I find it a good sign when I spot recognizable VIPs within a hotel lobby. Such people typically have hotel and resort options; knowing they’ve made the same choice as I confirms my selection. Such was the case recently at Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas, where upon my check-in, I saw a number of professional athletes milling about in the newly refurbished lobby. Their choice might have had something to do with the resort’s offering of spacious one and two bedroom villas—perfect for those well over six feet tall. Perhaps it was the property’s two new Angelo Sosa-helmed restaurants that served as the attractant. And the resort’s epic, HyTides waterpark waterslide may have been a factor, though such activities are probably contractually forbidden for these world-class competitors.
Whatever their reason for choosing Grand Hyatt Indian Wells, these athletes were obviously enjoying the expansive property and its amenities, as did I. The resort recently revealed the result of its $64 million renovation of its common areas, pool complex, and 531 accommodations, and it’s both grand (as the name implies) and welcoming. Inspired by the dramatic geography and date farms that surround the property, Grand Hyatt Indian Wells’ new look and feel combines style and substance. A neutral color palette features warm wood accents with mid-century modern design elements. Hand-crafted furniture mixes with modern décor, and artistic lighting fixtures bring character into each space. Guests have numerous room and suite options. Choose one king bed, two king beds, rooms with full-sized bunkbeds, as well as suites with separate living area with a sleeper sofa, a wet bar with a full-size refrigerator and microwave, and dual private balconies offering breathtaking views of the golf course, pool, resort grounds and surrounding mountain backdrop.
For those seeking a bit more room, and a lot more privacy, the resort’s luxury villas are the answer. Each has been transformed with sophisticated interiors and an array of exclusive features and premium amenities, including a private backyard with a hot tub, plunge pool or firepit, kitchenette with refrigerators, access to an adults only spa, golf cart escorts around the property, and access to an exclusive arrival experience and dedicated villa concierge.
Also new to the property are two stylish restaurants—Carmocha and Tia Carmen—from acclaimed Chef Angelo Sosa. Renowned for his bold cooking and for his appearances on “Top Chef,” Chef Sosa has worked with some of the industry’s most renowned restaurateurs, including Alain Ducasse, Stephen Starr, and Masaharu Morimoto. He has opened several restaurants in New York City, San Diego, and Phoenix. At Grand Hyatt Indian Wells, Sosa pays homage to his beloved Aunt Carmen within both restaurants. At Tia Carmen, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Sosa presents vibrant, elevated and unique dishes, and creatively crafted cocktails within a warm and inviting atmosphere. Make sure to start your dinner with “pan frito,” tasty fried morsels filled with cotija cheese and serrano chile and brushed tableside with pine thistle honey. This dish is Chef Sosa’s version of bread and butter, and it’s delicious. For cocktails, try the Mole Old Fashioned, the base of which is anejo tequila rather than bourbon or rye. Across the lobby, the sleek and modern Carmocha reimagines global, small plates while embracing a farm-to-table philosophy. A standout was the garden fresh burrata salad with heirloom tomatoes, kalamata olive breadcrumbs, and a spicy sherry vinaigrette. And the whimsical chicken pot pie was as yummy as it was Instagram-worthy. Carmocha’s bar, open to the lobby, is THE evening gathering spot.
One of the resort’s greatest draws is its HyTides waterpark. It’s the largest waterpark in the Greater Palm Springs desert and it includes nine expansive pools, a set of 30-foot high (150-feet in length) dueling waterslides, and a 450-foot lazy river. The refresh included enhancements to the outdoor recreation area with expanded cabanas fit for large groups and families, as well as new dining options including a food truck, Palmadoro’s, serving pizza and signature Italian bites, and a refreshed café, offering poolside favorites.
Also a draw is the resort’s 30,000-square-foot Agua Serena Spa which recently collaborated with Kalologie MedSpa to offer a variety of renewing services, including IV hydration therapy, and B12 energy boosts. Grand Hyatt Indian Wells also offer tennis and pickleball courts and two adjacent world-class golf courses. And if all of this is not enough to keep guests entertained, the resort is situated near numerous attractions, including stunning desert landscapes, hiking trails, the nearby Indian Wells Tennis Garden, and any number of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences throughout the Coachella Valley.
Photos courtesy of Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas, unless otherwise noted
My visit to Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas, and the greater Coachella Valley, was enhanced by my use of Volvo’s new C40 Recharge, an all-electric compact that combines modern design, sustainability, and advanced technology. I was charmed by its quiet operation and smooth acceleration, which made driving feel effortless. The spacious interior and state-of-the-art features provided comfort and security as I navigated the sun-soaked landscape. I impressed by the car’s performance, and I also felt profound peace-of-mind knowing that I was driving an environmentally friendly vehicle. With fast-charging capabilities, I was able to recharge the battery to about 80% in about 35 minutes at a DC fast charger. While the range varies, it’s sufficient for many long-distance trips, and the network of fast chargers is continually expanding, easing range anxiety. The overall design and layout contributed to a serene driving experience. I loved it, and I may well become the owner of this beautiful automobile.
