Palm Desert stands out as a premier weekend escape, and for good reason. It’s a favored destination for many, and rightfully so. For those of us in Southern California, the drive is a breeze, opening up a world of exciting activities in Palm Springs. While lounging by the pool is often our top priority for relaxation, we’ve also enjoyed exploring quirky spots like Pioneertown, indulging in delightful brunches in downtown Palm Springs, and even embarking on scenic hikes.
To ensure your family vacation in Palm Springs is nothing short of perfect, I’ve curated this guide to the best Palm Springs Family Resorts. This list highlights accommodations that truly cater to your family’s desires, regardless of what you envision for your Palm Springs retreat.
Previously, I’ve shared my insights on the best hotel pools in Palm Springs – because, as you might guess, a fantastic pool is high on my list! Many of the resorts featured here also made that list. However, these selections go beyond just amazing pools, offering a wide array of family-friendly amenities and thoughtfully organized activities to enhance your stay.
Palm Springs boasts an impressive collection of resorts that are particularly welcoming to families with children. Let’s dive into some of the standout options that promise a memorable family vacation:
Top Palm Springs Resorts for Family Vacations
1. Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa
Kids enjoying waterslides at Splashtopia water park in Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort, a top choice among Palm Springs family resorts
- Family Fun Highlights: Splashtopia, the resort’s incredible water park, is a major hit with kids. My children are absolutely obsessed with it! Featuring a lazy river perfect for leisurely floats, thrilling water slides for adventurous spirits, and a delightful sandy beach area ideal for younger children to play safely, Splashtopia caters to all ages. Beyond the water park, the Omni Rancho Las Palmas ensures a fun-filled family vacation with a dedicated kids’ club offering structured and engaging activities, charming poolside movie nights under the stars, and a variety of family-friendly dining choices to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
- Family-Friendly Perks: Understanding the needs of traveling families, the resort provides spacious suites designed to comfortably accommodate everyone. For adults seeking relaxation or recreation, there are premier golf and tennis facilities, along with a luxurious spa offering a range of treatments to unwind and rejuvenate.
Click here for the best prices at Omni Rancho Las Palmas on Expedia
Check out the lowest prices at Omni Rancho Las Palmas on Booking.com
2. Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa – A Premier Palm Springs Family Vacation Destination
A picturesque view of the pool area at Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa, a family-favorite Palm Springs resort
- Unmatched Family Amenities: The pool complex at Hyatt Regency Indian Wells is extensive and designed with families in mind. It boasts a dedicated family pool where kids can splash and play, a separate adults-only pool for tranquil relaxation, and an engaging kids’ splash pad perfect for toddlers and younger children. Thrill-seekers in the family will love the Desert Pipe water slide, while the lazy river offers a relaxing ride for everyone (myself included!). The resort also features Camp Hyatt, a supervised program filled with fun activities to keep children entertained and engaged. For added comfort and convenience, family cabanas are available for reservation at the family pool, providing a private space to unwind and enjoy your poolside day.
- Exceptional Family Perks: Hyatt Regency Indian Wells offers family suites, ensuring ample space and comfort for larger families or those desiring extra room. The resort masterfully balances family-oriented amenities with adult-focused offerings, including championship golf courses and a luxury spa, ensuring that every member of the family finds something to enjoy.
- Bonus Tip for Savvy Travelers: While the Hyatt Regency Indian Wells is undeniably luxurious and typically priced accordingly, it doesn’t have to break the bank. I managed to enjoy a fantastic weekend here by leveraging travel rewards points! By strategically using points from my Chase Sapphire card, I booked a weekend getaway for fewer points than a single night might cost elsewhere. Curious how? It’s all about maximizing travel credit card rewards. Consider opening a Chase Sapphire card and meeting the initial spending requirements to earn bonus points. Then, simply create a free Hyatt account and transfer your points. This resort often ranges from 15,000 to 25,000 points per night, but the generous 60,000 bonus points can easily cover a couple of luxurious nights, making it an accessible dream vacation.
Find the best deals at Hyatt Regency Indian Wells on Expedia
Discover the lowest prices at Hyatt Regency Indian Wells on Booking.com
3. The Westin Desert Willow Villas
Exterior view of The Westin Desert Willow Villas, highlighting its villa-style accommodations suitable for families visiting Palm Springs
Kids club interior at The Westin Desert Willow Villas, offering a fun and engaging space for children at this Palm Springs family resort
- Family-Centric Activities and Amenities: The Westin Desert Willow Villas is thoughtfully designed for families, offering a variety of pool experiences with multiple pools, exciting waterslides, and a dedicated splash pad for younger guests. For adults seeking tranquility, a quiet pool provides a peaceful retreat. The resort goes above and beyond with a dedicated kids’ area and a packed schedule of organized family-friendly activities. From creative crafts sessions and engaging scavenger hunts to fun poolside bingo and delightful movie nights under the stars, there’s always something to entertain children of all ages. Adding to the outdoor fun are games like ping-pong, shuffleboard, and bocce ball, along with sports courts for basketball and tennis, ensuring a wide range of recreational options right on the resort grounds.
- Home Away From Home Perks: Accommodations at The Westin Desert Willow Villas are designed with family comfort in mind. The resort features spacious one- and two-bedroom villa-style suites, providing ample space for families or larger groups. Each villa is equipped with a full kitchen, a comfortable dining area, a welcoming living room complete with a sleeper sofa, and a private balcony or patio to enjoy the beautiful Palm Springs weather. Practical amenities such as a washer and dryer in each villa add to the convenience, especially for longer stays or families with young children. As an added bonus for pet-loving families, The Westin Desert Willow Villas is also pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry family members along on your Palm Springs vacation.
Explore deals at The Westin Desert Willow Villas on Expedia
Check prices at The Westin Desert Willow Villas on Booking.com
4. JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa – A Luxurious Palm Springs Resort for Families
- Unique Family Experiences: JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa offers a blend of luxury and family fun. For pop culture enthusiasts, there’s a fun bit of nostalgia: this resort was featured in Saved by the Bell as the wedding location for Jessie’s parents! Beyond its TV fame, the resort boasts an impressive array of amenities. Guests can enjoy several pools, including a large family pool perfect for splashing around, and uniquely, paddle boat rentals are available on the resort’s scenic lagoon, adding a touch of adventure to your stay. A major highlight for children is the on-site aviary, home to vibrant flamingos and playful parrots, offering an engaging and educational experience. For indoor entertainment, the resort also features an arcade and a mini-golf course, ensuring fun regardless of the weather.
- Family-Oriented Amenities: JW Marriott Desert Springs provides family rooms designed for comfort and convenience. While kids are kept entertained with the resort’s numerous activities, parents can indulge in some relaxation time at the spa or enjoy a round of golf on the championship courses. This balance of activities for children and adults makes it a well-rounded choice for family vacations.
Find the best rates at JW Marriott Desert Springs on Expedia
See prices at JW Marriott Desert Springs on Booking.com
5. La Quinta Resort & Club, Curio Collection by Hilton
A stunning pool view at La Quinta Resort & Club, known for its numerous pools and family-friendly atmosphere in Palm Springs
- Historic Charm with Modern Family Fun: La Quinta Resort & Club is celebrated for its historic charm and expansive grounds, featuring an incredible 41 pools! Among these are dedicated family pools equipped with comfortable cabanas and fun splash areas specifically designed for children. To keep the younger guests entertained, the resort offers a dynamic Kids Camp. This supervised program is packed with engaging and fun activities, including creative crafts, outdoor games, and interactive play, ensuring children have a blast in a safe and enriching environment.
- Family Comfort and Convenience: La Quinta Resort offers a range of spacious casitas and villas, providing ample room and privacy for families of all sizes. Recognizing that pets are part of the family, La Quinta also provides pet-friendly accommodation options. For those who enjoy outdoor adventures, the resort is conveniently located near excellent hiking spots, perfect for family excursions into the natural beauty of the Palm Springs area. On-site, guests can enjoy a variety of dining options with numerous restaurants and bars catering to different tastes and preferences, ensuring convenient and delicious meals throughout your stay.
- Bonus for Hilton Honors Members: Travel rewards enthusiasts, take note! By signing up for the Hilton Honors American Express card (which has no annual fee!), you can earn free night rewards. These rewards can be redeemed for stays at La Quinta Resort & Club, potentially allowing you to experience this luxurious resort for free!
Find deals at La Quinta Resort & Club on Expedia
Check prices at La Quinta Resort & Club on Booking.com
6. The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage
An elevated view of the pool area at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage, showcasing its luxurious yet family-friendly offerings in Palm Springs
- Luxury Redefined for Families: The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage, while synonymous with luxury, warmly welcomes families and offers exceptional amenities for children. The resort’s Ritz Kids program is a standout feature, offering a curated schedule of activities that focus on nature, arts, and adventure. These programs are designed to be both fun and educational, encouraging children to explore and learn in engaging ways. The family pool area is thoughtfully designed with cabanas for added comfort and a shallow area, ensuring a safe and enjoyable water experience for younger children. For families who enjoy outdoor activities, the resort is ideally located near several excellent hiking trails, perfect for exploring the natural desert landscape.
- Upscale Family Perks: Accommodations at The Ritz-Carlton include spacious suites, providing ample room for families to relax and unwind. The resort’s kids’ club offers both indoor and outdoor play options, ensuring entertainment in all weather conditions. The programming is eco-friendly and desert-themed, providing unique and regionally relevant experiences for children. For an extra touch of luxury and comfort, guests have the option to select rooms with a private patio featuring a fire pit or a balcony equipped with a fireplace, perfect for cozy evenings under the stars.
Find the best prices at The Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage on Expedia
Check prices at The Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage on Booking.com
7. Tommy Bahama Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa
A serene pool setting at Tommy Bahama Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa, a relaxed Palm Springs family resort
- Relaxed Family Atmosphere: Tommy Bahama Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa offers a laid-back and welcoming vibe that’s perfect for families seeking a relaxing getaway. The resort features a dedicated family pool, providing a comfortable and fun environment for both parents and children to enjoy. Throughout the year, the resort hosts a variety of seasonal family programming, including delightful outdoor movie nights, engaging games, and creative crafts sessions, ensuring there’s always something fun happening. On-site bocce ball courts provide a relaxed and enjoyable activity for all ages, and a unique touch is the opportunity to borrow a fruit picker and enjoy fresh citrus fruit directly from the resort’s own trees.
- Convenient Family Perks: The location of Miramonte Indian Wells is ideal for families wanting to explore local attractions. It’s conveniently close to destinations like the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, perfect for a family day trip. The resort offers family-friendly dining options, catering to various tastes and preferences, and comfortable suites that can accommodate families of different sizes. Notably, Tommy Bahama Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa also welcomes pets, making it easy to bring your entire family along for the vacation.
Explore deals at Miramonte Indian Wells on Expedia
See prices at Miramonte Indian Wells on Booking.com
8. Marriott Shadow Ridge – The Enclaves
Family fun in the pool at Marriott Shadow Ridge – The Enclaves, known for its kid-friendly pool areas among Palm Springs family resorts
- Aquatic Fun for Everyone: Marriott Shadow Ridge – The Enclaves is a paradise for water lovers, especially families. The resort boasts multiple splash pads perfect for toddlers and young children, several pools for swimming and lounging, an exciting waterslide for thrill-seekers, and a zero-entry pool that’s ideal for guests of all ages and abilities. Adding a unique entertainment element to the zero-entry pool is a giant TV screen that displays sports during the day and transforms into an outdoor movie theater for poolside movie nights after dark. For convenience, there are pool bars nearby, ensuring easy access to refreshments and snacks throughout your pool day. Beyond the aquatic attractions, the resort offers family-friendly games such as mini-golf, bocce ball, and volleyball, providing diverse entertainment options right on site.
- Family-Size Comfort and Activities: Accommodations at Marriott Shadow Ridge – The Enclaves consist of one and two-bedroom villas, offering separate living areas and dining rooms, providing families with ample space and home-like comforts. The resort also organizes scheduled activities specifically for kids, ensuring younger guests are entertained and engaged throughout their stay.
Read a detailed review of Marriott Shadow Ridge resort here.
Find deals at Marriott Shadow Ridge Enclaves on Expedia
Check prices at Marriott Shadow Ridge Enclaves on Booking.com
9. The Westin Rancho Mirage
The extensive pool area at The Westin Rancho Mirage, highlighting its family-friendly amenities and appeal as a Palm Springs resort
- Comprehensive Family Entertainment: The Westin Rancho Mirage is designed to cater to every family member’s idea of fun and relaxation. The resort features multiple pools, including a large, family-friendly pool complete with a thrilling waterslide. For adults seeking a quieter environment, the Serenity Pool offers a peaceful escape. A major attraction for kids is the expansive kids’ splash area, equipped with multiple waterslides designed just for them. The Westin Rancho Mirage also has a dedicated Kids Club, providing supervised crafts, games, and activities to keep children engaged and entertained. Beyond the pools and kids’ club, the resort offers a bowling alley and arcade for indoor fun, and family movie nights, volleyball and bocce ball courts, and scenic walking trails for outdoor enjoyment.
- Comfort and Space for Families: The Westin Rancho Mirage offers a variety of spacious room options and suites, ensuring families have plenty of space and all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay. Notably, all rooms feature Westin’s signature Heavenly Bed and Heavenly Bath, adding an extra layer of luxury and comfort to your family vacation experience.
Find the best rates at The Westin Rancho Mirage on Expedia
See prices at The Westin Rancho Mirage on Booking.com
Each of these Palm Springs family resorts provides a unique set of activities and amenities tailored for children, while also ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable experience for adults amidst the beautiful Palm Springs scenery. No matter which resort you choose, you’re guaranteed to create lasting and cherished family memories. To help you prepare for your trip, don’t forget to check out this helpful weekend trip packing list.
Please note: This page contains affiliate links which may earn me a commission if you make a purchase through them. This comes at no extra cost to you and helps support the maintenance of this website, allowing me to continue providing free content.
Share this:
Like this:
Like Loading…
