Following a pandemic pause, the 2021 BNP Paribas Open (the first of tennis’ nine annual ATP Masters 1000 tournaments), joyfully returned to Indian Wells, California last October. For onlookers and fans – including this writer – it meant watching championship games courtside, lapping up the tennis gardens and rubbing shoulders with pro athletes in the elevator of the historically tennis-oriented Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa. The fun wasn’t limited to spectator sports; my time at the resort also meant enjoying its activity-packed offerings – tennis ranking, not necessary.
Tennis, it's in the DNA
Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa
Nestled in the California desert just 20 minutes outside of Palm Springs, the 45-acre property, originally called the Grand Champion Hotel, was the location of the revered BNP Paribas tennis tournament from 1987 to 2000. When the tournament eventually outgrew the Coachella Valley hotel's capacity, the Indian Wells Tennis Garden was built just down the street. It is the second-largest stadium facility in the country.
Fast forward to 2022. Today, the Hyatt Regency Indian Wells serves not only as a hub for America’s professional tennis players, but as a premier destination for those looking for athlete-inspired activity and recovery.
Having paused bookings in 2020 during the pandemic, the property jumped at the opportunity to renovate, completing a $21-million-dollar refresh across its 530 rooms and private villas, dining facilities, pool and spa. And going forward, guests who want to check in during the BNP Paribas Open should know that the tournament has resumed its pre-pandemic schedule, taking place each year in March.
Here’s what guests can expect from a stay at Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa, a property with tennis in its DNA.
Activity for all, no matter your athleticism
Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa
Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa
Touching down in Palm Springs and arriving at the resort, I immediately feel at ease. The property is grandiose, but the pool renovation is perhaps the grandest of all. Designed with kids in mind, the eight-million-dollar upgrade is made up of nine pools, a pair of three-storey waterslides and a lengthy, 450-foot lazy river. Travelling child-free? Lounge at the adults-only Oasis which is decked out with a bar, private cabanas and service à la Roadrunner Cafe.
Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa
Although walking around the property may prove to be enough to exercise as is, the resort is also home to sunrise yoga sessions led by incredibly talented instructors, as well as private golf lessons at the adjacent Indian Wells Golf Resort. Watch the kids learn to putt from the comfort of the hotel room balcony – framed by incredible views of the Coachella Valley – and afterwards, the whole family can dine in at the Citrus Marketplace and Cafe.
Options for nourishing and replenishing
Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa
Located in the ample foyer, Citrus Marketplace and Cafe is dripping with fabulous blue decor inspired by Morocco. What’s the connection? The property shares a latitude with the bustling city of Marrakesh.
As the more casual dining option, Citrus offers bites, coffee, a selection of grab-and-go and on weekends, a breakfast buffet.
In the evening, admire the desert’s dusk-lit sky while sipping on cocktails at the Agave Sunset tequila bar. Live blues music is a weekly occurrence and the fresh, local-inspired menu is stewarded by ex-NFL chef, Eric LeClair. (He has the ring to prove it.) Food is grilled on the outdoor BBQ which gives the property an evergreen summer vibe. The menu features desert fare (think: deliciously prepared meats to hearty tacos), craft beer and citrus cocktails. Vegan options are available, too.
Meander the mountains, as you please
When it’s time to venture off-property, look to the hiking trails that trace the nearby hills. The Bump and Grind Trail and the Wilderness Loop (which can be seen from the hotel property) are both incredible options to break a much-needed sweat. For those interested in adventure and history, the Resort offers sunset Red Jeep Tours. Expect to be transported the set of Dune as you traverse the San Andreas Fault while learning about the archaeological history of the region.
The suite life
Villa patio | Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa
Villa | Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa
Whether it’s a long day of watching tennis pros or an afternoon of splashing down the waterslides, when it’s time to take a respite, Hyatt's rooms don’t disappoint. Villas boast airy and private living spaces that open to a plunge pool or fire pit patio. My penthouse suite features a king bed with a sunrise view over the mountains. A generously-sized his-and-hers bathroom accommodates an entire skincare regime’s worth of product – and more.
For young families, the suite options fit everyone including your fur baby (dogs are permitted to stay on request and for a low fee; guide dogs are the exception) and their accompanying gear. Measuring 875-square-feet and larger, multi-room suites offer privacy among the family members with varying bedtimes. Entertainment and amenities (including an in-suite fridge and microwave for snacks and bottles) means downtime can be enjoyed, fuss-free. And good news for parents who want to enjoy date night: the hotel offers babysitting services.
Rejuvenate, in style
Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa
To restore the skin from long, sun-drench days, pay a visit to the luxe Agua Serena Spa. After slipping into a robe and slippers and sipping on cucumber water, guests can enjoy the benefits of a HydraFacial or chemical peel (with natural ingredients like papaya), or opt for a soothing, Flowing Palms Swedish Massage. I choose a personalized facial (and leave the spa glowing) and continue my wellness journey in a jetted tub and dry sauna. Be sure to take an extended moment of pause to watch the mesmerizing desert sun bounce off the reflection pool in an outdoor, Moroccan-inspired nook.
Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa
The verdict: Designed for athletes but welcoming to families far and wide, Hyatt Regency Indian Wells is a true gem in the Coachella Valley for those looking for an activity-filled resort that falls nothing short of treating each guest with champion status.
Disclosure: This writer's trip was hosted. All opinions are her own.