La Serena Villas

Jose handles our reservations with the best customer service, and the staff always make us feel valued. They take good care of us and show real appreciation for our visits, leaving a lasting impression every time. The food is delicious, the service is excellent, and the beautiful setting is why we keep returning and recommending this property for special occasions. We’ve spent our winter vacations in Rancho Mirage for 14 years, which has given us time to try many hotels, resorts, and local restaurants. Our number one choice for a relaxing evening is Azucar Restaurant at La Serena Villas in Palm Springs. The Mediterranean setting and decor are serene, and we’re always warmly welcomed and escorted past the lovely pool deck. You won’t be disappointed! Mike &’Carole Urquhart Spokane Wa

The safe in our room didn’t work, and that was just one more problem in a stay that fell badly short of what you’d expect for $1,000 a night. After our long drive, we were told the room would be ready at 1pm, but couldn’t get in until 4pm. Then we were given the wrong room and had to point out the mistake and ask to be moved. There was no hot water or turndown service, the firepit didn’t work, and the bathtub faucet had been disabled. A reservation benefit that was supposed to come with our stay was initially refused. The hotel eventually honored it, but put a strict time limit on it. Dinner was frustrating too. Our appetizers and mains all arrived together. When we asked to have the mains brought later, they were forgotten. This was a deeply disappointing experience for the price.

We spent four nights at La Serena for my husband’s 50th birthday, and I’m already looking forward to coming back. The beds were so comfortable that we slept amazingly, and every room feels like its own little resort. Management was around each day, making sure the property was in good shape. The staff were lovely, especially Patricia and Rodney in the restaurant. They made sure we had plenty to eat and just the right drinks. Palm Canyon was perfect for our evening walks. We visit Palm Springs about twice a year and usually pick a different hotel, but La Serena really won us over. Try the watermelon and tamarind margarita, it’s the best I’ve ever had!

The jacuzzi and swimming pool were the best parts of our stay, and the reason I’m giving two stars. The check-in, though, was awful. Staff took ages trying to work out what we’d booked. The manager said they wanted to be “transparent” about a water issue in our room, but that didn’t explain why we were put in a cheaper room instead. That gave us a bad impression right from the start. Our Luxury King was large, but oddly laid out. The two chairs were uncomfortable, and there was a microwave but no refrigerator.