El Porto Whitewater

Few beach houses keep the Pacific this close while still offering room to breathe. Whitewater views stretch from Palos Verdes to Malibu across the great room and deck – a panorama that makes the private barbecue spot a natural landing place come sunset. Two blocks from the Strand, you can grab bicycles (or electric bikes, already provided) and ride the coastal path before the day has properly begun. The neighbourhood is just as easy on foot, with coffee, breakfast spots, and a deli all close by. A detached fourth bedroom with its own entrance is a quiet retreat for guests who want their own space.

Home truths:
* The accommodation here is set across the main house, which has three bedrooms, and a detached one-bedroom suite with a separate entrance.
* At full occupancy, two guests will sleep on the sofa bed in the fourth bedroom.
* This home is set over two floors, with all the bedrooms downstairs, so it might not be the best option for those with reduced mobility.
* Bedroom one has a single-over-double bunk bed that can sleep up to three people – we think it's best suited to children.
* The hill between the home and the beach is steep – typical for this part of Manhattan Beach, but worth bearing in mind if anyone in your group has mobility concerns.
* The garages on site are compact and best suited to smaller cars. If you're arriving in an SUV or a larger vehicle, you'll likely need to park on the street in front of the home.