Pack Your SPF, Swimsuit and Sunnies, and Make Your Escape to this Dreamy Desert Oasis
With near-perfect temps and spring-season buds blooming in Scottsdale, there’s no better time to embrace the tranquility and luxury of The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa. Tucked away in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, this resort sanctuary calls travelers to relax and rejuvenate amid the regionās breathtaking beauty. Here, you can sunbathe in the desert sun by the sparkling pools or indulge in sumptuous spa treatments inspired by ancient traditions. Set a tee time at the golf club, work up a sweat in the fitness studio or let the kids loose at the water park. From newly-debuted dining options to unparalleled hospitality, every detail at this Scottsdale resort is crafted for a truly unforgettable vacation experienceāwhether youāre a traveling foodie, family or friend group. Get ready to pack your bags for an epic spring getaway to The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa.
Where Surf Culture Meets the Sonoran Desert
Who says you need an ocean to make waves? At The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa in Scottsdale, water lovers of all ages can dive into a desert oasis designed for both thrill and chill. The resortās Adventure Water Park is a standout attraction, complete with a 110-foot waterslide, winding lazy river and the vibrant Adventure Pool, where families can splash the day away. For those craving a more elevated experience, book the Tommy Bahama Relaxation Reefāa private island cabana with a shaded daybed, VIP towel service and direct swim-in access to a secluded section of the lazy river.
But the real showstopper? The Kierland FlowRider, Arizonaās first-ever surf simulator. Combining elements of surfing, snowboarding and wakeboarding, this high-adrenaline ride lets guests catch waves right in the middle of the Sonoran Desert. Whether you’re a seasoned board rider or a first-timer, thereās no better way to cool off than āsurfingā under Scottsdaleās sunny skies. Between the pools, slides, surf sessions and chill zones, The Westin Kierland is redefining what it means to make a splash in the Southwest.
Bold Flavors and Elevated Vibes at Faro & Brag + AntidoteĀ
At The Westin Kierland, standout dining comes in several delicious forms. Two of these include the all-day restaurant Faro & Brag and the resortās buzzy new bar, Antidote.
Faro & Brag offers seasonally inspired, locally sourced dishes in a boho-chic space with sweeping sunset views. Named after two historic saloon games, the restaurant blends playful sophistication with seriously good foodāthink malted waffles with seasonal berries and Vermont maple syrup at breakfast and roasted prime rib and seared diver scallops for dinner. For a perfect finish, the Envy This delivers a rich blend of Angelās Envy Bourbon, white crĆØme de cacao, hazelnut and chocolate shavings.
When the sun dips low, head to Antidoteāa bar and social hub with panoramic mountain views, plush lounge seating and a 300-square-foot SkyWatch TV. The menu leans bold and shareable, with highlights like the French onion cheese dip with gooey gruyĆØre and toasted crostini, elote tacos topped with cotija and TajĆn and the crowd-pleasing steak frites with chimichurri. And the drink list? Sip on the Just Like Heaven, a visually stunning mix of butterfly pea flower-infused Bombay Sapphire, St-Germain, citrus and Mediterranean tonic.
Soothing Treatments at Agave, The Arizona Spa & Salon
Seasoned sun-seekers and leisurists consider Scottsdale, Arizona the spa capital of the country. After all, Scottsdale is home to the highest concentration of spas in the nation, and Agave, The Arizona Spa & Salon at The Westin Kierland is one of the best among them.Ā
This desert-inspired spa employs both traditional therapies and contemporary techniques that are designed to renew the body, mind and spirit. The agave plant that inspired the spaās name is also used in many of the services and treatments, such as hydrating facials, body treatments, acupuncture and reflexology. This Scottsdale spa is complete with everything you need to look and feel your best, including movement studios and a relaxation room, each featuring a whirlpool, sauna and steam room. Cap your visit with a refreshing post-spa plunge in the adults-only Aguamiel Pool.
Stay in Style: Luxury Rooms + Suites
Rest easyāliterallyāin the thoughtfully designed accommodations at The Westin Kierland. Each room and suite is crafted for comfort, from the signature HeavenlyĀ® Bed. They have cloud-like pillow tops to luxe linens that practically guarantee a good nightās sleep. Wake up to sweeping views of the mountains or lush golf course greenery from your own private terrace. Want to level up? The presidential suite offers spacious elegance with calming neutral tones, plush furnishings and a balcony made for sunset cocktails. For those who prefer being closer to the action, poolside casitas offer laid-back luxury just steps from the water. Whether youāre traveling solo this spring, with your crew or with kids, plenty of room configurationsāsofa beds, trundles and moreāensure everyone has a spot to recharge.
Over 300 Single Malts + Rare Whiskies
Journey through Scotlandās storied whisky culture at The Scotch Library, where more than 300 single malts and rare drams await. From classic 10-year blends to elusive pours like Glenfiddich 50 Year, each sip tells a story of tradition and craftsmanship. Join the resortās Scotch Library Ambassadors for An Evening of Scotches, a captivating tasting experience held every Friday night. Priced at $65+ per person, this exclusive event offers an in-depth exploration of Scotland’s liquid gold. Its set amid the handsome ambiance of this swanky whisky lounge. Reserve your place today, and get ready to immerse yourself in the refined world of Scotch whisky. This is the perfect place to raise a glass to your epic spring vacation in Scottsdale!
Desert Fairways and Elevated Play
Hit pause on the hustle and tee off at The Westin Kierland Golf Club, where lush fairways meet desert beauty. Managed by Troon, this club features 27 holes across three unique nine-hole courses: Acacia, Ironwood and Mesquite. Each course offers something different, making it perfect for players at any skill level. Each course offers multiple tee boxes and sweeping views of the McDowell Mountains, giving every round a postcard-worthy backdrop.
Whether hitting the driving range or fine-tuning putts on the green, there are endless ways to improve your game here. You can even book a private lesson with a seasoned resort pro to take your swing to the next level. After your final hole, unwind at Brittlebush Bar & Grill, where the rustic charm of beamed ceilings meets sun-drenched patio dining. Grab a cold craft beer, enjoy a post-round bite and savor the desert breeze. Pro tip: kids golf free, making this course a hole-in-one for family fun, too.
Shopping at Kierland Commons + Scottsdale Quarter
Just steps from The Westin Kierland, two of Scottsdaleās most stylish shopping destinations. The Kierland Commons and Scottsdale Quarter are ready to deliver a full day of fashion, food and fun in the sun.
Kierland Commons brings upscale vibes with a side of Arizona charm. This open-air lifestyle center combines boutique shopping, top-tier dining and curated desert ambiance. Browse 70+ retailers including Anthropologie, Tecovas, Vuori and the sleek Chanel Fragrance & Beauty Boutique. Looking to level up your golf game or wardrobe? Malbon Golf and TravisMathew have you covered. When itās time for a break, snag a patio seat at North Italia. Then sip cocktails at Zinc Bistro or go big with fresh seafood at Mastroās Ocean Club.
Across the street, Scottsdale Quarter keeps the momentum going with a mix of market-exclusive brands and locally loved gems. Itās not just about shoppingāyouāll find year-round events here, from live music to fun fitness pop-ups. The Quarter is a true community hub. Whether you’re craving a fashion haul, a casual lunch, or some people-watching under the palms, this retail duo delivers. Itās the ultimate spot to shop, stroll, and soak up the vibe.
The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa
6902 E Greenway Pkwy
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
480.624.1000
Erik Hale is the visionary and publisher behind LOCALE Magazine. He launched the magazine in 2010, wanting to give the community of OC a premiere lifestyle magazine that knew all the native knowledge behind OC. āSix years ago Ashley and I sat at a table scratching the name LOCALE (among some other names) onto a sheet of paper,ā says Erik, ācoming up with story ideas and basically dreaming. Everything we imagined has happened and we have been blessed with so much more. I am so grateful as we start another year for my family, my two wonderful children, my health, our amazing writers, designers and photographers, our advertising partners and you.ā
