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Sun-sational San Diego

Family Fun on the Run

By Kendeyl Johansen

Try this ultra family-friendly hotel for the ultimate in luxury. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and San Diego Bay, the hotel's 440 rooms offer dazzling water views and amenities including terry-cloth robes, chocolates and bubble bath. And restless kids will love zooming along the hotel's 15 acres of lush gardens and pathways.

Loews loves kids, and to prove it they offer activities like "dive-ins" where families watch movies on inflatable loungers in the pool. Other amenities include special menus in restaurants, whimsical camps, an impressive video-games library and more. Cribs and roll-aways are gratis, and kids under 18 stay free in their parents' room. The hotel is located at 4000 Coronodo Bay Road, Coronado. Contact them at 619-424-4000 or www.loewshotels.com.

Eating in public with twin toddlers can be challenging. That's why my family is extra choosy about where we dine. But with a little research, we found plenty of local kid-friendly eats. Below are our favorites.

Casa De Pic
Take a step back in time with Casa De Pico located in historic Old Town, a local's favorite for 30 years. My family dined in the courtyard, starting with Casa De Pico's zesty salsa and fresh-baked tortilla chips. The live Latin music and splashing fountains delighted my boys, so my husband and I could truly savor our entr褳. Don't miss the Tangy Guacamole Enchiladas and the Fish Taco Plate. Fabulosa! Casa De Pico is located at Bazaar Del Mundo in the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, 2754 Calhoun Street, San Diego. Call 619-296-3267.