Hotel California brings a playful, resort-style escape to 2.5 fenced acres above Morongo Valley. Made for friends and families who want to spend as much time at home as exploring the desert, this colorful five-bedroom retreat pairs a private pool and hot tub with a sauna, mountain-view yoga deck, outdoor bathing and a detached game room. Between Palm Springs and Joshua Tree, it's a place to spread out, settle in and enjoy the day at your own pace.
Pets: Allowed (maximum 2). Smoking: Not allowed. Events: Not allowed. Suitable for: children and infants. Additional rules: After booking, guests will receive a secure link to our guest portal to complete identity verification, where an optional damage waiver is offered for added protection but is not required.
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Vacation Rental Terms & Conditions
Acceptance of Terms
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Occupancy & Property Use
Your reservation grants you a limited, revocable license to occupy the property for the duration of your confirmed stay. This agreement does not constitute a lease and does not grant tenancy rights or any interest in real property. Only guests listed on the reservation may occupy the property unless prior written approval is obtained from the Host. Maximum number of guests must not exceed the property maximum limit per the listing. Unauthorized events, parties, photoshoots, commercial activities, or gatherings exceeding the approved occupancy are strictly prohibited. Violations of occupancy limits or unauthorized gatherings may result in immediate eviction without refund.
Indoor and outdoor furniture must remain in its designated locations, and guests are responsible for any damage caused by moving furniture. Guests must park on the property in designated parking areas - street parking is not permitted at any time and may result in fines.
Commercial Use, Events & Photoshoots
Unauthorized events, weddings, receptions, parties, or commercial use—including photography, videography, advertising, or media projects—are strictly prohibited unless the Host has granted prior written approval and required fees paid and/or permits pulled. Any unauthorized commercial activity or use of the property’s name, address, images, or likeness may result in a penalty of up to $10,000, in addition to any damages or losses incurred, and will result in the immediate termination of the Guest’s reservation without refund.
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Reservations canceled less than 60 days before the scheduled check-in date are generally not eligible for a refund, except for a limited Grace Period..
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Arrival & Departure / Early Check-In / Late Check-Out
Check-in is anytime after 4:00 PM, and guests may not enter the property before this time unless authorized in advance. Check-out is at 11:00 AM. Unauthorized early check-in or late check-out may result in additional charges or Guest removal, assessed at the Host’s discretion. Early check-in and late check-out requests must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance and are subject to availability and housekeeping schedules.
Upon Arrival
Guests are encouraged to inspect the property upon arrival and notify the Host of any issues. Notifications should be sent via the applicable booking platform or by phone if necessary. Refunds or considerations will not be provided for issues reported after the conclusion of the stay.
Quiet Hours
Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM. Guests must maintain respectful sound levels at all times, especially outdoors, in compliance with local ordinances. All music, whether indoor, outdoor, portable, or vehicle audio, must be turned off during quiet hours. Guests are responsible for any fines issued by governing authorities related to noise violations. A minimum $1000 fine will be issued to any guest receiving a citation for a noise violation.
Pets
Pets are allowed only when explicitly approved in the listing. A fee of $100 per pet applies, with a maximum of two pets unless otherwise stated. Unauthorized pets will result in a $1000 fee. Guests must clean up after pets and ensure they do not cause damage or excessive shedding. Pets must be crated when left alone on the property and must not make excessive noise.
Smoking
Smoking of any kind, including cigarettes, cigars, vape, or cannabis, is strictly prohibited indoors. If smoking occurs indoors, applicable charges related to smoke removal plus a $1000 fee will apply. Outdoor smoking must be conducted responsibly and 20 feet away from doors and windows.
Nature & Critters
Properties may be located near natural areas and rural environments. Wildlife, insects, and local flora are part of the property environment. Guests may encounter animals such as but not limited to mice, rabbits, raccoons, squirrels, bats, snakes, birds, coyotes, bobcats, mountain lions as well as insects including ants, spiders, bees, and flies. The Host performs regular pest control inspections, but sightings of wildlife or insects inside or around the property may occur. Refunds will not be issued for wildlife or insects; however, guests should contact the Host via the booking platform if assistance is needed.
Pools, Hot Tubs, Cowboy Tubs & Other Water Amenities
Use of any pool, hot tub, cowboy tub, or plunge-style water feature is strictly at the Guest’s own risk. By choosing to use these amenities, Guests acknowledge and accept all associated hazards, including slipping, falling, equipment malfunction, temperature variations, and general risks inherent to water activities. No lifeguard is on duty at any property. The primary guest on the reservation is responsible for supervising all individuals on site and ensuring safe, appropriate use of the amenities at all times.
ALWAYS SHOWER BEFORE AND AFTER USING THE WATER AMENITIES! Body oil, makeup, hair products, etc. clog filters!
Children and minors may never be left unattended near any body of water. Guests must exercise caution in all wet areas and are responsible for preventing unsafe behavior. No pets of any kind in the water amenities.
Do not add any products to the water amenities, such as bubble bath & oils, even if they say they are compatible. Glass of any kind is strictly prohibited in or near all water amenities. If any bubble bath, oils, glass or breakable material enters or breaks near a water feature, the amenity must be immediately drained, inspected, cleaned, and refilled for safety. Guests will be responsible for the full cost of draining, refilling, reheating, and any loss of revenue associated with the downtime required to complete the service.
Guests must always keep pool, hot tub, and cowboy tub covers securely in place when applicable when the amenity is not actively in use. Covers help maintain sanitation and water temperature and protect local wildlife from falling in. Leaving a water amenity uncovered may result in additional servicing fees, with a minimum charge of $100 for extra cleaning, filling, or heating labor.
Some properties include seasonal cowboy tubs with filtration systems. Cowboy tubs are drained and unavailable during winter months (November through March) to prevent freeze-related equipment damage. Hot tubs may also be drained and refilled by professional spa technicians as part of routine maintenance at their discretion without prior notice; after refilling, the water may take up to 24 hours to reach full temperature.
All water amenities are treated with industry-standard sanitizing chemicals, including chlorine or bromine systems where applicable. These chemicals are necessary for safe operation but may affect individuals differently. By using any pool, hot tub, cowboy tub, cold plunge or similar facility, Guests acknowledge that chemical exposure is inherent to their use and accept full responsibility for any skin reactions, sensitivities, respiratory irritation, discoloration of swimwear, or other adverse effects that may occur. The Host is not responsible or liable for any medical reactions or personal discomfort resulting from normal, properly administered water treatments.
Guests are responsible for any misuse that results in additional maintenance, sanitation needs, or loss of amenity use for subsequent guests.
By using any water amenity, Guests voluntarily release, waive, and discharge the Host and property owners from all liability for injuries, damages, adverse reactions, or claims arising from such use, including injuries related to slippery surfaces, equipment malfunction, accidental drowning, chemical exposure, or any other hazards. This waiver applies to all Guests, invitees, and individuals visiting the property.
Routine Maintenance Visits
During a stay, the Host may schedule or perform standard exterior service visits, which may include but are not limited to pool or spa technicians, water delivery, landscaping, propane service, pest prevention, or waste collection. Vendors are allowed access only to necessary exterior areas unless safety or maintenance requires otherwise. Guests are not permitted to turn away or interfere with routine maintenance activities. Any fees assessed by the Host caused by Guest interference to reschedule services will be passed onto the Guest that turned away or interfered with the service.
Fire Safety
Open flames are permitted only in designated wood-burning or propane fire pits or fireplaces that are provided and explicitly disclosed by the property. All fires must be continuously attended to, fully extinguished after use, and all ashes disposed of safely. Use of fire pits may be suspended during periods of high wind or elevated fire risk. Guests are solely responsible for securing any required permits and adhering to all applicable local regulations regarding wood burning. Lighter fluid, candles, incense, and any other open-flame items are strictly prohibited at all times.
Septic System & Toilets
Many properties operate on sensitive septic systems. Only toilet paper may be flushed, and guests must not flush wipes, paper towels, feminine products, diapers, or other foreign objects. Grease, oils, or chemicals must not be poured down any toilets or drains - including the kitchen sink. Guests are responsible for any damage caused by improper use.
Travel, Road Conditions, & Vehicle Responsibility
Listings indicate whether a property is accessed via paved or dirt roads. Dirt roads may be uneven, muddy, rocky, or rough depending on weather or seasonal conditions. Guests assume full responsibility for booking a property with dirt-road access, and refunds will not be issued if a guest feels uncomfortable driving on a dirt road or chooses not to proceed to the property. GPS may be inaccurate in rural areas, and guests must follow the Host’s step-by-step directions. The Host is not responsible for vehicle damage, towing, getting stuck, flat tires, or other road-related issues.
Internet, Connectivity & Utilities
Internet access is provided as a courtesy and may experience reduced speeds, interruptions, or outages, particularly in rural or remote areas..
Cell phone coverage may be limited or unavailable depending on location and carrier.
Power disruptions may occur due to the rural nature of the region..
Off-Road Vehicles
Off-road vehicles, ATVs, dirt bikes, or similar equipment are prohibited on the property and may only be used in officially designated areas where legally permitted. Guests are responsible for any fines or damages resulting from unauthorized use.
Firearms
Firearms are not allowed on the property at any time.
Damages
Guests must report any pre-existing damage upon arrival to avoid liability. Guests are responsible for all damage caused during their stay, including broken or destroyed items. Market-value replacement costs may apply, and additional charges may be applied for remediation or restoration. The Host reserves the right to charge damages to the guest’s payment method.
Security & Safety Equipment
Guests may not tamper with security cameras, noise decibel detectors, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, Wi-Fi equipment, locks, security devices, or other property equipment. Outdoor cameras may be present, but no cameras monitor private interior spaces.
Lost & Found
A $50 processing fee applies for retrieval and shipping of lost items. Guests are responsible for all shipping costs. The Host is not responsible for any damage, loss, or breakage during shipping. Guests assume full responsibility once the item leaves the property.
Check-Out Instructions
Wash dirty dishes or load/start the dishwasher if available
Place used towels on the bathroom floor
Leave used beds unmade, please do not strip the beds
Turn off all lights
Double check for personal items before departing - please note our Lost & Found fee policy
Lock all doors and windows, return keys to lockbox if applicable
No additional cleaning or trash removal is required unless otherwise noted in the listing.
Excessive Cleaning
If the property requires labor beyond a standard turnover, a minimum double cleaning fee equal to twice the standard cleaning fee, or the fee charged by the cleaners, whichever is greater, may be charged. This applies to interior and exterior spaces, including pools, hot tubs, BBQs, and outdoor areas.
Glitter, confetti, water balloons, flower petals, candles and incense are not allowed on the property and will result in an additional excessive cleaning fee.
Right of Entry
The Host or authorized personnel may enter the property for repairs, maintenance, safety concerns, or emergencies. Notice will be provided when reasonably possible, except in cases of emergency.
Compliance With Laws & Governing Bodies
Guests are responsible for all fines or penalties issued by authorities for violations occurring during their stay, including but not limited to noise violations, fire violations, parking violations, or permit non-compliance.
Emergency Contact
For urgent issues, guests must call or text (760) 624–8481 and send a message through the booking platform. For life-threatening emergencies, call 911 immediately.
Indemnification, Liability Release & Assumption of Risk
While the Host and property owners strive to maintain properties in excellent condition, no guarantees, expressed or implied, are made regarding suitability or fitness for any particular purpose. Guests and their invitees use the property and its structures, amenities, and grounds at their own risk. The Host and property owners are not liable for injuries or damages caused by guest or invitee actions, structural or equipment malfunction, acts of nature, wildlife encounters, allergens, utilities failure, road conditions, or travel incidents.
Guests acknowledge and agree to assume all risks associated with the use of the property, including but not limited to pools, hot tubs, cowboy tubs, saunas, cold plunges, fireplaces, fire pits, outdoor structures, trails, and natural terrain. Guests further agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Host and property owners from all claims, losses, damages, liabilities, demands, and costs, including attorney fees, arising from the use of the property, misuse of amenities, or failure to comply with rules and instructions. This agreement applies to all guests, invitees, or other parties present on the property.
Agreement
Entering the property or completing a booking constitutes full acceptance of these Terms & Conditions. Guests agree that these terms are binding and enforceable for all stay-related matters.
At Hotel California, the outdoors feels like an extension of the house. Wide mountain views surround a sprawling pool terrace, winding paths lead to tucked-away places to relax, and two painted water tanks add a playful landmark to the desert landscape. Inside, warm neutrals meet terrazzo, patterned tile and unexpected splashes of rust, navy and green. The design feels relaxed and full of personality, equally suited to a laid-back afternoon in the sun or a lively weekend with friends.
The main house brings everyone together with comfortable living spaces, a bright kitchen and four bedrooms, while a detached guest suite offers another place to sleep, play and unwind. With room for ten across five bedrooms, the layout makes it easy to vacation together without spending every moment in the same room.
-Highlights-
► Private in-ground pool, approximately 4 feet deep, with heating available for an additional fee during cooler months
► Built-in hot tub with no additional heating fee
► Private sauna for a relaxing wellness experience
► Elevated yoga deck with panoramic mountain views
► Outdoor bathtub and shower
► Sunken propane fire pit with curved seating
► Propane BBQ and covered outdoor dining area
► Poolside sun loungers and outdoor lounge seating
► 2.5 fully fenced acres with 360-degree mountain views
► Detached guest suite with a separate entrance, private bathroom, loft bedroom and game room with pool table
► Five bedrooms, seven beds and four bathrooms, accommodating up to ten guests
► Three smart TVs for streaming entertainment
► Fully equipped kitchen with Café appliances and coffee maker
► Dedicated workspace and satellite Wi-Fi
► Air conditioning, heating, washer and dryer
► Large gated driveway with on-site parking
-Outdoor Amenities-
The pool terrace is the heart of Hotel California, with open mountain views, plenty of room to lounge and a built-in hot tub just steps from the water. Spend a sunny afternoon moving between the pool and loungers, or settle into an Adirondack chair while the rest of the group swims. The pool is approximately four feet deep, with optional heating available during cooler months for an additional fee.
Beyond the pool, the property invites you to explore. A raised wooden yoga deck looks out toward the surrounding mountains, offering a peaceful place to stretch or practice with an uninterrupted view of the landscape. The private sauna, outdoor shower and open-air bathtub create another way to enjoy the desert, whether you're warming up, cooling off or taking your time over a long soak.
Closer to the house, a timber-covered patio with string lights and a generous dining table gives the group a comfortable place to share meals outside. Fire up the propane BBQ, settle onto the outdoor sectional or find a shady spot to read.
When evening arrives, the sunken propane fire pit becomes a natural gathering place. Its curved seating faces the house and illuminated pool terrace, with mountain silhouettes and the changing desert sky beyond. Across the 2.5 fenced acres, native vegetation, winding pathways and colorful architectural details make the grounds feel like a destination of their own.
-Living Area-
Inside, Hotel California trades formal interiors for inviting spaces with warmth and character. A generous cream sectional, rust-colored pillows, chunky knit throws and natural wood furnishings create a comfortable place to put your feet up. Soft daylight moves across the walls, while sculptural details and earthy accents give the room a distinctly creative feel.
It's a welcoming space for catching up after an afternoon outside, watching a movie or simply relaxing together. Three smart TVs throughout the property offer entertainment when it's time to retreat indoors.
And with a separate hangout in the detached guest suite, the group doesn't have to agree on how to spend the evening. Some can settle into the main house while others head over for a game of pool.
-Kitchen and Dining-
The kitchen has a fresh, playful personality, with white cabinetry, a terrazzo-patterned backsplash, brass accents and warm wood shelving. Café appliances give the space a polished finish, while the generous island provides a casual spot to sit and talk while meals come together.
You'll find a refrigerator, stove, oven, microwave, dishwasher, coffee maker, cookware and dining essentials for preparing meals at home. Whether it's breakfast before a day exploring Joshua Tree or dinner with the whole group, the kitchen is designed to make cooking together feel easy.
Outside, the covered dining patio offers another inviting setting for meals. Gather around the long table beneath the timber pergola, with the desert landscape and late-afternoon light setting the scene.
-Bedrooms and Bathrooms-
Hotel California accommodates up to ten guests across five bedrooms and seven beds, with four bedrooms in the main house and a fifth in the detached guest suite.
Each bedroom in the main house has its own personality, with colorful arched headboards, warm textiles and thoughtful decorative touches that echo the home's modern desert aesthetic.
Bedroom 1 features a king bed, as does Bedroom 2. Bedroom 3 offers a queen bed, while Bedroom 4 has two queen beds.
Bedroom 5 is located in the detached guest suite, where two queen beds occupy the loft above the game room. This separate accommodation has its own entrance and private bathroom, providing extra independence for guests who appreciate having a space apart from the main house.
There are four bathrooms in total, with patterned tile, arched mirrors and warm finishes that continue the home's colorful design. One bathroom features a freestanding bathtub, ideal for unwinding after a long day.
-Detached Guest Suite & Game Room-
The detached guest suite brings an extra layer of fun and flexibility to the stay. With its own entrance, bathroom and loft sleeping area, it's a useful retreat for guests who prefer a little separation from the main house while remaining part of the group.
Downstairs, the game room centers around a wood-framed pool table, with an orange sofa and playful décor giving the space a casual, welcoming atmosphere. Challenge friends to a game, spend an evening catching up or let different parts of the group enjoy their own activities.
The loft upstairs contains two queen beds, making this a distinctive fifth bedroom rather than simply an additional recreation space.
-Sauna & Outdoor Wellness-
One of the pleasures of staying at Hotel California is having several ways to slow down without leaving the property.
Start on the elevated yoga deck, where the mountains stretch across the horizon and there's room to enjoy a quiet practice in the open air. Later, step into the private sauna, refresh under the outdoor shower or ease into the outdoor bathtub beneath the desert sky.
These spaces are spread throughout the grounds rather than confined to a single patio, making a walk around the property part of the experience. Alongside the pool and hot tub, they give the house an easygoing wellness atmosphere that feels especially inviting after hiking, exploring or a busy day with friends.
Hotel California is equally rewarding as a home base for exploring Palm Springs and Joshua Tree or as a place to spend an entire day without going anywhere at all.
-Surrounding Area-
Hotel California sits in the mountains above Morongo Valley, between two of Southern California's best-known desert destinations. Head down the Morongo Grade to Palm Springs for restaurants, galleries and mid-century architecture, or up into the high desert for Old Town Yucca Valley, Pappy and Harriet's in Pioneertown and downtown Joshua Tree. Spaghetti Western, an Italian restaurant in an old Western building, is another good choice for dinner.
The entire house and property are yours to enjoy! Please note that a few supply closets stay locked to store rental supplies.
The best and fastest way to reach us is to send us a message on the message thread. We kindly ask that all communication be kept on this platform, so we do not miss any questions you may have!
Hotel California sits on a secluded 2.5-acre mountainside property in Morongo Valley, between the Coachella Valley and the high desert, so you can experience Palm Springs and Joshua Tree in the same stay.
Below are travel times to nearby shops, bars, eateries and attractions:
► 6 minutes ➔ Spaghetti Western Italian restaurant
► 10 minutes ➔ Old Town Yucca Valley shops, bars & restaurants
► 17 minutes ➔ Pioneertown: Pappy and Harriet's & Red Dog Saloon
► 19 minutes ➔ Downtown Joshua Tree shops, bars & restaurants
► 22 minutes ➔ Flamingo Heights bars & dining: La Copine fine cuisine & Giant Rock Meeting Room pizza & bar
► 29 minutes ➔ The Integratron Sound Bath Experience
► 30 minutes ➔ Palm Springs & Palm Springs Airport
► 32 minutes ➔ Joshua Tree West National Park Entrance
► 34 minutes ➔ Downtown Twentynine Palms shops, bars & restaurants
-Outdoor Amenity Updates-
Pool umbrellas are not provided, because high winds can damage them and create a safety hazard. The outdoor mini refrigerator shown in older materials has been removed; the full-size indoor refrigerator remains available.
-Desert Wind-
Morongo Valley can see periods of strong wind. Please secure personal belongings and take care in the outdoor areas when it's windy.
-House-Specific Rules-
► External speakers are not allowed.
► Please shower before and after using the pool or hot tub, and rinse away oils and lotions before entering. Pets are not permitted in the hot tub. Keep food, alcohol and glass away from the water. Keep the hot tub cover secured when not in use, and never stand or sit on it. Additional cleaning or maintenance charges may apply if the pool or hot tub is left excessively dirty or damaged.
-Pool Heating Fee-
Should you wish to have the pool heated to 85 degrees, please notify us in advance of your arrival, as there will be a supplemental charge per day for this service due to high fuel costs in this area. If you'd like the pool heated for multiple days, we ask that days be consecutive to conserve energy, thank you! Pool heating is not usually necessary May through September. Please note that we will need at least 24 hours' notice to heat the pool.
► $400 first night, $150 each night after
During the winter months, please be aware that colder outdoor temperatures may cause the pool to feel cooler than its maintained temperature of 85°F. We kindly ask that you ensure this temperature meets your comfort level before submitting a request, as refunds cannot be issued on this basis.
-Hot Tub Heating-
No fee to heat the hot tub! The hot tub is not heated continuously, to conserve propane..
-Pool and Hot Tub Service-
The pool and hot tub are serviced Tuesdays and Fridays, which may fall during your stay. The technician will access the outdoor area briefly without entering the house. Please avoid using the pool or hot tub immediately after service, as chemical levels are higher than usual for a short time.
-Pet Policy-
We welcome your dogs! There is a $100 per dog per stay fee, limit of 2 dogs maximum. Please note on your reservation how many dogs you are bringing. There is an unauthorized pet fee of $500. Please use the provided dog sheets before allowing your dogs on any furniture. Cats and other pets are not allowed.
-Local Experiences-
We've handpicked an incredible selection of local vendors to enhance your Joshua Tree stay, offering a mix of relaxation, adventure, and everything in between. Whether you're seeking relaxation with sound baths, yoga sessions, meditation guides, in-home massages, facials, aromatherapy or the convenience of a personal chef or caterer, you'll find options to elevate your experience. For thrill-seekers, explore rock climbing adventures, dune buggy rides, or horseback riding. Other unique experiences include guided stargazing tours under the breathtaking desert sky or guided hikes accompanied by mini donkeys!
All vendor details are available in our guidebook upon booking, making it easy to craft your ideal getaway. Many services can come directly to the house, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable stay!
-Wildlife & Safety-
The desert landscape is teeming with wildlife and natural beauty, offering a unique connection to nature, but it's important to be mindful of the creatures and plants that call this area home. Guests may encounter a variety of wildlife during their stay, and while direct encounters with dangerous animals like coyotes, snakes, scorpions, bobcats, mountain lions and other desert dwellers are rare, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and to keep a safe distance from these creatures when spotted. Additionally, the desert is dotted with sharp cacti and other spiky plants. For your safety, always supervise children, pets, ESAs, and service animals while outdoors. Dogs should remain on a leash at all times and be watched closely while outdoors, as they can wander into potentially unsafe situations with wildlife or plants. By booking this property, guests acknowledge the potential for wildlife encounters and assume responsibility for their safety and the safety of their group. By respecting the local environment and staying aware, you can fully enjoy the magic of the desert.
-Security Camera-
For your security, there are exterior cameras on the property, which monitor vehicles and occupancy. There are no cameras inside the home or facing any private areas, including the pool, hot tub, sauna and outdoor bathing areas.
-Satellite Internet and Cell Service-
The home's internet runs on a satellite connection. It works well for everyday use, but speeds and reliability can vary with weather. Cell reception may be limited depending on your carrier.
-Damage Waiver Policy-
Each reservation requires either a refundable security deposit or a non-refundable damage waiver.