On show through walls of windows, the sea is a huge presence at this family-run hotel on the cliffs above a surfers' beach. 'The location is stunning', says a reader. 'The views as the sun sets are magical.' Built in 1959 in the California Modern style, it has breezy, Scandi-inspired decor. The 'smart and clean' bedrooms have been recently refurbished. Some overlook countryside, but most have Atlantic views. Doubles have a bath and walk-in shower or double monsoon shower, an Italian espresso machine. 'Apartments' have a king-size bed, a separate bunk room, living area and patio or Juliet balcony. Activities include everything from painting classes to open-air theatre; there is also a spa and art gallery. Outside, there is a sun terrace, play area, pods, hammocks, a hot tub. In the Wild Café you can eat a bakery breakfast (cooked items extra), salads and sandwiches (roasts on Sunday), and dinner à la carte – maybe mussels, confit duck, or a burger. In The Herring, short carnivore and vegan menus start with small plates for sharing – because it's a sharing sort of place. (See also sister hotel The Scarlet.)