Desert Springs, A JW Marriott Resort & Spa, Palm Desert

Description:

• A tourist attraction in its own right, Marriott's Desert Springs resort is worth a peek even if you're not lucky enough to stay here. Most guests come for the golf and tennis facilities, and the luxurious, full-service spa is an added perk. Visitors enter this artificial desert oasis via a sweeping palm-tree-lined road wending its way past a small pond that's home to a gaggle of pink flamingos. Once inside, guests are greeted by a shaded marble lobby featuring a 60-foot bar backed by waterfalls spilling into reflecting pools. The "dock" at the end of the lobby has been enlarged to enable two gondolas to transport guests through a network of Venetian inspired waterways to view the fairways and lush gardens of the property.

  Rooms here are not as fancy as the lobby would lead you to believe, but they're exceedingly comfortable, decorated with muted pastels and contemporary furnishings. All have terraces with views of the golf course and the San Jacinto Mountains. Recreational options include a jogging trail, 36 holes of golf, driving range, a unique 18-hole putting range, basketball courts, lawn croquet, and a sunbathing "beach" with volleyball court. An enlarged spa now has 47 treatment rooms and suites with private showers, fireplaces, and outdoor whirlpools. You need not ever leave the premises if you don't want to.

  Facilities: 5 restaurants; 4 snack bars; 3 lounges; 5 heated outdoor pools; 20 tennis courts (hard, clay, and grass; 7 lit); full-service spa and health club; 5 outdoor Jacuzzis; bike rental; children's programs; game room; concierge; tour desk; car-rental desk; business center; shopping arcade; salon; room service; in-room massage; babysitting; dry-cleaning/laundry service.

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Ciao Bambino Family-Friendly Hotel

•  Reviewed 2009

Travel + Leisure Family

•  Family 50 2008

Frommer's

•  Highly Recommended 2010