I was fairly close to San Diego the only time I've been in California, but I haven't been to any of the beaches there. There are a lot of beaches around where I live on the other side of the country, but they are always crowded, with heavy traffic, too few parking spots, etc.
There are some really beautiful smaller beaches that are more isolated around my area that are ideal for an awesome beach home. There may not be anything like those beaches in California, I don't know.
Love your entry! There's a very beautiful home in your plans!