You are very welcome, Spartangirl!
My husband brought the camera along while we golfed, you know, to take pictures of us and the view...he later showed me the video he snuck of me (our digital camera does both) trying to actually hit that little white ball. Most women would have burned the entire camera, but it was so funny and I was SO not in my element that it is hysterical and it would be a shame to all things comedic if I destroyed it.
I am a Hojo's girl, but many dear friends swear by Candy Cane, so you are in good hands. Oh, and the parking for the golf at the Hyatt is free if you turn right as you enter the resort area. They even have spaces marked off for golfers next to the valet parking area.
SunDevilDaddy: I would pick Laguna Beach, right at the spot where their little boardwalk is, across from the downtown artsy area. I know it is a little North of Newport...but not only is the surf calmer, but because it is a busy spot for kids, they always have a lifeguard on duty every time I've been there. You can easily take your dad and the kids off to the left or right and be out of water traffic for their lessons. I learned at that age, so I bet they will cherish the memory! After the lessons, take them to the Candy Baron up the street! Fabulous candy choices!
As to traffic: I would simply avoid the freeways and shimmy over to Harbor Blvd and take it back to DL. Taking the freeway from Newport to DL is odd as it is, so at least you know you'll be on the straightest track. The 22 almost aways is on the evening traffic report, so I've avoid it like the plague. I would imagine if you get lucky with the lights, you should be back within a half-hour to 45 minutes.
