The Best Hotel in Joshua Tree National Park, California

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Lodging choices in the Joshua Tree National Park area are limited to a few motels, chain hotels, and a luxury bed-and-breakfast establishment in the gateway towns. In general, most offer few amenities and are modestly priced. Book ahead for the spring wildflower season—reservations may be difficult to obtain then.

For a more extensive range of lodging options, you'll need to head to Palm Springs and the surrounding desert resort communities.

Harmony Motel

$ | 71161 Twentynine Palms Hwy., Twentynine Palms, CA, 92277, USA

In the late 1980s, while working on and taking photos for the now legendary album, The Joshua Tree, the rock band U2 found itself holed up at this circa-1952 roadside motel atop a hill overlooking town and beneath the national park’s jagged peaks. If you want luxury, look elsewhere; though some rooms offer kitchenettes, all have a hodgepodge of furnishings and basic bathrooms and amenities. But if you seek a storied stay, this fits the bill. You can even recreate one of the photos that made the final liner notes: the hotel sign that serendipitously features musical notes is still standing.

Pros

  • Cactus gardens and nature trail
  • Outdoor pool and hot tub
  • A mile from 49 Palms Oasis trail

Cons

  • Small property that books quickly
  • Dated decor
  • On a busy highway
71161 Twentynine Palms Hwy., Twentynine Palms, CA, 92277, USA
760-367–3351
Hotel Details
8 units
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $

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