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.
Property Details
Price:
$5,900,000
MLS #:
ML82037953
Status:
Active
Beds:
8
Baths:
6
Type:
Single Family
Subtype:
Single Family Residence
Neighborhood:
699notdefined
Listed Date:
Mar 10, 2026
Finished Sq Ft:
5,949
Lot Size:
148,975 sqft / 3.42 acres (approx)
Year Built:
1886
See this Listing
Schools
School District:
Other
Interior
Bathrooms
5 Full Bathrooms, 1 Half Bathroom
Cooling
NO
Flooring
TILE, WOOD, CARP
Heating
RA, WL
Exterior
Common Walls
NCW
Garage Spaces
3
Parking Spots
3
Parking Total
3
Roof
CMP
View
BA, CI, OC
Financial
Map
Community
- Address535 Highland AV Santa Cruz CA
- CitySanta Cruz
- CountySanta Cruz
- Zip Code95060
Subdivisions in Santa Cruz
Market Summary
Current real estate data for Single Family in Santa Cruz as of Apr 21, 2026
158
Single Family Listed
90
Avg DOM
1,037
Avg $ / SqFt
$1,934,200
Avg List Price
Property Summary
- 535 Highland AV Santa Cruz CA is a Single Family for sale in Santa Cruz, CA, 95060. It is listed for $5,900,000 and features 8 beds, 6 baths, and has approximately 5,949 square feet of living space, and was originally constructed in 1886. The current price per square foot is $992. The average price per square foot for Single Family listings in Santa Cruz is $1,037. The average listing price for Single Family in Santa Cruz is $1,934,200.
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535 Highland AV
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