Our family getaway to the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa in Indian Wells, located on the heart of the valley, between Palm Springs Desert and La Quinta, was a delightful mix of relaxation, desert charm, and thoughtful amenities that suited every age including our 9year old son. From the moment we arrived at the stylish lobby and grand staircase, to our final dip in the pool, this resort offered plenty for families and adults alike.
Stylish Rooms with Modern Comfort
The guest rooms at Renaissance Esmeralda reflect a desert-modern chic aesthetic with mid-century influences, comfortable beds and pillows you will want to pack in your suitcase take home with you. Thoughtful touches throughout with spacious rooms with high-speed Wi-Fi, mini-fridges — perfect for storing snacks and drinks for the kids plus balconies with views of the mountains and pool area gave us a lovely place to unwind after a fun filled day. The resort also offers suites with extra space — ideal if you’re traveling with extended family or want a little more room to relax with couches and sitting areas.
Poolside Fun & Beach-Style Vibes
One of the standout features for us was the resort’s sandy beach pool area — an inviting shallow-entry oasis that makes you feel like you’re at a coastal retreat in the desert. Surrounded by towering palms and plenty of lounge chairs, this pool space became our go-to spot for relaxation and play. We rented a beachside cabana, which was a game-changer, with shaded seating area, cushy loungers, television, coolers and poolside food and drink service, it felt like a VIP family day every afternoon — a perfect base between swims and snacks.
The resort offers two large outdoor pools including a waterfalls and a beach-style edge plus games like cornhole and table tennis near the pool area add extra family fun. The fruit try that comes included with the cabana was the perfect refreshing snack my son devoured.
Dining That Works for Everyone
Renaissance Esmeralda shines with multiple on-site restaurants and bars, making dining easy and varied throughout your stay.
CAVA-A signature dining spot at the resort, Cava offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner with views of the Santa Rosa Mountains. Its California-inspired menu and extensive wine list make it enjoyable for adults, while the relaxed vibe suits families too. Cava also occasionally hosts happy hour and live entertainment, which can be a fun way to relax after pool time.
The Place Restaurant & Bar-This lively and innovative gathering spot offers contemporary American fare, creative cocktails, lite bites and multiple large-screen TVs — ideal for casual dinners with kids. It’s a great place to unwind in the evening, enjoy a pizza or burger, and sip a refreshing drink while the kids recount their pool adventures and you catch up on a game. We enjoyed a fun dinner that included a live DJ that had the whole room up on their feet dancing and enjoying the little ones shaking a leg.
H2O Pool Bar-For relaxed lunches and light bites, the H2O Pool Bar serves up classic snacks and cool drinks right by the pool. Having this convenience poolside made it easy to keep everyone happy without trekking back to the main dining areas.
Additional Dining Choices-The resort also features Glo Sushi for Japanese cuisine, Café Biscotti for coffee and pastries, and in-room dining — handy when you just want to enjoy dinner in your room with tired but happy kids.
Extras That Made Our Stay Special
In addition to great food and a fantastic pool, Renaissance Esmeralda offers:
• Spa Esmeralda: A full-service spa with indoor and outdoor treatment rooms, steam rooms, and relaxation lounges — a perfect adult break. I tried the 50-minute Organic Hydrate Facial which left my skin clean, radiant and glowing for days.
• Fitness & Wellness: A modern fitness center and yoga classes to keep you moving even on vacation.
• Camp Esmeralda Activities: Engaging daily activities that give kids creative playtime including Falconer meet and greet on weekends and an arcade at the hotel.
• Bikes, Tennis & More: Complimentary bike rentals, tennis and basketball court access, and casual sports to keep everyone entertained.
Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa is a well-rounded pick for a family vacation: stylish yet relaxed, with plenty of space for kids to play and adults to recharge. Whether it was lounging cabana-side, enjoying fresh meals with mountain views, or discovering spa serenity, every part of our stay felt thoughtfully crafted. Best for: families who want resort convenience, varied dining options, and a pool experience that feels both lively and laid-back.
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