Surf’s up at SoCal’s famous beachfront resort, the historic Hotel del Coronado (aka “The Del”) in San Diego. From late May through September, kids ages 8 to 16 can catch righteous waves under the tutelage of the resort’s acclaimed Summer Surf Camp, led on-site by resident guru “Gnarly Neal.” During the four hour sessions (each limited to just 10 participants), the camp’s team of CPR-certified, skilled instructors hash out the basics per Neal’s “5 L’s” philosophy: “Learn to surf, learn about the ocean, learn about other people, learn safety, and learn to have fun!” Wetsuits and soft boards are provided, as is lunch, a T-shirt upon completion, and the chance to win a brand new surfboard at the end of the summer (Summer Surf Camp; Monday–Friday; 9am–1pm; $145 one day up to $385 for five days). Year-round, 90-minute lessons are also available for ages 6 and up, in groups ($90) or privately ($120). Other family-friendly activities include s’mores bonfires on the beach, scavenger hunts, sandcastle contests, luaus, and teen-tailored spa treatments. Kidtopia – a playtime facility for children ages 4 to 12 – opened in June 2009 and houses a performance space for talent shows, while a separate lounge offers video games, foosball, music, and computers for teens and tweens. Summer rates start from $375/night.

— Suzanne Steinert