Sorry that you posted this over an American holiday weekend! Perhaps there will be more replies soon.
InnExile is one of my faves for cruising and desert-feel. BUT it is not lots of plants and gardens. More like rocks and cement and desert sculpture but it is gorgeous at night.
I don't think you can beat Vista Grande for the cruising scene balanced with a decent hotel. Any cruisier than that and you will have to stay at a more sauna (bath house) like hotel. At least at the Vista Grande you get all the porn stars who are not.. ummm... working ... in the daytime and early evening. 'Course the younger guys don't come out during the daytime!
Try a weekday visit to LA or some day-long sightseeing! I will be there August 27-31 if you need a tour guide!