A unique property in California, formerly a water tower, is now on the market.
This 87-foot tall building is considered one of the tallest standalone homes in the U.S. Originally built as a crucial stop for steam engines, it’s well-known locally and operates as a popular Airbnb.
This historical residence is located in a small gated community in Surfside, currently listed for $5.5 million, according to reports.
Approximately 2,828 square feet in size, the octagonal home has four bedrooms, four bathrooms, and offers stunning 360-degree views.
The Sandy Beach Tower came to be in the late 1800s to provide water for steam locomotives traveling from Santa Barbara to San Diego. Yet, by the 1970s, it had fallen into disrepair, covered in graffiti and infested with termites. The city of Seal Beach even voted to demolish the structure in 1980, but a local math professor intervened to save it. By 1985, the tower had been converted into a functioning home.
In 2022, it was sold to a historic preservationist for about $4.5 million. Today, it serves as a highly-rated Airbnb, with rates surpassing $5,000 for a five-night stay.
Spanning four stories, the home features an elevator connecting the first floor to the main living area, and a spiral staircase leading to the upper levels. Decorative elements on the first floor pay tribute to its past, including water features and vintage tools from the 1940s.
The upper levels are equipped with a modern kitchen and additional bedrooms, while the wraparound deck includes a live streaming surf cam. The home is beautifully adorned with whimsical touches—like model trains suspended in redwood rafters—and features creatively themed rooms, including pirate-inspired bedrooms.
Despite its unique charm, the Water Tower House also includes practical comforts, such as laundry facilities and garages, striking a balance between whimsy and functionality.
