
Joshua Tree, California 92252
Welcome to The Drive-In, a truly one-of-a-kind desert retreat and fully operational short-term rental compound situated on two separate parcels totaling approximately 8.5 acres. Featured in Architectural Digest, this exceptional property offers a rare combination of privacy, designer finishes, resort-style amenities, and established rental history. The property features a beautifully remodeled main residence and separate, freestanding guest casita, both thoughtfully designed with modern finishes and offered fully furnished, right down to the linens, for a truly turnkey experience. Designed for unforgettable desert experiences, The Drive-In boasts an incredible collection of outdoor amenities, including a private drive-in movie theater with a massive 12' x 20' screen, swimming pool with custom deck, hot tub, pickleball court, built-in BBQ, fire pit with built-in seating, outdoor dining area, 80-yard closest-to-the-pin golf hole, six-hammock stargazing circle, yoga deck, outdoor stone soaking tub with hot and cold water, and many more amenities. For buyers seeking an established short-term rental investment, the seller is also willing to include the existing Airbnb listing, complete with its accumulated guest reviews and future reservations, as well as The Drive-In's established Instagram account with nearly 40,000 followers. This presents an exceptional opportunity to acquire not only a remarkable property but also the existing digital presence and booking pipeline associated with this well-known desert destination. The main residence features two permitted bedrooms and central air conditioning, while the separate one-bedroom casita offers its own mini-split system. The property currently benefits from two separate short-term rental permits, allowing for a combined maximum occupancy of 10 guests. Whether you're looking for a private desert escape, a unique hospitality investment, or a fully furnished vacation rental with an established following, The Drive-In is a rare opportunity to own one of Joshua Tree's most distinctive properties.
Property is new construction or fully renovated.
While originally built in 1950, the property has undergone a comprehensive, high-end designer renovation within the last 5 years as featured in Architectural Digest. It features modern kitchen and baths, updated HVAC systems (central air and mini-splits), and is in mint, turnkey condition with no maintenance required.
The property has a large lot size, which is more than 4 times of its living area. lot size in square feet = 178596, living area = 1170.
The property features a unique array of high-end outdoor amenities, including a private drive-in movie theater, pickleball court, swimming pool, and an 80-yard golf hole, creating a premier desert destination.
Sale includes established short-term rental permits, future reservations, and a significant digital footprint with 40,000 Instagram followers, offering immediate revenue potential for investors.
Living area discrepancy between mls listing and other public or private record. mls listing living area = 1170, other record living area = 690. Bedroom count discrepancy between mls listing and other public or private record. mls listing bedroom count = 3, other record bedroom count = 2.
At a list price of $1.35M for 1,170 square feet, the property carries a substantial premium that relies heavily on its business value rather than the physical structure size.
Originally built in 1950, the property may require ongoing specialized maintenance for its older core systems, despite the modern aesthetic renovations and designer finishes.
No exterior & parking available.
No sensitive facilities data found.
| Feature | Subject | Average Home |
|---|---|---|
| Beds | 3.0 | 2.8 |
| Baths | 3.0 | 1.9 |
| Square foot | 1,170 | 1,296.208 |
| Lot Size | 178,596 | 50,973.083 |
| Price | $1.35M | $408.4K |
| Price per sq ft | $1.2K | $332 |
| Built year | 1950 | 1983 |
| HOA | $0 | $0 |
| Days on market | 10 | 80 |
Oct 14, 2026
$1,350,000
Initial Listing
Nov 3, 2023
$1,066,500
Public Record
Jul 22, 2022
$965,000
Public Record
Dec 18, 2020
$517,000
Public Record
Dec 2, 2015
$85,000
Public Record