While we think that Coronado merits a week long vacation on it’s own, many travelers only have a day to dedicate to the Crown City. If you fit that category, here are the must hits.
Getting to the Island can be an adventure in and of itself. And you have two great scenic options to choose from.
Driving
If you are driving, taking the bridge is fantastic because you get to enjoy great views of the city and bay. A special treat for your passengers, have them try to spot the Hotel Del Coronado from the bridge. Even if you can’t see the hotel, the drive over offers a great bird’s eye view of Coronado, hinting at Point Loma in the distance.
By Boat
Feel the wind in your hair and breath in the fresh salty air with the nostalgic 15-minute ride across the bay to Coronado on the Coronado Ferry. The ferry now offers two San Diego boarding locations, one from the Broadway Pier (990 N. Harbor Drive San Diego Ca 92101) and the other from the Convention Center Marina (600 Convention Way, San Diego Ca 92101).
* Local’s Tip: For a special treat, plan your travel back after sunset. The bay lights up with reflections of the city, giving you a stunning view of the San Diego skyline after dark.
Ferry’s Landing
If you travel to Coronado by boat, then you are already in place to take advantage of Ferry’s Landing. Sitting right on the bay with breathtaking views of San Diego, the landing offers a variety of activities for everyone. You can rent bikes, have lunch or dinner, fish off the dock, shop in its many shops or watch the waves roll in while dipping your toes in the water.
Beach
Coronado consistently takes the title for the “best beach of the United States,” so it’s a must hit. This golden stretch connects with the Pacific Ocean and the public beach stretches for a good mile. All year round you will find people enjoying the sunny, soft-sanded beach. If you’re looking for a day of leisure or maybe a morning run that can challenge even the fittest athletes, Coronado Beach is the perfect place to do so.
Take a Tour of the Hotel Del Coronado
This iconic landmark was built in 1887, earning the designation of a National Historic Landmark in 1877. The tour, hosted by the Coronado Visitor Center, will take guests on a walking tour through the historic building, delving into the rich history of the now living legend.
Walk Around Orange Ave
Whether you want to shop for clothes, Coronado memorabilia, flowers or knick-knacks, you can find it all here along Orange Avenue. If you don’t have the opportunity to leisurely stroll through the enchanting and architecturally stunning neighborhoods, start on the corner of Eight and Orange.
Coronado is sure to enchant visitors, and if you are like most people, you will never want to leave. Should you decide to make Coronado your next destination, you can find affordable lodging just blocks away from the major attractions at the Coronado Inn. For more activities on the island, check out our complete activity guide here.
Share on Twitter Share on Facebook
