Can anyone tell me how the Carlsbad Beach is for our 2 boys? I easily made reservations for July right on the beach there or would Mission Beach or Coronado be better?

Jennifer - you may want to consider amending your post i.e. how old are your boys and what are you looking for in a beach area? What is your price range for accomodations?

My boys are 10 and 4 and just want to have a nice, clean, sandy beach. We would prefer to pay less than $200 a night. Thanks

I live in San Diego. My first choice would be the Hotel Del Coronado. It has one of the widest beaches right out the door. It is also a very interesting place. However it may be a bit too pricey. I would check it out.

I would NOT recommend Mission Beach, especially with younger children. The Mission Beach area is more of a hangout for teenagers and is a little seedy.

The Carlsbad beach is fine and definitely preferable to Mission Beach. You can also visit Lego Land in Carlsbad.

Another option is La Jolla Shores. It is a nice wide beach and popular with families. There is a park there. The Sea Lodge is oceanfront and may be within your price range. You will also be much closer to downtown San Diego (than from Carlsbad) which offers you a wide variety of activities.

The Sea Lodge at La Jolla Shores is a good choice. It is one of the very few hotels that is literally on the beach. They also have a very fine restaurant. It is not a luxury hotel and should fall within your budget.