The best desert retreats for winter sunseekers

When it comes to winter sun destinations, you don’t get much better than a desert retreat. No, we’re not talking about Vegas, but Arizona hideaways and serene New Mexico escapes. If you’re daydreaming of sunshine, dreamy desert landscapes, and warm poolside afternoons – try these desert resorts out for size. Whether you’re into spa pampering, golf or art, we’ve rounded up the best desert stays you should book this winter. Grab your sunnies, here’s your winter sun bucket list, sorted.

Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, Scottsdale, Arizona

This place is sanctuary by name, sanctuary by nature. All the rooms and villas open to the outdoors and there’s a meditation garden and reflection pond in the standout spa. Even Queen B (Beyonce) herself has come here for some R&R. Need we say anymore? This is one of Arizona’s most beloved desert retreats. Think sunrise hikes, infinity pools with Sonoran Desert views, and fine dining.

Location-wise, it sits in the shadow of Camelback Mountain, so you can admire the famous Praying Monk silhouette at dawn and dusk. And despite feeling like a desert oasis, you can still be in the city of Scottsdale within just over five minutes’ drive.

Book Sanctuary Camelback Mountain

Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas, Indian Wells, California

You’ll find this place in the one and only Palm Springs, California. If lounging by the pool with a margarita in hand sounds like your kind of thing, this is your place. There are seven pools to choose from in total. That’s along with multiple golf courses.

Families are welcome here too, with a huge waterpark to keep the kids busy. Meanwhile, grown-ups can retreat to the spa, which comes complete with an outdoor Jacuzzi and cold plunge pool, steam room, sauna and even an IV lounge for special treatments.

Book Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas

Arizona Biltmore, LXR Hotels & Resorts, Phoenix, Arizona

A true desert legend – this historic beauty in Phoenix has been a celeb staple since 1929. And for good reason. Their guestbook includes the likes of Marilyn Monroe and Frank Sinatra, as well as presidents.

Regulars would claim it’s not just a resort, but an experience. The Biltmore combines old-school glam with modern comfort. Admire the mid-century modern architecture as you wander its 39 acres, sip cocktails beside one of seven pools, or tee off on the golf course. The Tierra Luna spa is just as luxurious as the rest of the retreat, with indoor and outdoor relaxation spaces, and treatments using locally-sourced indigenous muds and healing crystals. There’s even an onsite astrologist who can give you a reading.

Book the Arizona Biltmore

Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Collection, Santa Fe, New Mexico

Let’s take a quick detour from cactus landscapes into high-desert territory. Bishop’s Lodge, near Santa Fe, is where rugged terrain meets luxurious resort. With cliff backdrops and crisp, clean air, this place delivers on sunshine, world-class art and cuisine.

The hotel’s been around since the 1920s, championing all things local with kiva fireplaces, woven Navajo rugs, and traditional art. And the wellbeing experiences are just as rich in culture. We’re talking watercolor classes taught by local artists, walking tours of world-renowned art galleries led by experts, and horseback rides through Santa Fe National Forest.

Book Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Collection

The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort, Scottsdale, Arizona

In the heart of Scottsdale’s desert playground, the Phoenician is a luxury desert retreat with all the bells and whistles. Picture sprawling pools, lush golf courses and a first-rate spa with a rooftop pool and private cabanas. You can feast your way around eight dining venues.

Then retreat to luxe rooms, complete with Italian linens, original artwork and oval bathtubs for a deep soak. When you’re not relaxing, there’s a jam-packed experience calendar to get involved with, too. Wine and tequila tastings, guided hikes of Camelback Mountain, bike tours and walking tours of the sculptures on the sprawling grounds.

Book The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort

The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain, Marana, Arizona

For luxury in the high desert, The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain is a must. The resort’s set against the Tortolita Mountains, near Tucson, blending desert serenity with signature five-star pampering. It’s the place for winter sun seekers who want a little adventure with their solitude.

There are more than 20 miles of hiking trails, three pools (including one with a 235-foot waterslide), a golf course and an arcade with video games. And on the other end of the spectrum, you’ve got private stargazing sessions, an eco-friendly spa and mountain-facing fire pit rooms. The hotel pays homage to its heritage in everything from its design to its nightly sunset ritual with a Native American flutist.

Book The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain

JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa, Palm Springs, California

This desert beauty is surprisingly green. One of Coachella Valley’s biggest resorts, it sits on 436 acres of desert, kept colorful by a huge collection of artificial lakes, complete with pink flamingos. The hotel goes big on vistas with a huge glass atrium and each room has a balcony for watching the spectacular desert sunsets.

When it comes to things to do, you’ll never get bored here. If the views of the Santa Rosa Mountains weren’t enough, you’ve got tennis courts, two golf courses, a 38,000-square-foot spa, a shopping alley and a trio of restaurants.

Whether you’re craving spa days in Scottsdale, adventure in Marana, or pool time in Palm Springs, these desert retreats have it all going on. So treat yourself to a well-deserved winter escape today with LateRooms.