If you’ve been keeping an eye on the desert hospitality scene, you’ve likely heard the hum surrounding the grand transformation of the old Poco Diablo into the sleek, adventure-forward Outbound Sedona. This isn’t just a fresh coat of paint and some new throw pillows; it’s a complete reimagining of what a desert getaway should feel like. Gone are the dated motifs of yesteryear, replaced by a property that feels like it was designed specifically for people who want to spend their days getting dusty and their nights getting pampered.
A Reimagined Retreat
The resort has officially shed its former skin to embrace a “rugged-meets-refined” philosophy that actually works. With 137 guest rooms and suites scattered across a sprawling, lush footprint, the property manages to feel like an expansive yet intimate sanctuary. The overhaul has focused on creating communal spaces that encourage you to actually put down your map and talk to your neighbors, making it feel less like a standard hotel and more like a high-end social club for outdoor enthusiasts.
Desert Modern Design
The aesthetic across the property is a masterclass in high-desert chic. Expect plenty of natural wood, tactile stone surfaces, and a color palette that mirrors the surrounding landscape without being cliché. The lobby serves as the heart of the operation, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and lounge areas that are just as comfortable for a morning coffee as they are for a late-night planning session for the next day’s activities.
The outdoor spaces are where Outbound Sedona truly flexes its muscles. The grounds are meticulously kept, featuring winding paths that lead to hidden fire pits and quiet corners. It’s the kind of place where you can find a private moment of tranquility to truly escape, or join the fray at the social hub, depending on how much “people-ing” you have left in you after a long day in the sun.
The Ultimate Social Core
At the center of the action is the revamped pool area, which has been upgraded to include a two-tiered heated pool and oversized hot tubs. For those seeking to rejuvenate, the addition of a cold plunge and a dry sauna is a game-changer, elevating this into a true wellness retreat. It’s rare to find a resort that understands the specific needs of an active traveler, but having a place to shock your muscles back to life after a ten-mile trek is a luxury that’s hard to beat.
The Room Experience
The accommodations have been gutted and rebuilt with a focus on “relaxed comfort.” Whether you’re staying in a standard guest room or one of the standalone cabins, the emphasis is on high-quality sleep and functional beauty. Many of the rooms now feature private patios or balconies, which are essentially mandatory for watching the light shift across the horizon while you sip on something cold.
The interiors are filled with thoughtful, local touches—think custom art, premium linens, and tech-friendly setups that don’t require you to crawl under a desk to find a plug. The suites often come with working fireplaces, adding a layer of “cozy cabin” vibes that make it an ideal setting for a romantic couples retreat and very difficult to actually check out on your final morning. If you can snag one of the rooms overlooking the lush greenery of the back property, do it—the views are worth the extra bit of effort.
Dining at Lucida Desert Kitchen + Bar
You can’t talk about the new Outbound without mentioning Lucida, the on-site culinary powerhouse. The restaurant leans into “high-desert fare,” which translates to a menu that is fresh, vibrant, and surprisingly inventive. It’s a far cry from the standard hotel burger-and-fries routine; instead, you’ll find plates that highlight seasonal ingredients and regional flavors that feel authentic to the area.
Flavor of the Desert
The menu is packed with standouts like the Smoked Turkey & Hatch Chile Meatballs and the Mesquite Salmon, but the real magic happens in the “Shared Plates” section. The Charred Corn & Avocado Dip is essentially a requirement for every table, and the Agave-Lime Cheesecake provides a perfect, tart finish to a heavy meal. The vibe inside Lucida is warm and unpretentious, with service that feels genuinely excited to explain the nuances of the prickly pear syrup or the smokiness of the ancho-rubbed steak.
The beverage program at Lucida is equally impressive, featuring a “Zero-Proof Collection” for those keeping it clean and a spirited menu for everyone else. The “Not Your Momma’s Vortex”—a mezcal-based concoction with prickly pear and a smoked sea salt rim—is a literal work of art. Whether you’re sitting at the bar for a quick post-adventure beer or settling in for a multi-course dinner, the energy is consistently electric.
Ultimately, Outbound Sedona has successfully bridged the gap between a luxury resort and a functional adventure hub. It’s a place that respects your need for a good shower and a better bed, without losing the rugged spirit that brought you to the desert in the first place. If you’re looking for a stay that feels as intentional as your itinerary, this is officially the new spot to beat.
