Billionaire Darwin Deason Lists His $108 Million Cliffside Mansion in La Jolla After $60 Million Renovation
A one-of-a-kind luxury estate in La Jolla, California, has hit the market for a staggering $108 million, potentially setting a new real estate record for San Diego County. Dubbed “The Sandcastle,” this opulent cliffside mansion belongs to billionaire Darwin Deason, founder of Affiliated Computer Services, which he sold to Xerox for over $6 billion. A Dallas-based entrepreneur and political donor, Deason has spent over a decade meticulously constructing and renovating this extraordinary property.
A Grand Estate with Stunning Features Perched above La Jolla Bay, The Sandcastle spans an impressive 13,000 square feet, featuring 10 bedrooms, 17 bathrooms, and an array of high-end amenities that give it the feel of a private resort. After purchasing the estate in 2009 for $18.15 million, Deason invested another $60 million in renovations. One of the most remarkable aspects of the property is its private beach, complete with imported sand from the exclusive Augusta National Golf Club—an incredibly rare feature in California beachfront homes.
Inspired by the Grandeur of Versailles Designed to reflect the opulence of the Palace of Versailles, the estate boasts exquisite details such as gold-leafed ceilings, crystal chandeliers, and hand-carved stone columns. World-renowned designer Timothy Corrigan blended European sophistication with modern luxury, creating an atmosphere that is both lavish and inviting.
A Decade-Long Transformation Originally built in 2005 by developer Doug Manchester, the home caught Deason’s attention for its breathtaking ocean views. He then embarked on a years-long renovation, drawing inspiration from iconic French landmarks like Versailles and the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in Antibes. Every element of the home was carefully curated, from bespoke chandeliers to the Thassos-tiled saltwater pool.
Unparalleled Luxury and Amenities Set on 0.82 acres, the estate is designed for both comfort and exclusivity. The main house features a grand living room with towering arched windows, a dining room designed for hosting up to 16 guests, and a wraparound terrace offering sweeping ocean views. The property also includes two cabanas, a beachfront boathouse with a kitchenette, a fitness center, and a richly paneled office. One of its most exclusive features is the elevated private beach, making it one of the few La Jolla homes with direct beach access.
The guesthouse, inspired by the Petit Trianon at Versailles, includes hand-painted sea imagery and 18th-century sculptures, adding to the estate’s European charm. The grounds also feature extensive terraces and patios, an elevator, a spa, a firepit, a boat bar, and numerous private spaces to enjoy stunning ocean sunsets.
A Rare Opportunity in Luxury Real Estate The Sandcastle is a standout property in the La Jolla real estate market. According to listing agents Brett Dickinson and Ross Clark of Compass, this isn’t just a home—it’s a masterpiece of architecture and design, offering an unparalleled oceanfront lifestyle. Deason’s decision to sell comes as he shifts his focus to other residences, including homes in Dallas and Cabo San Lucas.
If sold at its asking price, the estate would shatter San Diego County’s current real estate record of $44 million, set earlier in 2024 when billionaire Egon Durban purchased an oceanfront property in Del Mar. With its combination of rare beach access, European-inspired elegance, and meticulous craftsmanship, The Sandcastle is expected to remain one of the most coveted homes on the West Coast.
About Darwin Deason Billionaire Darwin Deason is best known as the founder of Affiliated Computer Services (ACS), which he sold to Xerox for more than $6 billion in 2009. A major Republican political donor and business leader, Deason owns several high-end properties, including The Sandcastle. His passion for luxury and fine craftsmanship is reflected in this magnificent estate, which stands as a testament to his taste for exclusivity and grandeur.
