I am looking for small, cottage-type accomodation in the San Diego area for me and my 7-year-old daughter in April. Does anyone know about Ocean Beach Cottages on Brighton Ave. or Las Fuentes on San Diego Ave. in Old Town? The on-line photos look great, but I'd like more info. Other suggestions warmly welcomed!

Janice,
I don't remember seeing either of those properties, but the areas are quite different. Ocean Beach has a hippie, grunge-type atmosphere. There are some cute shops and restaurants along the main drag and the beach is decent. I lived in OB for a few years and loved it, but with the increasing numbers of homeless in the area, I don't really know if it's the best place for you and your daughter.

Old Town is fun. There is a lot to see and some great restaurants. I'm not sure where this is located on San Diego Ave. If it's near the busy part of Old Town I would say it's probably fine.

One other suggestion I can offer is the Crystal Pier Cottages in Pacific Beach. These unique cottages are on the pier with the waves going underneath. The pier is open in the daytime, but at night you have to be a guest to get on the area with the cottages, so it's pretty safe. The beach there is good and it's a great base to go see area attractions.

Have fun.

I'd have to second the recommendation for the Crystal Pier Cottages. I think your daughter would enjoy being so close to the beach and it's fun to be able to hear the waves hitting underneath.

Thanks, I checked out the Crystal Pier. Looks great but is all booked of course. Other suggestions, anyone? Even outside San Diego?

If you can't find "cottage" type of lodging, try the Pacific Terrace. Outdoor heated pool, right on the ocean. We stayed there in October with two 9 year olds, and they loved the heated pool.