March 2025 Muse of the Month: Patty Callahan

Meet Patty Callahan – A Lifelong Healer & Palm Springs Wellness Expert

At The Muse Hotel in Palm Springs, we love spotlighting individuals who embody creativity, passion, and a deep appreciation for this desert oasis. This month, we are delighted to introduce Patty Callahan, our March 2025 Muse of the Month.

With over 35 years of experience in wellness and hospitality, Patty Callahan has dedicated her life to healing, holistic spa treatments, and creating serene retreats. She currently serves as the Spa Director and Event Manager at Les Cactus, a charming boutique hotel in Palm Springs, California, where she curates rejuvenating spa experiences for visitors seeking relaxation in the Coachella Valley.

Beyond her professional journey, Patty’s connection to nature, love for animals, and appreciation for the Palm Springs lifestyle make her an inspiring presence in the community. She has lived in stunning resort towns across California, shaping her expertise in boutique spa services and wellness retreats.

If you’re visiting Palm Springs for a vacation, looking for a wellness getaway, or searching for the best boutique spa experience in Palm Springs, Patty’s insights will inspire you. Let’s dive into her journey!

Can you tell us a bit about yourself, your career, and what inspires you?

Born and raised in Los Angeles, California, I’m the youngest of four girls, all close in age, and we remain best friends to this day. The shared laughter of the four of us is unstoppable!

I’ve lived in Southern California most of my life, with a few years spent in Northern California. My career as a licensed massage therapist has allowed me to live in resort communities, managing luxury spas and boutique hotels along the way.

I currently live in Palm Springs, working at Les Cactus Hotel as Spa Director and Event Manager, and I absolutely love it. When the time comes, I plan to retire in the high desert near my sister.

What inspires me most is nature and being outdoors. I often say, "I'm solar-powered" because I need sunshine and fresh air to feel my best. Palm Springs’ year-round sunshine is perfect for me!

What are your top three passions outside of work?

1. 🐶 My rescue dog, Popeye (Pops for short) – He was found on the streets during COVID and quickly became the love of my life.

2. 🌱 Gardening – I love both indoor and outdoor gardening. Over the years, I’ve designed and grown edible gardens and ornamental landscapes, including helping build school gardens in the ’90s through government grants. There’s nothing better than getting my hands in the soil.

3. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Spending time with family and friends – The laughter and kinship we share is something I truly cherish. Palm Springs’ social scene makes it easy to stay connected!
   

   
   

   

   Popeye

   
   

What’s one quirky or unexpected thing about you that most people don’t know?

I’m obsessed with true crime shows, and I have a talent for solving cases in books and movies before the big reveal. I’m great at reading people and catching forensic-level details—probably because my father was an FBI agent!

Can you share a story of a time when travel changed your perspective on life?

In October 1993, I visited Korakia Pensione in Palm Springs for a relaxing getaway. At the time, there were no TVs, radios, or cell phones, which made it the perfect peaceful escape.

On my way home to Laguna Beach, traffic was horrific, so I took a back route. It took me hours, and I didn’t understand why—until I reached a police barricade and was told: "Laguna is on fire." I was devastated and didn’t know where to go.

I eventually made my way to the restaurant I managed, Oyster’s in Corona Del Mar. We opened the doors to anyone displaced. For three days, we gathered there, sleeping in booths, watching the news, and waiting for updates on our homes.

I was lucky—my beach cottage and beloved cat survived. That experience changed my perspective on community, resilience, and the importance of human connection. It also reinforced my love for small, tight-knit villages like Palm Springs and Laguna Beach rather than big cities.

Describe your perfect weekend getaway. Where would you go and what would you do?

I love visiting Del Mar, California. Growing up, we spent summers in Del Mar, and I still adore it today. It’s also incredibly dog-friendly, which means Popeye can tag along!

One of my favorite spots is Del Mar Dog Beach, where dogs can roam off-leash, run in the surf, and truly be free—it’s heaven on earth!

If you could design a themed room for The Muse Hotel, what theme would you choose and why?

I would create a Georgia O’Keeffe-inspired suite. She was the "Mother of American Modernism" and created stunning desert-inspired paintings.

The room would feature:

• Her famous works, including Jimson Weed/White Flower No.1 and Summer Days.

• Informational plaques about her life, much like a museum experience.

• A coffee table book featuring her art and story.

• Earthy textures and colors to reflect the desert landscape.

• Inspirational quotes placed throughout the space, like "To see takes time, like having a friend takes time."

I’d choose Georgia O’Keeffe because she loved the desert, nature, and freedom—values I hold dear.

How can our readers get in touch with you?

📩 Email: Patty@LesCactusPS.com 📞 Phone: (760) 422-5500 📍 Location: Les Cactus, Palm Springs

Why Patty Inspires Us

Patty’s lifelong passion for wellness, nature, and hospitality makes her a perfect "Muse of the Month". With deep expertise in spa treatments, boutique hotels, and holistic living, she has created an atmosphere of relaxation and rejuvenation that inspires both visitors and locals alike.

But what truly sets Patty apart is her generosity and kindness as a neighbor. Since The Muse arrived in the neighborhood, she has welcomed us with open arms—sharing her insights, showing us the ropes, and even sending guests our way. Her spirit of collaboration embodies what makes Palm Springs so special: a community where women uplift and support one another.

If you're looking for the best spa experience in Palm Springs, a boutique hotel with a wellness focus, or simply a local expert to introduce you to hidden gems, Patty is the one to know.

Next time you visit Les Cactus or The Muse Hotel, be sure to say hello—she’s always happy to chat about Palm Springs, wellness retreats, and, of course, her beloved dog, Popeye!

Thank you, Patty, for your incredible support, kindness, and inspiration!