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You may be surprised to know what is now one of the oldest and most esteemed neighborhoods in Palm Springs today began as a humble apricot orchard. 

The origins of Deepwell Estates

Henry Pearson, a scientist who bought the apricot orchard in 1926, needed water for his crop. So, he began drilling a well and continued drilling to the depths of 630 feet, creating the deepest well in the Coachella Valley. After building a ranch house on the property, Deep Well Ranch was born. Pearson sold the land in 1928 and the new owners converted it into Deep Well Guest House. The area was later expanded into a subdivision named Deepwell Colony Estates in the 1950s, now condensed to Deepwell Estates. 

Famous residents and architects

The approximately 365 single-family homes in the neighborhood are a mixture of mid-century modern, California ranch-style, and Spanish colonial revival. The prominent architects Hugh Kaptur, E. Stuart Williams, Donald Wexler, John Porter Clark, William Krisel, and Stan Sackley each contributed to the neighborhood. 

A myriad of actors, entertainers, and the odd sports pro have occupied homes in Deepwell Estates over the years, including Hollywood stars William Holden, Gavin McLeod, Tippi Henden, Eva Gabor, Marjorie Main, Loretta Young, Bonita Granville, Eddie Fisher, Jerry Lewis, Elizabeth Taylor, Robert Livingston of “The Lone Ranger” fame, and the Oscar Meyer family.  

Where to stay in Deepwell Estates

Get a taste of living in this quiet and luxurious neighborhood by booking a stay in one of its boutique hotels. 

L’Horizon Resort & Spa: Designed initially as a retreat for Hollywood elite in 1952 by William F. Cody, the rooms are spacious enough to feel like a private home. Book The Residence — the original home of producer and oil magnate Jack Wrather and his wife, actress Bonita Granville — and indulge in a 2,000-square-foot oasis that includes a private full-size pool and yard to soak up stunning views of the San Jacinto mountains. Visit the spa for a relaxing treatment and finish the night with an exquisite meal at SO.PA. 

Hermann Bungalows: Experience a celeb-worthy stay within L’Horizon at the exclusive Hermann Bungalows. These 24 ultra-luxurious suites designed by Steve Hermann have every amenity imaginable with elegant design details that will make you swoon. 

Sparrow’s Lodge: Looking to unplug in a more rustic environment? Originally known as Castle’s Red Barn, the hotel was built in 1952 for actor Don Castle and his wife Zetta, and its rooms are free of phones and televisions. Fully restored in 2013, Sparrow’s Lodge is more relaxed than luxury, offering a welcoming pool, a cozy fire pit, and casual outdoor dining at The Barn Kitchen. 

Dive Palm Springs: Once a Western-style hotel known as The Sunrise Villa, this 1954 property has since undergone many facelifts and theme changes. Dive Palm Springs now boasts a French Riviera vibe of the 1960s. Private patios, swing chairs, comfy daybeds, and a koi pond are just a few of the highlights of this 11-room resort that can host events of up to 150 people. 

La Maison Hotel: Voted by guests on TripAdvisor as one of the 25 best small hotels in the world, La Maison offers sophisticated French ambiance, Amenities include bikes, a fire pit, pool, hot tub, outdoor barbecue, espresso bar, and breakfast featuring lavender scones and croissants. This 13-room sanctuary is also available for a full buyout. 

What to do

When you’re not lounging by the pool, jacuzzi, or fire pit, take a stroll, bike ride, or drive around this serene neighborhood with a star-studded past. Take a guided tour with the Palm Springs Historical Society on  Shangri-La of the Stars.  After working up an appetite, grab a bite at Elmer’s diner, a Palm Springs institution, and get an order of their famous (and giant) German pancakes. For casual outdoor dining and cocktails, The Barn Kitchen at Sparrow’s Lodge is open to visitors as well as guests (look for the sign with the two birds). A more formal dining experience awaits at L’Horizon’s SO.PA.