In the early 1950s, while stationed at Fort Ord in Central California, Clint Eastwood frequently visited Carmel-by-the-Sea and even enjoyed his first legal beer at the historic Mission Ranch. The San Francisco native quickly developed a deep affection for the coastal town, stating in a local magazine interview before his 94th birthday in May that he “always felt it was a place I’d like to come back to, a place to call home.”
Eastwood indeed made Carmel his home and left a significant impact. The acclaimed actor, producer, director, and composer—known for films such as Gran Torino, Unforgiven, and Million Dollar Baby—made his directorial debut with Play Misty for Me in 1971. He also served as Carmel-by-the-Sea’s mayor in the late ’80s and named his production company, Malpaso, after a local creek.
Eastwood currently resides in Tehàma, a private 2,000-acre residential area in Carmel’s hills that he founded. Previously, he lived in a distinctive property in the heart of the village, just a street away from Carmel Beach. This seaside retreat has now been listed for sale at $21 million for the first time in nearly 30 years, offering stunning coastal views.
Listing agent Tim Allen of Coldwell Banker Realty highlights the property’s historical charm, saying it reflects Carmel’s old-world style and elegance. “The warm and inviting spaces, both inside and outside, take you back in time and are reflective of Carmel’s old-world style and beauty. This private oasis is truly a special property not only because of its history but also for its exquisiteness and privacy.”
The Wall Street Journal reports that retired investor Frederick O’Such and his late wife Joanne acquired the property from an Eastwood-linked trust for around $2.25 million in the late ’90s. Situated on just over a quarter-acre, the home features four bedrooms and five bathrooms in over 4,400 square feet of living space spread across three levels. The house, built in 1924 and known as Las Ondas, underwent a $2.5 million renovation during O’Such’s ownership, highlighting its Carmel stone and terracotta roof.
The property includes an enclosed entry courtyard with a fire pit, ocean-view decks, and a gated walkway leading to the beach. Notable features are the formal living and dining rooms with their own fireplaces, a media room, a climate-controlled wine room, and two laundry rooms. The Craftsman-style kitchen boasts wood and tile countertops, a painted tin ceiling, Thermador and Sub-Zero appliances, built-in seating, and a walk-in pantry. The luxury primary suites include one with a fireside seating area that opens to a private balcony and a bathroom with dual vanities, a steam shower, and a vintage clawfoot tub.
O’Such is selling the home following the recent death of his wife Nancy Fuhrman and plans to move to a nearby retirement community. “This has been a lovely house for me with both of [my wives],” he said. “It is time for the next owner to enjoy this historic home and share it with their friends and family for years to come.”
