Can't think of anything other than Huntington for what you describe. As I return over the years I am amazed how the property is still in pretty good shape. Spa facilities included with the resort fee. Slide Waters, small dual water slide on the property, perfect for the a little one and is open till 5:00 depending on the season, I think. Nice RC. South Coast Plaza and Fashion Island are only 15-20 minutes away. It's a bit of drive to do anything up in Los Angeles or Universal Studios. Disneyland is at least a 30 minute drive so not as good if you plan to go back and forth between that park and hotel several times a day. Don't know anything about Aviara, certainly looks nice, but I think that's more if you want to be near San Diego.