Best of 2003: Best Hometown Family Resort

Hilton San Diego Resort
1775 East Mission Bay Drive, Mission Bay
619-276-4010

San Diego residents with kids and extra bucks can make the Hilton their hometown resort. Membership in the tennis club costs a one-time fee of $1000 plus $97 per month. Membership includes unlimited use of the courts, gym, pools, and spa, discounts at Hilton hotels, restaurants, and bars, as well as a monthly "Pelican Press" newsletter which details the calendar of family events and activities. Kids have their own lap pool and hot tubs that aren't too hot. Parents can enjoy a quiet afternoon after dropping off the kids at the Pelican Kids Klub for arts and crafts, a video arcade, ping-pong, and water basketball. All can attend the Friday Night "Dive-In Movie" -- watching popular films from the comfort of the pool or an enormous deck of chaise lounges. Water bikes and boats are available for rent, and families can gather for the Hilton's barbecues on the beach, complete with s'mores.