Sunfinder Vacations

La Quinta Resort & Club opened in 1926 with 56 rooms and quickly became popular as a retreat for leading Hollywood figures. The architectural styles of earlier years—-small, stucco buildings with tile roofs and ample private areas-—have been maintained as the resort has grown to include numerous recreational facilities, shops, and restaurants. The resort's size makes it popular for corporate retreats and large-group gatherings, but the intimate room settings appeal to couples for weekend getaways.

The calls of exotic birds and the sounds of rushing water welcome guests to this expansive resort. Desert Springs - A JW Marriott Resort caters to families and couples as well as to conventions and groups, and features ample tranquil spots for sunbathing, relaxing, and reading.

What to expect: Set on 35 acres, Hyatt Grand Champions Resort & Spa attracts groups with its meeting facilities and lures leisure travelers seeking a getaway with its extensive spa and personal services. The resort's Indian Wells location is ideal for recreational opportunities, including the two adjacent championship golf courses. Palm Springs' entertainment and dining options are 16 miles away.

Amenity highlights: The resort is home to the 30,000-square-foot Agua Serena Spa with 18 indoor and outdoor treatment rooms. Located within the main spa, the Medical and Skin Spa is renowned for nonsurgical skin rejuvenation. Seven pools include two children's pools with water slides and an adults-only pool with rental cabanas, all within the resort's central courtyard. Yoga and movement classes are complimentary, and Camp Hyatt keeps children busy with activities (surcharge).

Sunlight shines into a six-story enclosed central atrium and courtyard. A glass elevator leads to balconies along each floor, providing views of the atrium and the mountains, as well as access to guestrooms.

Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa - A KSL Luxury Resort attracts families as well as couples with spacious garden grounds, views of the Santa Rosa Mountains, and a casual atmosphere.

Offering both small and large-scale meeting spaces in addition to extensive bridal and spa services, the Lodge at Rancho Mirage draws business travelers, conference goers, wedding guests, and weekend romantics.

Designed in Moorish style and arrayed on expansive green grounds filled with blossoms, the resort attracts vacationers seeking golfing and family-activity opportunities.