5 California Desert and Coastal Retreats from Palm Springs to Malibu

Originally built in 1977 by developer Roy Fey and designed by Los Angeles architect Charles DuBois, this Palm Springs residence has been thoughtfully reimagined in 2025 to bridge mid-century sophistication with a clean, contemporary sensibility. Three spacious bedrooms and three and one-quarter baths are arranged for comfort and privacy, while custom contemporary interiors bring a measured sense of polish throughout. At the center, a gourmet chef’s kitchen anchors daily life and entertaining alike, with a premium Viking range, elegant finishes, and an open layout that keeps conversations flowing. New Milgard windows draw in abundant natural light and support energy efficiency. Outside, a newly re-plastered and tiled pool sets the tone for unhurried mornings and sun-drenched afternoons, complemented by a fully paid solar system and an oversized two-car garage. Photos are virtually staged.

Along the water’s edge on Malibu’s iconic Carbon Beach, this updated residence at the Malibu Outrigger is designed for effortless beachfront living with sweeping ocean views. Inside, a crisp modern palette of glossy white finishes and clean architectural lines is paired with expansive walls of glass that keep the Pacific front and center. Open living and dining areas extend to a private oceanfront balcony overlooking the pool, beach, and coastline beyond, an easy setting for quiet mornings or evenings in. The contemporary kitchen is streamlined with custom cabinetry, minimalist detailing, and generous counter space, while a linear fireplace and built-in media wall anchor the main living area. The ocean-view primary suite opens to the balcony and includes a spa-inspired bath with a freestanding soaking tub and oversized glass shower. Resort-style amenities include a heated oceanfront pool, spa, sun deck, direct beach access, gated entry, and secure parking.

From its elevated Camarillo foothills setting, this single-story Tuscan inspired residence pairs Santa Barbara ease with owner-builder craftsmanship, extensively rebuilt in 2011. Set at the end of a private cul-de-sac on a 26,000+ SF usable lot, the layout is designed for seamless single-level living with generous proportions and natural light throughout. Casement windows and glass doors from nearly every rear-facing room draw the backyard into daily life. At the center, the kitchen and family room feel both functional and welcoming, with slab granite countertops, a mosaic glass tile backsplash, stainless appliances, a breakfast area, and a spacious pantry. Built-in display shelves and a cornered stone fireplace anchor the family room. Hickory wood floors and Versailles-pattern travertine reinforce the home’s Italian character, while a spacious studio-bonus room adds flexible space. Outdoors, the backyard remains private, open, and nearly entirely usable.

With heritage dating to its Tuscan-style roots, this fully furnished, remodeled Indio residence is designed for effortless entertaining indoors and out. The open gourmet kitchen centers on a Calcutta marble waterfall island with casual sit-down and bar-top seating, paired with top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, built-in cabinetry, a separate mini bar, and a fireplace with a large-screen TV that keeps the conversation flowing while you cook. Outside, a private resort setting unfolds with flowing palm trees, a large freeform saltwater Pebble Tec pool and spa, a misting system, and a spacious patio deck with multiple lounge areas for dining and sun time. An expansive BBQ island and a cozy firepit set the scene, while a putting green, cornhole, and bocce ball add playful options—alongside an arcade game room with air hockey, pool, and foosball for nights in.

Price: Contact for pricing

From its elevated Indio setting, this fully furnished, improved home is framed by mountain views and a rare sense of privacy, with only two neighbors. Designed for gatherings, it offers five spacious bedrooms and three baths, plus an open-concept kitchen with a wet bar and two granite islands flowing into the dining and living area—complete with a large-screen TV, fireplace, and French doors to the backyard. Outdoors reads like a private resort: an oversized pool with a monster slide, a spa with waterfall features, a mist system, and an expansive patio deck with a BBQ island and cozy firepit. Recreation continues with a 26-foot putting green, bocce, and a basketball game court area. Inside, an arcade game room adds pool table, air hockey, Golden Tee, Pacman, and more—made for easy weekends and lively nights.

Price: Contact for pricing