“But oh this desert life. This high life.” – Counting Crows

We booked the Avalon Hotel & Bungalows in Palm Springs for a two-night getaway last weekend, and it was just the thing I needed to pull me out of a winter funk. The weather was perfect, the pool was warm enough even for me (bathtub temps), and everything was blooming from all the rain. Though the Avalon has some flaws—they are in the middle of a much-needed renovation—it won me over with its Hollywood Regency charm and dirty martinis.  Here is a look at our stay, and what you need to know before you book.

The adult pool + hot tub area was my favorite place to hang—it’s full service for breakfast and lunch. I highly recommend the fish tacos, which I ate after having one of the best massages of my life at Spa Estrella. Though the facilities are pretty bare bones, they sold fabulous products, and my treatment was well above average.

We ate breakfast by the pool both mornings—absolute heaven.

Avocado toast never gets old, and this one was exceptional.

Bungalow Pictured Above

Now listen up. If you’re going to book a room at the Avalon, you really must book a bungalow. We did not, and I was greatly disappointed in our room. They are renovating the rooms slowly, but after seeing the bungalows, I was really bummed I didn’t know how drastically better they are. Surrounded by citrus orchards and swimming pools, you really feel like you’re in the iconic hideaway from the Golden Age (the Avalon used to be the Viceroy).

Though our room felt dated and not very luxurious, their bath amenities (almost) made up for it. I am a HUGE Davines fan— I use their shampoo and conditioner regularly, but have never seen them in a hotel.

The last night, we strolled the gorgeous grounds, sipping martinis while the sun disappeared behind the snow-capped mountains. After being (literally) burnt-out from many summers in the desert, I have rekindled that old flame.

Avalon Palm Springs.  415 S Belardo Rd, Palm Springs,  CA  92262.  (844) 328-2566

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