The other “Springs” in the Coachella Valley—Desert Hot Springs is a city of about 25,000, located at the very northeast corner of the Coachella Valley. At 1,185 feet above sea level (about 700 higher than Palm Springs, Calif.) it commands an awe inspiring view of the entire San Jacinto Mountain Range.

The city’s name is not random: It is located on the west side of the San Andreas Fault zone along which the North American Tectonic Plate is grinding against the Pacific Tectonic Plate. The resulting crush and heat has created perfect conditions for outstanding hot springs where the water bubbles up at 180 degrees Fahrenheit. The enormous cold water aquifer under the city produces some of the best water in the country. Its water has won gold medals for being the best tasting municipal drinking water.

Spas in Desert Hot Springs

The slightly higher elevation keeps the city slightly cooler. The average of 330 days of sunshine every year and the natural spas have encouraged the arrival of some beautiful spa hotels such as the Miracle Springs and the Desert Hot Springs Spa Hotel. There are over 20 spas with room rates ranging from $65 to over $600 nightly.

Desert Hot Springs, Calif. Original Settlers

One of the original settlers, Cabot Yerxa, drilled for water when he tired of walking with his burro Merry Xmas seven miles to the nearest available water. He discovered the vast underwater aquifers about 100 feet down. He eventually built an adobe structure in the style of the Hopi Indians that is now Cabot’s Pueblo Museum, a state historical site since 1947. The Festival of the Waters annually celebrates the City’s pride and joy with food, entertainment and a free scenic tour of the City.

Desert Hot Springs Name Origin

L.W. Coffee gave the city of Desert Hot Springs its name in July, 1941, although it did not actually incorporate as a city until 1963. The city has expanded through annexations, the most recent being 4,000 acres that took its borders to Interstate 10.

The Best View in the City

Mission Lakes Country Club has facilities open to the public. The 18-hole golf course located on the foothills right above the city has some of the most challenging holes in the Coachella Valley. Some holes have an elevation of 1,500 feet. The incredibly beautiful and panoramic view of the Coachella Valley from the 11th hole is beyond any price.

Desert Hot Springs Hotels and Accommodation

Take advantage of seasonal discounts and special offers from hotels and inns in the city of Desert Hot Springs in southern California.