes to small for them, taking shots of cheap tequila. I want peace. I want to lay by the pool and work on my tan with no outside disturbances. I want my handsome man snoring next to me spilling his pina colada allover himself. I want the choice to either cook for ourselves or go out to dinner depending on our moods and I want it done in an atmosphere that tends to this without being disruptive. I don't need anyone to make me a damn martini and force me to be around people I more than likely don't want to be around. If I want that, I go to where it's at. The Desert Star is for the picky modernist. We tend to be overly critical on cleanliness and esthetics. We don't like clutter. We want furnishings to be both useful and visually appealing. It's hard to please us. In fact, the only people that succeed are just as neurotic as ourselves, and this is what I love about The Desert Star. They appeal to the most picky of the picky. Form the most comfortable memory foam beds to fluffy robes, to a fully stocked kitchen, all in a very tasteful mid century modern space. The Man and I were here about the same time last year and at that time Richard was our host. He was an absolute gentleman that tended to everything we needed. This year it was Scott and tho he was attentive and made sure to let us know he's a phone call away, we didn't see him for the whole weekend. Which, is EXACTLY what I like. I don't need a babysitter while vacationing. Back then, we made the decision to make The Desert Star our weekend getaway every year around the same time, and it has remained the reason we keep this commitment. read more

All those five star reviews of The Desert Star are correct. What a gem this place is! It a precious mid century hotel with the modern amenities thrown in. The pool was perfect relaxation time. We stayed in Apartment 3 which was modern looking and super clean! We didn't use the kitchenette but the idea of using it was tempting. I guess all the suites are different and that makes me want to come back to stay again. The staff was swell if not stellar. A magical time was had, I feel like a new man. I kind of wanted to retire here. read more

This Mid-Century Modern gem is sure to make you feel at home, but certain shortcomings hold it back from a true 5 star experience. I've been coming to the Star for the last three or four years and I've experienced it at high and low season. What makes this place unique, is that rather than a highly regulated hotel this is more like renting a condo for the week. Rules exist, I'm sure, but they aren't enforced. It is generally just expected that you conduct yourself like an adult (no kids are allowed) don't inconvenience other guests, and act politely. This laissez faire attitude allows you to do some things you could never get away with elsewhere. Want to float in the pool with a glass of champagne? Go for it, but just DON'T DROP YOUR GLASS! See? It's easy to have fun when we do it responsibly. Which brings me to another great aspect of this property. it is quiet here - and in this part of the neighborhood where the pools at the bigger hotels feel like just a little less than a full-scale drunken riot - this is greatly appreciated. There's loads of other positive qualities, but I won't list them here, and rather, will go into the negative qualities that caused it to lose a star. 1. The pool is tiny - like a children's pool practically - and although it is clean, deck areas could have used a resurfacing last time I was there. 2. The rooms are showing some wear and tear. It isn't the big things that fall short, but I found some smudges around the walls, some of the furniture is beginning to become worn out, the baseboards could be replaced and the AC unit had not been recently cleaned. 3. High season pricing is just a little expensive - not based on the quality of your experience, but based on the size of your room and the limited amenities (no gym, no spa, no room service etc.) I will note that they do partner up with a couple local masseurs, but you must order them to your room, and at that point, why not find someone yourself? 4. Privacy is sometimes a little strained. Although it feels like it's own world, and is completely sheltered from the public, the property is tiny, all the windows face into one another, and the walls are thin. In general, this place is still one of the most unique places to stay in Palm Springs, however, not a five-star hotel. read more

The Desert Star is probably Palm Springs' best kept secret. I hesitate to let the cat out of the bag. We stayed in Studio #4. It was even better than the online pictures -- that never happens! It was incredibly chic and super clean (I'm a clean freak and it exceeded my standards). Everything was in pristine condition, not a pool chair out of place. And, it all felt fresh for you that day, not like a hotel that 100 people have been in before. The Desert Star is a 5-minute drive from downtown, but far enough away to be quiet and secluded. And, on top of the superb accommodations, we got concierge-level service from Richard and Debra, the property owners. They gave us insider tips on where to eat, freshly squeezed grapefruit juice upon checkout, and a handwritten thank you note in the mail when we got home. 5 stars all day long. read more

I just had the opportunity to spend my friend's bachelorette weekend at the Desert Star and we loved it so much, we want to make it an annual pilgrimage. We had the whole place to ourselves, which could have been because it's still a million degrees in Palm Springs or this could be a truly hidden gem. If it's the latter, I almost hate to yelp about it and let the secret out, but I just want to make sure it stays open so that I can go back!! The Desert Star is a 1954 motel lovingly rehabbed by the sweetest proprietors, Walter and Davy. Every mid-century modern detail and furniture is absolute perfection. This place isn't fancy, so don't expect luxury bathrooms with fancy lotions and stuff, but it is aesthetically perfect. Each remarkably spacious room has the feel of your very own full swinger's pad, complete with private patio, adorable kitchenette with period details and a front door that is mere steps from your poolside chaise. There were 6 of us, so we occupied 3 rooms plus the Master Suite, which includes 2 bedrooms and a HUGE living room, sitting area, full kitchen, and laundry. It looks gorgeous on the website, but if you can believe it, it's even more breathtaking in person. My only complaint is the lack of maid service, but this may be how they keep the prices so affordable and if I had to choose between maid service and low prices, I'd probably pick the low prices. I really loved this place and can't wait to go back. read more

This is the best place EVER. EVER. EVER. My husband and I spent two night here and I didn't want to leave. Units are clean, well appointed, stylish. The inn is private and quiet. Pool is right outside your unit door. It's amazing. We are trying to get back as soon as we can. If you are looking for a place to stay in PS, you can stop looking. The Desert Star is it. Believe the hype. Ps---no kids are allowed. Adults only. Thank heavens. (We left ours at home) read more

I really cannot say enough about the genius customer experience that owner Davy has created from beginning to end. If you go to Palm Springs, you must stay there! Just some of the stuff I loved: -- All the reviews on Yelp are consistent, and when I left I was compelled to give the same 5-star review. -- The photos on the website already had me excited, but they don't even do the place justice. -- Davy has a Desert Guide on the website, your one stop guide to Palm Springs, and the same guide waiting for you (in paper) in your bungalow. -- Guest Cruiser Bikes listed as an amenity. Plus Bike Map Routes. Right when we walked in, the Guest Cruiser bikes were parked right in front ready to go! -- The hotel is described as "mid-century modern," and the architectural theme is continued with a mid-century modern self guided architectural tour of Palm Springs, compliments of Desert Star Hotel. Plus, the hotel is true to description. The counter stools, couch, lamps, cutting board, even the microwave (I can't believe this thing still works). -- Davy is very thorough and detail oriented from the website to phone calls to arrival. When we arrived, we had a personalized note on the door telling us to come on in and enjoy our stay. read more

Hands down a unique & quiet vacation spot in Palm Springs! This mid-century modern jewel is a must for out of town visitors who are looking for a quiet, relaxed, adult-only vacation that lets you experience the glamour of Palm Springs. Located just south of downtown, the Desert Star is close to just about everything & now newly accessible by "runs every fifteen minutes" free Buzz trolley line. Each apartment at the Desert Star includes a collection of mid-century modern furniture. The kitchenettes are stocked with essentials including an oven/stove, full-size fridge, microwave, coffee maker, toaster and utensils. You'll also find other important vacation necessities like pool towels, yoga mats & your own private courtyard. The Desert Star has an airbnb quality where it feels like your staying in someone's home vs. a hotel. All apartments look onto a spacious pool courtyard area that gets just the right amount of sun for those looking for warmth and just the right amount of shade for those looking to stay cool. The pool is designed for floating & relaxing, not large pool gatherings. At night look forward to cozying up to the large fire pit and enjoying an awesome view of the stars. Free parking, free apple-tv, super-fast wi-fi, clean rooms/common areas & friendly owners (Debra & Richard from MN!) make this place a very pleasant to relax. And it's really affordable with no resort fees - compared to staying at some of the larger resorts in the area. You'll need no more than a few minutes to drive downtown, to grocery store or to any of the fabulous restaurants located in PS. Joshua National Tree is a little less than an hour drive away from the Desert Star. A few notes about the Desert Star... - It's definitely for the more relaxed, older and/or quiet crowd. Don't book a room here if you're looking to party or be loud with a group of friends. If you need just one day of "Palm Springs party" but still want to enjoy the Desert Star I suggest walking across the street to the Ace Hotel where you can buy a day pass to the glamorous LA Hipster pool for only $20! - It's more apartment than hotel. You'll need to bring your own food, coffee, soap/shampoo, sunscreen, etc. (I do wish they'd stock some of these necessities or at least let you know you it's "bring your own" as we had to run out to get all of these things at the grocery store) - At least in apartment #3 the shower pretty much was a no-go. The water was more like a dribble. It was super disappointing as I never quite felt clean the whole time I was there. I chalked this one up to the fact the place is a bit older so the pipes are probably small. read more

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If the Desert Star isn't your thing, that's okay. There's no OONTZ OONTZ DJ (hello, Viceroy) and accompanying dbag contingent, it's teeny tiny (7 rooms), it's off the main drag, party hearty is not especially welcomed, and the most exciting thing going is 6pm or so when proprietor Davy mixes up some cocktails. However, if your goal is to really escape somewhere chilled out, with gorgeous mountain views and the spare 50s modern decor that fits PS so well, comfy beds with stellar AC, surrounded by cool folks and catered to by the nicest owner: well, you've found your home. I've been half a dozen times in the last half a dozen years for everything from romantic getaways (i.e. delivery menus/cooking at "home", sweet dvd library, beach cruisers) to bday celebrations (whispering in the pool and watching stars with champagne til 3am, great food/fun recommendations from Davy) and this place never disappoints. There's some Euro tourists, a lot of LA refugees, people celebrating life milestones - last time a couple was getting engaged and brought along a few bottles of Veuve which they shared poolside (thanks, guys!) - but it's unfailing quiet, gorgeous and respectful. Just made reservations for this weekend and cannot wait to get there. read more

I cannot recommend The Desert Star enough. In fact, I hesitate to even write this review in fear of the fact that it will be booked up when I want to try to stay here again! (And make no mistake about it, I will be back.) The pool is secluded and relaxing, the architecture of the building is unique and interesting, the apartments are comfortable with full kitchens and secluded patios, and the building is remote enough to feel private but also close walking distance or a (very) short ride from any of the Palm Springs action that you might desire! Do yourself a favor and give this spot a shot next time you head out to the desert. This is what Palm Springs is all about. read more

The new management gripes should be put to rest because Scott was so helpful and so nice that I now consider him a friend rather than just the manager. Took time out of his day to advise us on all the best spots according to our likes and was spot on on every one. He also made himself available to us if we had any questions whatsoever. The property itself was great too. Tasteful, clean, practical. The pics online don't do it justice. This place is an absolute gem and I will happily move into #4 as well. read more

We just got back from a fun-filled weekend at the Desert Star with our friends. Davy was so friendly and accommodating when we booked the whole place out as a group. He held rooms for us until everyone was on board, and was just as welcoming when we showed up (a bit early) on Friday. It's a very attractive property. I was blown away when we walked in our room, #6. It has a full kitchen with an island and all kinds of appliances, a couch and extra chairs, a flat screen tv and a very comfortable bed. The wet room was the best part- the entire bathroom is the shower! Kellie B. is right about the lack of shades on the sliding patio doors, which are right next to the bed. When I'm on vacation, especially in Palm Springs in the middle of summer, I like to stay up really late to take advantage of the beautiful nights and sleep in. Bring a sleep mask if you're the same way. The one thing that I think the owners should invest in, which would make it a 5 star experience, is some kind of a shade structure, or even umbrellas, on the patio. There is no shade at all out there, which made the cute outdoor living and dining areas unusable until late afternoon. We were all disappointed to be stuck in our rooms while the sun was up. I wish I'd brought an Easy Up! read more

I'm very excited to say that I will be giving up everything I own in LA, moving into room #4 and I am never leaving. Alright... maybe not, but I can always dream about it. My partner found the Desert Star on yelp and regardless of a few reviews with new management groans, decided to give it a try. We couldn't have been happier with our experience. We went on a warm week January and pretty much had the entire place to ourselves. The room was clean and thoughtfully furnished. Scott very kind; making sure we had anything we needed and giving us enough recommendations for nightlife to keep us busy during our entire stay -- including telling us where we could meet the infamous Davy! read more

this is a terribly past-due review - i stayed here in august, so just over 6 months ago - but in planning an upcoming desert retreat, i realized i needed to leave a good word or 10 or 20... in short, the desert star is just lovely. i just need to choose better travelmates... my relationship essentially imploded that trip - but even that fairly traumatic experience and the utter fraud of a human i was there with couldn't prevent the desert star experience from making nothing short of an excellent impression and vacation memory. the magic of the place is the atmosphere; you walk through the door to the pool area, close it behind you, and viola, you're on vacation in your own little modern world. every little detail is attended to, and the bungalows are designed, furnished, and maintained beautifully. searching out accommodations for this coming trip, i agree with other yelpers that the star is also a great value - the kitchen is shiny-new and well-stocked, and the patio with the firepit and bbq are amazing private amenities for the price. it's also amazingly CLEAN which made me amazingly happy. one of my favorite touches was the stock of PS mod committee publications about all the many local design treasures; i learned a lot about the town even by staying in. the only little picky bit i can muster is the fact that the bed was not the most comfortable; i sort of got used to it but said companion wasn't giving it much of a chance. (but, some people will find any excuse to have a bad time) i would totally return for this upcoming trip, but we're only passing through PS; sometime again in the future though, for certain. read more

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Hands down, a fantastic experience this weekend at the Desert Star. Our room was so cute and modern, great comfy bed, private patio, and totally reasonably priced. Heres a thought, if you have a big group of friends and you want a getaway weekend, this place would be amazing to rent out completely. The pool is literally right outside your door but I never felt that it was loud or too close. The hosts are great and totally accomodating. Davey made great recommendations for drinks, dinner, breakfast, shopping, everything. Definitely one of the great things about staying with locals. Room was clean, very nicely furnished, and felt like home. We didnt want to leave! Oh and the pool is saltwater, love it. We will absolutely be back! read more

This is an exceptional place to stay in Palm Springs. As Palm Springs in one of our favorite places to go, we've stayed at a handful of cool mid century hotels. This one is now a favorite! The owners Davy and Walter are real neat guys. Very accommodating, friendly, and warm. It almost feels like a bed and breakfast, without the breakfast. Though we stayed in one of their rooms that has a full size kitchen, so we enjoyed making our own "at home". Total mid century vibe! The visual lines of the hotel, the colors and placement, furniture, the walls of windows and glass, and so many other details. My partner I totally enjoyed just taking in the experience of whole place each day! Totally recommend. Especially if you want a low-key, but hip palm springs experience! Thankx Guys! :) read more

We have had an excellent long weekend at the Desert Star for Modernism Week (Unit 6). The units are lovingly cared for, and the pool is gorgeous. The small complex is in a quiet neighborhood with nice sunsets and a handful of great spots within walking distance. We only wish we were here longer to take advantage of our private patio/grill or full kitchen, but there are too many tasty places in Palm Springs to try. We look forward to coming back! read more

I'm reluctant to reward five stars simply because we would prefer to keep this place a secret all to ourselves - but alas, the owners deserve kudos. The Desert Star is a small (6 bungalows) and discreet and stylish retreat located in a quiet neighborhood near downtown Palm Springs. We stayed in #6 which included a King Bed and a fully stocked kitchenette. The owners (Davy and Walter) and incredibly gracious and accommodating and make you feel very welcome and comfortable. If you are looking to unplug, unwind, relax and chill out poolside - this is the place for you! read more

It's a great place for a weekend getaway it's simple and we didn't really use the hotel that much anyways since we were always out. It has the desert look that most little hotels have around here. read more

Our favorite place to stay on PS! Davey and Walter are great hosts and very helpful tinkling out local spots for food, drink, and entertainment. Been back many times and can't wait to return. The new salt water pool is great- so relaxing on a hot afternoon (with a margarita of course!) You won't be disappointed! read more

Terrible communication with building manager BRAD. He didn't give us he code to get in the door and was unresponsive. We waited outside the building for an hour trying to get in. We also noted on our account that we were bringing our service dog in which there was no response or problem about it. However after our stay, I was given a bad review over Air Bnb about her coming.. even after I sent over all her paper work and service dog license number. This place was aver priced with poor service. read more

I'm writing this while laying poolside and we have to check out in 4 hours which makes me immensely sad. Fellow yelper Ashley Eleanor and I needed a girls weekend, so after a thorough search, we booked ourselves two nights in studio 4. I wish I had the time and money to make it 10 nights because everything has been absolutely perfect. The location is close enough to be convenient but far away from everything to feel private and quiet. Laying by the pool has been magically relaxing. There have only ever been two or three other people outside with us and everyone is happy to quietly read their books and drink their beers. We only met the management in passing but that's fine because we have absolutely everything we need (sun, pool, booze). I'm hesitant to tell anyone about it because I wholeheartedly intend to come back and I don't want any of you making it difficult to get a booking but I also want them to be crazy successful and keep this place running for a long, long time! read more

Davy and Walter are super nice so I'm hesitant to be critical but there were some things I can't get over about this hotel. The rooms are very nice and big and clean. The kitchens were top notch and the gas grill was great. My biggest complaint is that there was no curtains/shades on the huge sliding glass window that comprised most of the back wall of our room. If you forget your eye shades, you'll be waking up with the roosters! There is virtually no shade and lots of concrete around the pool so it gets really hot and there's no way to escape it unless you go in your room. Most places (even crappy motels) have free coffee in your coffee maker. Not here. We didn't even have a bar of soap in our bathroom. Oh...and no ice either. Our remote for the AC was not in the room (we searched to no avail several times) so we spent most of the day in a pretty warm room. I like the fact that our hosts weren't hovering but I wish they would have checked in with us sooner to see if we needed anything. Once they did we learned how to really crank up the AC. I do know a thing or two about mid-century design and there is some really nice furnishings, but there is stuff from Ikea here too. I really think for $170 per night off season there needs to be more amenities. That's not super expensive but it's not exactly a bargain either. read more

My wife and I wanted to have a romantic getaway at palm springs and I can't tell you enough THE DESERT STAR CAME THROUGH. We stayed in unit #5 First of all, the manager Scott is amazing! He is super nice and accommodating. I told him I wanted to make blended drinks in our amazing modern apartment. Because it wasn't equipped with a blender yet, he went out and bought a really expensive blender for the place and filled the freezer with ice for us too! Secondly, the place is very private, cozy, and all the furniture and decorations are awesome. Not to mention a great kitchen with everything you need and an awesome BBQ in the backyard. The best part though, is how incredibly private this place is considering there is at most 12 people on the whole property and the pool right outside your door is basically your own private pool with heated clean salt water. I can't say enough about how awesome this place is and how awesome the whole experience was for me and my wife. Oh and did I mention it comes with apple TV complete with netflix and other goodies? They even have bikes you can use to ride around town. Oh and its like right next to downtown and everything too. Make sure to hit up Zelda's nightclub that place is legit for a palm springs night spot. You just can't beat this place as a getaway from home. It is nothing like a hotel. It is like you actually live there in your own apartment. Can't recommend it enough. read more

Wow, wow, wow. The Desert Star will be our first and only choice from now on when visiting Palm Springs. To echo the other glowing reviews here, everything previously stated is completely accurate. You will not find similar accommodations for this price anywhere in Palm Springs. We have stayed at the Ace in the past and can't believe the D.S. was right under our noses, just around the corner. Everything about our stay was remarkable, from the personal greeting by Davy when we first pulled up, who insisted on walking us to our bungalow and showing us around the grounds until he was convinced we were properly acquainted with the property (knew how to work the fire by the pool, etc.) to the unbelievable total privacy we felt while there (we swam in the salt water pool both nights, with not a soul around, admiring the star lit sky). Our bungalow (#4) was spotless, and felt like the hip downtown urban apartment we always wanted but could never afford. The open floor plan is practical yet chic with a dividing wall between the bedroom and the TV area for as much or as little privacy as desired. Everything you could need is there, is tasteful, and extremely hip, from the flatware to the his and her yoga mats thoughtfully stowed away in the spacious closet to the fluffiest (and coziest!) bathrobes we've ever experienced at a hotel. Although we did manage to pack in quite a few activities this time, and even ate a couple of meals out (highlight being Cheeky's both days for brunch, a MUST-DO!), it was truly difficult to leave the premises. The pool alone is a reason to stay, set at the perfect temperature and wonderful on your skin, with a mountain of fresh towels next to the steps and an outdoor fire pit with cozy seating around. It literally called to us to come take a quick dip, every time we walked by. And as mentioned early, the spacious studio bungalows are tastefully decorated, filled with mid-century mod furniture and accessorized by collections of books and DVDs on the mid-century modern movement. What the D.S. lacks (daily maid service, fancy bathroom amenities, room service) can be easily overlooked and frankly, will be completely forgotten about after just one night here. And a quick rundown of what won't be forgotten: stellar customer service, free wi-fi, free private parking, state of the art kitchens with stainless steel appliances, complimentary Apple TV/Netflix, duel iPod docking stations (also compatible with an iPad!), amazing pillows, the fanciest shower I've ever seen!, private patio with personal fire pit!, heated salt water pool, cruiser bikes to take out at your leisure, and the most gorgeous views we've had while staying in Palm Springs. Absolutely worth the 7 hour drive from the Bay Area! read more

An exceptional experience through and through. My boyfriend and I had our hearts set on a very classic Palm Springs experience for our first visit - a retro mid-century vibe in a unique hotel, afternoon cocktails, lounging by the pool...generally being fabulous, while not breaking the bank. We're not posh people, but have great appreciation for things that are done well and without pretension. Sweet Mother Mary, did the Desert Star deliver. We can't wait to go back. Our room was absolutely PERFECT. We arrived a bit before the official check-in time and the owners were so accommodating - urging us to relax by the pool while they readied the room. The bed was like heaven, the private patio was enormous and had a wonderful view of the nearby mountains, the kitchen was a perfect place to mix our afternoon (or AM...who are we kidding...) cocktails, the saltwater pool was mere steps from our door. We took full advantage of the pair of Schwinn cruisers they have on hand for guests - pedaling our way around town for lunch, a museum visit, or more cocktails. The other guests were a lovely and friendly bunch, but the place was never loud or raucous (as Lisa B. accurately indicated, if you're looking for that OONTZ OONTZ vibe, try the Viceroy or perhaps the Ace). We were relaxed as relaxed could be within 5 minutes of arriving and stayed that way until we reluctantly left. Walter & Davy (the owners) were a joy to talk to about where to go and what to do in town, about the hotel's history and their restoration of the property. They made sure we were cared for at all times, but their attentiveness never felt invasive. Their attention to detail is evident in every inch of the property and our stay at the Desert Star absolutely MADE our vacation. I wouldn't change a single thing. read more

The Desert Star is a great place to stay, it's a condo hotel so things aren't quite like staying at a standard resort. It has a wonderful homelike feel, as if one of your friends let you stay at their vacation house. It's in a quiet neighborhood but close to everything, and just steps away from the Buzz trolley. read more

This place is really peaceful, clean, well-kept, and beautiful. The owners are wonderful and truly kind people. I felt relaxed, comfortable, and happy during my stay. The apartment had everything we needed. The private patio was the icing on the cake. Well done Desert Star, we'll be back :) read more

Best place I have ever stayed, hands down. We stayed in apartment 6, it was absolutely perfect. The location is a short drive from downtown Palm Springs yet far enough away that it feels quiet and secluded. The pool is dreamy, and the apartments are all so beautifully designed that you will never want to leave. I really enjoyed having a full size refrigerator and kitchenette since we brought food with us, it truly felt like a home away from home. I almost didn't want to write this review and keep this place a secret... but now I am, and the entire experience was A++, we will definitely be back! read more

Walter and Davy no longer own the Desert Star, which is a bummer. The place is still cool, but I miss the hosts.

Like Caitlin, I hesitate to review Desert Star lest it become overrun and I can't get a reservation when I want, but the place is just so stellar I can't resist. I've been coming here for six years and every time I'm wondering when the next time will be. Things I love about it - it's just off Palm Springs main drag so you feel secluded but are still close to the action (such as it is) if you want it; each of the 7 rooms (and I've either stayed in or toured most of them) are decked out in mid-century modern decor which of course adds to the Palm Springs experience - and the rooms are comfortable and have everything you want, or else Davy (one of the owners) will get it for you; each room has a private patio so you can enjoy your morning coffee naked if that's your thing; the pool and courtyard are so clean, well-stocked with stuff and perfectly appointed that you end up flitting from your room to pool chair (three feet away) wondering where you want to spend more time; the cozy and intimate nature of the place forces you to meet all your neighbors and make friends, all of whom are as cool as you are for knowing about the place, and most of whom are repeat customers; and the rates are great, to boot! If you want the "classic" Palm Springs experience while staying comfortable and not breaking the bank, this is the place. It's my home away from home. read more

Desert Star Hotel is fantastic! I rented out the entire hotel for my husband's 30th Birthday Party and we couldn't have been happier with the experience. Walter and Davey the owners made us feel completely at home. All 6 bungalows in the hotel were decorated in beautiful modern authentic decor, had little kitchens and private patios. All the bungalows open up to an amazing salt water pool that has an unobstructed view of the mountains. We had the best weekend and couldn't have asked for a better location to have his birthday. The hotel would also be a great location for a wedding, anniversary party or bridal shower. I will definitely be coming back! read more

If you really want peace and tranquility when visiting Palm Springs, then this is the place to stay! There are only about 6-8 bungalows. Each room is very clean and spacious. The pool is small, but that's ok, because you will probably be the only people at the pool. It's nice and quiet, and they have cruiser bikes you can take and head over to Koffi for coffee & snacks. The owner is also such a great guy, very hospitable, and made sure our stay was perfect. I would def go back! read more

What an epic retreat. The room was perfection; beautiful twin palms over the pool. I stayed with a friend for a nearby bachelorette party, and really look forward to coming back to spend more time floating in the pool. There is nothing I would change about this place, nothing. read more

A magical gem amongst a sea of overpriced, overcrowded Palm Springs hotels. Just came back from an incredible weekend at the Desert Star. Couldn't be happier. The amenities were stylish and very clean, the pool was incredible, and the hospitality was immaculate. Highly recommend if you're looking for a quiet, relaxing weekend away from it all... read more

This is the place to go if you know the difference between IKEA and Noguchi. It is well decorated, well maintained, and well hosted. Davy was incredibly helpful and friendly without being overbearing. The pool was lovely and clean. The bungalow and its adjoining patio were ... heaven. I haven't slept so well in years. But I didn't want to sleep or even explore Palm Springs ... I wanted to enjoy my room! My only regret is that I could only spend one night here, I cannot wait to come back. read more