Some say that we have “Beverly Hills” right here in our very own Coachella Valley. It is the community of Old Las Palmas and it is one of Palm Springs’ oldest neighborhoods. Once a citrus grove, this historic neighborhood was developed in the 1920s by a father and son, Alvah and Harold Hicks.
Old Las Palmas gained the distinction of Coachella Valley’s “Beverly Hills” as this community has the highest number of celebrity owned homes in Palm Springs. Some of the rich and famous associated with the area are Kirk Douglas, Donna Reed, Lily Tomlin, Liberace, Sidney Sheldon and George Randolph Hearst, to name a few.
Old Las Palmas is comprised of over 300 homes with large lots and well-manicured homes. It is bordered on the west by the San Jacinto Mountains and North Via Monte Vista; on the east by North Palm Canyon Drive; on the north by West Stevens Road and on the south by West Alejo Road.
The neighborhood mixes the old with the new and all the homes are bound by their rich history. The homes in Old Las Palmas are more accurately distinguished as estates, rather than just homes. One of the largest estates in the community is situated on a 4 acre parcel.
The architectural styles featured in Old Las Palmas range from Spanish to Colonial to Palm Springs Modern. Many of the estates are gated, with lush landscaping and swimming pools. The community is tucked close enough to the mountains so as to be shielded from the winds and fabulous views are afforded.
Old Las Palmas is part of Palm Springs Neighborhood Organization Program, and the close knit residents work together in organized beautification and security committees.
Another cool feature about this iconic neighborhood is its ultra convenient location within walking distance of downtown Palm Springs, with its many restaurants, shops, art galleries and other attractions.
It’s worth it to take a little drive around this interesting part of Palm Springs and take in the interesting architecture and lifestyle harkening back to those golden Hollywood days. “Beverly Hills” indeed . . .