Neighborhood Spotlight: Indian Wells, CA

If you’re in the market for a resort lifestyle, then Indian Wells in California could be just the place you’re looking for. With world-class country clubs, luxury homes and condominiums, a wide variety of cultural programs, and award-winning restaurants, this desert oasis was ranked the #1 Best Place to Retire in California by Niche and has much to offer residents of all ages.

Indian Wells at a glance

Indian Wells, California, is located in Riverside County between the cities of Palm Desert and La Quinta in the Palm Springs area. Nestled in the Coachella Valley, the city is approximately 15 square miles in size and has a population of about 5,000 people.

Indian Wells is perhaps best known for hosting the sixth-largest tennis tournament in the world, the BNP Paribas Open. It’s also home to the second-largest tennis stadium in the world, the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. This small but charming city has attracted notable residents over the years, including Desi Arnaz, Tony Curtis, and Dwight D. Eisenhower.

Indian Wells real estate and neighborhoods

One characteristic that makes Indian Wells stand out is its popularity as a tourist destination. As a result, many of the homes in Indian Wells are second or vacation homes. The median home price in Indian Wells is $557,500, which is relatively affordable compared to other cities in California.

The real estate in Indian Wells tends to be elegant and luxurious, and homebuyers will find everything from condos and custom homes to large estates with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and desert. Luxury homes in Indian Wells come equipped with all the upscale amenities that a discerning buyer would expect including expansive floor plans, gourmet kitchens, top-of-the-line appliances, resort-style swimming pools, and oversized master bedrooms with stunning views. 

The city is comprised of many gated communities including:

• Colony Cove
• Desert Horizons Country Club
• Eldorado Country Club
• Indian Wells Country Club
• Los Lagos
• Monte Sereno Estates
• Montelena
• Mountain Cove
• Sundance
• The Province
• The Reserve
• Toscana Country Club
• Vintage Country Club

Each of the communities features their own unique assortment of amenities including championship golf courses, swimming pools, spas, tennis courts, clubhouses, and much more.

Indian Wells history

The area that is now Indian Wells was once a thriving Native American village. In the mid-1800s when gold was discovered in the Colorado River, the area became a valuable mining destination. It officially became the 400th city of California on July 14, 1967.

Indian Wells amenities

This glittering desert city has long attracted the rich and famous. As such, Indian Wells has a host of amenities that cater to an upscale clientele. It’s home to four of the world’s most luxurious resorts — Indian Wells Resort Hotel, Miramonte Indian Wells Resort and Spa, Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort and Spa, and the Renaissance Esmerelda Indian Wells Resort and Spa.

Residents of Indian Wells enjoy activities year-round, and the city offers an expansive resident benefit program. Those with Resident Benefit Cards can enjoy discounts at the BNP Paribas Open, the Indian Wells Golf Resort, and all four of the Indian Wells resorts. You can also enjoy exclusive events throughout the year such as Patio Parties, complimentary tours of The Galen/Palm Springs Art Museum, Resident Day at the Tennis Garden, and much more.

In addition to having an active tennis scene, Indian Wells is also home to two prestigious public golf courses. The Indian Wells Golf Resort, which is open to the public, features two, 18-hole championship golf courses — the Celebrity Course and the Players Course. Both courses have earned a space in the Top 25 Best Municipal Courses in the Country by Golfweek magazine.

Foodies will love the variety of cuisines available in Indian Wells. Enjoy dishes made with locally-grown ingredients at Citrus & Palm, sample a selection of craft brews and small-batch spirits at Eureka, or nosh on Mediterranean cuisine with a Moroccan influence at The Pink Cabana, whose interior is reminiscent of the Palm Springs tennis and racquet clubs of the 50s and 60s.

One of Indian Wells’ most popular attractions is Fantasy Balloon Flights, which cover up to 30 miles of desert terrain over the course of an hour. Another favorite destination is The Living Desert, the only zoo and botanical gardens in the desert. It’s home to 450 animals, exhibits, hiking trails, educational opportunities, and more. And don’t forget The Village at Indian Wells, where you can shop ‘til you drop at more than 30 boutiques, restaurants, and galleries.

Explore Indian Wells today

Are you ready to find out why so many people have made Indian Wells their destination of choice? Then view available properties and schedule your private showing today!