535 Highland Avenue

Perched above Santa Cruz with sweeping ocean views, 535 Highland Avenue is the iconic Torchiana Estate, also known as Villa Fair View. Recognized with a Santa Cruz Historical Society plaque dating to 1886, this beautiful Victorian residence is a storied local landmark. A gated entry reveals ~3.42 acres of lush, park-like grounds surrounding the ~5,949 sq ft, 8-bedroom home. Inside, a checkerboard-tile entry introduces formal dining and living spaces, including a living room with an ornate carved fireplace and a cozy library. Douglas Fir floors, clawfoot bath tubs, stained glass window and countless charming details reflect the home's 19th-century origins. A thoughtful 2010 addition includes a private ~900 sq ft caretaker's unit, while the expansive primary suite offers two walk-in closets. Amenities include a pool, balcony, deck, 3-car garage, and a patio overlooking the entire bay. Historically associated with Dr. Henry A. van Coenen Torchiana, noted as the Consul General of the Netherlands, and later home to the Adrian Dominican Sisters, Villa Fair View is deeply woven into Santa Cruz history. From its elevated vantage point, the Pacific Ocean unfolds as a dramatic backdrop, offering stunning views and timeless character.

Days on Market

24 days

Current Status

Active

Original Price

$5,900,000

List Price

$5,900,000

On Market Date

Mar 10, 2026

Property Type

Single Family Home

Area

43 - West Santa Cruz

Zip Code

95060

MLS ID

ML82037953

APN

001-141-45-000

Year Built

1886

Stories in Building

Unavailable

Possession

Unavailable

Data Source

MLSL

Origin MLS System

MLSListings, Inc.

Bed

8

Bath

6 (5/1)

Parking

3

Detached Garage

SQ FT

5,949

SQ FT Source

Unavailable

Lot SQ FT

148,975.2

Lot Acres

3.42 Acres

Pool Info

Yes

Cooling

None

Dining Room

Eat in Kitchen, Formal Dining Room

Disclosures

Natural Hazard Disclosure

Family Room

Separate Family Room

Flooring

Carpet, Tile, Wood

Foundation

Concrete Perimeter, Raised, Other

Fire Place

Family Room, Living Room, Primary Bedroom, Other

Heating

Radiant, Wall Furnace, Other

Views

Bay, City Lights, Ocean

Fee

Unavailable

MLS and other Information regarding properties for sale as shown in Theo have been obtained from various sources such as sellers, public records, agents and other third parties. This information may relate to the condition of the property, permitted or unpermitted uses, zoning, square footage, lot size/acreage or other matters affecting value or desirability. Unless otherwise indicated in writing, neither brokers, agents nor Theo have verified, or will verify, such information. If any such information is important to buyer in determining whether to buy, the price to pay or intended use of the property, buyer is urged to conduct their own investigation with qualified professionals, satisfy themselves with respect to that information, and to rely solely on the results of that investigation.

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