Driving to Indian Wells, CA from the airport or anywhere in the Coachella Valley on Highway 111 is always a pleasure. The highway is lined with giant, majestic palm trees on both sides, setting the scene for my stay at the Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas. The transition from the lush highway to the beautiful resort’s grand entrance was seamless.

When I was invited to attend an event at the reimagined Hyatt Regency in Indian Wells, I jumped at the chance. My only prior experience on the property was at a golf event. This prestigious resort in Indian Wells hosts the BNP Paribas Tennis Tournament each March. I was curious to see for myself what the buzz was all about.

Entering the Grounds to the Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villa

Valet parking is available, but I self-parked and quickly found a space. From the parking lot there is a beautiful walkway to the resort which goes through a forest of palm trees and past a fountain with dancing water.

Walking into the Entrance

I walked up the steps with a friend, and the friend I was traveling with commented on the lovely wood-festoon front doors, which magically opened before us, by two welcoming staff members. We walked in and immediately felt a sense of calm. The neutral colors balanced well against the wood accents throughout and no design element fought for attention. Instead, it said, “Come in and explore.”

Camino Springs Market

The Camino Springs Market is extensive and it had everything one could need as we browsed the aisles. Either for that item you forgot to pack, food to grab for a hike on one of the nearby trails, or snacks to keep the family happy in the room while watching TV.

If you prefer to grab a bite from their deli, there are plenty of tables observe the view of the nearby mountains. The market also has an array of great gifts for everyone on your list, from your dog sitter and beyond. Don’t forgot to treat yourself to a little something to remember your Coachella Valley vacation. 

Two Full-Service Restaurants on Site

The talented Chef Angelo Sosa oversees Tia Carmen with over 25 years of experience, including three-star European restaurants. Named after his aunt, he has brought in a creative staff that utilizes produce from local farmers and communities in the Southwest to create Contemporary Southwest Cuisine. The restaurant is elegant, with crystal glassware shadows dancing in the candlelight.

Carmocha is more casual and offers a variety of small plates. Here, Chef Sosa incorporates recipes gathered by his aunt in her worldwide travels. 

Patios are Everywhere at the Grand Hyatt

With our glorious weather eight months of the year, it was great seeing the resort provide patios in unexpected places to hold meetings, relax, or dine. Some areas have built-in water functions that add a soothing sound as you view the ever-changing mountain range before you.

Rooms Have Become Luxury Spaces

It was an immense task to recreate the 531 accommodations. There are now 39 two-bedroom suites that offer stellar views over the 34-acre desert terrain or are located to see the resort grounds. Nine pools, including one with the highest waterslide in Coachella Valley, and two championship-standard golf courses allow families to stretch out.

Villas Ultimate Luxury

In November 2024, 43 one- and two-bedroom villas will form their miniature village on the edge of one of the golf courses. Connected to the resort by golf cart pathways, these villas are the size of homes many people dream of. Built-in pods of four are meticulously decorated with contemporary furniture and, best of all, your own hot tub.

The Grand Hyatt Indian Well Resort & Villa is spectacular. Susan Santiago, President, U.S. & Canada at Hyatt Hotels Corporation, said best, “Located in a key destination for leisure and business travelers looking to experience the best of Coachella Valley, the refreshed resort will help guests celebrate magnificent moments and create memorable experiences throughout their stay.”

The $64 million renovation is extraordinary and has ensured locals travel there often for meals and relaxation and to create a location for large and small meetings. I’m planning to schedule a staycation, as I know it will be a place where I can relax and soak in the beauty of our desert.