[quote=investor]I can spend enough for a 2/2 or 3/2 in the areas above.[/quote]

Depending on how close to the beach and how nice, you might find prices more than you think.

[quote=investor]My wife and I like to be walking distance to the ocean, restaurants and a safe, safe area.[/quote]

I hate to rain on your parade, but I don’t think such a place exists. If you are walking distance to the ocean, and restaurants then the chances are good there is also a surprising amount of crime. (mostly petty crimes like breaking into cars, occasional burglary, small time drug dealing, drinking in public) But anywhere that’s walking distance to the beach will attract both homeless and small time hustlers.

Also, anywhere that is walking distance to the beach is going to be crowded and congested.

Worth noting, in general places that are walking distance to the beach are much more expensive than ones that you have to drive.

Each area that you mention has it’s ups and downs. For instance, freeway access from La Jolla is a real pain. If you’re close to a public beach access, be prepared for thousands of people parking in front of your house every summer weekend.

So, I think it depends on how much you really can spend, and what compromises you want to make.

But, as mentioned above, Del Mar’s a good place to start your search.