5 Reasons Why Indian Wells Is the One Weekend Trip Every Tennis Lover Should Take
Written By: Andrew Smith Tennis Getaway Indian Wells
Long revered as an oasis for leisure activities and poolside vacations, Indian Wells, one of nine cities that make up Greater Palm Springs, has also established itself as a world-class tennis destination, mostly thanks to the annual BNP Paribas Open tournament and the resorts’ incredible courts and equipment. In other words, there’s a reason Philippe Dore, the BNP Paribas Open marketing director, calls the city “a tennis paradise, known by fans worldwide for its idyllic beauty and the unmistakable atmosphere that embodies the Southern California way of life.” So the next time you’re planning a weekend getaway, look no further than Indian Wells for top-notch tennis courts, luxurious spas and—of course—world-class culinary offerings.
Play Here: Indian Wells Tennis Garden Tennis Getaway Indian Wells
This 54-acre tennis mecca boasts the world’s second-largest outdoor tennis stadium and 29 regulation hard courts, surrounded by a breathtaking desert landscape and climate. The state-of-the-art facility is also open to the public, serving up an opportunity to rally where the pros play. USA Today put the Indian Wells Tennis Garden first on its list of top 10 tennis destinations around the world.
Native Knowledge: The stadium hosts the BNP Paribas Open every March. The tournament is dubbed “The Fifth Major,” attracting over 400,000 spectators and a global television audience in excess of 1 billion.
Indian Wells Tennis Garden
78200 Miles Ave
Indian Wells, CA 92210
760.200.8400
Grab a Drink Here: The Pink Cabana Tennis Getaway Indian Wells
For an exquisite dining experience, head over to The Pink Cabana at the newly revamped Sands Hotel & Spa. Enjoy cocktails, brunch, lunch or dinner amid midcentury Palm Springs architecture. Restaurant Manager and Sommelier Mollie Casey shares that the decor pays homage to old-school racquet clubs, and Moroccan- and Mediterranean-inspired award-winning chef Jason Niederkorn describes his menu as “ingredient-driven, with products that you won’t find anywhere in the [Coachella] Valley.” The Pink Cabana is a showcase of flavor and creatively crafted cuisine, especially Chef Niederkorn’s personal favorite, the tagine of Colorado lamb shank, paired with one of The Pink Cabana’s craft cocktails. Try a spin on your favorite classic such as the fig orange old fashioned, made with Japanese rice whisky, orange marmalade and bitters, or the Jalisco sidecar with reposado tequila, pear, ginger and fresh lemon juice.
Native Knowledge: Chef Niederkorn worked alongside celebrity chef Jeremiah Tower, one of the pioneers of California cuisine, at Stars in San Francisco. The two still regularly collaborate and co-host events at the The Pink Cabana.
The Pink Cabana
44985 Province Way
Indian Wells, CA 92210
760.321.3772
Play Here: Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa Tennis Getaway Indian Wells
In addition to championship golf, pools and award-winning spa facilities, the Hyatt also houses three hard-surface tennis courts. Known for hosting the BNP Paribas Open from 1987 to 1999, the facility also offers corporate tennis programs, clinics and competitions. During the BNP Paribas Open, the hotel houses several leading players and hosts the affiliated Taste of Tennis gourmet fundraiser.
Native Knowledge: The Hyatt Grand Champions, the former name of the hotel, was built to elevate the profile of the Indian Wells tennis tournament (then called the Newsweek Champions Cup). It featured 12 courts and a 10,000-seat stadium and attracted global attention when Boris Becker won the first two events.
Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa
44600 Indian Wells Ln
Indian Wells, CA 92210
760.674.4045
Fuel Here: Eureka!
For a quick bite and craft libations, swing by Eureka! Elevated casual fare includes a variety of gourmet appetizers and burgers. The 28 Day Dry-Aged Burger with smoked mozzarella and caramelized onions is a crowd-pleaser, while lighter bites such as the osso buco riblets and crispy glazed Brussels sprouts are perfect for winding down with a group of friends. The beverage menu features an extensive and impressive selection of unique craft beers, small-batch whiskeys and handcrafted cocktails. With several large screen TVs dedicated to live sporting events, you won’t miss a beat if you’re visiting during the tennis matches.
Native Knowledge: Schedule your visit during “Hoppy Hour” (2-5 p.m. and 9 p.m.-close daily) for great deals and a lively atmosphere.
Eureka!
74985 Hwy 111
Indian Wells, CA 92210
760.834.7700
Relax Here: Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa
Extend your tennis experience to the outdoor courts of the Renaissance Esmeralda before unwinding at the sandy beach pool or getting pampered at their award-winning spa. Set against the foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains, the resort’s lavish spa garden provides an ideal backdrop for relaxation. Specialties include aromatherapy, massages, body scrubs, facials and hydrotherapy treatments.
Native Knowledge: Many of the tennis players stay here during the BNP Paribas Open, so you’re guaranteed to bump into a few at the breakfast buffet or the pool.
Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa
44400 Indian Wells Ln
Indian Wells, CA 92210
760.773.4444
I'm a restaurant aficionado having spent over 20 years in the industry and management.
