Went to Island Vista last spring - we are going back this spring!
We loved it. Practically have the beach to yourself, its surrounded by residential area. A quick walk through resididences a couple of blocks to business 17 and there is everything you need: grocery store, pharmacy, banks and Kirks Ice Cream! The hotel is rather nice, but not in a way you have to worry about - kids are very welcome and our's loved the pool area. One elevator bank - but they are very fast! One thing we didn't like: the on sight restaurant is a little stuffy I thought (might be good, i dont know) and they didn't have an on site store. So, bring snacks and stuff for your sudden hunger moments. They do have a pool side bar that you can order food from around lunch time though. The rooms are great, really great. We loved it.