
La Jolla, California 92037
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.
Property is move-in ready.
This historic estate is move-in ready and has been extensively renovated while preserving its 1950s core and 1920s tower. While the interior styling in the office and study—specifically the cabinetry and carpeting—reflects a renovation likely completed 10 to 15 years ago rather than a brand-new modern update, the property is exceptionally well-maintained. The architectural integrity, high-end finishes like wood-beamed ceilings, and pristine exterior grounds justify a 'good' rating.
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.
Elementary School: La Jolla Elementary School (9/10).
As the former residence of Theodor Seuss Geisel (Dr. Seuss), this estate offers unparalleled cultural significance and a unique creative legacy that adds immense prestige and value.
The historical designation of the observation tower and office requires they remain intact, which limits flexibility for developers or buyers seeking a total site redevelopment or lot split.
The sale is conducted via a sealed bid process through the University of California, which involves more rigid deadlines and administrative requirements than a traditional residential transaction.
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.
No exterior & parking available.
Grades K-5 • 0.7 mi
Grades 6-8 • 0.9 mi
Grades 9-12 • 1.0 mi
No sensitive facilities data found.
| Feature | Subject | Average Home | Neighborhood Ranking (50 Listings) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beds | 4.0 | 4.0 | 50% |
| Baths | 4.0 | 3.0 | 52% |
| Square foot | 5,004 | 2,722.5 | 91% |
| Lot Size | 65,775.602 | 7,581.5 | 97% |
| Price | $9.95M | $3.55M | 96% |
| Price per sq ft | $2.0K | $1.3K | 92% |
| Built year | 1950 | 1977 | 9% |
| HOA | $0 | $0 | 50% |
| Days on market | 86 | 161 | 27% |
Jan 26, 2026
$9,950,000
Initial Listing