We recently stayed at The Welk Resort in California in a One Bedroom Suite on the Greens, and overall, we really had a great time.
The resort is a family-friendly destination and is known for its extensive range of amenities, including several pools, water slides, golf courses, and more.
Review: The Welk (San Diego Area, California)
Photo: hyatt.com
About The Welk
The Welk Resort, named after television show host and bandleader Lawrence Welk, was established in 1964 and has since expanded to include multiple properties across the United States – including Desert Oasis in the Palm Springs area. The Welk is currently affiliated with Hyatt Vacation Club and available to book via the World of Hyatt loyalty program.
The resort has been recognized for its exceptional service and has won several awards over the years. The California location is situated on over on a scenic 600 acres of land and is surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery.
At A Glance:
- Official Website: The Welk
- Average Nightly Cost During Stay: $378 ($474.12 all-in)
- Loyalty Program: World of Hyatt
- Loyalty Category: Category 4
- Discount Applied: 15,000 points
- Room Type as Booked: One-Bedroom Suite at Villas on the Greens
- Room Upgrade: N/A
- Resort Fee: N/A
- Parking Fee: N/A
Booking/Redemption
Location & Parking
Located in Escondido, California, The Welk Resort is only a short drive from San Diego and its many attractions, as well a close drive to the nearby Temecula Wine Country. The location is convenient for those who want to experience the excitement of the city while still enjoying the tranquility of a resort setting.
Both valet and self-parking options are available. The self-parking lot is spacious and well-lit, making it easy to find a spot even during peak times.
Front Desk & Check-In
When we arrived for check-in, we were surprised to find ourselves in a long line with perhaps 10 people ahead of us.
Check-in was not quick, but it was friendly, although having Hyatt Globalist status didn’t provide any special perks at The Welk.
After our check-in, we were told we should talk with the Hyatt Vacation desk for a special offer. Almost immediately after arriving at the desk, we received an invitation to have our stay completely paid for – as well as getting a free trip to Hawaii – if we attended the sales for a time-share.
Although the offer was tempting, because our stay was already free (on points) and we were traveling with family, we opted to decline the offer.
Photo: hyatt.com
Welcome Package
  
Area Information
Room Type: One-Bedroom Suite at Villas on the Greens
One-Bedroom Suite at Villas on the Greens Walkthrough Tour
One-Bedroom Suite at Villas on the Greens: Promotional Photos
Photo: hyatt.com
Photo: hyatt.com
Photo: hyatt.com
Photo: hyatt.com
One-Bedroom Suite at Villas on the Greens: Actual Photos
We were impressed with the accommodations as the suite was large, clean, and came with a fully functional kitchen.
Kitchen Area
How’d all that get in there?
Bedroom
Living Area
Closet
Bathroom
Dining Options
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner options at The Welk Resort included the signature restaurant, Canyon Grille. The resort also offered a variety of casual dining options, including a Pizza Hut restaurant and a Starbucks coffee shop.
Being as that the suites had their own full kitchens, we opted to cook our own meals for the family rather than dine out.
Canyon Grille
Photo: hyatt.com
The Welk Theatre
The theater at The Welk Resort offered a variety of entertainment options, including musical performances and plays. While we were there, they had a James Taylor tribute show.
 
Swimming Pool
The swimming pool and water slides were a highlight of our stay at The Welk Resort, being that we were traveling with a big family and several little kids.
There are several pools on the property, including an adult-only pool, a children’s pool, and a family pool with a water slide. The water slide was a hit with our children and provided hours of entertainment while we enjoyed drinks and snacks from the poolside grill and a snack bar.
Photo: hyatt.com
Photo: hyatt.com
Golf Course
The Welk had 2 golf courses, The Oaks Course (a par 3 course) and The Fountains Course (an 18-hole course).
The Fountains golf course at The Welk Resort is well-maintained and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The course, although challenging, is suitable for players of all levels, with a variety of tee options available. We enjoyed playing several rounds of golf during our stay – which was made even better by the beautiful scenery and perfect weather.
Photo: hyatt.com
Just like heaven
Fitness Center
Photo: hyatt.com
Photo: hyatt.com
Basketball Court
Photo: hyatt.com
Game Room
We also enjoyed participating in some of the other activities offered at the resort, such as the miniature golf course and the game room.
Photo: hyatt.com
Photo: hyatt.com
The Bottom-Line Review: The Welk (San Diego Area, California)
Overall, our stay at The Welk Resort was surprisingly enjoyable and offered plenty of options for entertainment and relaxation.
We were pleased with our suite accommodations and impressed by the well-kept and gorgeous property. As far as a place for a family getaway with something for everybody, The Welk simply can’t be beat. It’s somewhat of a “hidden oasis” among the hills of southern California.
In particular, we loved the pool and the Fountains golf course. I can easily picture this as a perfect place for family weekend getaway. With that said, I can easily recommend The Welk for a family or couples vacation – and even a “boys golf trip” or a “girls weekend”.
Final Rating: 8.5 out of 10.
