Dr. Seuss’ historic estate in La Jolla hits the market via sealed bid

Perched high above the Pacific, where ocean and sky converge in an uninterrupted sweep of blue, this extraordinary La Jolla estate stands as one of the most commanding view properties in all of Southern California. More than a residence, it is a cultural landmark — once home to Theodor Seuss Geisel, known worldwide as Dr. Seuss — and a place where imagination, history, and natural beauty align in rare harmony.

From its elevated vantage point, the estate offers panoramic views that feel almost otherworldly. Ocean, coastline, and sunset vistas unfold from nearly every room, creating the sensation of living above the clouds. This elevation was no coincidence; it was the very reason the site was chosen nearly a century ago.

Long before the main residence was built, a Spanish Revival-style observation tower rose here in 1923-1924, constructed by the original developers of La Jolla Country Club Heights to showcase the area’s “magnificent vistas.” That tower later captured the imagination of Ted and Helen Geisel, who in 1948 sought a place “high up, overlooking everything.” They purchased the surrounding acreage and commissioned architect Thomas L. Shepherd — one of San Diego’s most respected designers — to create a home that would thoughtfully wrap around the existing structure. Completed in 1950, the residence was designed to embrace light, views, and possibility, with the observation tower serving as its architectural and emotional heart.

Within the tower and adjoining office and study, Ted Geisel created the majority of his life’s work. Of his 68 published titles, 42 were written while living on this property — stories that shaped generations and became part of the cultural fabric of childhood worldwide. These spaces remain the most historically intact portions of the estate and have been recognized under the City of San Diego’s Historical Resource Board Criterion B for their association with Geisel’s life and legacy. As such, the observation tower and office/study must remain, preserving the creative spirit that once filled them.

Set on approximately 1.51 acres, the estate spans more than 5,000 square feet and is predominantly single-level, save for the iconic tower. It offers four-plus bedrooms, expansive living areas, and a seamless indoor-outdoor connection, all oriented to capture the sweeping views that define the property. Extensive renovations in 1992 and 2008 introduced modern livability while respecting the home’s historic core. A separate pool house — expanded during the 2008 update — provides additional space for guests, recreation, or retreat, all with the same breathtaking outlook. Widely regarded as one of the finest view lots in San Diego, the property’s soul remains unchanged: elevated, inspiring, and utterly singular.

Located in the prestigious La Jolla Country Club neighborhood, the estate offers rare privacy alongside close proximity to the La Jolla Country Club, La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club, and the dining, shopping, and cultural offerings of La Jolla Village. Its connection to Geisel’s legacy continues through nearby UC San Diego, home to the renowned Geisel Library.

Opportunities to steward a property of this caliber — where provenance, place, and perspective converge — are exceedingly rare. This is not simply a home to be owned, but a legacy to be carried forward. High above it all, where the past quietly informs the present, this estate represents La Jolla living at its most meaningful.

This historic La Jolla estate is being offered via Sealed Bid Sale, with bids due no later than 5pm PST on April 15, 2026, and delivered to:

The Regents of the University of California
Real Estate Services & Strategies
1111 Franklin Street, 7th Floor
Oakland, CA 94607-5200
Attention: Julie Wong

Important note: For developers or buyers considering a lot split, teardown, or major renovation, the office and observation tower must remain.

For additional information or to receive a bid package, please contact:
The Jason Barry Team at 858.756.4024, info@barryestates.com.