I came with my son and college friend and here three kids for a week around Spring Break (kids ages 10-16). Beach access was perfect, including a warm outdoor shower and hose for getting the sand off. We enjoyed Belmont Park and many walkable attractions and restaurants. Loved the trivia night at Guava Beach Bar just around the corner and a fancy night out for the moms at JRDN restaurant (try the lobster roll!). And pasta and Pizza at Luigi's down by Belmont Park was GREAT - get the in house made Portuguese sausage pasta dish! Of course we went to Legoland, San Diego Zoo, the Safari Park (book an extra safari adventure ahead of time, worth it), Old Town, and used both cars and public transportation easily. There's no need for a car to enjoy the neighborhood or to get downtown, but it was a easy drive with little traffic to get most places. The Go City pass was a great investment too.
House itself was as pictured - comfortable, great separation of space, nice balconies and outdoor space, three bathrooms and room to sleep 7-8 comfortably. TVs in every room and a gas fireplace. Lots of room for everyone. Stairs are steep but we had no problems with anything in the house - well cared for vacation home with lots of beach equipment in the garage including 4 boogie boards!
Only complaint was loud weekend neighbors (in violation of noise ordinance) but the rental agency was very responsive and can't be responsible for spring break antics - just bring your earplugs if it's a big party weekend! And every other night was quiet and the boardwalk was fun and felt safe.