Imagine stepping back in time to the golden age of Hollywood, where larger-than-life stars like Bette Davis ruled the silver screen. Bette Davis, with her fierce eyes and unforgettable roles in films like All About Eve and Whatever Happened to Baby Jane?, wasn’t just an actress—she was a force of nature. She won two Academy Awards and became a symbol of strong, independent women in the film industry. But beyond the spotlight, Davis craved a private escape, and that’s where the Bette Davis house in Laguna Beach comes into play.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ruth Elizabeth “Bette” Davis |
| Birth Date | April 5, 1908 |
| Death Date | October 6, 1989 |
| Profession | Actress (Film, Television, Theater) |
| Career Highlights | – First person with 10 Academy Award nominations for acting |
| – Two-time Academy Award Best Actress winner (Dangerous, Jezebel) | |
| – First woman to receive American Film Institute Lifetime Achievement Award (1977) | |
| – Known for playing strong, unsympathetic characters | |
| Major Films | Of Human Bondage, Dangerous, Jezebel, Dark Victory, Now, Voyager, All About Eve |
| Marriages | Married four times |
| Children | Three children |
| Net Worth | Estimated around $10 million (historical estimation, varies by source) |
| Current Residence | Deceased (1989); previously lived in an oceanfront estate in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, sold in 2025 |
Laguna Beach, the dreamy coastal gem in Southern California, has long attracted celebrities seeking solace from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. Think of it as a haven where the ocean meets artistry, with stunning homes perched on cliffs overlooking the Pacific. Celebrity homes here aren’t just buildings; they’re pieces of history that whisper stories of glamour and intrigue. They draw fans, historians, and even real estate enthusiasts like you, who appreciate how architecture and decor can capture a personality.
Who is Bette Davis?
Bette Davis, born Ruth Elizabeth Davis on 5 April 1908 – 6 October 1989, was an American actress renowned for her intense and forceful performances in film, television, and theater. She was famous for playing complex, often unsympathetic characters and excelled in various genres, especially romantic dramas. Davis won two Academy Awards for Best Actress, was the first person to receive 10 Academy Award nominations for acting, and the first woman to get a Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Film Institute. She starred in over 100 films during a career spanning more than 60 years and was ranked second on the American Film Institute’s list of the greatest female stars of classic Hollywood cinema.
Davis was also notable for her pioneering roles off-screen, including co-founding the Hollywood Canteen and serving as the first female president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Her career, marked by both success and personal sacrifices, left a lasting legacy in Hollywood.
History of the Bette Davis House, Laguna Beach
The story of the Bette Davis house in Laguna Beach starts long before the actress ever set foot there. Picture the Roaring Twenties, a time when Laguna Beach was evolving from a quiet artists’ colony into a sought-after retreat. The house, originally known as “The Crest,” sprang up in 1927, designed by architect Aubrey St. Clair. Builders crafted it with the era’s flair for Spanish Revival style, using local materials like stucco and tile to blend seamlessly with the rugged coastline.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 55 Zeb Cove Road, Cape Elizabeth, Maine |
| Property Size | Nearly 8 acres of land with approximately 1,200 feet of Atlantic Ocean shoreline |
| Main House Size | 7,600 square feet |
| Architecture Style | Shingle style farmhouse, typical of coastal Maine with classic, timeless charm |
| Bedrooms and Bathrooms | 5 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms in the main house |
| Additional Structures | 2,000 square foot guesthouse/carriage house with 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, kitchen, and ocean-facing balcony |
| Interior Features | Custom millwork, hardwood floors, fireplaces, cherry-paneled study, fireside breakfast nook |
| Exterior Features | Covered porches, bluestone terrace, balconies with ocean views, octagonal cupola with 360-degree views |
| Landscape and Setting | Well-maintained fields and gardens, pink granite coastline, large pond used for ice skating or hockey |
| Historical Significance | Home of Bette Davis and Gary Merrill during the 1950s; named “Witch Way” by the couple |
| Notable History | Merrill lobstered from the backyard and hosted hockey matches on the property; Davis and Merrill lived there until 1960 divorce |
| Market Value (2025) | Listed at $15 million, recently sold for $13.4 million |
Construction wasn’t just about throwing up walls—it was about creating a sanctuary. Workers hauled in red clay tiles for the roof and carved wooden beams for the ceilings, all while ensuring the home blended seamlessly with the cliffside to capture those breathtaking ocean views. Back then, Laguna Beach was booming with creatives, and this house became a symbol of that artistic vibe.
Fast forward to 1945, when Bette Davis scooped up the property. Why? Well, Davis was at the peak of her career, but she was also dealing with personal turmoil, including a rocky divorce. She needed a hideaway, and Laguna Beach offered just that—privacy without isolation. She paid around $25,000 for it, a steal by today’s standards, and turned it into her personal oasis. As a real estate agent, you know how location and timing can make a deal magical; this was Davis’s perfect match.
Davis didn’t just live there; she poured her soul into the place. The house played a starring role in her life, hosting quiet retreats where she rehearsed lines or escaped the paparazzi. During her later years, it became a refuge amid health struggles and career shifts. One key moment? In the 1950s, Davis entertained fellow stars, such as Joan Crawford (ironically, given their famous feud), in the living room, transforming the space into a hub for Hollywood gossip.
Architecturally, the house boasted unique features from the start. Think arched doorways, wrought-iron details, and expansive patios that invited the sea breeze in. Davis added her touch, like custom furnishings that echoed her dramatic personality—bold colors and vintage pieces that screamed old Hollywood. Compared to the minimalist trends today, this was all about warmth and character.
The house also witnessed poignant events. In 1989, Davis passed away, but not before leaving her mark. Neighbors recall her strolling the gardens, cigarette in hand, plotting her next move. For fans, it’s more than bricks and mortar; it’s a chapter in cinema history.
As we unpack this, think about your own interest in home decor. Elements like those arched windows could inspire a Mediterranean makeover on your website, homeimprovementcast.co.uk. Have you ever renovated a space with historical vibes? The Bette Davis house in Laguna Beach showcases how personal history can elevate a home.
Origins and Construction Details
Let’s break down the beginnings. Aubrey St. Clair, inspired by Spanish missions, designed the house with a focus on natural light and flow. Builders used local stone for the foundation, ensuring it withstood coastal winds.
Bette Davis’s Purchase and Personal Touches
Davis bought it post-World War II, drawn by its seclusion. She renovated subtly, adding a sunroom for reading scripts.
Key Events and Cultural Role
From star-studded parties to quiet reflections, the house hosted it all. It even appeared in fan lore as a “haunted” spot due to Davis’s intense aura.
Architectural and Design Highlights
Now, let’s delve into the heart of what makes the Bette Davis house in Laguna Beach so captivating—its architecture and design. This isn’t a cookie-cutter mansion; it’s a masterpiece that blends Spanish Revival with personal flair. The exterior greets you with white stucco walls, a red-tiled roof, and balconies that jut out like they’re reaching for the sea. At approximately 3,000 square feet, it’s cozy yet grand, with multiple levels that follow the contour of the cliff.
Step inside, and you’re hit with timeless elements. The floors feature a mix of hardwood and tile, creating a warm and inviting base. High-beamed ceilings add drama, much like Davis herself. She favored vintage touches—think ornate chandeliers and plush velvet sofas that scream 1940s glamour.
One standout is the living room. It’s spacious, with a massive fireplace as the centerpiece, perfect for cozy evenings. Davis reportedly spent hours here, entertaining or unwinding. The bedroom? A serene retreat with ocean-view windows that let in that golden California light. And don’t forget the garden—lush with native plants, it feels like an extension of the indoors.
How does this reflect Davis’s personality? Bold and unapologetic. She chose deep reds and golds, mirroring her fiery roles. As a home decor enthusiast, you might love how she mixed patterns without overwhelming the space. It’s a lesson in balance for your clients browsing homeimprovementcast.co.uk.
Compared to other celebrity homes in Laguna Beach, like those owned by Humphrey Bogart or modern stars, this one stands out for its authenticity. No flashy additions—just elegant simplicity.
Exterior Architecture Breakdown
The facade features curved arches and ironwork that nod to Spanish influences. Balconies offer panoramic views, making every sunset a show.
Interior Design Elements
Rooms boast custom millwork and antique furniture. Davis added personal artifacts, such as movie memorabilia, to create a lived-in feel.
Unique Rooms and Spaces
- Living Room: Fireplace-dominant, with seating for intimate gatherings.
- Bedroom Suite: Private with en-suite bath and cliff views.
- Garden Patio: Outdoor living at its best, ideal for al fresco dining.
Comparison to Other Homes
Unlike sleek modern pads, this house prioritizes character over minimalism.
Here’s a quick table to visualize the design highlights:
Room/Area Key Features: How It Reflects Davis’s Style
Living Room Stone fireplace, beamed ceilings, Bold and dramatic, for entertaining
Master Bedroom : Large windows, vintage bedding, Serene escape, personal sanctuary
Garden: Native plants, stone paths, Natural, reflective of her retreats
Balconies, Wrought-iron rails, ocean views, Adventurous, embracing the coast
Location and Surroundings in Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach isn’t just a backdrop for the Bette Davis house, Laguna Beach—it’s the co-star. This coastal city in Orange County, California, draws people with its artsy vibe and stunning scenery. Miles of sandy beaches, hidden coves, and hiking trails make it a paradise for nature lovers and creatives alike.
The stunning house sits in the upscale North Laguna neighborhood, perched on a cliff with unbeatable privacy. Imagine waking up to waves crashing below—no wonder Davis chose it. The views? Endless Pacific Ocean panoramas, dotted with sailboats and sunsets that paint the sky orange.
Surrounding natural beauty amps up the appeal. Nearby beaches, such as Crescent Bay, offer crystal-clear waters, while the cliffs provide dramatic backdrops. Gardens around the property burst with succulents and wildflowers, blending artificial elegance with the Natural World.
Culturally, Laguna Beach thrives with galleries, festivals, and a bohemian community. It’s influenced lifestyles for decades—Davis found inspiration here for her art collection. As a real estate agent, you know that location sells; this spot’s mix of seclusion and accessibility is a goldmine.
How did it shape Davis? The tranquility fueled her creativity, which was a welcome respite from Hollywood’s chaos. You, reader, might visit and feel that same pull—perfect for brainstorming decor ideas.
Overview of Laguna Beach
A haven for artists since the early 1900s, it’s now a mix of luxury and laid-back charm.
Neighborhood and Views
North Laguna offers quiet streets and elite neighbors, with the house’s elevation ensuring privacy.
Natural and Cultural Surroundings
Beaches, cliffs, and events like the Pageant of the Masters add layers of appeal.
The Legacy of the Bette Davis House, Laguna Beach
The Bette Davis house in Laguna Beach didn’t fade after Davis’s time—it’s a living legacy. Preservation efforts were initiated after her death, with restorations preserving the original Spanish Revival charm. Owners have updated plumbing and wiring without losing the vintage soul.
Currently, it’s privately owned, not a museum, but it’s earned historical status through local designations. This protects it from drastic changes, honoring its cultural weight.
For fans and historians, it’s a pilgrimage site. Stories abound—like neighbors spotting Davis gardening or fans leaving tributes. One anecdote: A visitor in the 1990s claimed to feel her “presence” in the halls.
Its impact? It inspires movie lovers to delve into Hollywood’s rich history. No public tours are available, but events occasionally open doors. As a decor fan, imagine adapting its timeless style to modern homes on your site.
Preservation Efforts
Restorations utilize period-accurate materials to preserve authenticity.
Current Status and Ownership
Private hands ensure it’s loved, with occasional media spotlights.
Cultural Impact and Stories
Fans share tales of ghostly vibes, tying into Davis’s mystique.
Here’s a numbered list of ways the house influences today:
- Inspires real estate trends in vintage revivals.
- Attracts film buffs for historical tours.
- Boosts Laguna’s tourism economy.
- Serves as a model for sustainable preservation.
Visiting Information and Insider Tips
Curious about visiting the Bette Davis house in Laguna Beach? Sadly, it’s not open to the public—it’s a private residence. But you can admire it from afar via scenic drives or nearby viewpoints. Special events, like historical society walks, sometimes offer glimpses.
For insider tips, time your visit to coincide with summer festivals when the area comes alive. Photography? Use a zoom lens from public spots to capture those cliffs without intruding.
Nearby attractions include Heisler Park, perfect for picnics, and the Laguna Art Museum. Stay at spots like the Surf & Sand Resort, and dine on fresh seafood at local gems.
Where Does Bette Davis Currently Live?
She lived during the 1950s in an 8-acre oceanfront estate in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, nicknamed “Witch Way,” where she raised her family with her then-husband, Gary Merrill. However, she sold the property after their divorce in the 1960s. The estate was recently sold again in 2025, but is no longer associated with her residence. Davis lived in many homes during her life, including a notable home in Laguna Beach, California, but she has been deceased for decades.
