The nightlife in SAN is good,there are at least two british pubs to chose from should you get homesick (shakespears,the princess,with the former being best).Many drinking establishments in which to throw your money away ranging in quality from salubrious and boring to spit and sawdust but fun (such as the waterfront bar).
Not too much in the way of cheap rentals though,you may have to live a little ways out and petrol in CA is the most expensive in the US.Would have to agree with you about FL being rubbish,have you considered the Pacific NW? Cheaper living and good flying up north,easy to get laid up there too so it might just suit you as the best overall fit.
Best of Luck.