Deciding between 2 resorts - January '26

Question

A forum poster traveling with young kids wanted to know which property - JW or Ritz Carlton - the consensus was JW.

My husband and I (seniors) will be in Tucson for 5 nights in early January. We are similarly trying to decide between JW Starr Pass and Ritz Carlton (need a Marriott brand to book with points).

This is an R&R trip to escape our cold and gray Illinois weather. We will likely use the resort spa, go for walks, rent e-bikes, visit Saguaro NP, enjoy good restaurants.

Which property would you recommend for our situation? We will have a rental car so can get anywhere. The points price is similar for both hotels - the RC being slightly more expensive.

Thanks for advice.

Answer

For a relaxing Tucson getaway in January with your priorities—resort spa, walking, e-biking, visiting Saguaro National Park, and enjoying good restaurants—both JW Marriott Starr Pass and Ritz-Carlton offer excellent amenities, but there are some distinctions that may guide your choice.

JW Marriott Starr Pass:

Located within the scenic Tucson Mountains, offering beautiful desert views and proximity to hiking trails right from the resort.
Resort has a large spa with a range of treatments, plus pools and tennis courts for relaxation and activity.
The property is more sprawling, giving a sense of space and privacy, which may appeal for leisurely walks or enjoying the desert landscape.
Direct access to trails for walking or running, plus easy access to nearby Saguaro National Park West for sightseeing and e-bike rides.
Family-friendly atmosphere, but still suitable for adults seeking quiet R&R.

Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain (if this is the Ritz in question):

Luxurious accommodations with attention to high-end details, excellent spa, and well-designed walking paths.
Golf-focused property, but less immediate desert hiking access than JW Starr Pass.
Atmosphere tends to be quieter, more adult-oriented, which could appeal for couples seeking tranquility.
Restaurants are upscale; resort dining is highly rated but more limited in casual options compared with JW.

Considerations for your trip:

Since you will have a rental car, both resorts are convenient for accessing Saguaro National Park, downtown Tucson, and other attractions.
If desert hiking and e-biking are priorities, JW Marriott’s proximity to trails may make it more convenient and scenic.
If your main goal is indulgent spa and quiet luxury with less emphasis on hiking directly from the resort, Ritz-Carlton is excellent.
JW Marriott may provide slightly more flexible and casual dining options onsite and nearby.

Summary Recommendation:

For a senior couple looking to balance relaxation with desert exploration and light outdoor activities, the JW Marriott Starr Pass is likely the better fit. It offers scenic desert access, a strong spa program, and proximity to Saguaro National Park, while still providing luxury accommodations. The Ritz-Carlton excels in quiet, high-end luxury, but the slightly more remote location and limited immediate hiking options may make it less convenient if you plan to be active outdoors each day.

Deciding between 2 resorts - January '26

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