Three 30-something couples (no kids) are looking for a beach house to rent for a long weekend. We'd like something bwtwn San Diego and Carlsbad but don't know the personalities of the towns that dot the coast. Any suggestions on an area that has clean, mellow beaches (preferrably w/good surfing and a town that's not too touristy but might have some good restaurants? Preferably, an area that features houses rather than condos...

You cannot go wrong anywhere along the coast.It all dpends on what you can afford. Del Mar and La Jolla are going to be out of most people's price range. I think Solona Beach, Leucadia, Carlsbad, and Encinitis would be the areas to look at. Check out surfline.com for the surfcams for the area especially Swami's which usually picks up winter north swells pretty well. You might also check in the area just north of La Jolla by Wind N Sea. It's tough to pack a lot of camping gear unless you're driving, but there is a California State Park just north of Swami's (San Elijo?). A little cold, but nothing beats sleeping to the sound of surf just down the cliff. Not quite 5 star but great location. You'll probably end up surfing nearby anyhow.

oops, Wind N Sea is just south of La Jolla, not north

From what you wrote, I would focus on the Solana Beach area which is just north of Del Mar. Actually, Del Mar has some great beach houses on a great beach but if you are going to be there in season, it will be touristy. Solana Beach is more laid back. The more north you go, the more condo you get. I stayed at the San Elijo Campground last year and while you do get the surf, you also get lots of RVs, fences, and the train that runs next door at about midnight.

Oceanside is a small town which is mostly a support place for Camp Pendleton and residence of retired military. Go farther south.

There is a beach house in Dana Point for rent for $1250 a week and it looks really cute. In your search engine - type in Dana Point and go to the Chamber of Commerce weblink and its on that page. September is a great time to come and you must go to Dizz's in Laguna Beach for dinner - outstanding food, not too pricey, lots of ambience!