We have never been to the area, and would like to stay at one of the mega resorts out there. We want to play golf twice, be in a nice location to do a lot of shopping/strolling around town (which areas are best for this?), and just enjoy the area. We also want a nice property that is NOT aged, that is clean, and has great service (as good as can be expected from a mega resort, I realize).

Which of the mega resorts is best? We're looking at Hyatt Grand Champions, JW Marriott Desert Springs, Westin Mission Hills, and La Quinta. We found a great price on the Hyatt, but would not mind spending a little more if the differences are meaningful.

Any help?

We live in the area so haven't stayed at the resorts . . . or even looked at them, but as far as the towns . . . Highly recommend Palm Desert. The downtown shopping area, El Paseo, is kind of like Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. You can shop, visit galleries, look for antiques and there are several excellent restaurants.

Palm Springs is currently undergoing a bit of renovation (currently half the center of town is closed!) and not much fun right now. It is mostly tourist souvenir shops although there are a couple nice galleries and a nice museum.

Palm Desert is more upscale and Palm Springs is more touristy.

From your post, I would suggest you stay in Palm Desert and if you want to see what Palm Springs is all about, take the cute little free trolley down, walk around and then go back to your nice resort. There are golf courses all over the place and most are very nice.

Have a nice trip.

It has been a few years, but have stayed at both the Marriotts and Westin resorts. You won't be disappointed, but if want a spa experience, go for the Marriott Palm Desert--there spa is top notch!! Never stayed st the Grand Champions, but have been there many time for the tennis tournaments.

Thank you so much SalB and LindaSus! Great info. It looks like Palm Desert is the place to be. Where is the Hyatt Grand Champions in relation to Palm Desert? Where exactly is Indian Wells?

I think the Desert Springs Marriott is wonderful. The spa was fabulous and if you are a tennis player, they have great courts. The golf course was spectacular. We found that we didn't need to go into Palm Springs at all.

We are planning to meet our children there next Thanksgiving. The weather that time of year is perfect. LMF

Another vote for the Desert Springs Marriott.

Our family enjoyed the Marriott Desert Springs. Rooms were nice, as were the pools, restaurants, and lobby area.

For mega-shopping, you can't beat the outlets in Cabazon. Good deals if you get in on sales, otherwise so-so. Always a little windy, so take a jacket.