How to Win Big at Pala Casino!

I bet based on that title you’re thinking that I walked away with a pile of cash. Spoiler alert…I didn’t, but I did win big in other ways!

I stayed at Pala Casino Spa & Resort just outside Temecula over Labor Day weekend and it was just what the doctor ordered! Want to know my top 5 reasons to come here? Pool, pool, pool, pool, and pool! Why, because Pala Casino has 5 pools! If I could live here, I would, just for the pools! What’s really neat about the pools, is that they’re heated with in-water chaise lounges and built-in shallow seating. The pool area also offers two hot tubs, daybeds, cabanas, and poolside service from the cafe.

If you’re looking for a place to celebrate or just have a great pool day, the cabanas at Pala are worth the splurge! The cabanas come equipped with a table, loungers, seating area, fridge, ice chest, TV, ceiling fan, and more. Who wouldn’t want to party like a rockstar? And if you’re lucky enough to have a birthday, the poolside DJ will wish you a happy birthday every 5 minutes, LOL! Good times for sure! Check out this cool poolside video courtesy of Pala Casino.

I’ve heard good things about the spa here at Pala before, but I can tell you now that I’ve been here, it actually exceeded their reputation! After checking in, I was escorted into the locker room and given a private and secure locker with a bathrobe and slippers to wear during my visit. I eagerly prepared for my massage and it was the most relaxing 50 minutes I’ve had in a very long time. I love their use of essential oils throughout the massage process as it really helped me to block out everything else and relax into each touch. Since I’ve never truly had a whole spa experience before I didn’t even prepare myself for all the extra amenities they had to offer. Post massage, they have a beverage station to hydrate yourself and there are coed hot tubs outside. But the true indulgence was within the walls of my locker room. Saunas, steam rooms, and outdoor showers oh my! I chose to continue my relaxation in the hot tub, followed by an iced facial washcloth scented with cucumbers and essential oils. Simple but very indulgent, soothing, and exactly what I needed!

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My room had a view overlooking the entire pool area and spa, but also it would be a good view of their concert series on the lawn too. One of the cool things I loved about the room was the bright teal desk chair; I love a good pop of color! There were also two couch/chaises, so there was plenty of sitting room. The room I stayed in is one of their recently remodeled rooms, it was spacious and comfortable for my getaway.

Are you wondering when I’m going to talk about the food here…right now! I really managed to try a lot while I was here. Upon checking in, I devoured a perfectly cold and sweet acai bowl from the Poolside Cafe. After spending the day at the pool and getting a massage, happy hour was calling at Bar Meets Grill. I highly recommend trying their pistachio-crusted Seared Ahi Tuna.

Dinner was at Sushi Sake, the walk-up sushi bar in the casino area. I’ll warn you that it is in the smoking area near some slot machines, but if you aren’t too sensitive to the smoke, then you’ll be fine. Would you try a sushi pizza? If you’re feeling adventurous, it’s on their menu! Their rolls are BIG and filling, so keep that in mind when you’re ordering. I don’t know about you, but I often get a little overzealous when ordering sushi because eventually, all that rice catches up with you, haha.

The last food adventure was a double whammy of poolside brunch and living that cabana life. Joseph, the pool manager, set us up with the cabana and Emerson, took great care of us with our brunch order poolside; if you see these guys, give them a high five, they’ll make sure you have a great experience!

It was #SundayFunday so my brunch included a breakfast burrito and a Miami Vice. What’s a Miami Vice? A glorious mix of Strawberry Daiquiri and Piña Colada, and it’s the perfect beverage for a poolside brunch. What’s so special about my burrito? WELL, since you asked, lol, it was served with some yummy potatoes and deliciously fresh salsa!

Remember my spoiler alert from the top…I didn’t win big. I’d love to say that I did, but more importantly I had fun while losing haha. I did come out $7.70 richer than when I started so I have that going for me! I generally go for the slot machines, and this time I had the most fun playing a Wonder Woman slot machine. It was super cool. Also, since I mentioned the smoky casino above, it’s also important to note that they have a smoke-free section as well.

The truly unexpected part was to see a live band in the middle of the casino; I thought that was pretty rad!

I’m planning my next getaway to Pala Casino already because I miss their pools and spa soo much! What looks most exciting to you about Pala Casino? Let me know down below, I’d love to hear from you!

Until next time, happy eating and staycationing!