I enjoy fantasizing about my next trip or meal and I was in serious need of a getaway filled with sun. Palm Springs could easily quell my 100-degree urges. While reading C Magazine I came across a story about four chic new boutique hotel openings and that felt like a sign to book my desert reservation. One of the article’s featured hotels was Azure Sky and its neutral tones and minimal mid-century modern details spoke to my desert design sensibilities.

Azure Sky was originally built in 1959 as an apartment complex in the historic Tahquitz River Estates, a quiet residential neighborhood a mere minute from Palm Canyon Drive. The property is classic desert modern and I’m appreciative that the renovations did not destroy the structure’s character. History is valued and preserved at this destination. Palm Springs architects Cioffi and Hoffman Steel created the new entryway at the hotel while local craftspeople constructed custom woodwork in the lobby.

Why Book?

The hotel is for adults only, with a 21+ age requirement to book. As someone who values quiet, I love staying at properties like this. Azure Sky has one of the largest and newest pools in Palm Springs, and if you keep it chill, you are welcome to swim in the 4,500-square-foot lagoon at whatever time you like. As a late-night swimmer, this is a big motivation for my continued booking. Floating on the water while getting lost in the dark desert sky is absolutely necessary while on vacation. The pool area is surrounded by 40 chaise lounges, allowing for ample semi-private space to relax and there are 2 fire pits perfect for guests to gather in the evening.

At Azure Sky, I experienced total relaxation. The property is intimate and quiet, ideal for those seeking a reprieve from a fast-paced environment. Waking up to a stunning view of the San Jacinto Mountains was perfect. My husband enjoyed the complimentary coffee and continental breakfast in the morning. It was cute watching him unwind in “the meadow” while the buzz of the cicadas filled the air. Make note, there is no bar or restaurant on the property, so be prepared to leave for meals.

The lobby is ideal for photos, decorated with vintage light fixtures, shag carpet, plush chairs, velvet sectionals, and lots of brass, combining delicious elements from the 60s until now.

What the Rooms Are Like

Azure Sky is fabulous in that they only have 14 rooms on the property, 5 of those rooms being one-bedroom suites. There are 11 rooms with relaxed private patios with hammocks and almost all of the rooms come equipped with kitchenettes. When we checked into the hotel we were met with the news that unfortunately we were booked in an incorrect room. Although I had called weeks prior to confirm that we would have one, we were placed in a room without (which I would not recommend). I raised the issue but because the hotel was completely sold out for the weekend, I was told there was nothing Azure Sky could do. I took the L and decided not to let it ruin our getaway.

We laid our heads in an Olive Room which met our basic needs: giant bed, mini kitchenette, and clean bathroom. There wasn’t a closet or drawers for clothes, so make note if you need room to hang clothes, you’ll need to request additional hangers for a wall sconce provided. It was definitely bared down in our little room but we spent most of our time in the pool or at a local restaurant, so if you don’t plan on spending too much time at the hotel, this could work for you.

Getting to and Around the Hotel

Azure Sky is central to almost everything happening in Palm Springs making it easy to leave the property whether it be by foot, hotel bike, car, or Lyft. The property is a stone’s throw from the Ace Hotel and down the street from Bar Cecil, where we enjoyed a delightful dinner.