The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa is like a pop-up book. Just when you think you’ve lifted every flap, opened every door, there’s more. By the time I left this luxury Tucson resort, I walked away thinking, “Now, here’s an experience I never would have guessed!” Keep reading to see why The Westin La Paloma wows, and why we designated it a BOSW Bestie. 

The Westin La Paloma musts:

• Get a room with a view: This resort has some of the most spectacular views of the Santa Catalina Mountains.
• Book the Agave Nectar Massage: Your body will never feel more relaxed or skin more hydrated.
• Have dinner at La Luz: During our stay, we had a decadent duck dish, pork belly and a flourless chocolate cake that left us speechless.

First Impressions: This Tucson Resort lives up to the hype

Arizona has some of the most captivating desertscapes, and it’s no secret that resorts from Scottsdale to Tucson capitalize on this. So, sometimes, a traveler (not saying THIS traveler) may think, “Oh, sweeping views of the desert mountains; that’s nice.” Not a traveler who stays at Westin La Paloma. When anyone says, “Sweeping views of the Catalinas,” you don’t say, “Oh, that’s nice.” You say, “Wow, these views are amazing!”

This luxury resort feels like being inside a desert globe — if such a thing existed — rather than a snow globe. The property and its five outdoor pools — including one with a twisty slide — are enclosed in a naturescape of cactus-dotted mountains and (usually) clear-blue sky. And at night, the scenery is equally majestic — with just the right amount of city lights to starry skies.

Inside, the lobby and connected spaces are contemporary and crisp, accentuated with gorgeous lighting to highlight an expansive marble staircase. 

As for an unexpected “pop-up book” moment, off the lobby area, Westin La Paloma has a gelato cart outside of its coffee shop!

Inside the rooms: Comfort meets desert chic

The guestrooms and suites of Westin La Paloma match the cleanliness and lightness of the rest of the property. The beds are comfy and the balcony is a sweet spot for coffee, tea, cocktails or taking in the views, of yes, the Catalinas!

Dining scene: Casual poolside to indoor opulence

Guests who enjoy poolside R&R won’t be disappointed by Sabino’s Pool Bar & Grill. Favorite standouts: the nachos and fresh fruit plates. The staff is especially attentive, so no long waits for bites and drinks.

For breakfast, lunch and dinner, there is La Luz under the culinary craftsmanship of Chef Devin Pinto. The pork belly, topped with onions and pistachios for dinner was divine, as was the duck breast and delicately flaky cod. 

In the “book of desserts,” the gluten-free, flourless chocolate cake was a surprise I definitely didn’t see coming and is worth planning a return visit all on its own. My bring-on-the-gluten companions enjoyed a lovely, tasty fruit tart.

Casa 71: Cocktails and zero-proof mastery

As its name hints, Casa 71 Tequila Lounge offers a selection of 71 premium tequilas and mezcals. This lounge area is another gem visitors will find just down the lobby stairs. It’s circular centerpiece is pure eye candy, and its mixologists beyond skilled (and entertaining). 

In addition to serving some of the finest tequilas and whiskeys, Casa 71 also caters to non-alcoholic drink requests. After seeing one of the bartenders making a smoke-infused whiskey drink, I presented a challenge. Could a zero-proof concoction be made in the same smoke-infused fashion? Surprise! It could. Ask the staff to make you an “Erin on Endor” (A smoky chai, lemon-infused combo with a smoky finish). See our reel for some zero-proof ASMR.

La Paloma Spa: Revitalization and relaxation multiplied

From facials to massages and body treatments, the La Paloma Spa has plenty of services in which to indulge. As a recipient of the Agave Nectar Massage, I have to say that this is a must-try. This hour-plus treatment was deeply relaxing and restorative to my soul and replenishing to my dry desert skin.

Golf, fitness and other offerings

In addition to a 27-hole Jack Nicklaus–designed golf course, Westin La Paloma houses a Top Golf Swing Suite. Visitors have their pick of virtual games, including golf, football, soccer, zombie dodgeball and baseball.

Within the property’s fitness center, guests have their pick of top-of-the-line cardio and weight training equipment. I took a wonderfully challenging, invigorating yoga class with the talented yogi Sarah, who also teaches other on-site fitness classes. 

Verdict: This one’s a BOSW Bestie, here’s why

There’s so much more to The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa than meets the eye, and to the eye, it’s already impressive. If you’re looking for a secluded, comfortable, luxury resort that still has a down-to-earth feel with phenomenal food, spa and service — this is the next travel experience for you.