Santiago Resort Celebrates 30 Sexy Years of Gay Hospitality in Palm Springs
Let’s give a round of applause (and maybe a poolside mimosa toast) to Santiago Resort, which is marking its 30th anniversary this year – a major accomplishment that just might make it the longest continuously operating gay resort in all of Palm Springs! 👏 🥂
What started in 1995 as a vision for a safe, welcoming, and elevated experience for gay men has blossomed into one of the most celebrated destinations in the Coachella Valley. Today, Santiago is a rite of passage for anyone serious about soul-refreshing ways to celebrate who they are, no matter where they are coming from.
“Now more than ever, the gay community needs places like Santiago where we can feel safe and welcome,” says Santiago’s General Manager Kent Taylor. We couldn’t agree more!
Under new gay ownership since 2015, Santiago has been consistently refreshed and elevated while staying true to its core values of warmth, inclusivity, and luxury. With nearly 1,000 glowing 5-star reviews across Google and TripAdvisor, guests rave about its lush tropical landscaping, peaceful ambiance, and the friendliest team a naked gay man could ask for.
And let’s take a look at just a few enticing highlights:
24 stylish King-bedded guest rooms with modern walk-in rain showers
The largest climate-controlled pool at any men’s resort in Palm Springs
Complimentary continental breakfast and poolside lunch daily
A bubbling spa, Insta-worthy outdoor shower, and shady new misted sun deck
It’s no wonder Santiago has racked up accolades like TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Award (for over 10 years running), "Best Gay Stay in the US" from GayCities, and OUTstanding Clothing Optional Resort by GED Magazine.
Meet Santiago’s Brothers: Descanso & Twin Palms
Like any successful big brother, Santiago eventually gave rise to a family of equally fierce sibling resorts. In 2021, Descanso Resort opened its doors, offering another elevated gay men's resort experience with a luxe spa feel. Then in 2022, Twin Palms Resort joined the party, offering chic mid-century vibes in a sleek, private setting.
Here’s the quickie breakdown:
Santiago Resort: Lush, tranquil, and iconic. The OG.
Descanso Resort: Spa-like, elegant, and refined. Think enchanting, but sexy.
Twin Palms Resort: Stylish, social, and full of retro charm. The boys love this one.
Can’t decide which one suits your vibe best? Don’t stress – we wrote a full comparison just for you 👉 Santiago, Descanso & Twin Palms Resorts: A Three-Way Comparison
Why “Gay Palm Springs” Should Be Your Next Escape
If you’ve been yearning for the kind of place where you can bask in the sun, make instant connections, and enjoy world-class LGBT-centered experiences – Palm Springs is your next stop. Whether you’re traveling solo, with your partner, or with your gaggle of gays besties, there’s no shortage of unforgettable moments waiting for you here.
And with resorts like Santiago leading the charge, your next clothing-optional stay will be joining a 30-year legacy of queer joy, chosen family, and naked poolside rejuvenation.
Have you stayed at Santiago, Descanso, or Twin Palms? Which was your fave and why?
If you’re curious to learn more about all the fun you can have here in Palm Springs and our beautiful Coachella Valley, check out some of our blog favorites, like Best Gay Nightlife in Palm Springs, The Best Sex Shops and Adult Play Gear for Gay Men in Palm Springs, and Escape to Bliss: Best Gay Men's Spas and Spa Resorts in Palm Springs.
Curious About Buying, Selling, or Relocating?
In addition to being one half of The Palm Springs Guys – Glen Nadeau is one of Palm Springs’ top-producing Realtors, known for his no-pressure approach, deep market expertise, and genuine commitment to his clients.
A member of The Caldwell & Linger Group – ranked a Top Real Estate Team by Palm Springs Life Magazine – Glen is also backed by COMPASS, which remains the #1 ranked brokerage in the country. Glen takes great pride in knowing that his clients are in such good hands.
“Hospitality is what drives me because helping folks achieve their real estate goals is essentially helping them build a better life for themselves.”
Visit Modern Living Palm Springs, or reach out to me directly. Ask me anything – I promise to give you much more support than ChatGPT, Google or the news will.
Your Palm Springs Insider,
Glen Nadeau (pronounced “Ned-oh” as in “meadow”)
📱 Call or Text: 805-220-8097
📨 Email: glen.nadeau@compass.com
🔎My Google Business Reviews ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
