The Condo:
The condo includes 1050 square feet (98 square meters) of living space and three levels. The lower level contains the garage, laundry, and beach gear. The middle level contains a living room, dining room, kitchen and half bathroom. The living room includes a 52' HDTV with HD programming and HBO, DVD/CD player, secure wireless internet, and generous seating. The dining room table seats 8 people comfortably. The kitchen includes full-sized refrigerator, gas stove and oven, and dishwasher. All normal housewares are provided. The half bath contains a toilet and a pedestal sink. The top level features two bedrooms separated by a full bathroom with combination tub/shower. Bedroom #1 has a queen bed, extra-long twin bed, a large wardrobe and 3-drawer dresser. Bedroom #2 has a king bed, 6-drawer dresser and a large closet with a small rollaway bed. Sheets and comforters are provided. All beds are comfortable and have reading lights. Each bedroom has an alarm clock.
The Neighborhood:
Imperial Beach is a small, laid-back town of about 25,000 people and it's less busy than most beach areas in San Diego County. There are at least 8 restaurants within a 5-minute walk from the condo. There is a surprisingly well-stocked 7-11 convenience store and a taco shop about 100 yards away, and two coffee houses within 200 yards. There are many fine restaurants including several at the Hotel del Coronado, in the beautiful and very exclusive city of Coronado, located about 7 mile north of Imperial Beach along the 'Silver Strand' that separates the Pacific Ocean from San Diego Bay. The condo is located on Palm Avenue, which is a major street further to the east, but by the time it gets to the beach, it's a two-lane road. To get to the beach from the condo, it's a walk of about 200 yards crossing one street, Seacoast Drive, which is controlled by a three-way stop sign.
The Beach:
Imperial Beach has wide sandy beaches, all of which are publicly accessible. The U.S. Open Sandcastle Championships are held in Imperial Beach every July. The surf is excellent, the area just north of the Imperial Beach Pier and another area about 1 mile south are among the best surfing locations is Southern California. The City of Imperial Beach has been working to emphasize the surfing theme, and the plentiful public art reflects that. There are two beach-front public parks within walking distance of the condo, one at the foot of the Imperial Beach Pier. The pier is about 300 yards long and there's a restaurant at the end. Even at prime time on weekends. it's easy to find a place to set up at Imperial Beach. No alcohol is allowed at the beach or in the public parks and the public places are very family-friendly. Imperial Beach is not a 'party' area compared to other San Diego County beaches such as Mission Beach or Pacific Beach.
Other Activities:
deep-sea fishing, birdwatching, people watching
