Hi DR
I did my PPL and 2 summers worth of hour building at AAA (hence my user name, as they're based at Gillespie field).
I thoroughly enjoyed myself and I'm sure you will too. As for the flying, well, you have a bit of everything there...hot and high, deserts, ocean, busy LA airspace for RT experience and some of the most spectacular sunsets you ever going to see.
It's an extremely friendly school (British run), with good instructors. Had a few problems with A/C going tech when I was there but what school doesn't have such problems. I found that Chris Whatson (the owner of the school) will bend over backwards to get you in the air. Just read how that sounds and I can assure you he's not that way inclined!
San Diego is probably the most beautiful city in the States, and if you ask me, AAA is the place to fly from.
Good luck.