The Top 5 Resorts in Phoenix: Your Ultimate Guide to Luxury and Relaxation
Beyond its natural beauty and urban attractions, Phoenix is also home to some of the finest resorts in the country. These luxurious retreats offer world-class amenities, exceptional service, and an array of activities that make them perfect for a relaxing getaway. Whether you're planning a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, these top-rated resorts in Phoenix have something special to offer. Let’s dive into the top five resorts that consistently receive rave reviews and discover why they are so beloved.
1. The Phoenician
Nestled at the base of Camelback Mountain, The Phoenician is an iconic luxury resort that epitomizes elegance and sophistication. This AAA Five Diamond resort is a favorite among travelers seeking a lavish retreat with stunning views, impeccable service, and a wealth of amenities.
Why The Phoenician is Popular:
- Luxurious Accommodations: The Phoenician offers a range of accommodations, from beautifully appointed guest rooms to opulent suites and private casitas. Each room is designed with comfort and style in mind, featuring plush furnishings, marble bathrooms, and private balconies with breathtaking views.
- Exceptional Dining: The resort boasts several dining options, including the award-winning J&G Steakhouse, where you can savor prime cuts of beef and fresh seafood while enjoying panoramic views of the valley. For a more casual dining experience, the Thirsty Camel Lounge offers handcrafted cocktails and light bites with a stunning sunset backdrop.
- World-Class Spa: The Phoenician’s spa is a sanctuary of relaxation, offering a range of treatments and therapies designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. With 24 treatment rooms, a meditation lounge, and a rooftop pool, it’s the perfect place to unwind and pamper yourself.
- Golf and Recreation: Golf enthusiasts will love the resort’s 18-hole championship golf course, which is known for its challenging layout and stunning scenery. The resort also features multiple pools, tennis courts, and a state-of-the-art fitness center, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
2. The Boulders Resort & Spa
Set amidst the striking boulder formations of the Sonoran Desert, The Boulders Resort & Spa offers a unique blend of luxury and natural beauty. This resort is a haven for those seeking a serene escape with a touch of adventure.
Why The Boulders Resort & Spa is Popular:
- Unique Setting: The resort’s location is truly one-of-a-kind, with its stunning rock formations creating a dramatic backdrop. The natural beauty of the surroundings provides a sense of tranquility and seclusion, making it a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
- Luxurious Casitas and Villas: Accommodations at The Boulders are designed to blend seamlessly with the desert landscape. Guests can choose from spacious casitas, luxurious villas, and haciendas, each offering modern amenities and private outdoor spaces.
- Spa and Wellness: The Boulders’ award-winning spa offers a holistic approach to wellness, with a variety of treatments inspired by Native American traditions. The spa also features a meditation labyrinth, a shamanic tipi, and a serene outdoor pool, providing a truly transformative experience.
- Outdoor Activities: For those who love the outdoors, The Boulders offers a plethora of activities, including rock climbing, guided nature hikes, and horseback riding. The resort’s two championship golf courses are also a major draw, offering challenging play amidst breathtaking scenery.
3. Royal Palms Resort and Spa
Originally built as a private estate in 1929, Royal Palms Resort and Spa exudes old-world charm and timeless elegance. This Mediterranean-inspired oasis is located at the foot of Camelback Mountain and is a favorite among couples and honeymooners.
Why Royal Palms Resort and Spa is Popular:
- Historic Charm: The resort’s architecture and design reflect its storied history, with beautiful courtyards, tiled walkways, and lush gardens creating a romantic and intimate atmosphere. The property’s historic charm is complemented by modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and luxurious stay.
- Romantic Ambiance: Royal Palms is renowned for its romantic ambiance, making it a popular choice for weddings, anniversaries, and romantic getaways. The resort’s signature restaurant, T. Cook’s, offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in a warm and inviting setting, perfect for a candlelit dinner.
- Award-Winning Spa: The Alvadora Spa at Royal Palms is an oasis of relaxation, offering a range of treatments that draw inspiration from Mediterranean traditions. Guests can enjoy massages, facials, and body treatments in serene treatment rooms or in private outdoor cabanas.
- Intimate Accommodations: The resort’s accommodations range from charming guest rooms to luxurious villas and casitas, each thoughtfully designed to provide a cozy and intimate retreat. Many rooms feature fireplaces, deep soaking tubs, and private patios or balconies.
4. JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa
The JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa is a beloved landmark in Scottsdale, known for its Southwestern charm, luxurious amenities, and stunning desert views. This resort has been welcoming guests since 1936 and continues to be a top choice for travelers seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure.
Why JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn is Popular:
- Southwestern Charm: The resort’s adobe-style architecture and beautifully landscaped grounds create an inviting and authentic Southwestern ambiance. Guests can explore the property’s lush gardens, winding pathways, and scenic courtyards, all set against the backdrop of Camelback Mountain.
- Luxurious Spa: The Spa at Camelback Inn is a highlight of the resort, offering a range of treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate. With 32 treatment rooms, a private pool, and a tranquil garden, the spa provides a serene escape where guests can unwind and recharge.
- Exceptional Dining: The resort offers several dining options, including the iconic Lincoln Steakhouse & Bar, which serves prime steaks and fresh seafood in a sophisticated setting. For a more casual meal, Rita’s Cantina & Bar offers Southwestern-inspired dishes and stunning views of Camelback Mountain.
- Outdoor Activities: The Camelback Inn is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with its two 18-hole golf courses, hiking and biking trails, and tennis courts. The resort also offers guided desert excursions, allowing guests to explore the beauty of the Sonoran Desert.
5. Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is a luxurious resort that offers world-class amenities, exceptional service, and a stunning setting. This AAA Five Diamond resort is perfect for families, couples, and business travelers alike.
Why Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is Popular:
- Family-Friendly: The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is a favorite among families, thanks to its range of kid-friendly amenities and activities. The resort features six pools, including a family-friendly pool with a waterslide and a serene adults-only pool. The seasonal “Princess Express” train ride and kid’s camp keep younger guests entertained, while parents can relax and enjoy the resort’s amenities.
- Luxurious Accommodations: The resort offers a range of luxurious accommodations, from elegant guest rooms to spacious suites and casitas. Each room is designed with comfort and style in mind, featuring plush bedding, modern amenities, and private balconies or patios.
- Award-Winning Dining: The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is home to several award-winning restaurants, including Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina, which offers a fine dining experience with a focus on prime cuts of beef and fresh seafood. La Hacienda by Richard Sandoval serves authentic Mexican cuisine in a vibrant and festive setting, while Ironwood American Kitchen offers casual dining with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
- World-Class Spa: The resort’s Well & Being Spa is a haven of relaxation and wellness, offering a range of treatments designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. The spa features a rooftop pool, a hydrotherapy circuit, and a variety of fitness classes, ensuring a holistic wellness experience.
- Events and Activities: The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess hosts a range of seasonal events and activities, from holiday celebrations to summer splash parties. The resort’s 65-acre property provides ample space for outdoor activities, including golf, tennis, and fishing in the on-site lagoons.
Resorts in Phoenix
Phoenix is home to some of the most luxurious and highly-rated resorts in the country, each offering a unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and exceptional service. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, these top five resorts—The Phoenician, The Boulders Resort & Spa, Royal Palms Resort and Spa, JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa, and Fairmont Scottsdale Princess—provide the perfect setting for an unforgettable experience. So, pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and indulge in the luxury and beauty that these incredible resorts have to offer.