7301 Encelia Drive, La Jolla, California 92037, La Jolla, 92037 - 4 bed, 4 bath

7301 Encelia Drive
La Jolla, California 92037
Property Price
SUMMARY
Analysis of 7301 Encelia Drive, La Jolla, California 92037 is currently available with a list price of $9,950,000. The property maintains a Good Condition Rating (78/100), reflecting solid structural condition with well-maintained systems. The property presents an attractive opportunity for buyers seeking a move-in ready home. Located in a high-demand neighborhood within the La Jolla Unified School District, this asset is categorized as a low-risk, high-reward acquisition suitable for both Buy-and-Hold Investors and Owner-Occupants willing to undertake light renovation work.
Condition Analysis
OVERALL CONDITION SCORE
Property is move-in ready.
The property is move-in ready and has undergone extensive renovations that preserve its historic 1950s core and 1920s tower. While interior elements like the office cabinetry and carpeting suggest the renovation is likely 10-15 years old rather than brand new, the estate is exceptionally well-maintained with high-quality finishes, functional systems, and no visible deferred maintenance.
PROSSTRENGTHS & OPPORTUNITIES
- High Available Lot Utilization
The property has a large lot size, which is more than 4 times of its living area. lot size in square feet = 65775, living area = 5004.
- Great Schools
Elementary School: La Jolla Elementary School (9/10).
- Iconic Cultural Legacy
As the former residence of Theodor Seuss Geisel (Dr. Seuss), this property offers unparalleled historical significance and 'trophy property' status that is globally recognized.
CONSRISKS & DEFICIENCIES
- Historical Preservation Constraints
The office and observation tower are designated historical resources and must remain, which significantly limits redevelopment options or total site clearing for new construction.
- Complex Acquisition Process
The sealed bid sale format through the University of California involves rigid deadlines and a less traditional negotiation process than standard residential listings.
- Specialized Maintenance Requirements
Maintaining a historically designated estate from 1950 with 1920s structures often requires specialized contractors and adherence to strict preservation guidelines, increasing long-term costs.
About 7301 Encelia Drive
SEALED BID SALE | BIDS TO BE DELIVERED TO: The Regents of the University of California Real Estate Services & Strategies 1111 Franklin St, 7th Floor Oakland, CA 94607-5200 ATTENTION: JULIE WONG NO LATER THAN 5PM PST ON APRIL 15, 2026 Perched high above the Pacific with panoramic views suspended between sea and sky, the former home of Theodor Seuss Geisel—known globally as Dr. Seuss, the most famous children’s author in the world—comes to market as one of La Jolla’s most storied residential offerings. Today, the property is widely regarded as one of the best view lots in all of Southern California, celebrated for its extraordinary elevation and sweeping coastal vistas. Originally designed in 1950 by master architect Thomas L. Shepherd, the estate was thoughtfully built around a pre-existing Spanish Revival observation tower dating back to 1923–1924, created to showcase the site’s remarkable outlook. From this hillside retreat, Geisel wrote 42 of his 68 published works, with the tower and adjoining office and study standing as enduring symbols of the property’s creative legacy. Both the observation tower and the office/study have been formally recognized for designation under the City of San Diego’s Historical Resource Board Criterion B and must remain. Extensively renovated while preserving its historic core, the 5,000+ square-foot estate sits on approximately 1.51 acres and includes a separate pool house, all positioned to capture breathtaking ocean, coastline, and sunset views. Located moments from the La Jolla Country Club, La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club, and the shops and dining of La Jolla Village, this is a truly rare opportunity where history, architecture, and setting converge. IMPORTANT NOTE: For all developers or potential buyers out there who are looking to do a lot split, tear down or complete renovation, the office and observation tower must remain.
Property Details
Public Facts
- Property Type
- Single Family Residence
- Year Built
- 1950
- Lot Size
- 65,775.602 Sq. Ft.
Interior
- Total Bedrooms
- 4
- Total Bathrooms
- 4 (4 Full, 0 Half)
Exterior & Parking
No exterior & parking available.
Utilities & Misc
- HOA Fee
- $0 / Month
Neighborhood Insights
La Jolla Unified Schools
La Jolla Elementary School
Grades K-5 • 0.7 mi
Muirlands Middle School
Grades 6-8 • 0.9 mi
La Jolla High School
Grades 9-12 • 1.0 mi
Sensitive Facilities
No sensitive facilities data found.
Neighborhood Comparison
| Feature | Subject | Average Home | Neighborhood Ranking (50 Listings) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beds | 4.0 | 4.0 | 50% |
| Baths | 4.0 | 3.0 | 53% |
| Square foot | 5,004 | 2,691 | 92% |
| Lot Size | 65,775.602 | 8,000 | 97% |
| Price | $9.95M | $3.57M | 93% |
| Price per sq ft | $2.0K | $1.3K | 92% |
| Built year | 1950 | 1976 | 8% |
| HOA | $0 | $0 | 50% |
| Days on market | 40 | 156 | 10% |
Pricing History
Listed for Sale
Jan 26, 2026
$9,950,000
Initial Listing












