El Morocco Inn & Spa

Adorable place and welcoming feel. Clean and beautiful décor. Enjoyed the mineral pools and infrared sauna. Kind staff. Would definitely return.

If you would like a truly unique, relaxing experience in Palm Springs than you need to get your booty over to the El Morocco Inn ASAP. A stay at this inn will transport you and make you feel as though you are much farther from Los Angeles than you actually are.
A girlfriend and I came out here to relax; and relax we did. The location is in a neighborhood and you have to dial the call box when you arrive. It all seems a little strange… that is until you step inside and realize you’ve made the right decision.
Upon check-​in, we were escorted to our room (there are only 12 of them). The rooms are decorated to look like depictions from movies that take place in Morocco (the only reason I’m not saying they look rooms in Morocco is because I’ve personally never been and can’t say for sure).
The extra perks included with your visit and the staff are what will truly make your stay memorable. In addition to the mineral pool and Jacuzzi, our stay also includes complimentary use of the saunas, a free «happy hour» featuring their morocco-​tini, movies for your room, sherry wine once the sun goes down, and a killer breakfast that goes above and beyond a continental breakfast.
For dinner, they provide you with a list of local restaurants as they do not have onsite. We did what many guest do… we had a pizza delivered and ate it poolside. Highly recommended!
We did not partake in the spa services, so I cannot speak to that.
My friend and I had such a blast hanging out and enjoying each other’s company in a peaceful environment.

It’s unfair how long it’s taken me to write a decent review for this oasis in Palm Springs. We escaped to this location back in August 2015, and I had been intending to write a long and beautiful review about our experience– but never had the full mindset to sit and write the well deserved review of the location.
It was summer 2015. Hot, glorious, southern California and everyone seemed to be traveling to some beautiful and remote destination. Hubster and I had been through a grueling and very stressful year at the time and needed respite despite our limited means to travel. We opted for a mini staycation to Palm Springs since we had never been there together and could use some time in the healing waters.
Palm Springs was a hot hot 100+ degrees but surprisingly pleasant for us. We discovered El Morocco Inn and Spa through Unilocal ( Unilocal Queen takes a bow) and it was a first time experience to a Bed and Breakfast type of set up. Upon arrival, it was a little confusing to find yourself amidst a typical neighborhood block, and the address led to a nondescript building. There was minimal parking (but parking was always available during our stay) and a secret door that hid the wonderful escape.
We were greeted at the front desk by the kindest group of folks. I wrote notes of their names as Carl, Florence and one other young Asian girl. They couldn’t have been kinder folks who gave like an Uncle/​Auntie feel to their greeting. We were quickly checked in and stayed in the Arabian Alcove (Room 103) which was right by the pool on the first floor. The surroundings are humble and well themed. It’s not a big fancy room or building. It’s really an old motel transformed into this themed paradise, but it had everything you needed. It’s simplicity and full satisfaction is what really made this location like the baby bear’s porridge: just right. If you’re someone that needs the fancy smancy soaps and linens– this is not a place for you.
I loved how our room had a little sitting room by the door. They had portable air conditioning units in the bedroom and sitting room which took awhile at first to cool the rooms but it ended up being ok in the end despite the heat. Room was clean and well stocked which was all we needed. The hotel staff also cooperated with my sister — who surprised us by calling in and upgrading our experience with delicious chocolate stawberries and champagne available upon our arrival.
I loved the fact that there were no families or kids. You mostly had a few other quiet couples seeking their own escape. We never felt like there were too many people and that added to the experience. I loved the covered mineral pool area. We actually found ourselves in that area alone quite often. enjoying the beverages that were constantly available in the common area. The waters were definitely warm and relaxing. There was a cute little desert garden with various forms of hammocks and seating, as well as an infrared sauna machine which we didn’t frequent as much — but it was nice to have available.
The social hours were a nice touch. I’m not super social, but it was just enough where you don’t feel forced into a situation to meet and greet others. but we exchanged brief hellos over their sake based martinis (pretty tasty!). The breakfasts were also nice. Very simple with bagels, avocados, fruit, juices, coffees (always available) and pastries. It was just so relaxing to munch by the pool and leisurely soak in the water or wander around the back garden area or just sit and read in the room. Oh! And I have to make a special note about resparking my love for Casablanca. what a lovely movie that is on repeat in one part of the common areas.
Last, my sister also covered a treat for my hubbie and I to have a spa treatment with clay body masks and couples massage. They definitely come on par with other spa treatments I have had back in San Diego. Good massage and such a relaxing experience. The service providers definitely did a great job to lower the stress for my hubbie and I.
This was a unique escape that really provides the RnR away from life. It’s simple but meets all standards of what I would expect from a BnB escape. We thoroughly enjoyed every minute of our stay at El Morocco Inn and would highly recommend to other couples that just need a simple place to run away to and reconnect with one another in a calm and inner spiritual level. Come soak in the waters, enjoy their saketinis, rekindle your love for Casablanca and relax through their spa treatments. You definitely will not regret the experience.
Highly recommended. Would definitely return.
spa treatment galore: Clay body mask couples massage

Diamond in the rough. Oasis in the desert. Old clichés that still apply to this very special place. Much more than a hotel with pool (s). It’s a tranquil experience providing personal service, a lovely garden & endearing quirks like the Casa Blanca movie playing 24/7(quietly) in a quaint little Morroccan room. Once, as an only guest in the hotel, I still received the evening tradition of poolside handwashing with scented rose water before the Morroccan cocktail followed by an abundant continental breakfast the nxt morning, for just me. How Royal & Exquisite is that?

Quiet area, nice staff, solid service. Small intimate space, (in a neighborhood… very quiet, you can hear birds!) They are currently in the middle of various upgrades, however that doesn’t alter the experience. It’s no fancy Las Vegas spa, but it maintains a charm all its own. A few friendly cats also roam the facility.

Stayed here 2 different time and I really enjoyed myself. Its quiet and no kids and the staff is present but does not interfere with the guests. The breakfast in the morning is a very nice touch and just enough to get you started for the day. The french press coffee is absolutely amazing, you prepare it yourself but who cares, its good. The place is not that big and it used to be a small plain motel. It was converted into a moroccan getaway in palm desert. At first it seems far from downtown but that’s kind of nice and it really only takes about 10 min to get there. The last time I stayed here my room was funky but also so cool.

Do you love mainstream, predictable experiences? Are hotels such as Hiltons, Marriotts, or any of the other soul-​less human-​overnight-​storage-​facilities right up your alley?
Then please: go there. El Morocco Inn & Spa is not for you.
This hotel is one man’s execution of his passion. Every detail, every furnishing, every component, join together to make a desert retreat you’ll find nowhere except perhaps the left coast of Africa.
Here, you can disconnect in every way you wish, with easy, included wi-​fi to connect if you must. Two naturally heated mineral pools in the courtyard; two hammocks in the back, along with yoga mats, a giant chessboard, and plenty of private nooks. Reconnect with yourself, reconnect with your partner. Head out for a hike, hit up Palm Springs if you’re feeling spendy.
All of the facilities are open 24/​7, including the pools, fresh coffee, and snacks. Swim, enjoy a fire, or a sauna, or watch Casablanca and sip a glass of sherry, whenever you want, all night long.
Wake up with a smile knowing you didn’t have to pay extra for the extras, and that your money is supporting a small business.

Ironically, many of the people who work in the hospitality industry are not all that hospitable. Not at El Morocco! These were the nicest people! It goes without saying that this place is beautiful, but what really impressed me was the staff. Each and every one was friendly and helpful. The atmosphere was quiet and comfortable. (I was afraid it might be a loud party scene, but their policies about how many ppl per room and sending day guests out at 4 keep that from being a problem, The group cocktail hour (which I’d thought sounded a bit weird in advance) was handled with grace and ease and we met nice people, people from all over, all ages. It is not a place where you have to feel funny if you are not a super model. (Though I’m sure they’ll be nice to you if you are!) Next time, we have to stay longer so we can truly unwind.

As I sit in the room right now I am so happy with the experience I am having here. The bed is so comfortable, the sheets are so soft. There is meditation/​yoga/​lounge tent from morocco in the garden. The mineral pools are lovely. I feel so relaxed and fell asleep during my massage. It’s nice that there are no children allowed here to thrash about in the pool. Everything is open 24 – 7. The only suggestion I would make is to have better coffee! Love the décor. Time to go to happy hour!

Room: Very clean and beautiful. Even though the bed was too old, I can’t complain since we fell in love with this place.
*We stayed at 106 which doesn’t have built-​in couch, ask for 104 or other room that has it. It looked much better.
Breakfast:Oatmeal, bagels, rice milk, french press coffee, fresh fruits, juice, yogurt and tea.
Video room: Very cozy and they offer a lot of dvd selections
Staff: Mary was super kind and helpful. I appreciate her smile every time I talked to her and it shows that she is professional.
Special: Morocco-​tiny in the afternoon was a great experience and they will offer hand wash with rose water before Morocco-​tiny is served.
Sauna: The Sauna is upstairs and it’s for two people. Not amazing but alright.
Inside pool: It’s definitely the best part of this place. Just go in and feel it. :)
Outside pool: Warm mineral water. Just let yourself float.
Overall, I will definitely come back here next time my husband and I need a getaway. It was worth every penny.

I recently stayed at this Inn and thought it was okay. It has a very vintage feel to it. We could not get a good night’s sleep as it seemed like the room had some old energy and slight heaviness. The room was a lot smaller than in the picture. I think it may be haunted. I would suggest to clear the Hotel once and in a while with sage or something. Those antique items hold a lot of unwanted energy, but clearing them would help. I liked the spa and the pool, although the pool felt creepy toward the deeper end. It’s a cute place, but may need a little bit of upgrading. Loved the fire place and fire pit. The jacuzzi was really nice. I didn’t get a chance to get a massage, but I’m sure they are great. Next time I will come for a massage, but I would not stay the night.

Came here after reading reviews on Unilocal.I usually go to Bella Monte not too far away from this location, but they were converted to a rehab center, so I had to find a new go-​to place.
I was a little worried about parking outside (there’s parking in front of the building and it is not gated), but nothing happened to our car, or anyone else’s as far as we knew. The room itself was small and the place reminded me of a kitschy sort of motel. It was cute and all but definitely do not expect upscale — the rooms could use a little remodeling and the two air condition units in the room (not Central as Bella Monte had) barely kept the room cold. It was seriously HOT outside during the time we visited. The pool itself was really nice — loved the soft water. There are complimentary continental breakfast foods (no meat) during morning hours, which was nice, but after two days, we did want something else to eat. Also, the orange juice the first day might have been a little old bc it had some fizz to it (it wasn’t supposed to), which means it had started to ferment. It was better our second morning.
We also had a massage treatment each for an hour. I had a Swedish massage and it wasn’t very strong at all — I normally don’t like strong massages bc they hurt, but this one was probably a little too light. My friend got the massage that is a mix of Swedish and Deep Tissue and said his wasn’t the best he had either, unfortunately.
Staff is really nice and the place was quiet, which we liked. It’s not too far from Morongo — maybe a 20 minute drive — and from downtown Palm Springs. Probably going to try checking out another place next time to see how it compares to this place and the old Bella Monte.

came here on a Monday with a group of friends. first impression — this place is really cute. tucked away in a residential street of desert hot springs, this spa/​resort is an escape from its surroundings.
one of my girlfriends booked a room for the night, while the other four of us booked spa treatments. we checked into the room and got ready for our «fabulous» spa day. everything was perfect until 5pm, when we were hanging by the pool and basically got kicked out of the pool area. the inn keeper told us we were not allowed to be in the pool area because they have «happy hour» and «day guests» are not welcome to join happy hour. my friend who booked the room would be the only one allowed to attend happy hour. my friends and I were stunned, we looked around to find 2 other people sitting by the pool. we were not interested in the free martini, we wanted to get back in the pool because it was scorching hot in the tiny room!
needless to say, we all got back into my friends room packed our things and went home.
very disappointed that our experience had to be cut short. there was nobody there! but yet we couldn’t even sit on the lounge chairs by the pool. we paid a lot of money for services! it wasn’t like we were freeloading or taking advantage of them.
nice place, awesome massages but definitely made us feel welcomed and awkward.

My boyfriend and I just returned from our stay at El Morocco and we couldn’t be happier about our experience! Carl, the innkeeper, was very attentive and friendly. The décor was great, especially all the Moroccan themed lamps at night. It was peaceful and quiet, exactly what we needed. We loved that they only allowed guests 21+ which meant no annoying kids around the pool. At 5pm, Carl got us ready for happy hour which began with a rosewater cleansing ritual. He then served us their signature moroccotinis (it was delicious). The mineral water was amazing to swim in, our skin felt so soft afterwards. At night, we enjoyed some of their snacks (available 24 hours of the day) by the fire pit and star gazed. They also serve complimentary breakfast which was simple but nonetheless satisfying. There was only one other couple staying there so it felt as if we had the entire place to ourselves.
We love El Morocco and can’t wait to go back but there are three things we felt needed adjustments in the room (we stayed in the Sultan’s Playpen).
1. There is an intense minty fragrance in the room that was just too overpowering and it really took some getting used to.
2. The bathroom is really dark, it was a little scary to shower.
3. The shower knobs were loose so it was difficult to control the temperature of the water. Also, the water pressure was too strong and it cut into our skin which actually hurt.
Overall we really enjoyed our stay and we’re already planning our next trip back. Carl recommended the spa packages so we’ll definitely need to look into that. Thank you so much El Morocco for the wonderful mini vacay, until next time!

I am back here because I love Karl and the grounds. Bruce you should promote Karl to manager especially after my last experience while I was trying to make reservations since he is so professional and accommodating. I am in the service industry and I Karl needs to teach those in the business what great customer service is all about. I will send you a personal email explaining what I experienced. Karl is what makes me coming back to your inn.

I agree with everyone else, my instinct is to write a horrible review to keep this place a secret. However, it is TERRIFIC.
Our plan was to spend three days in a children-​free (as in, NO CHILDREN), sun-​drenched, relaxing, non-​noisy, intimate hotel where the choice of doing nothing other than sun, swim, hot-​tub, and a great breakfast. Also, on the wish list: decent wifi, and no hidden resort fees.
El Morocco is all the above, and more. Again, just a TERRIFIC EXPERIENCE.
I swear I would consider a trip to Morocco after staying here, because the hotel has really dressed up the grounds with authentic lanterns, carpeting, artwork, and ambiance from that country. The actual aroma of the place is subtly that of a middle eastern market/​spa, and yet not overpowering at all. Visually, aurally… you feel like you have been transported across the globe.
Our room was 102, which had a comfortable king bed draped with netting, a sitting area for reading, kitchenette and bathroom. All rooms and seating areas dressed tastefully with Moroccan artwork and carpeting. Beautiful!
Want to stay in and watch television, or borrow from the DVD library of over 100 titles? A good option after a long day of sun. Want to take ten steps outside your room to the pool, ten steps to the available iced spring water, coffee presses with grounds, or mint-​lemonade tea? As easy as opening your door and stepping outside. Breakfast is from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m., with bagels, yogurt, grapefruit, oatmeal, cereal, orange juice, coffee tea, hard-​boiled eggs… just make it yourself (not a problem, no waiters or waiting!). Best thing is, again, it is all right in front of your room, instead of a ¼-​mile walk from your room through hotel hallways and elevators.
Wife and I brought our own provisions, and the Missus actually created a lunch spread for the guests. Result: about half the hotel got to meet one another, which added to the fun of the whole experience. As the center location of the hotel is the pool and chairs surrounding (and every ground floor opens directly to the pool), socializing is pretty easy. Not wanting to socialize is cool too, as the grounds are quiet enough to allow you to find a quiet corner to get a great amount of reading/​chilling accomplished.
Spa services are reasonably priced, and the therapists are first-​rate. I recommend Ruby. The room rates are so decent, that you will be able to indulge in several spa sessions during a multi-​day visit.
Whether it is daylight, evening, or four in the morning, the pool and hot tub are open. Consisting of the actual hot springs, not chlorinated, both experiences are pretty darn magical. Adjoining the rooms, on the non-​poolside of the grounds, is a giant tent for medication/​yoga, and walking areas where you will find a giant chess-​board, bocci or croquet.
There is something here for everyone wanting to relax, swim, or play.
I wouldn’t have minded a reading light (I can bring one next time), or a firmer mattress. As for the mattress issue, I have yet to find a mattress I like at a hotel, so I’m chalking that up to my personal level of pickyness.
I used the word «magical» two paragraphs ago. That sums it up. It is a truly terrific getaway. We made some new friends, were able to de-​stress from the work week/​month/​year, and have now found a hotel we will not hesitate to return to very soon. Thank you to the staff of El Morocco for a, yes, «magical» experience.

Loved this place. Jeff and I stayed here for only one night while passing through on our way home from Sedona.
The ambiance is charming and leaves you feeling as if you have indeed visited the African continent. My masseuse shared with me that the owner travels to Morocco and brings back authentic Moroccan items for the Inn.
I enjoyed an amazing massage this morning. Sadly, my masseuse is leaving for Okinawa to follow her husband’s military career. She used just the right amount of pressure and delightful essential oils during the massage.
The Inn, which is 21 and over, offers a peaceful atmosphere and the refreshing mineral springs that have made Desert Hot Springs a spa destination. I only wish we could have stayed another day. I will return and spend more time relaxing by the pool.
One cannot leave a complete review without mentioning the world class collection of movies available in the lounge and the delightful continental breakfast along with French press coffee.
Can’t wait to come back here.

Everyone STAY AWAY from here!!!
OK damn… I can’t lie just to keep this place a secret. If you want to stay at a place where AMBIANCE is its middle name then stay here. You want to stay at a place that treats you better than a 5 star resort? Stay here! You want personalized service that isn’t intrusive? Stay here.
Decided with another couple to make this a 3 day kid free do nothing get away. Man am I glad we did. Bruce, Carl, Doug and Flo could not have made us feel any more relaxed and welcome to their slice of paradise. They make sure you have all you need to take care of yourself but are there for you when you do require something. It’s a small place (12 rooms) and you actually can get to know other couples and share a drink at happy hour (Moroccotini’s) that flow freely from 5 to 6 PM each night.
The pool are is so nice and is right off just about every room. The spa is hot and bubbly and they are open for enjoyment day and night. The pool is kept at 90 °F but is still very refreshing. We found ourselves standing, sitting and floating for long periods then getting out, putting on our robes and relaxing in the loungers. HEAVEN!
Breakfast is served (the only meal) every morning from 8:30−10AM and consists of
Bagels, Granola, Danish’s, hard boiled eggs, yogurt, tomato, avocado, onion, milk, juices, and FRENCH PRESS coffee ²⁴⁄₇! You will find yourself not wanting to leave this place so bring your other meals yourself like we did or head into town for a meal out.
They don’t have a bar so we 2 couples brought our own libations and enjoyed them by and in the pool (NO GLASS). Suggest you too bring a few cocktails to make the relaxing that much better.
NO KIDS allowed!!! YAY… YAY…and did I say YAY? Now don’t get me wrong kids are great, we have 2 ourselves but heck don’t we as parents deserve some US time? Damn right we do. This was the place for it as well.
We didn’t use any of the spa services (next time for sure) but the others told us it was amazing, and well worth the price. We shall indulge next time for sure.
The water tastes better than the bottled water we brought. We drank a lot of it to keep hydrated between cocktails: o)
They have movies you can take back to your room but it was so nice out we only went back to the room to make another cocktail or sleep… well or…
It’s quiet. They don’t want guests playing their music out loud (headphones are ok) and they don’t want «partiers» as this isn’t the setting for it. Don’t get me wrong they don’t mind people having fun but don’t even think about doing keg stands and beer bongs here!!! It’s all about unwinding, reflecting and re-​energizing your life. Take advantage of it!
I love, love, love the Monkey lamps and the little monkey in a Fez that sits in the TV common room. Haha… drove my wife crazy talking about how I want a monkey lamp now.
Pros: Everything
Con’s: Nothing
Thanks Bruce, Carl, Doug and Flo for a wonderful experience. You have made guests for life now.
Scott and Traci (Barbers Boudoir)

If you want to stay at a place where ambiance is its middle name, look no further: you’ve arrived. There are plenty of adorable spas and hotels in the Desert Hot Springs area, but none compare to this one; you will truly feel like you are in another world.
The first thing that hit me when I walked in was the amazing smell — it smelled like I was about to have a massage… exotic oils and scents made the tension in my shoulders melt away withing 5 steps through the door.
The rooms are decorated like a movie set (though it might depend on which room you get, of course), but the one I saw had this flowing see-​through material hanging down from a four-​poster bed that made it really romantic and cool looking.
I’ve never been to Morocco, I’ve only ever watched movies, but parts of this hotel reminded me of that scene in Raiders of the Lost Ark where Marian was dressed up in the fancy gown and trying to out-​drink the bad guy — you know the scene I’m talking about, right? It’s fun to be in a real sultan’s tent!
The landscaping has the same look as a Victoria’s Secret super-model’s hair looks, like she just got out of bed: «messy on purpose». It’s got a tamed but overgrown look, like the set from an Indiana Jones movie, as referenced above.
Highly recommended if you are looking for a getaway where you really want to feel like you are far, far away, but still be able to go get great Mexican food and a big Margarita 3 minutes away at South of the Border on Palm Drive.

What a wonderful weekend get away!
The staff here is great. They upgraded us a bigger room and also went out of their way to help us schedule our massages. There was some miscommunication on the phone but they were able to accommodate us and even brought a sample of their moroccotini to our room because we missed happy hour during our session.
There is 24 hour access to the heated pool and jacuzzi and the rooms are just so fun.
Can’t wait to do this again!