Take a Photo Tour of the Most Stunning Home on Ventnor’s Beach

A beachfront mansion at 114 S. Princeton Avenue in Ventnor with 125 feet of boardwalk frontage is on the market for $15.5 million.

Ventnor Beachfront Mansion Has a Long History

The mansion was given to the Catholic Archdiocese of Philadelphia in 1963 and renamed Villa St. Joseph by the Sea. The home was used by retired priests as a summer vacation retreat house.

Neighborhood residents have memories of seeing priests rocking in deck chairs outside the grand oceanfront home.

In 2011, with the diocese facing a $17 million operating deficit and owing millions more in clergy sex abuse rulings, a decision was made to close Villa St. Joseph. The estate was sold at auction.

According to Philly.com, the vacation property cost the church nearly $115,000 in property taxes. Its sale to a Newtown Square family for $4.125 helped ease the $6 million deficit the church has recently accumulated.

The property has been on sale for over two years, with the price remaining at $15,500,000.

The Beachfront Home has 16 Bedrooms and 17 Bathrooms

As you look at the photos of the mansion (below), you will see that its amenities are still in line with its time as a retreat house.

According to the real estate listing, there is a two-story primary suite, complete with spectacular ocean views, and three additional private en-suite bedroom suites, each with its own living areas, state-of-the-art kitchens, and accompanying baths.

All told, this remarkable retreat includes 16 bedrooms, 17 full bathrooms, four kitchens, an elevator, a gym, a bar, and a dining room table that comfortably holds 16 people.

Outside, you'll find a 52-foot pool and spa surrounded by lush landscaping and another fully equipped kitchen. The half-acre former Villa St. Joseph property spans a full beach block.

It would be a shame to see it happen, but it could be rezoned for up to six lots.