Turtle Back Mesa Hot Spring Bed & Breakfast

## Overview Turtle Back Mesa Hot Spring Bed & Breakfast is a unique lodging destination situated in the desert landscape near Desert Hot Springs, California, at an elevation where the region's renowned geothermal activity meets the rugged beauty of the Coachella Valley. Located at approximately 33.84°N, 116.25°W, the property sits within the broader Desert Hot Springs geothermal zone — an area famous for its naturally heated mineral water that rises from deep underground along the Mission Creek Fault. This fault system separates hot mineral water on the north side from the cold water aquifer to the south, creating one of the most celebrated natural hot spring regions in the American Southwest. Desert Hot Springs has a long history of attracting visitors seeking the therapeutic benefits of its geothermal waters. The area's hot mineral springs were known to the Cahuilla people long before European settlement, and commercial development of the springs began in earnest in the 1940s. Today, numerous small inns and bed-and-breakfasts tap into the natural hot water table to offer guests a chance to soak in mineral-rich water that typically emerges at temperatures ranging from 100°F to over 170°F, depending on the well depth and location. Turtle Back Mesa Hot Spring Bed & Breakfast offers visitors an intimate, small-scale experience centered around access to this naturally heated geothermal water. The property's name references the mesa terrain characteristic of the high desert landscape surrounding Desert Hot Springs, with panoramic views of the San Bernardino Mountains and the Coachella Valley below. ## Directions 1. From Palm Springs or Interstate 10, take the Palm Drive / Gene Autry Trail exit heading north toward Desert Hot Springs. 2. Continue north on Palm Drive as it climbs into the mesa area above the valley floor. 3. Use the GPS coordinates (33.8409627, -116.2478060) to navigate to the specific property location, as many of the small hot spring inns in this area are tucked along residential streets and side roads. 4. Look for signage for Turtle Back Mesa Hot Spring Bed & Breakfast as you approach the coordinates. *Note: The area around Desert Hot Springs contains many small hot spring properties along winding mesa roads. A GPS device or smartphone navigation is strongly recommended for finding the exact location.* ## What to Expect Visitors to Turtle Back Mesa Hot Spring Bed & Breakfast can expect a quiet, desert retreat experience with access to naturally heated geothermal soaking pools. The surrounding landscape is classic high desert — sparse vegetation, sandy terrain, and wide-open skies that make for spectacular sunrises and sunsets. The property is situated in an area known for its clean, dry air and abundant sunshine, with over 300 sunny days per year. The geothermal water in the Desert Hot Springs area is historically noted for its mineral content, which may include dissolved silica, sulfate, and various trace minerals. The water has been historically valued by visitors for its perceived therapeutic and relaxation properties. As with all natural hot spring water, visitors should be aware that water quality and mineral composition can vary. The best time to visit is during the cooler months from October through April, when daytime temperatures are pleasant and the hot soaking water feels most inviting. Summer temperatures in the Desert Hot Springs area regularly exceed 110°F, which can make hot water soaking less appealing during the day. The property operates as a bed-and-breakfast, so visitors should plan to book accommodations in advance rather than expecting drop-in access to the springs.