The resort city of Palm Springs lies in the arid Sonoran Desert in California. This glittering oasis is known for its exceptional mid-century modern architecture that harkens back to the ’50s and ’60s, a golden era when it was a popular spot with Hollywood celebrities.
Palm Springs was a popular place to retire thanks to its good weather, and was also glamourized as a top Spring break destination. Now, it’s a resort city with plenty of entertainment options, loads of hotels and resorts, and even top events nearby like Coachella.
Various modern homes were commissioned by celebs in Palms Springs in the late 20th century, and the resulting villas still exist today. Having been lovingly refurbished, thesemid-century modern and more traditional adobe and hacienda-style homes make the best villas in Palm Springs.
Villas in Palm Springs are highly sought after by visitors, and there are plenty to choose from. To help you find the best one for you, we’ve created this guide to the very best villas available, no matter what your travel style or budget!
In a Hurry? Here’s Where to Stay in Palm Springs for One Night
Desert Princess Villa
The Desert Princess Villa is a well-appointed villa overlooking a championship golf course. It has easy access to all the Country Club amenities, as well as its own golf cart. The villa’s location is peaceful yet still within reach of downtown Palm Springs.
- Downtown Palm Springs
- Palm Springs Air Museum
- Indian Canyons
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Staying in a Villa in Palm Springs
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Palm Springs is undoubtedly a resort town, with lush, palm-studded resorts aplenty. Choosing to stay in one of the best villas in Palm Springs will offer you the chance to relive the glamourous life of mid-century celebrities and Hollywood stars.
You’ll have the entire place to yourself, as well as the freedom to structure your day however you want. Breakfast at 2 pm? Why not. Don’t fancy cooking a meal? Head to a restaurant in town! Because Palm Springs is so widely known for its mid-century modern architecture, it would be a missed opportunity to visit and not stay in one of these unique accommodations!
What to Look for in a Villa
A villa is traditionally a spacious and luxurious home with expansive grounds. One of the real benefits of staying in a villa in Palm Springs is that you have plenty of privacy and room to relax in. You’ll have plenty of space to socialize, entertain, and be together, but enough room for everyone to have their own space.
Most of the best villas in Palm Springs will provide everything you could wish for in a holiday rental. Most will have at the very least a swimming pool, and most offer a spa or hot tub as well. Plenty of indoor and outdoor space and a well-tended garden is also a key feature.
Desert Princess Villa
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Golf cart included
- > Golf course and mountain views
Mesa Vista Villa
- > $
- > 6 Guests
- > Two heated pools
- > Relaxed and peaceful vibe
Sunny Villa
- > $
- > 6 Guests
- > Heated pool and spa
- > Single-level and sunny
436 Olancha
- > $
- > 10 Guests
- > Indoor/outdoor bar and lounge
- > Wraparound mountain views
Kempa Villa
- > $$$$
- > 16 Guests
- > Saltwater pool and wet bar
- > Sprawling, modern hacienda
The Roy Disney House
- > $$
- > 8 Guests
- > Perfect pool and patio
- > Beautiful Spanish colonial villa
Biarritz Downtown
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Two outdoor balconies
- > In downtown Palm Springs
The 20 Top Villas in Palm Springs
It’s time to take a look at some of these awesome Palm Springs villas. We’ve narrowed the list down to some of the very best available, with something to suit different travel styles and budgets.
Overall Best Value Villa in Palm Springs – Desert Princess Villa
The Desert Princess Villa is an immaculate two-bedroom villa with a private backyard. It’s flooded with natural light thanks to the glass wall, that opens up to the pool and patio area. It’s beautifully furnished throughout, providing modern accommodation for two guests.
From the fully equipped kitchen to the private patio and pool area, the villa provides all the comforts you’d need to make your stay more than pleasant. There’s even a golf cart to zoom around in! The Desert Princess Country Club has a 27-hole championship golf course, tennis courts, and a fitness centre and day spa that guests can enjoy.
The villa sits in Cathedral City, with easy access to downtown Palm Springs and the airport.
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Best Budget Villa in Palm Springs – Mesa Vista Villa
Mesa Vista Villa is a two-bedroom villa that can sleep up to six guests. The rooms are separated by the living area which opens out onto a covered patio through sliding glass doors. The kitchen is on the smaller side but has everything you’ll need to make meals at home.
This place is ideal for anyone visiting California on a budget looking for a casual and relaxed stay. It’s got access to two heated pools, sun loungers, a spa, a tennis court, and a barbeque area. It’s the perfect place to come to enjoy Palm Springs in the sun without spending a fortune!
The villa sits in South Palm Springs, close to dining venues, shopping, and entertainment.
The Absolute Cheapest Villa in Palm Springs – Biarritz Downtown
On the opposite end of the spectrum is this cheap (but still pretty luxurious) villa. Located in the heart of downtown Palm Springs, Biarritz Downtown is within walking distance of great shopping, top dining, vibrant nightlife, and even casinos. The bright and contemporary two-bedroom space offers a great value stay for guests wishing to explore all that Palm Springs has to offer.
The villa has two outdoor balconies with views of the mountains. It also offers access to a tennis court, swimming pool, and a Jacuzzi. There’s a vibrant, open-plan living space, with a well-equipped kitchen to boot.
Best Villa for Couples in Palm Springs – Sunny Villa
You can sleep up to 6 guests here, but we reckon Sunny Villa is the ultimate romantic retreat. The cascading spa, heated pool, sunken bathtub, and fireplace provide a beautiful setting.
Inside, there’s a fully-equipped kitchen and a spacious living and dining area. Furnishings are both traditional and contemporary, with modern amenities making for a luxurious stay.
The villa is tucked at the foot of the San Jacinto Mountains in a quiet gated community. From here, it’s easy to pop out for a coffee, head to the heart of the city, or get on the freeway to explore further afield.
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View on Osprey View on REIAnother Great Villa for Couples in Palm Springs – Elrod Villa
Elrod Villa is a mid-century modern villa with a futuristic feel. From the high-ceilinged living area to the glass wall that overlooks the terrace and pool area, the villa is a feast for the eyes. But don’t take it from us; the villa has featured in Architectural Digest and been toured by The Smithsonian Institute and LE Museum of Contemporary Art – so you know it’s legit.
The oversized spa, gorgeous mountain views, and sleek finishings make for an indulgent and romantic stay. The house has three bedrooms, one of which is furnished as a den. It’s pretty damn spicy throughout, perfect for a romantic staycation or honeymooners.
The villa is located within a quiet gated complex, adjacent to the Palms Springs Racquet Club. Downtown Palm Springs’ nightlife, restaurants, and shopping are just minutes away, so you’ll have plenty to do.
Best Villa for Groups of Friends – 436 Olancha
Originally built in 1948 (but featuring flashy modern design), 436 Olancha has a rich and colourful history. It features five bedrooms, four bathrooms, a gourmet kitchen and two kitchenettes. There are also two private patios, giving this place plenty of space and making it ideal for friends travelling together.
The indoor/outdoor lounge area opens out to the saltwater pool and in-ground spa. You can also enjoy a large outdoor dining area, a fireplace, and a barbeque. The house is beautifully furnished throughout and features stylish, contemporary decor.
Obviously, no villa is ever going to be cheap, especially one in Palm Springs. But, when split between 10 of you, this is definitely a great option. This incredible villa is located south of downtown and within walking distance of some of the coolest things to do in Palm Springs.
Another Great Villa for Groups of Friends – Villa Champagne
From its west-facing location, Villa Champagne offers uninterrupted views of the San Jacinto Mountains. It’s got four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a separate casita, each as amazingly decorated as the last.
The open concept home is ideal for social gatherings. Outside, there’s a pool, spa, and patio, surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. It’s the perfect base for a big reunion, or somewhere to spend Spring Break with your mates. The interiors are endlessly cool, offering nothing less than luxury living.
This is one of the coolest Airbnbs in Palm Springs. It’s close to town amenities, including bars, restaurants, and coffee shops. There’s even a golf course nearby, as well as Vegas-style casinos (in case you’ve got some cash leftover).
Over-the-Top Luxury Villa – Kempa Villa
If the villas so far haven’t been luxurious enough, then this place should win you over. It’s pretty flashy – boasting eight bedrooms across the main villa, casita, and a bungalow. Everything here is massive and ultra-modern, but has been thoughtfully and tastefully decorated and is full of character.
If you’re in need of some entertainment, you can take your pick from the games room, media room, heated pool, or hot tub. There are also two golf carts available to help you explore the expansive gardens, orchards, and groves.
The villa lies in a quiet region of Palm Desert and is surrounded by mountain views. Palm Springs airport is just 30 minutes away unless you have a helicopter, in which case, you can use the helipad at the villa.
Amazing Luxury Villa in Palm Springs – Villa Tranquilo
Villa Tranquilo is a remodelled ranch home in the iconic Movie Colony neighbourhood, one of the coolest places to stay in Palm Springs. The villa features sleek architecture and contemporary décor, as well as a gorgeous backyard.
From the open-plan living area to the fully equipped kitchen and wet bar area, the villa is perfect for entertaining and being social. It’s got three spacious bedrooms, perfect for groups of friends or a family.
The villa offers a convenient location with easy access to downtown Palm Springs and its many restaurants and great shopping. From here, it’s easy to reach Mount San Jacinto and Joshua Tree National Park.
Best Villa for Families Visiting Palm Springs – The Roy Disney House
The Roy Disney House, once the vacation home of the Disney family, is a Spanish colonial villa that has been lovingly renovated. With four bedrooms, four bathrooms, and an outdoor dining and pool area, the house is the perfect place for a family holiday.
Original elements blend with contemporary furnishings, from the rustic farmhouse kitchen to the covered outdoor dining area. The bedrooms are beautifully decorated with a modern, industrial style, and yes, there is some subtle Disney-related decor as well.
The Roy Disney House is situated within easy reach of downtown Palm Springs, so you’ll have plenty of entertainment options to choose from.
Best Villa for Solo Travellers – Resort Getaway
This resort getaway offers a beautiful tropical landscape in this desert oasis, just 22 miles from Coachella Valley. The accommodation is small but cosy, making it ideal for solo travellers or couples.
The furnishings in the villa are pretty basic, with a simple living area, kitchen, and bedroom. It’s more than comfortable though, providing a well-priced alternative to other villas in Palm Springs.
Guests can spend days enjoying the swimming pool and its cascading waterfalls and the whirlpool spa in a cave. The resort sits between Downtown Palm Springs and Cathedral City, but you’ll need a car if you want to explore.
Best Villa for a Weekend in Palm Springs – Pueblo Revival Estate
Located in the historic Movie Colony East neighbourhood, the Pueblo Revival Estate is perfectly situated for travellers wishing to take full advantage of the Palm Springs lifestyle.
The villa features a sunken living room and a full Italian kitchen, as well as four beautifully furnished bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms, one with a Finnish sauna. There’s a sunken living room as well as both indoor and outdoor dining areas. There’s a large saltwater pool to enjoy as well as two pergolas and verdant gardens.
As well as being stunning from the outside, the villa features works and sculptures by top artists and lighting and décor by well-known designers on the inside. It’s expensive, but split it between ten of you for an unforgettable experience!
Another Great Villa for a Weekend in Palm Springs – Palm Springs Poolside
Palms Springs Poolside is a well-maintained mid-century home that will transport you to Palm Springs’ glamorous golden era. With newly updated bathrooms and a kitchen, the villa offers a stylish and comfortable stay.
The large backyard is an oasis featuring a sparkling pool and a 10-person hot tub, both with exceptional views of the mountains. There’s also an alfresco dining area and barbeque.
Located in a quiet neighborhood, the villa is a peaceful retreat for families and groups traveling together. The villa is within easy reach of the airport, as well as conveniently located near downtown Palm Springs.
Villa With an Epic Location – Villa Granada
Villa Granada is a newly remodelled mid-century home with authentic, vintage furnishings and décor. The villa is in Indian Canyon – an area of Palm Springs known for its proximity to the mountains and incredible views.
This Hollywood Regency-inspired villa sleeps eight and boasts a huge backyard with a pool, spa, and fire pit, as well as loads of space for outdoor dining and entertaining. The outdoor spaces all offer exceptional views and plenty of stargazing opportunities.
The coveted location of the villa is prized for its lack of power lines to obstruct the enchanting mountain views. Add to this the home’s location on a corner lot, and the views are expansive.
Another Great Villa with an Epic Location – Villa Blanca
A bright and spacious modern home, Villa Blanca is situated right on the golf course of the Indian Canyon Estates. With everything you could need for a comfortable stay, the newly renovated mid-century home provides a peaceful retreat in Palm Springs.
From the private pool and Jacuzzi to the almost all-white interiors, Villa Blanca is all about tranquillity. The muted tones indoors serve to enhance the view which can even be enjoyed from the open-plan kitchen and dining area.
The three-bedroom villa lies right in front of the Jacinto Mountains, which not only protect the home from poor weather but also offer exceptional views.
Best Villa for Views – Villa Araby
Enjoy unrivalled views from every window at Villa Araby, located on a hillside in Southern Palm Springs’ most coveted neighbourhoods. The gorgeous outdoor areas offer plenty of places for entertaining, dining, and cooking while enjoying the views.
Warm furnishings, bright colours, and modern amenities make this an ideal retreat for families or groups. The villa features five bedrooms, four full bathrooms, and formal and casual living areas to enjoy.
Guests can spend days relaxing at the private pool and spa or take a short drive to downtown Palm Springs to explore.
Best Villa for Long-Term Travellers – Casa Noir @ Baristo
This sleek and modern townhouse is ideally located less than a mile from downtown Palm Springs in a quiet and secluded street, offering both peace and proximity.
This private townhouse has two large, en-suite bedrooms, a well-equipped kitchen, and an open-plan living space. The backyard is completely private and has a sparkling swimming pool, while the front courtyard offers an outdoor seating/dining area.
The villa offers all the comforts needed for an extended stay and enjoys mountain views from the kitchen, living room and master bedroom. A double garage completes the package.
Most Beautiful Villa in Palm Springs – Villahermosa
Villahermosa is a historic Spanish hacienda dating to 1936. Located in the Movie Colony area, the villa is rumoured to have hosted celebrities. The prime location is close to downtown Palm Springs and offers a wind-sheltered retreat with excellent views.
From the stained-glass front door to the large patio and pool area, the classic hacienda exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Beautiful features throughout the home echo the original character of this villa.
Two pergolas, a large swimming pool and hot tub, and an outdoor dining gazebo mean you can make the most of being outdoors.
Another Beautiful Villa in Palm Springs – Villa Cahuilla
The exquisite Villa Cahuilla is a mid-century ranch-style villa built up against the San Jacinto mountains. Set among beautiful cactus and sculpture gardens and draped in climbing bougainvillaea shrubs, the villa offers views of Palm Springs from the hot tub and fire pit.
The four bedrooms, full kitchen, and living areas are decorated in neutral tones to further amplify the verdant setting and exceptional views. The swimming pool and outdoor dining areas provide plenty of opportunities to enjoy the view and natural surroundings.
The villa enjoys a quiet location in Southern Palm Springs, with easy access to downtown and its many eateries, nightclubs, and shopping venues.
Another Stunning Villa in Palm Springs – Mod Mirror Villa
Recalling glitzy mod stylings from the ’70s and the excess of the ’80s, the Mod Mirror Villa is an experience for the senses. High-gloss surfaces and glittering furnishings, bold hues, and faux fur embellish this former celebrity hideaway.
There’s a large kitchen, separate living and dining rooms, and glass doors that open onto a covered patio. Each bedroom is decorated in a different colour and theme, each just as inviting as the last. Outdoors, the villa features a sparkling pool, unobstructed mountain views, and a bold striped poolside cabana for some added glam.
Perfectly placed in the heart of Palm Springs, you’ll be a stone’s throw from all the action.
Don’t Forget Your Palm Springs Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Final Thoughts on Palm Springs villas
Palm Springs is a resort oasis in California’s amazing Sonoran Desert. The destination has a long history of glamorous celebrity residents and an established reputation for its architecture. Choosing to stay in a villa allows you the chance to live your own celebrity glam lifestyle in Palm Springs.
Many of the best villas in Palms Springs offer an experience of the iconic mid-century modern and Hollywood Regency architectural styles. These well-designed luxury villas offer guests not only unique accommodation in Palm Springs but all the glamour and style you’d expect to enjoy, from vintage and high-design furnishings to exquisite art and all the modern conveniences needed for the most comfortable stay.
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