When I started playing the game of tennis I began researching the most stylish courts in the world. I discovered Enchantment in Sedona, Il San Pietro di Positano on the Amalfi Coast, and closer to home, the Center Court at La Quinta Resort and Spa. These destinations instantly developed into a list and I hoped that one day I would visit them alongside a partner who loved tennis just as much as I did. Little did I know that months later I would meet my husband Saif, we would have a whirlwind romance, and we'd soon embark on playing on as many different courts as we could.

Saif and I needed a California vacation within proximity to Los Angeles and I suggested the desert, as I often do. But this time, instead of proposing Palm Springs or Joshua Tree, I recommended La Quinta Resort and Spa, home to a beautiful tennis court I had seen earlier that year in my probe. Spring seemed like a great time to visit so that we could avoid the heat which we knew would drastically impair our game. Although May is a gorgeous time in the desert, I must advise any player, to prepare for an early rise so that you can bypass the sear of the sun during your game or lesson.

The Courts

La Quinta Resort was voted one of the best tennis resorts in the world and I appreciated its variety of court options. In addition to a lovely sunken tournament-style center court (pictured above), the hotel also offers both hard and clay courts. There are numerous courts to choose from but make note, that a reservation is always required. All levels are welcome and if you'd like to improve your game, I'd recommend private lessons with one of their USPTA-certified professional trainers. We linked up with their German instructor, whose name is, unfortunately, escaping me, and had a superb early a.m. lesson during our stay. The Tennis Shop offered excellent customer service throughout and made us eager to return.

Why Book?

The tennis courts are the star at La Quinta Resort. We were excited to book because we had never played on clay courts before and they have a few to choose from. If you are looking to spend your mornings playing tennis, your afternoons in the pool, and your evenings drinking margaritas on a restaurant terrace, this is an ideal hotel.

There is also a spa on the property that offers a variety of services. While there, my husband and I enjoyed relaxing massages followed by chilled water in the outdoor lounge area.

What the Rooms Are Like

We stayed in one of their Casitas which we learned upon entering was in need of an upgrade, particularly in the bathroom area. Although spacious, the room was neither luxurious nor offered any unique amenities that made the in-room experience feel particularly special. On the positive, there was a fireplace we enjoyed during our stay in addition to our private patio, which made outdoor love-making and nude sunbathing a daily activity. If you like to have fun, ensure you book the private patio. Toiletries are Ferragamo.

For swimmers and pool loungers alike, you will appreciate the 41 pools on the property. We were almost always by ourselves in one of the pools or jacuzzis, which added an extra splash of richness to our trip.

Getting to and Around the Hotel

La Quinta is one of the nine cities located in Coachella Valley. The drive is 35 minutes east of Palm Springs and 12 minutes from where the yearly Coachella Music Festival happens.

Where to Eat Near the Hotel

We were sunkissed and chilled out to the max, so taking a shower followed by dinner at Adobe Grill, the Mexican restaurant on the property, seemed like the best plan. I had not done any prior research so I did not know what to expect from the restaurant. Our dinner was delicious. I recommend ordering their ceviche, tostadas de atun, and carne asada. I was pleased with the quality of our food along with the staff's excellent service. After a full day on the court and in the pool, margaritas paired with chips and guacamole made for a perfect end to the day. At that moment, I couldn't have been happier.

Price

From $259 a night

Location

La Quinta Resort & Club
49-499 Eisenhower Dr
La Quinta, CA 92253
+1 (760) 564-4111

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