Last updated on July 13th, 2025
Photo courtesy of Pixabay
If you have planned a trip to Indian Wells, you are probably after more than just sunshine and desert air. The golden combination of relaxation, luxury, and a setting so beautiful it feels like it was painted on canvas is the ideal. However, finding a place that delivers on all three is rarer than a July rainstorm, but not impossible.
Indian Wells is a welcome exception. The area has a Mediterranean-style beauty with majestic mountain backdrops. Indian Wells consistently offers experiences that run the gamut with ultra-pampering and pulse-pounding sparkle. Yet, the serenity is a true taste of la dolce vita. In this guide, let’s look at the top five things to do in Indian Wells that are guaranteed to make your trip a memorable one.
- Play a Round of Desert Golf
Indian Wells is one of the golf capitals of the world, and for good reason. Beyond the lush greens are the stark beauty of the desert peaks, creating a sharp contrast that’s visually appealing. Similarly, the courses follow the same path, offering a challenging layout that fits individuals of different skill levels. Consider booking a tee time at a premier country club in Palm Springs, where the designer flair is unique, with sweeping elevation changes and luxury-level service.
- Indulge in the Art of Spa
Sometimes, your soul needs a robe, a quiet room, and a little desert stillness. You can experience a different level of lounging in style. There are stone massages, an eucalyptus steam room, and lounge areas with fruit-infused water.
After a typical day of sun and sightseeing, you can relax your body. Many spas in the area offer half-day wellness packages that are perfect if you want to detox, refresh, and still make it to cocktail hour. Choose a spa that integrates natural desert ingredients for a unique experience that leaves you smelling like Coachella Valley in bloom.
- Hit the Courts or the Club
Whether you are a diehard tennis player, love group fitness classes, or just want to get your heart pumping before brunch, Indian Wells is packed with opportunities to move. You will find yoga under the palms, Pilates with mountain views, and modern sports clubs that rival those in L.A. Several communities offer day access to fitness centers with top-tier equipment, personal trainers, and even bocce ball and pickleball courts, because fitness should be fun, too.
- Dine Under the Stars
The social calendar in Indian Wells is a full-blown celebration, even when travelling solo across countries. You can explore family-owned trattorias with handmade pasta, local wine pairings, and white-linen dining. The area is known for blending California cuisine with Mediterranean influences. Wood-fired pizzas, citrus-marinated seafood, and farm-fresh produce dominate the menus. Dine alfresco as the sun sets behind the Santa Rosa mountains, and enjoy how the desert night turns every meal into a cinematic moment.
- Tour the Community
Even if you are just visiting Indian Wells, a tour of the community is a must. Indian Wells is famous for the BNP Paribas Open tennis tournament. However, the culture here runs deeper than grand slams and trophies.
There are open-air shows, wine tastings, local theaters, boutiques, and seasonal community festivals. You will see how artful design, curated landscaping, and intentional spaces create not just beautiful homes but beautiful lives. Take a guided tour of the villas and estates. You will walk away inspired.
Endnote
Indian Wells may be small, but it knows how to deliver in a big way. The desert pace is a little slower, but it’s more connected. You should create time to chat with locals, meet other travelers, and feel part of something. This little city knows how to wrap you in luxury without feeling overwhelming.
