There's more than a dash of drama at this oceanfront home with its dark mahogany brick and forest green exterior. Outside it makes a bold statement sitting next to white-washed beach houses, and inside you'll find that things stay just as beguiling. It feels like a cosy log cabin lost in the wilderness, with warm wood panelling, roaring log fires and draped blankets - so much so that you'll probably do a double take when you see that glorious ocean view. But you are right on Windansea Beach. In fact, it's set so close to sand that the grains will brush your cheek in the slightest breeze. And it's at dusk on the terrace is when this home comes into its own. After you've spent a day surfing or kayaking through the La Jolla caves, there's nothing better than listening to the sound of the lapping waves with lanterns swaying in the trees above, or lazily sipping a cocktail in the swing chair.

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