Looking for desert luxury, world-class tennis, and mountain views? Head to Indian Wells, California! Located in the heart of the Coachella Valley, Indian Wells is a sophisticated desert oasis known for upscale resorts, stunning golf courses, and the iconic BNP Paribas Open. Whether you're relaxing poolside, exploring nearby canyons, or attending a tennis match, Indian Wells blends serenity with style.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Indian Wells is from November to April. These months offer mild, sunny weather—perfect for golfing, hiking, and attending events. Summers are hot but less crowded, often with resort deals and nighttime entertainment.
How to Get There
- By Plane: Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) is about 30 minutes from Indian Wells and offers flights from major U.S. cities.
- By Car: Indian Wells is located off Highway 111, about 2 hours east of Los Angeles and 30 minutes southeast of Palm Springs.
- By Bus: SunLine Transit and regional shuttles provide service to Indian Wells from nearby cities in the Coachella Valley.
Where to Stay
- Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa – Family-friendly resort with pools, a spa, and golf courses surrounded by mountain views.
- Sands Hotel & Spa – Stylish boutique hotel offering Moroccan-inspired design, a chic pool area, and on-site dining.
- Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa – Luxury resort with a sandy beach pool, multiple restaurants, and wellness experiences.
Top Attractions
⮕ Catch World-Class Matches at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden
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The Indian Wells Tennis Garden in Indian Wells, California is a well known tennis facility in Southern California within the Coachella Valley. The tennis complex’s largest stadium is Stadium 1, which has a capacity of 16,100 people. It is the world’s second largest tennis stadium. The Tennis Garden serves as the site for the BNP Paribas Open, held in Indian Wells every year in the month of March. It is the world’s fifth largest tennis tournament. The facility offers courts for recreational use and set up matches, along with tennis clinics or anyone looking for more professional lessons.
78-200 Miles Ave, Indian Wells, CA 92210, Phone: 760-200-8400
⮕ Tee Off with Stunning Mountain Views at Indian Wells Golf Resort
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The Indian Wells Golf Resort is a 36-hole golf destination in the Palm Springs resort area. The golf resort is just minutes from the Palm Springs International Airport and is home to a grand clubhouse measuring 53,000 square feet in size. The property is one of just a few to be home to two golf courses that rank by Golfweek Magazine as the “Top 25 Best Municipal Courses in the United States.” The Indian Wells Golf Resort is situated within walking distance from several luxury hotels, and is ideal venue for weekend getaways, weddings, group outings, receptions, and golf tournaments.
44500 Indian Wells Ln, Indian Wells, CA 92210, Phone: 760-346-4653
⮕ Experience Top Tennis Talent at the Indian Wells BNP Paribas Open
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The Indian Wells BNP Paribas Open is an event on the men’s tour for the ATP World Tour Masters 1000, as well as a WTA Premier event for the women’s tour. The event is the largest combined two-week even next to the four Grand Slams, and one of the most-attended tennis events in the world. The food served during the even ranges from on-the-go snacks to sit-down meals made by award-winning chefs. The tennis event is held at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, one of the premier tennis destination within the Coachella Valley in Southern California.
78-200 Miles Ave, Indian Wells, CA 92210, Phone: 760-200-8400
⮕ Relax in Luxury and Golf in Style at Toscana Country Club
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The Toscana Country Club property spans across more than 640 rolling sunny acres. The country club community was created by the Sunrise Company and is a combination of the distinctive casual vibe of the Coachella Valley and the idyllic charm found in Tuscany, Italy. The central location of Toscana Country Club in Indian Wells offers easy access to area attractions, shopping, and dining. The country club offers a variety of social and wellness activities and luxury amenities. The property includes thirty-six holes of golf, the Spa Bella Vita, Il Forno Trattoria and Wine Cellar, the Golf Club, and the Sports and Tennis Club.
76-009 Via Club Villa, Indian Wells, CA 92210, Phone: 760-404-1444
Romantic Activities and Attractions:
⮕ Soar Over the Desert with Fantasy Balloon Flights
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Fantasy Balloon Flights is a family-owned and operated business that offers a unique opportunity for people in Indian Wells, California. The company was founded by Cindy and Steve Wilkinson in 1981. The hot air balloon service offers visitors with a birds-eye look at the Palm Springs area and a one-of-a-kind panorama view of the Coachella Valley. Fantasy Balloon Flights offers champagne hot air balloon adventures on a daily basis from September to May, and evening flights from November to February. During the summer season, balloon adventures above the Ventura coast and the Temecula wine country are also available.
74901 Hwy 111, Indian Wells, CA 92210, Phone: 760-568-0997
⮕ Honor a Legacy of Leadership at the Eisenhower Walk of Honor
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Traveling along Highway 111 through Indian Wells, passerbys may spot a bronze Dwight D. Eisenhower bust, along with several monuments made out of black granite, situated in front of the town’s City Hall. This monument is the
Eisenhower Walk of Honor. A bust of General Eisenhower, made out of bronze, salutes towards the several circular-shaped, granite plaques surrounding a fountain. Five of these plaques are for five men who received the Medal of Honor and have ties to the Coachella Valley. Two large granite monuments to the west of the Eisenhower bust are dedicated to the military men and women from the region.
76050 CA-111, Indian Wells, CA 92210
⮕ Dine, Dance, and Unwind at the Iconic Spot: The Nest
© The Nest
The Nest is a well known restaurant in Indian Wells, California that dates back to the year 1965, quickly becoming a favorite among locals, visitors, and even celebrities such as Arnold Palmer and The Rat Pack. The restaurant, however, is much more than what meets the eye at first. Every night, The Nest transforms into more of a dance club. Perhaps not a typical dance club, but the locals would call it a dance party, with a wide variety of music played that ranges from swing to waltz to pop. The crowd at The Nest is often a bit on the older side.
75-188 Highway 111, Indian Wells, CA 92210, Phone: 760-346-2314
⮕ Enjoy Craft Burgers and Brews at Eureka in Nearby Indian Wells
© Eureka
The word “Eureka” is defined as an expression of delight after discovering, solving, or finding something. Guests who dine at Eureka in Indian Wells, California will likely find a better dining experience that features small-batch spirits, craft beer, and great food and has been elevated to an art form. The restaurant prides itself on a localized menu and a unique bourbon and beer bar that only offers American products. Eureka provides handmade whiskeys produced by some of the best artisans in the United STates and ultra-premium, innovate, and rare craft beers, along with classic cocktails derived from fresh fruits and all-natural liqueurs.
74985 CA-111, Indian Wells, CA 92210, Phone: 760-834-7700
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Living Desert Zoo and Gardens (nearby) – Explore desert wildlife, botanical gardens, and nature trails in nearby Palm Desert.
- Palm Springs Art Museum (30 min) – A short drive brings you to impressive art collections and exhibitions in downtown Palm Springs.
- Desert hiking trails – Hike scenic spots like the Bump and Grind Trail, the Santa Rosa Mountains, or Tahquitz Canyon.
Where to Eat
- Vue Grille & Bar – Upscale American dining with panoramic views at Indian Wells Golf Resort.
- The Pink Cabana – Mediterranean-inspired fare with elegant flair inside the Sands Hotel & Spa.
- Café Italia – Classic Italian dishes, live music, and warm hospitality just a short drive away in Palm Desert.
If you are interested in local events:
- BNP Paribas Open (March) – One of the biggest tennis tournaments outside the Grand Slams, drawing global stars and fans.
- Indian Wells Arts Festival (April) – Juried art show featuring painters, sculptors, jewelers, and live entertainment.
- Desert Town Hall (January–April) – Distinguished speaker series with national figures and thought leaders.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30–90 Minutes of Indian Wells, California:
- Palm Springs (30 min) – Stroll downtown, ride the Aerial Tramway, or shop mid-century boutiques and art galleries.
- Joshua Tree National Park (1 hour) – Explore desert trails, iconic rock formations, and stargazing in this stunning park.
- Idyllwild (1.5 hours) – Mountain escape with pine forests, artist galleries, and hiking trails high above the desert floor.
- Salton Sea (1 hour) – See the surreal beauty of this inland lake and explore art installations like Salvation Mountain.
- Coachella & Indio (15–25 min) – Visit nearby date farms, music festival sites, and desert wineries.
FAQ:
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What makes Indian Wells a luxurious destination?
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The upscale town of Indian Wells, California is home to fine dining restaurants, a world-class tennis facility, great golf courses, and luxury spa resorts.
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Why is Indian Wells a great vacation spot?
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It’s a great destination in Southern California for visitors who are looking for a relaxing vacation.
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Why is Indian Wells ideal for golf enthusiasts?
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Indian Wells is the perfect destination in the area for any golf enthusiast.
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