The hype
Travelers love the retro aesthetic and the pool area, but the 'invisible service' model confuses those expecting a traditional hotel experience.
The Cole Powered By Sonder
$150-250/ night
Book this if You want a stylish, adults-only mid-century crash pad with a killer French bistro on-site and zero front desk small talk.
Why People Love It
- Freddie's Kitchen (on-site) serves some of the best French food in the desert
- The pool scene is chill and social without being a chaotic Vegas-style party
- Contactless everything—you can go your whole stay without seeing a staff member
Quick Take: It's a glorified, stylish motel run by an app, so don't expect a bellhop to carry your bags or daily housekeeping to make your bed.
Reviewed by @Ms.jennyboo: I stayed here for a solo recharge and it was exactly what I needed. The retro decor is fun, but the real highlight was the peace and quiet. I spent hours in the jacuzzi and the dinner at Freddie's was surprisingly gourmet. A total hidden gem.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'thin walls' complaint is the most consistent negative review—bring earplugs if you're a light sleeper.
- You prefer texting a support team over calling a front desk
- You want to be near the Uptown Design District but away from the downtown crowds
- You love a good on-site restaurant that locals actually eat at
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8
- Housekeeping: Non-existent during stay unless paid for. Arrival clean is usually good, but missed spots happen.
- Bathroom hygiene: Generally sparkling, though some guests report hair left behind in corners.
- Maintenance: Aging infrastructure shows; peeling paint on exterior and worn carpets are common complaints.
- Linens & towels: Fresh and decent quality, but you have to message support to get fresh ones.
- Odors & scents: Mostly neutral, but occasional musty smells from the older AC units.
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Loud wall-mounted AC/heater units
- Footsteps from second-floor guests (if you are on the ground floor)
- Pool area noise drifting into courtyard-facing rooms
Before you book
Good to know
- Download the Sonder app before you arrive; it's your key to the gate and room.
- Parking is NOT free—it's typically $15/night for uncovered self-parking.
- The on-site restaurant, Freddie's, is closed on Tuesdays.
What to pack
- High-quality earplugs (essential for the thin walls)
- Slip-on shoes for easy pool access
- Your own streaming login details (TVs have Chromecast)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Superior King Room (2nd Floor) – minimizes overhead noise and offers better mountain views
- King Room with Balcony – gives you private outdoor space to enjoy the desert air
Rooms to avoid
- Ground floor rooms near the pool gate (high foot traffic and noise)
- Rooms facing N Palm Canyon Drive (traffic noise)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a room on the 2nd floor to avoid overhead footstep noise. Ideally, a unit facing the mountain or pool, but away from the main road.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a front desk?
No. It's a digital check-in via the Sonder app. There is no physical front desk staff on-site 24/7.
Is the pool heated?
Yes, the outdoor pool is heated and open year-round, usually until 10 PM.
Can I bring my dog?
No. The Cole is a pet-free property, with exceptions only for ADA service animals.
Is there daily housekeeping?
No. Cleaning is done before arrival. Mid-stay cleaning is available upon request for an extra fee (approx. $50).
How far is downtown Palm Springs?
It's about 1.5 miles north. A 30-40 minute walk or a 5-minute Uber ride to the main strip.
Is there food on site?
Yes! Freddie's Kitchen is excellent, serving French-Californian dinner Wed-Mon.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Superior Suite' often costs just $20 more than a standard room but gives you significantly more breathing room.
- ✨
Walk 10 minutes south to 'Koffi North' for the best local coffee and a stunning garden courtyard.
- ✨
If you arrive early, the digital key won't work until exactly 4:00 PM unless you've paid for early check-in.
5 things to know before you go
💡The carpets in the hallways and some rooms are showing their age with visible stains.
💡The 'mountain view' can sometimes be obstructed by the parking lot depending on your specific room angle.
💡There is no microwave in the standard rooms, making reheating leftovers from Freddie's tricky.
💡The shower water pressure is surprisingly good, often cited as a redeeming quality.
💡You might never see a single employee during your entire stay—it can feel a bit like a ghost ship.
Local Playbook
Map
See where The Cole Powered By Sonder is located and what's nearby.