Disney Brings the Beach to the Desert — Cotino Bay Opens in Rancho Mirage

What once sounded like a mirage is now reality: Disney has officially opened Cotino Bay in Rancho Mirage, CA — the centerpiece of its first Storyliving by Disney community. The project introduces a striking new vision to the Coachella Valley: a turquoise, swimmable lagoon set against a desert backdrop, complete with sandy beaches and resort-style amenities.

A Desert “Beach” — Powered by Innovation

Cotino Bay uses advanced lagoon technology by Crystal Lagoons to bring crystal-clear, temperature-balanced water to the desert landscape. The lagoon offers a beach-like atmosphere where residents and visitors can kayak, paddleboard, relax on the sand, or enjoy waterfront leisure — creating a coastal vibe in the heart of the dry desert.

Though much of the surrounding community — known as the Artisan Club — remains exclusive to residents, Disney confirmed that part of Cotino Bay will be open to the public via paid day passes. That means you don’t have to own a home to experience the lagoon’s water and recreation amenities.

More to Come — Dining, Retail & Wellness on the Horizon

Disney is expanding the Cotino experience with a full neighborhood build-out. The forthcoming town center, Cotino Bay Beach, Dining and Shops, is set to open in fall 2026 and will include a mix of restaurants, retail, wellness, and leisure venues — all clustered around the lagoon and designed to offer a resort-like lifestyle.

Among the first announced tenants:

Elevare — a waterfront restaurant featuring American-inspired cuisine and scenic views of Cotino Bay and the nearby mountains.
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Artigiano — a specialty coffee shop making its U.S. debut, bringing its signature European-style café experience to the valley.
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On the Mark Fine Foods & Provisions — a popular Palm Springs market offering artisan foods, wine, and gourmet provisions.
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Khaga Yoga — a wellness studio inviting visitors of all ages to enjoy yoga classes and a boutique retail experience.
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All of this is part of a larger vision to blend residential living, recreation, dining, and community in a seamless, lifestyle-oriented desert destination.

Cotino stands as an example of bold reimagination — turning desert real estate into a resort-like living environment that embraces both the natural surroundings and modern amenities. With its crystalline lagoon, clubhouse-style living, and plans for a vibrant public town center, it’s setting a new standard for lifestyle design in Southern California’s arid zones.

Whether you’re a local resident, prospective visitor, or simply curious about innovative community planning, Cotino Bay offers a fascinating glimpse at how modern design and smart engineering can deliver everything from water recreation to walkable, amenity-rich neighborhoods — all under the desert sun.

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