The 10 best cheap hotels in Palm Springs for a dreamy desert getaway

This mid-range affordable hotel offers Hispanic-style home comforts with some stylish extras thrown in for good measure. The cozy rooms are decorated with dark wood, cream walls, rich-hued soft furnishings, and traditional tiles. Extra points go to that relaxed pool area with ample sunbathing space and hot tub (can't forget that outdoor hammock) plus the low-key dining area on the terrace. The El Mirasol restaurant at the hotel serves Mexican dishes and tipples to treat yourself to.

Mood? Cool as they come, laid-back hospitality

Location perks? Less than three miles from the Coachella Valley

Budget range? Three-star affordable.

A perennial favorite with those looking for an affordable but nice vacay in Palm Springs, the Old Ranch Inn is a unique and welcoming hotel downtown. The older-style house has an attractive note of history to it, with some very photogenic features like painted window shutters and old water fountains to enjoy. The pool area is peaceful and there are some nice quiet corners in the garden to chill out in. Another thing to know: this is an adults-only hotel so you won’t have your peaceful holiday ruined by those pesky kids.

Mood? Traditional desert homeliness.

Location perks? A central location that feels much more tranquil and secluded.

Budget range? More ‘mid-range’ than bargain but people love this place.

Just a short stroll from Moorten Botanical Gardens (this calls for a post-brunch walk, right?), the Vagabond Motor Hotel punches above its weight in terms of its attractive contemporary feel. Deep heritage colors and dark wood bring a bit of a European/urban feel to the rooms, while the exterior has a charmingly vintage (in a good way) motel vibe. Another perk of the location is that it's easy to get to Downtown or out into the desert for your off-grid adventures. 

Mood? A chic, millennial take on pared-back hotel décor.

Location perks? Get some out-of-town relaxation in with a game of tennis or – more ambitiously – desert horse riding.

Budget range? Plan ahead and you can grab an excellent deal.

Go big or go home, said whoever decorated this place. The Inn at Palm Springs has some seriously funky interior decoration choices that range from full-on flower power to girlie pre-teen bedrooms. And you know what? We’re OK with that. It’s super cute, and friendly and wears its heart on its sleeve. There’s a pool, a garden, a private terrace space, big American breakfasts, and bikes to hire. What’s not to like?

Mood? Quirky, and then some.

Location perks? Go for a Sunday stroll around nearby Desert Highland Park.

Budget range? Heading upward but still reasonable.

If you have a ‘thing’ for the pastel-hued Americana of the 1950s, you will appreciate the décor and design of The Skylark. This vibrant hotel delivers an updated version of that mint green and peach yesteryear style, updating it to feel youthful, cooling, and just a little bit tropical. There’s a cute-looking outdoor area with a pool and striking views of the nearby mountains.

Mood? A fun, contemporary take on the retro motel aesthetic.

Location perks? Take advantage of being within close driving range of a host of museums and cultural centers.

Budget range? On the cheaper side for Palm Springs, but book early for the best prices.

Part of the Best Western group, this hotel provides spacious, well-lit rooms with a fresh-feeling no-nonsense aesthetic. The bigger draw here is the outside of the hotel, which is very pretty, and its external areas. These include a private pool area with plenty of sun lounger space and a bar, plus some rather nice views of the nearby mountains. Food-wise, you're in luck too as there’s an on-site ‘cantina’ and a grill restaurant with outdoor seating.

Mood? Bright and breezy.

Location perks? Just a stone's throw from the center. 

Budget range? Prices can creep up, but there are bargains to be had.

A hit with visitors, the 7 Springs Inn & Suites provides brightly colored rooms that lean towards feeling more like a mini-condo thanks to added facilities like microwaves and fridges. You’re in a great location for eating your fill at any of the Downtown restaurants, but if you fancy staying in one night there’s a sweet little outdoor barbeque area onsite. You’re also invited to swing by Tranquil Touch Spa which is very close to the hotel.

Mood? Pop Art punchiness that still feels homely.

Location perks? It’s all on your doorstep.

Budget range? Variable, but there are some really good ones on offer.

It might not look much on the outside but, internally, it's really quite nice. All in calming neutrals, light wood accessories, and just a hint of the on-the-beach feels. The pool area is similarly neatly designed and, like most hotels in the area, makes the most of the surrounding dramatic landscape. An added bonus? it’s a dog-friendly hotel (although make sure you check the exact rules when booking).

Mood? Pretty, beachy, and light.

Location perks? Palm Canyon Drive: you won’t miss out on anything.

Budget range? Wallet-friendly even in the summer months.

WorldMark specializes in condos and studio rooms decorated with a slightly sixties-infused feel. Guests can book air-conditioned rooms with fridges, dishwashers, coffee machines, and, in some cases, even a kitchen and a stovetop. It’s perfect for those who are in town for a longer duration or if you’re traveling as a family and will appreciate the ‘self-catering’ aspects of it. However, don’t forget you’re in a great Downtown location: head out to sample all the cuisines on offer locally and visit the museums, parks, and gardens nearby.

Mood? Your home-from-home with a sixties twist.

Location perks? In the heart of Downtown Palm Springs.

Budget range? Keep your eyes peeled for some real ‘please the bank balance’ prices.

OK, let’s be brutally honest: this might not be the most luxurious hotel you’ve ever stayed in. But the prices are excellent, especially given its location and although the facilities might lean towards the ‘basic’ end of the spectrum, there are still plenty of reasons to consider staying here. The outdoor area includes a pool and hot tub, and opportunities to take in the surrounding landscape. There’s also a diner-ish restaurant and some rooms come with useful additions like a microwave.

Mood? Cheap and cheerful.

Location perks? Very close to the Palm Springs Square Shopping Centre.

Budget range? Some of the best prices around.