Palm Springs has been a celebrity hotspot for generations, and the Riviera Palm Springs has maintained its historic glamorous appeal by blending old and new Hollywood together. The resort was a favorite haunt of Rat Pack icons like Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr., and continues to attract present day stars with its rich history and famed pool parties.
The colorful interiors create a '60s appeal with oversized crystal chandeliers, vibrant shag rugs, Andy Warhol pop art and an eclectic blend of retro furnishings. Even the 398 guestrooms and suites bear an elegant and posh décor with Marilyn Monroe paintings, elegant white beds, and sheer draperies laid out in a vibrant color scheme. Each room has a breathtaking view of desert landscape, mountains, and blossoming resort gardens.
Sunbathers can lounge poolside at Riviera’s two distinct pool areas by day, complete with chaise lounges, daybeds and cabanas. At night, the pools become an adult playground with dramatic fire pits and glowing water. The former Deep End pool transformed last year to the '60s-inspired Chiki Bar & Pool, a retro-Polynesian tiki-chic hideaway that pays homage to the infamous Chi Chi nightclub. The addition of a third pool deck allows for private group bookings and special events, as well as guest access to 200 lounge chairs, eight signature cabanas, two fire pits, a relaxing Watsu pool for soaking, a full bar and plasma TVs. The Bikini Pool is also a new addition, which is tucked away from the main thoroughfare — ideal for guests seeking a more relaxed environment.
Chef Aaron Burns keeps guests coming back for more at the Circa 59 restaurant, which is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The intimate dining experience is created with dim lighting, red leather upholstered booths and chairs, backlit lattice cutouts, oversized crystal chandeliers and a spectacular outdoor setting dotted with glowing fire pits in front of the pool. Burns prepares dishes using locally-sourced produce. Some of the signature plates include tuna tacos prepared with fresh ahi, avocado and house-made chili aioli and blue cheese crusted filet mignon; the kale caesar salad; and linguine and shrimp.
The SpaTerre at the Riviera is the place to unwind after a long day of Palm Springs adventures. The facility is 11,000 square feet with 18 treatment rooms to immerse spa goers in exotic Balinese, Thai and Indonesian rituals. The luxe Royal Massage uses honey to soothe tired muscles and combines a relaxing back massage using Honey Ginger scented oils, a Honeycomb Thermal Heat Patch on the back and a front-body massage using warmed Honey Candle Wax. The last relaxation measure would be to sip tea in the Buddha Lounge, a calming and tranquil indoor setting that features waterfalls, a Watsu pool, Jacuzzi, tea lounge and plush chaise lounge chairs.
At Riviera Palm Springs, guests don't need to be a celebrity to be treated like one. Whether it's a day at the spa, an afternoon at the pool, or dinner at Circa 59, guests can step back in time to experience all the glamour and thrill of the '60s.
