Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort and Spa
Review by UntoldMiles

Note: I was not paid nor compensated for this review. The information I share here is solely based on my personal experience. The photos below may contain both photos and videos that I took or that are owned by Hyatt and/or the property.

Location

 

The Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort and Spa is nestled in the famous Coachella Valley, in Southern California. The resort is conveniently situated just a short drive away from Palm Springs, offering easy access to vibrant shopping, eclectic dining, and exciting entertainment. For reference, this property is about a 2.5 to 3 hour drive from Los Angeles, California or about a 4 hour drive from Phoenix, Arizona. If you choose to fly into the Palm Springs International Airport, it’s a short 30-40 minute drive.

About the Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort and Spa

The Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort and Spa offers a truly enchanting location for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation. Surrounded by the towering Santa Rosa Mountains, this resort transports its guests to a world of natural beauty and tranquility. The sprawling resort boasts picturesque views of palm trees swaying in the gentle breeze, complementing the vibrant green fairways of the Indian Wells Golf Resort. With its proximity to the renowned Indian Wells Tennis Garden, guests have the unique opportunity to indulge in world-class sports events. On site, you’ll find 530 rooms which includes 39 suites and 43 villas (which I was told was cash only). This property also boasts 7 different pools for guests of all ages to enjoy and experience. There really is something here for everyone.

Arrival and Parking

After getting off the main road and navigating a roundabout, you’ll finally pull up to the Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort and Spa. You wont miss it due to the signage, huge red chair out front, and the playful water feature.

There are a few different options for guest parking. Valet parking is $15 daily or $32 for overnight. Self-Parking is not too far away and it’s $12 daily or $27 for overnight.

If you’re a Globalist staying by using World of Hyatt points or a free night certificate, parking is free. More information can be found here.

Checking-In and First Impressions

This desert property truly embodies an oasis-like retreat. From the moment you step into the lobby, you are greeted with a warm and refined ambiance that sets the tone for an exceptional experience. Positioned to the left as you enter, the check-in desk promptly attends to your needs. We received a gracious welcome, during which our reservation details were carefully reviewed, and we were provided with valuable information about the property, its restaurant, and the benefits we enjoyed as Globalists.

From my initial observations, it is evident that this hotel is meticulously maintained and caters to a diverse range of guests, including families with young children. Despite the property's popularity and bustling activity during the summer months, I was impressed by the minimal signs of wear and tear, a testament to the management's commitment to upholding the property's impeccable condition.

The Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort and Spa has left a positive first impression on me. I eagerly look forward to discovering the other offerings they have in store for their guests.

Our Room - Penthouse Suite

Our Penthouse Suite, suite 5213, proved to be nothing short of perfection. We were fortunate to secure this exceptional location, offering an ideal setting for our stay. Spanning an expansive 875 square feet, this suite showcases an array of well-designed spaces, including two bathrooms, a spacious living room, a designated dining area, a well-equipped wet bar, a comfortable bedroom, and a delightful private balcony.

Wet Bar

Upon entering this suite, your attention is immediately drawn to the wet bar. Here, you'll discover an array of drink amenities, including a Keurig machine with an assortment of coffee and tea options, refreshing water bottles, an ice bucket, and a convenient sink. Below the bar area, a generously sized mini fridge awaits, offering ample space for storing your favorite food and drinks.

Guest Bathroom

Adjacent to the wet bar, you'll find the guest bathroom, featuring essential amenities such as a standard toilet, sink, mirror, and fresh towels. While it may not boast extravagant features, having access to two bathrooms within the suite is undeniably convenient and adds to the overall comfort and functionality of the space.

Living Room

Directly in front of you, past the wet bar, you’ll find a spacious living area with plenty of comfy seating, a soft rug, a large tv, and plenty of lamps to adjust the lighting to suit your needs. The sofa also doubles as a pull out bed as well. Past the living room is a small dining table which seats four. From the living area, you can find a door which leads you onto the private balcony.

Bedroom

Inside the bedroom, you'll find a spacious king-sized Hyatt bed, a functional work desk, a room phone, and a large TV, among other amenities. The room embraces a minimalist design, offering a blend of simplicity and comfort. What adds to the convenience is the presence of a separate thermostat specifically for the bedroom, allowing you to create a cooler or warmer environment that suits your sleep preferences.

The bedroom has a large sliding glass door which leads to the private balcony as well. There are two sets of curtains for privacy or to block the sun and provide some shade during the day.

Main Bathroom

As you continue beyond the bedroom, you'll come across the main bathroom, which also serves as your closet. Along the wall, you'll discover an array of convenient amenities. Two plush robes, slippers, a room safe, an iron, an extra blanket, a pillow, and ample storage space are thoughtfully provided. The double sink countertop is a delightful addition, offering guests ample room to prepare for their day. Here, you'll also find all the usual bathroom essentials, including towels, soaps, lotions, and more.

Continuing to the other side of the bathroom, you'll discover an extra-long bathtub, ideal for soaking sessions. Adjacent to it is a convenient walk-in shower and a toilet. The shower has great water pressure and there is no long wait for the hot water.

For your convenience, bathroom amenities such as soaps, shampoo, and conditioner are provided in large, multi-use bottles. However, it's worth noting that a minor inconvenience exists as there are no separate containers of shampoo, conditioner, or body wash by the bathtub. To utilize these amenities, one would need to step into the shower area.

Balcony

The private balcony can be access from the living room or the bedroom. It’s a connected balcony so you can go in/out either doors. The balcony has two chairs, a small table, and two sun loungers. Depending on your room, you may have some pretty incredible views during sunset!

Overall, our Penthouse Suite experience was picture perfect. From the spacious rooms, the amenities, location, and cleanliness, we couldn’t have asked for more. I was pleasantly surprised at how quiet the room was, given our location in regards to the pools.

What It Cost Us

We were able to stay here with $0 out of pocket thanks to World of Hyatt points. Our two night stay came out to 40,000 World of Hyatt Points. These World of Hyatt points were earned through our World of Hyatt Card and World of Hyatt Business Card.

What we actually paid

For the each night, we paid 20,000 World of Hyatt points. So for two nights that would be 40,000 World of Hyatt points which is equivalent to about $600 if you want to think about it from a cash value perspective. The great thing about using World of Hyatt points to book a room is that when you book with points, you do not pay any additional taxes or resort fees.

What we would have paid

For the following calculation, keep in mind that I booked a standard room but was upgraded to the Penthouse Suite due to being a Globalist. If we paid cash for two nights in the Penthouse Suite, it would have cost us $2,241.78.

The cash cost of a standard room for two nights comes out to a little over $800 when you take into account the taxes and fees.

My Points Redemption Rate

The points redemption rate if you take into consideration my upgrade to the Penthouse Suite comes out to 5.6 cents per point. This is a great redemption rate since you should be expecting at least 1.5 cents per point when redeeming your World of Hyatt points. If you want to look at the redemption value of a standard room at $800 or 40,000 points for two nights, that’s about 2 cents per point.

The above redemption value is not taking into consideration other perks and benefits, especially if you have status. If you have Globalist status with Hyatt, you also get free parking when you book with points. This saved us an additional $32/day on valet parking.

As a Globalist, I also receive free breakfast for everyone in my room and this covers tip as well. Our free Globalist breakfast came out to over $100. Of course, if you’re not Globalist and you do not get free breakfast or parking, don’t take these numbers into consideration. More on their breakfast menu later.

Amenities and Facilities

Pool

The Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort and Spa proudly offers a remarkable selection of seven pools. Ranging in size and features, these pools provide a variety of options to cater to different preferences.

Younger children have plenty to look forward to, as there is a dedicated splash pad, a shallow pool, and a small kids' slide, providing a safe and enjoyable space for them to have fun.

The true highlights of the pool area is Hy Tides. This is the water park on property that has the 450ft. lazy river and two thrilling water slides. To enhance the pool experience, complimentary tubes and lounge chairs readily available for guests to enjoy. An important thing to note is that Hy Tides doesn’t open until 10am and closes around 5pm daily.

For those seeking a more tranquil and serene pool experience, The Oasis, an adults-only pool area, offers a retreat towards the rear of the pool area, catering exclusively to guests aged 18 and above. They have their own private cabanas here for rent as well.

Pool towels can be found by the main pool entrance, at the Towel Hut. You can also return them here. In regards to seating, there are many lounge chairs throughout the pool areas. If you’re looking for a more private pool experience, private cabanas can be rented here.

Other notable amenities you can find around the pool are water dispensers and an ice machine so bring your reusable water bottles. Lastly, the restroom and outdoor showers can be found by Hy Tides behind the water slides.

Fitness Center

The fitness center can be found next to the Agua Serena Spa, detached from the main Hyatt Regency building. It’s open 24/7 and you’ll need a key to access it. Here you’ll find plenty of equipment to cater to all types of guests.

There is a wide selection of cardio equipment. However, there are no Peloton bikes here, which I think would be a great addition for guests that frequent this property.

As for weights and resistance equipment, there is a great variety to choose from. The view from the fitness center is great as well. The fitness center overlooks the small pond and a green games area. Not pictured above, you can also find headphones, a hydration station, towels, and wipes for guests to use during and after their workout. The fitness center can be busy in the mornings but it does get less busy as the day goes on. Fitness classes are offered and available at additional costs.

Agua Serena Spa

On site, you can find the Agua Serena Spa which is an adults only spa that offers all encompassing treatments such as massages, facials, float pod, scrubs, and more. It’s open from 9am to 6pm daily. Hours are subject to change. Appointments are required and you can book here.

Laundry and Dry Cleaning

There is no self-service laundry for guests on-site. However, you can have the hotel do laundry and/or dry cleaning for you at additional costs.

Bicycle Trails and Rentals

Over by the pool area, there are adult and kids bike for guests to use around the property. You may not take them off the property. There was no additional cost to use the bikes during our stay.

Tennis Courts and Pickleball

Between the Agua Serena Spa and the self-parking lot, you’ll find two tennis courts and four pickleball courts for guest use.

Kalologie Medspa

For those looking for even more spa services, you can find advanced medical spa treatments such as IV Hydration therapy, B12 Energy boosts, Injectable neurotoxins, Dermal fillers, Body Contouring, Microneedling & PRP, and Skin rejuvenation at the Kalologie Medspa which is in the same building as the Agua Serena Spa. You can find more information and book here.

On-Site Eats and Drinks

Citrus Marketplace (long section)

The Citrus Marketplace has everything. Cold/Hot foods, snacks, candy, chips, ramen, clothing, hats, sunblock, lotions, soft drinks, adult drinks, and so much more. There is a ton of seating here for you to use. They also have a menu that you can order from. You can view that menu here. The marketplace is open from 6am to 10pm Sunday to Thursday and 6am to 12am Friday and Saturday.

Next to the Citrus Marketplace is a Cafe where you can order coffee and teas as well.

Well packed and well stocked is an understatement here. The Citrus Marketplace and Cafe is located in the lobby, across from the check-in area. You can find all sorts of things here.

You can find all sorts of things to take home or use during your stay. In the photo above, you can see some shirts, lotions, gems, bags, soaps, and more. Taking a peek at the background, you can see how expansive this area is.

Hungry? Snackish? Thirsty? This place has everything to satisfy your needs. From small prepackaged snacks, yogurts, cheeses, to baked goods, you can find it all here.

A display of premade cold foods such as salads, sandwiches, fruit.

Have a sweet tooth? Check out this selection of baked goods, cakes, and more.

Looking for more? There are two to three of these long displays that house candy, chocolate, crackers, ramen, cereal, chips, gum, meat sticks, and so much more.

In the background, you can see a large ice cream cooler filled with a wide variety of cold treats for sale.

Thirsty? Look at this wall of drinks (and snacks).

Looking for adult beverages? They are stocked!

They’re not slacking on the wine selection as well.

Forgot something? They have you covered.

The marketplace has a lot of seating options. Not pictured is another area behind me that is all guest seating to enjoy meals, have meetings, or just relax.

In the corner of the marketplace is this kids corner. The major activity here is coloring with some printed designs. There’s plenty of space here for a few kids to enjoy. This is a really thoughtful addition so parents can shop or just relax.

Lantana

Lantana is the main restaurant on-site. They offer a regular breakfast, a breakfast buffet, and dinner. They also have kid menus as well as a wine list for you to enjoy.

Breakfast is served from 7am to 11am on weekdays and 7am to 12pm on weekends. The Breakfast Buffet is offered on weekends from 7am to 12pm. Dinner is available from 5pm to 10pm daily. Looking to make reservations? Click here.

This is where Globalists can enjoy their free breakfast (no set dollar amount, just be reasonable). My only complaint for breakfast is that half their menu seemed lackluster or underseasoned and left me unsatisfied. Across our two night stay, we were able to try every breakfast menu item and here are my six recommendations.

Classic Eggs Benedict. This dish comes with griddled Canadian bacon, toasted English muffin, hollandaise, a side of delicious potatoes, and a chutney. You know exactly what you’re getting and is well seasoned.

Lantana Lox. A toasted plain bagel loaded with dill cream cheese, smoked salmon, shaved cucumber, pickled onions, heirloom tomatoes, sunflower sprouts, lemon, caper berries, and poached eggs. We love how much lox you get on this dish.

Crunchy French Toast Filled with Nutella. A sweeter dish and a kid favorite in our home. I love the crunchy take on this dish and who doesn’t like Nutella? This dish is vegan.

Banana Pancakes. These are salted caramel, brulee bananas on top of pancakes. Another kid favorite but is a pretty flavorful dish for what it is. This dish is vegan.

Lantana Breakfast. This gluten free dish is a more traditional breakfast consisting of two eggs any style, choice of bacon, sausages, or ham, potatoes, and a refreshing peppadew chutney.

The Acai Bowl is topped with berries, bananas, toasted coconut, and granola. This dairy free, gluten free, and vegan dish is a light and fresh choice for breakfast.

Agave Sunset

Agave Sunset is a bar and lounge which is located right across from Lantana. This lounge offers light meals which include sandwiches, pizzas, and more. You can find all sort of drinks here including cocktails, craft beers, and their private label Agave Sunset tequila. There is indoor and outdoor seating available here. Agave Sunset is open from 4pm to 10pm Sunday to Thursday and 4pm to 12am Friday and Saturday. They have a bar menu, kids menu, and a cocktail menu.

Roadrunner Cafe

Poolside, you’ll find the Roadrunner Cafe. They’re open from 11am to 6pm daily. The Roadrunner Cafe offers a wide variety of foods which include dips, salads, wraps, sandwiches, burgers, tacos, and more. View their menu here.

Oasis Pool Bar

By the adults only pool you can find the Oasis Pool Bar. They’re open from 11am to 6pm and offer a variety of cocktails, frozen cocktails, draft beers, wine, and more. View the menu here.

Final Thoughts

The Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort and Spa is a remarkable desert oasis. It caters to both adults and families, providing excellent facilities for all guests. Despite its popularity, the property is exceptionally well-maintained inside and out, displaying minimal signs of wear and tear. In contrast to heavily trafficked hotels like the Manchester Grand Hyatt in San Diego, this resort is a refreshing exception.

While there are various dining options available in the vicinity of the hotel, I particularly appreciate that the Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort and Spa offers a diverse range of on-site meal and snack choices, making it convenient for guests.

The property's numerous offerings, coupled with its superb location, make it an ideal stopover for those traveling between California and Arizona. Opting for a quick visit was a decision we made, and we were delighted with our experience. This property is unquestionably worth exploring, and I have no doubt that we will return here in the near future.

Want to earn World of Hyatt points that can earn you free nights at hotels like this and many other World of Hyatt properties? Check out the two World of Hyatt credit cards below.

World of Hyatt Card

World of Hyatt Business Card