5 California Coastal and Lakefront Luxury Retreats from Malibu to Palm Springs

Steps from the shoreline on Malibu Avenue in Oxnard, this refined coastal residence is designed around generous, open-feeling living spaces and the rhythm of beach days just moments away. Indoors, expansive areas invite everything from quiet mornings to easy evenings with friends, with a layout that prioritizes comfort and breathing room. Above it all, a rooftop deck becomes the defining vantage point—framing panoramic ocean views that stretch to the Channel Islands, shifting with the light from day to dusk. It’s a setting that rewards lingering: salt air on the deck, horizon lines in the distance, and the simple luxury of living close to the sand, where every day can begin and end with the water in view.

Along the water’s edge behind the gates of Canyon Lake, this waterfront estate pairs architectural presence with day-to-day ease, powered by 36 owned Tesla solar panels. Entry on the mid-level is a statement, arriving through an impressive double-door foyer or directly from one of two attached garages. Rich wood flooring carries throughout, setting a warm, composed backdrop for a cinematic theatre room, a gated wine room, and a private ensuite bedroom. At the center, an extraordinary kitchen opens to an expansive covered balcony with lake views and is outfitted with high-end appliances, from a refrigerator/freezer and 4-burner cooktop with griddle to an oven, two warming drawers, wine cooler, beverage center, ice maker, and built-in coffee system. Two oversized islands, a prep sink, and a walk-in pantry with washer/dryer complete the rhythm, while the great room’s fireplace invites long evenings in.

Along the water’s edge on Westlake Island, this guard-gated main channel residence frames unobstructed lake and mountain views from nearly every rear-facing room. Set at the end of a cul-de-sac, it offers a rare chance to shape a luxury waterfront retreat while already enjoying the rhythms of life on the lake—morning light on the water, evening cruises from your own private dock. The 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath layout includes a primary suite with a private balcony overlooking the lake, extending the view into daily routines. Outside, multi-level patios create flexible places to gather or unwind, while tiered turf and citrus trees add greenery to the shoreline setting. An exclusive-use dock comes complete with an electric party boat, inviting spontaneous afternoons on the water and slow sunsets at home.

Along the water’s edge on Malibu’s Carbon Beach—“Billionaire’s Beach”—this rare oceanfront condominium opens to panoramic views from the Malibu Pier to the Queen’s Necklace. A sunlit open floor plan keeps the horizon in constant view, with a spacious living room and fireplace flowing to a private terrace suspended above the sand. The dining area and open kitchen share the same sweeping outlook, while the unit’s notably quiet interior offers a serene reprieve from PCH traffic noise. In the chef’s kitchen, solid wood cabinetry, stone countertops, and premium Viking appliances balance warmth with polish. Two ocean-view bedrooms include a primary suite with a spa-inspired bath featuring dual sinks and a walk-in shower lined in river rock tile; the guest suite also works beautifully as an office or creative space. Community amenities include a heated oceanfront pool and spa, direct beach access, and private lounge areas, with two-car garage parking, secure entry, and elevator access for ease.

Rising above Andreas Hills—often called the Bel Air of Palm Springs—this John Walling modernist residence channels the city’s golden-era allure with clean lines and floor-to-ceiling glass. At its center, a grand living pavilion unfolds as a luminous sweep of glass and stone, where dining, lounging, and cocktails feel at home beneath soaring ceilings. A sleek gas fireplace, built-in Sonos system, and sunken wet bar set an easy rhythm for entertaining, while a pass-through window connects seamlessly to the covered outdoor lounge. The newly remodeled chef’s kitchen brings double ovens and a gas cooktop for everything from quiet dinners to weekend hosting. Outside, an oversized corner lot frames manicured gardens with sculpted boxwoods, blooming roses, and citrus trees, alongside a resort-style pool, alfresco dining terrace, and fire-pit lounge for long desert evenings.

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