Marriott Vacation Club

Question

We are looking to burn some MVC points at one of the Marriott Vacation Club properties in the Palm Springs or Palm desert area. Family rather than golf or nightlife oriented. Best heated pool for 5 yr old, etc. Any recommendations? Thanks

Answer

Great question. If you're looking to burn Marriott Vacation Club (MVC) points in the Palm Springs / Palm Desert area and want a family-friendly resort (especially with a 5-year-old), here are some top MVC recommendations + tips. There really are only a few MVC properties in this area, but one stands out especially for what you’re describing.

Top MVC Property to Consider: Marriott’s Desert Springs Villas

This is the premier MVC resort in Palm Desert for families — especially for those who want pool time and kid-friendly amenities:

Pools: There are seven temperature-controlled pools, including a children’s wading pool and whirlpool spas.
- The Palmeras Pool (at Villas II) has a section that is heated, making it more kid-friendly for swimming even when temperatures dip.
- There are additional smaller pools scattered around both villas — so depending on your villa location, you may have a pool just a few steps away.
Kid & Family Activities:
- The Shade recreation center on-site includes: a kids' activity center, a 15-seat movie theater, rock-climbing wall, bike rentals, foosball, iPads, and more.
- Daily family programs / craft nights are offered, and there is a teen lounge (“The Den”) for older kids.
Villa Accommodations: As a Vacation Club property, you’ll get a villa-style unit (studio, 1 BR, etc.) with a kitchen — very handy for family stays.
Access to JW Marriott Amenities: Guests at the Villas have some access to the adjacent JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa (tennis, restaurants, etc), though there may be restrictions / fees depending on day.

Why This Works Well for a Family Rather Than a Golf / Nightlife Trip:

The variety of pools (heated, wading, quiet, etc.) means your 5-year-old will have plenty of fun, and parents can also relax.
The Shade recreation center gives kids a place to hang out beyond the pool, and there are structured activities.
The villa layout (with a kitchen) gives flexibility for meals and snacks, which is helpful with a child.
It’s more of a resort retreat rather than a party-heavy or golf-only destination, especially in the Vacation Club portion.

Things to Watch / Tips:

Pool Heat: While many pools are temperature-controlled, not *all* may be “hot” — check with MVC for the exact status around your travel dates.
Activity Reservations: For certain programs at The Shade (like cooking demos), you may need to reserve ahead or check what’s available during your stay.
Points Booking: Confirm how many MVC points are required for your villa type / time of year — availability may vary, especially for weekends or peak travel times.

Other MVC Options Nearby (if you’re open):

Marriott’s Shadow Ridge – Villages or Enclaves: Also in the Palm Desert area. People on Reddit mention Shadow Ridge as a solid MVC pick for families, especially if you want a 2-bedroom suite with a full kitchen. However, the pool scene may not be as extensive / heated as Desert Springs.

Conclusion: For a family-oriented resort using MVC points in the Palm Springs / Palm Desert area, Marriott’s Desert Springs Villas (I or II) is likely your best bet. The Palmeras Pool, multiple other pools, and the recreation center make it very kid-friendly without sacrificing relaxation for adults.