Las Rocas Resort & Spa

A resort perched on the cliffs south of Rosarito, practically on top of the legendary K-38 surf break. Its strongest card is the view: every room faces the ocean and most have a private balcony, so you wake up and wind down with the Pacific right in front of you. With a spa, infinity-style pools on the cliff edge and on-site restaurants, it is the classic weekend escape for couples driving down from California.

Location defines it: it sits at km 38 of the old Tijuana-Ensenada free road, about 15-20 minutes south of downtown Rosarito, on the stretch of cliffs where northern Baja's most famous waves break. From the terrace you can watch surfers in the K-38 line-up without getting wet; if you surf, the break is literally steps away.

The complex mixes standard rooms with suites and villa-style units, all ocean-facing. The common areas are the real draw: two outdoor pools (one infinity-style melting into the horizon), hot tubs, a spa with a solid reputation for its massages, and oceanfront wedding venues that have made it an events classic. There is a restaurant and bar on site, breakfast is included with many rates, and WiFi and parking are free.

Honest note: it is an aging property and recent reviews are mixed on upkeep — some buildings and rooms need renovation, and the experience varies by section. Also, there is no sandy beach at the hotel: this is cliff-and-rock coastline, made for staring at the ocean rather than lying on the sand. For a towel-and-umbrella beach day you'll need to drive into town.

What it offers

• ◆Ocean views and balconies in the rooms
• ◆Two outdoor pools (one infinity) and clifftop hot tubs
• ◆Spa with massages and treatments
• ◆On-site restaurant and bar; breakfast included with many rates
• ◆Free WiFi and parking; oceanfront weddings

Great for

• ◆Romantic getaways with the ocean as backdrop
• ◆Watching (or surfing) K-38 from your door
• ◆Weddings and spa days over the Pacific