Beat the Heat: 6 Epic Pools for Your Palm Springs Vacation

Hacienda Gillette offers stunning blue waters.

The Wheelhouse pool is the centerpiece of the yard.

Hacienda Gillette

Hacienda Gillette is a beautiful Spanish-style home once part of the historic ‘King Gillette Estate.’ The pristine rectangular pool is set against a backdrop of soaring palm trees and dramatic mountains—a view worth seeing! A partially shaded patio surrounds the pool with plenty of seating, and the lush landscaping around the property’s perimeter provides privacy. The pool itself comes complete with a seating area, with two chairs directly in the water, and a smaller square spa area to the side. The stunning blue water of the pool juxtaposed with rust-colored bricks helps it blend into the sunset.

The Wheelhouse

The Wheelhouse is a one-of-a-kind ranch home situated on 12 acres of untouched desert near Joshua Tree National Park. The property, formerly owned by TV personality Huell Howser, offers 360-degree mountain and desert views, the feeling of total seclusion, and an array of unique outdoor amenities. The centerpiece of the property is a full-length backyard pool with a Baja tanning shelf surrounded by five large millstones, each more than 100 years old—the millstones give the property its name. This artistic high-desert retreat at sundown can be enjoyed by sitting next to the firepit or warming up in the heated spa. No matter what time of year, this pool can’t be beat!

Incredible 75-foot swimming pool at Villa Sierra.

Sand Acre Estate represents the past and present. [Photo Credit: Libby Ellis]

Villa Sierra - That Pink Door

That Pink Door is an iconic mid-century desert ranch famous for (well, you guessed it already) that unforgettable pink door! This historic villa has been meticulously restored and boasts amazing mountain views, towering palm trees, and lush, green ficus walls for total privacy. The manicured grounds surround the 75-foot private swimming pool that includes a luxurious Bisazza in-laid tanning shelf and spa. The outdoor bar and grill nooks along with the voguish patio dining table and art deco cabana can easily host up to 10 people, making this backyard great for entertaining.

Sand Acre Estate

Sand Acre Estate is a historic Spanish home located in the heart of The Movie Colony neighborhood of Palm Springs—rumored to be a favorite hangout of Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio. This unmistakable in-ground pool is detailed with an elephant water feature, serving as the focal point of the pool, that spurts water out of its trunk. To escape the heat, sit poolside under the shade of the cabana, large palm trees, or umbrellas with chairs, and enjoy the lovely ambiance of the estate. Warm yourself by the firepit as you stargaze at night, or enjoy the heated spa just next to the pool. Sand Acre perfectly represents the past and present of Palm Springs—imagine all the famous pool parties!

Soak up the sun in chaise lounges at Vista Las Palmas.

Sunrise Dreams blends indoor spaces and outdoor living.

Vista Las Palmas

The Vista Las Palmas neighborhood of Palm Springs is home to many iconic mid-century modern residences, and this authentic Alexander butterfly-style home is one of them. Vista Las Palmas has unobstructed mountain views and sits on a private, tree-lined lot with a ficus privacy wall. The hallmark of the backyard is the beautiful blue waters of the swimming pool and chic, private hot tub. Soak up the sun in chaise lounges, on the patio sofa, or at the six-seat patio table. Whether you're looking for a weekend of fun in the sun or simply want to relax poolside, this Palm Springs home is sure to impress.

Sunrise Dreams

Sunrise Dreams is a classic Mid-Century Modern ranch in the quiet neighborhood of Little Tuscany. This immaculate property offers 270-degree expansive views of Coachella Valley and multiple mountain ranges, day or night. Sunrise perfectly blends indoor spaces and outdoor living with its spacious patio and seating areas. Surrounded by naturally landscaped grounds and plenty of palm trees, this private salt-water pool is ideal for cooling down in the heat of the summer. Sunrise Dreams can host a small family or group of friends who want to swim in the nearly L-shaped, pebble tech pool or take a dip in the spa. So relax and sunbathe poolside in this attractive Sunrise Dreams home!

Want to make a splash this summer? Book your summer trip to Palm Springs now and soak up the blissful sunshine in style. When you get there, let us know which one of these pools is your favorite by tagging us on social media @naturalretreats and using #openthedoortomore so we can soak up the sun with you.