After a slow start to the year, I was ready to get back on the road and escape for a little getaway. On the first day of February, I woke up that Saturday morning with an undeniable urge to book a hotel for the weekend, and Palm Springs felt like the perfect choice. Just a two-hour drive from Orange County, it’s the ideal spot for a quick retreat. I was craving that warm, refreshing desert air and a much-needed change of scenery.
I started searching online for budget-friendly hotel stays, but nothing within my price range really stood out. After browsing through several hotel apps, I found that HotelTonight had the best deals thanks to its perk system that rewards frequent bookings. That’s when I came across the Stardust Hotel, a stunning new gem that just opened in January of 2025!
The name immediately caught my attention because, funnily enough, my dog’s middle name is Stardust—named after David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust album. That alone drew me in, but the newly renovated, retro aesthetic sealed the deal. Of course, the first thing I always check is whether a hotel is dog-friendly, and to my delight, the Stardust was. It felt like the perfect match—so naturally, I booked it without hesitation.
Checking in:
The Stardust offers a seamless self-service check-in process via text. Prior to arrival, I received a gate code with instructions that my room key was waiting in the door—eliminating the need for a front desk check-in. This hassle-free system makes the process smooth and incredibly convenient. With only about 10 rooms on the property, finding mine was effortless, and I quickly settled in, feeling right at home.
Hospitality:
What truly made the experience unforgettable was the warm hospitality. From the moment I arrived, I immediately connected with one of the owners, Jessica, whose welcoming and personable nature made me feel like I was visiting a longtime friend. She went out of her way to greet my dog, Ginger Stardust, even giving her a toy that she absolutely loved.
I was impressed to learn that Jessica and her husband designed the stunning Stardust Hotel and also own two other hotels in Palm Springs. Their passion and attention to detail shine through in every aspect of their work, creating an experience that feels deeply intimate. For guests like me, that kind of hospitality makes all the difference.
Bedroom:
I was fortunate to land Room 5, tucked away on the top floor at the far end of the hall. And I say fortunate because I had an amazing view overlooking the salmon pink painted hotel and pool with a stunning backdrop of palm trees and desert mountains surrounding the neighborhood.
But that is just the exterior—now let’s get to the best part: the inside!
With my key waiting for me in the door, I pushed open the glass swinging doors and stepped into what felt like a portal to another era—one that effortlessly blends the classic mid-century elegance of Palm Springs with a vibrant, retro-chic twist. Every detail was thoughtfully curated, from the patterned tiles and wallpaper to the antique pieces gracing the dressers and walls, all reflecting Jessica’s passion for thrifting—a love we instantly bonded over. One of my favorite touches was the hanging dresses in the closet, which made the space feel less like a hotel room and more like a lived-in retreat. They even provided a dog bed and bowl, anticipating my stay with a pet. And to top it all off, the cozy king-size bed was pure comfort, giving me the best night of sleep.
Pool:
When you think of Palm Springs, you think of poolside leisure, lounging on a retro-style chaise, a chilled drink in hand, while basking under the warm desert sun. The Stardust is the epitome of this poolside culture and one of my favorite amenities of the overall hotel experience. With a row of blue chaise lounge chairs accompanied with boho-style umbrellas, it’s the perfect spot to chill out and catch some rays. I was fascinated by the different unique decor pieces of picture frames on the walls, inflatable swans, a large Barbie doll sitting poolside, and a mannequin standing next to a clothing rack of sparkly dresses. I can’t wait to be back in the summertime to fully enjoy the experience of this dreamy pool.
Lounge:
As mentioned earlier, the hotel has no front desk or lobby, but instead features a communal lounge area that feels more like a cozy living room and kitchen. It perfectly aligns with the Stardust’s warm, home-like hospitality, making guests feel right at home. By the way, be sure to ask Jessica about what’s hidden behind the lounge—wink wink.
Location:
The Stardust is tucked away in a nice, quiet neighborhood and perfectly situated just minutes from Downtown Palm Springs, right in the heart of all the must-visit spots—from top restaurants to boutique shopping. Some of my favorite nearby spots include Bootlegger Tiki, Farm, Boozehounds, Lulu’s, Tommy Bahama, and Shamrock, along with some great vintage shops—all conveniently located off Palm Canyon Drive. Whether you’re in the mood for a lively night out or a relaxed afternoon of shopping, everything you need is just a short drive away, making the Stardust the perfect home base for exploring Palm Springs.
Group bookings:
The Stardust Hotel is far from your typical hotel stay—it’s designed to be an intimate, one-of-a-kind experience. In fact, its layout makes it ideal for booking the entire property for you and your friends, creating a private retreat that feels more like staying at a vacation home. With Palm Springs being a go-to destination for celebrations like birthdays and bachelorette trips, the Stardust is the perfect setting for a group getaway. To elevate the experience, they offer special services like private catering, group yoga, sound baths, and more, making it an unforgettable place to celebrate.
For the ultimate mid-century boutique hotel experience in Palm Springs, the Stardust Hotel is a must. From its timeless, retro charm to its welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to relax, unwind, and capture picture-perfect moments. Every corner feels like a scene from a vintage postcard, making it just as memorable as it is photogenic. It’s the kind of place that leaves a lasting impression and I’m so glad I stumbled upon it. Without a doubt, I’ll be staying here again the next time I visit Palm Springs!
XO, Tawnie
Tawnie Jaclyn Travel 