HOW TO SPEND ONE DAY ON CORONADO ISLAND, SAN DIEGO

Last Updated on 9th July 2024 by Bejal

Located just across the water from the downtown district of San Diego and it’s high rise panorama, lies the ‘Emerald City’, a small man made island oasis of luxurious charm, Coronado Island. Perfect for a quintessential beach escape with all the small town laid back vibes, plus the glamour and glitz of the Island’s must visit iconic spot, Hotel Del Coronado. This guide arms you with everything you need to know about how to spend one day on Coronado Island,

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whether you plan to just hop over the waters or choose to base yourself here for a beachside vacation. We have covered the best way to arrive on the island as well as where to stay, activities to fill your time as well as where to eat and drink. Prepare to have a wonderful stay just a seven mile drive from Downtown San Diego. 

Oh and technically Coronado isn’t an island but more a peninsula, just off downtown San Diego!

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How To Get To Coronado Island?

There are two main ways to get across to Coronado:

• Car I Drive across from Downtown San Diego via the Coronado Bay Bridge, down the Silver Strand. It’s a quick drive with great views and perfect if you are visiting the surrounding areas and have hired a car for ease.

• Ferry I Our personal favourite route to Coronado and the one we’ve take a couple of times ourself and we fully recommend to take the Coronado ferry. 

The Coronado Ferry

Taking the Coronado Ferry is most definitely the most scenic way to travel across the water with some fantastic views of the Downtown San Diego sky scape. The ferry can be taken from the San Diego waterfront, either from the Broadway Pier, close to the USS Midway Museum or the Convention Centre Pier, which is a few minutes walk from the San Diego Convention Centre.

• Broadway Pier I Map Location
• Convention Centre (Fifth Avenue Landing) I Map Location

Be-lavie Tip: If you’re an early bird like us, you can get the Commuter ferry from Broadway Pier, up until 08:30 and it’s complimentary. You’ll be given a commuter return ticket , which you can use on your way back on the same day at any time. 

If you want to head to Coronado Island a little later, then the ferry costs $8 one way and is free for under four year olds. It takes about 15 minutes to cross over to Coronado.

For detailed information, schedules and water experiences, head to Flagship San Diego.

For things to do on your one day in Coronado, make your way up Orange street to cross over to the other side of the island but do checkout the Landing Pier and the shops in the area.

When is The Best Time to Visit Coronado Island?

March through to May is a great time to visit Coronado. The rainy season comes to an end in April making May a good time to visit. Spring attracts many visitors for the Coronado Flower Show, which in turn makes local hotel availability less attractive with sparing prices. Coronado’s summer season from June to August is pretty busy with crowds flocking to the island. The coldest month is December, and where as Fall is a great option to visit, the beach may be a no go, due to the cold and wind from the Pacific coast. December through to March is winter season and very quiet but great to visit minus the crowds, if you don’t mind giving the beach a miss.

The Main Places to Hang Out In Coronado

There are two main points to hang out or what we’d call the main spots for activities: They are located at either side of the island sandwiched by residential areas in between,

The Coronado Ferry Landing 

If you take the ferry across to the island, this is where you will alight. Around the landing area, there are a number of shops, restaurants, coffee shops, Centennial Park and some knockout views across to Downtown San Diego. 

Coronado Beach

This area is located just in front of the Hotel Del Coronado, and has the accolade of winning the title of being in Tripadvisor’s Top ten beaches in the United States. When you visit  it’s easy to see why, with its glorious long stretch of golden sand.

The Coronado ferry  landing and Coronado beach are linked by the island’s main street, Orange Avenue. The street is lined with lovely boutique shops, restaurants, houses and there’s even a theatre. If you carry on up Orange Avenue it becomes Silver Strand and here is where you can get some fabulous views out to Mexico.

Things to Do in One Day on Coronado Island

If you have only one day on Coronado island, depending upon your interests and how you wish to spend your day, pick some of the fun yet relaxed activities we’ve suggested.

#1 Spend Time Relaxing on Coronado Beach 

There is nothing better than spending some beach time on the long stretches of golden sand beaches on Coronado. 

Central Beach is a pristine beach located to the west of Hotel del Coronado. It’s spacious and never been crowded on any of our visits. 

Map Location I Coronado Beach 

#2 Visit The Hotel del Coronado

You cannot visit Coronado, without visiting ‘The Del’ as referred to by the locals. It’s also called ‘Baby Village’ with its 700 plus room, luxury suites and various room options with access to the beach. This has to be one of the best things to do on the island and has a lot of history attached to it. The hotel was built in 1888 and given National Historic Landmark status in 1977. It’s no wonder that it has seen an exquisite A list of celebs like Charlie Chaplin, public figures, high brow celebrities as well as U.S presidents such as Franklin Roosevelt and Charles Lindberg.

Of course, the hotel is well known for the 1958 movie, ‘Some like it Hot’ when the cast including Marilyn Monroe filmed at the hotel and stayed in the rooms. There are timelines and photos of some of the filming of the movie dotted around the hotel so keep your eyes peeled for this.

The hotel is associated with several hauntings, one a lady who checked in under a fake name and a few days later was foudn dead. Although marked as suicide, the verdict is referred to be sceptical by many. Guests staying in the same particular room have been known to experience paranormal activities at The Dell. In 1992, the hotel even conducted a 12 month long investigation with a paranormal to learn more.

The good news is you don’t have to be staying here to pay the main parts of Hotel del Coronado a visit. You are free to explore the grounds, walk through the lobby and stunning garden courtyard located in the centre of the hotel, which is surrounded by rooms. Additionally, there are so many lovely boutique style high end shops surrounding the hotel which are great to explore.

Be-lavie Tip: Note the store which sells ‘Top Gun’ merchandise from the original 1986 movie as many scenes were filmed on Coronado Island.

If money is no option, book that romantic stay here, you will not be disappointed I’m sure! You can also have a drink or try some food at the eateries in the hotel, overlooking the gorgeous beach. 

There are a number of places you can eat at The Hotel Dell but we loved

• The Sun Deck – which is very casual and on the beach and serves smaller plates great for lunch or cocktails.

• Babcock – This historic fancy bar which laso has the original bar area of the hotel.
• Taco Shack -cocktails and tacos are served at this casual fun beach side place which is also great for kids.

It’s also possible to rent beach chairs at the Hotel Del or get a day pass to use the their beach area with chairs for around $50 per adult. We didn;t do this but spent our time on the beach.

Map Location I Hotel del Coronado

Be-lavie Tip: There is a historic house in Coronado that looks very much like  the Hotel Del. The locals call it “Baby Del”. It’s one of San Diego’s most historic landmarks, located at 1144 Isabella Avenue.

#3 Walk down Orange Avenue

This is Coronado’s main street and where a lot of the action takes place. It’s another must visit on the island and perfect for shopping. There are a great range of clothes boutiques, bookstores, souvenir shops, home decor and curios. It’s a good opportunity to support small local independent stores. If you’re a bookworm, head to Bay Books or Seaside Papery for a wide selection of beautiful paper and notebooks.

Map Location I Orange Avenue 

#4 Rent a Bike and Cycle around the island

The easiest way to get around the island by far is to rent a bike. The island is only around 1.5 miles long and although it’s not possible to cycle on Orange Avenue, there are 15 miles of cycle paths along the ocean. 

You could probably cycle around the whole of Coronado in around 90 minutes or so. If you’re looking to rent a bike, you can do so at the Hotel Del, Ferry Landing Market place or at Wheel Fun Rentals which is actually pretty close to Hotel Del. Wheel Fun rentals have a great assortment of bike hire including, surrey bikes, deuce coupe bikes, electric bikes, beach cruiser bikes, tandem bikes, as well as children’s bikes. Fun Rentals can also advise you on cycle routes around the island.

. Map Location I Wheel fun Rentals

#5 Visit The Ferry Landing Marketplace

As mentioned previously, there are around 20 shops, restaurants and galleries in this area and visitors can choose to walk or cycle along the shore path at Tidelands Park to enjoy the Downtown Skyline views of San Diego. The park has parking as well as restrooms and a picnic area.

At the Ferry Landing, you can also just relax and watch the boats sail by for some chilled out time or why not grab a coffee at Coronado Coffee, a fab coffee shop, grab a bench and take in the skyline views here.

Map Locations I Ferry Landing. Tidelands Park & Coronado Coffee Company

#6 Take A Gondola Ride

The Gondola Company, offers Venetian style Gondola cruises throughout the day at sunset and even after dark and it’s a very relaxing way to enjoy the views from the water. Generally the cruises are based on two people (perfect for couples or take your bestie) but for a great value for money option, you can always pair up with another couple and spread the cost.  Packages start at around $120 per couple, so it is a bit of splashout,

You will be taken through the small canals and waterways of the Coronado Cays. If you fancy a more romantic cruise or are planning a proposal, you can upgrade your experience by hiring a mandolin player. 

Unfortunately we ran out of time to do the cruise but relied on fellow travellers opinions, who all said they loved it. Guess you’ll have to go to find out for yourself!

• Map Location I Gondola Cruise Company
• Find out More I Website

#7 Checkout The Sandcastle Man

Just opposite the Hotel del Coronado, on the beach, you cannot miss, The Sandcastle man. His creations are fantastic and everyday there’s a new one, with captions. The sandcastles even mark prominent days in the calendar such as Earth Day or even the Lunar Eclipse.

Bill Pavlacka aka The Sand castle Man also is available for lessons so if like him you want to take sandcastle building seriously, you can learn from the best!

Website I The Sandcastle Man

#8 Take A Picnic to Centennial Park

Located just at the end of Orange Avenue are the beautiful lawns of Centennial Park. Overlooking the bay and with a great view of the Downtown San Diego district, this is a great spot to enjoy a picnic. As it’s very close to the  Ferry landing shops, you can buy yourself a little take out picnic to enjoy at this spot.

Be-lavie Tip: The sunset views over San Diego and the skyline views here are great, so stay until the sun goes down if you can.

Map Location I Centennial Park

#9 Head To Spreckles Park

Located right on Orange Avenue and a great green space again to enjoy a picnic or have some time away from the beach. On Sundays in the summertime, they have live concerts here which are completely free to the public to enjoy. We’re talking full on bands playing a wonderful line up of musical ensembles every Sunday from May to September. It’s one of Coronado’s most notable events and it’s easy to understand why.

Map Location I Spreckles Park

#10 Stock Up at the Tuesday Farmer’s Market

If you happen to be on Coronado on a Tuesday, then be sure to stop by the Coronado farmer’s Market at Ferry landing. It will be stocked full of produce from many of the local farms and delicious little bites you can use to fancy up a picnic for lunch.

This market in Coronado is actually one of San Diego’s longest standing market full of certified organic growers too.

• Location I 1201 1st St, Coronado, CA 92118
• Details I Tuesdays 14:30-18:00 at Coronado Ferry Landing at the Compass.

#11 Head to the Museum for a History Lesson

To learn more about how Coronado became the island it is today then head to the Coronado Museum by the Coronado Historical Association. It’s also a great rainy afternoon activity. Be wowed by the beginnings of Coronado and it’s rule under the Spanish flag to the experiments growing barley plus its whaling industry and also how it became an American military town. 

• Street Location I 1100 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118 I Tel. +1 619 435 7242 I Website https://coronadohistory.org/
• Map Location: Coronado Museum

#12 Take The Ferry Ride From Downtown San Diego

We’ve talked about this previously but, it has to be  a must in our opinion and the 15-20 minute ride to explore Coronado is the best way to travel. It’s hassle free and the views are stunning over to Downtown San Diego as well as a panoramic of Coronado as the ferry pulls in.

Details I Everything you need to know about the ferry including schedule.

#13 Take a Historic Walking Tour

If you really would like to get to know Coronado, up close and personal, why not take a historical walking tour that shows you all the highlights of the island and some hidden gems. Usually headed by a local, this small group tour is also perfect for those pushed for time but don’t want to compromise on the details.

Tap below to learn more about this Coronado Highlights Small Group Walking Tour from San Diego. It’s 2.5 hours long and includes transport from San Diego so it’s perfect for those on a tight schedule.

#14 Take The San Diego Hop on Old Trolley from San Diego to Coronado

The hop on, hop off trolley stops near Hotel del Coronado and is a fun way to see many other places like Balboa Park, Old Town San Diego, Little Italy and Downtown San Diego with a trolley pass. The fact that it comes out to Coronado is perfect if you haven’t hired a car or get sea sick on ferries.

Tap below to see the Trolley route and book. it’s possible to visit more than a 100 points of interest with a pass valid for one to two days.

Where to Stay on Coronado 

For a small island Coronado has  a great range of hotels, just like mainland San Diego with it’s boutique hotels, and guest houses to choose from to suit couples, families and solo travellers. Here are a few of our recommendations

We didn’t stay at a hotel on Coronado, however we did throughly research them when looking for where to stay in San Diego. They were also recommended to us by friends who live in the city. The below is from our research.

// Related Article: The best quirky boutique hotels in San Diego

Hotel del Coronado (Luxury)

The most famous hotel in San Diego, The Hotel Del Coronado is a historic beachfront hotel oozing with charm. 

An island Constitution and made famous by the 1958 movie, Some like it hot starring Marilyn Monroe, this is a hotel with oodles of charm and impeccable service. It has around 774 rooms scattered in the form of village and Cabana format to mention a few. Originally opened in 1888, the hotel will see it’s final restoration project come to an end in early 2025. 

This hotel is perfect for special occasions, and definitely great for a one off splurge whilst on the island to experience The Dell ambience and walk in the footsteps of movie legends who have stayed here.

• Location I 1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118  I Tel. +1 619 435 6611
• Map I Location: 
• Details I Check in: 16:00 Check Out: 11:00 
• Breakfast I Yes – available at The Sheerwater Restaurant from 07:30 each morning. 
• Family Friendly I Yes, connecting rooms are available on request.
• Dog Friendly I Yes, there is a non refundable pet charge of $125 to cover deep cleaning costs after every pet departure.
• Parking I Yes. Overnight Parking – Self-parking in the North Parking Garage is $55 per night, per vehicle. Valet Parking is $75 per night, per vehicle.

1906 Lodge Coronado (Mid-Range)

If it’s a beach hotel with quiet, calm romantic vibes you’re looking for, 1906 Lodge Coronado is the best choice for you. It has been beautifully restored and has been on Coronado Island for over a century. 

It’s just a block away from the main shops of Orange Avenue, restaurants and galleries and a short walk away from the beach and the world renown Hotel del Coronado.

1906 Lodge Coronado is more along the European boutique system of only having 17 guest rooms, with each being individually designed. There are seven room categories including Historic lodge King room but we love the idea of the Grand King Spa rooms as they have a spacious living area and a spa bath. 

Some lovely things that the hotel does is loan guests bicycles, beach chairs, bags as well as umbrellas incase of the odd shower. 

There is a complimentary happy hour as well as filtered water, coffee, and tea available throughout the day.

We LOVE that again another feature of European style boutique hotels, the breakfast is complimentary with stays. It’s a daily buffet style set up and bottomless mimosas are served from 08:00-09:30. We also heard every afternoon, there are freshly baked biscuits for guests. There is no restaurant but, there’s  a great choice of local places located a block away.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by 1906 Lodge (@1906lodge)

• Location I 1060 Adella Ave, Coronado, CA 92118   I Tel. +1 619 4371 900
• Map I Location
• Details I Check in: 15:00 Check Out: 11:00.
• Breakfast I Yes, complimentary breakfast daily with bottomless Mimosas.

• Family Friendly I Yes, Suites are large enough for small families.
• Dog Friendly I Yes, An advance dog reservation is required prior to your trip, with a refundable fee.
• Parking I Yes. Parking is complimentary throughout your stay.

Hotel Marisol Coronado (Good Value)

Hotel Marisol is another Coronado gem that oozes true boutique hotel style and the most personalised service you’ll encounter when it comes to this genre of hotels in San Diego. This family owned and managed hotel is tucked away down a quite street but within great proximity to walk to shops, restaurants and points of interest in La Jolla. 

The exterior of Hotel Marisol is bright and airy with a Spanish flair. There are only 15 guest rooms here ranging from, four Junior Suites, nine Deluxe King Rooms, two Queen Rooms (including an ADA accessible room). They are all decorated in a fresh white and light grey palette with colour splashes in the form of soft furnishings. 

This hotel is a perfect retreat style hotel for couples. It’s possible to loan bicycles, beach chairs and beach towels and all rooms have in room fridges with chilled bottled waters. There is also a private secluded courtyard to relax in. Complimentary WIFI is available throughout the property.

There is no onsite restaurant but access to restaurants is within walking distance. There’s free public parking on the street as well as on other locations close by.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Hotel Marisol Coronado (@hotelmarisolcoronado)

• Location I 1017 Park Pl, Coronado, CA 92118 I Tel. +1 619 3654 677.
• Map I Location.
• Details I Check in: 15:00 Check Out: 11:00.
• Breakfast I Yes, served daily from 07:00 -10:00. No hot food items included.
• Family Friendly I Yes but better for couples than a family with young children.
• Dog Friendly I No pets are allowed.
• Parking I free public parking on the street as well as on other locations close by.

The Best Restaurants In Coronado

After all the exploring and walking on Coronado, you are sure to need some food and whether its breakfast, brunch, snacks, a good coffee or a lovely lunch and dinner, we’ve got you covered! As with the other areas of San Diego, Coronado is no exceptiion when it comes to food – it has a various range of coffee and breakfast spots as well as a bunch of eateries which are vegetarian-friendly.

//Related Articles:

• Great breakfast and coffee places in San Diego 
• The best Vegetarian-Friendly Food in San Diego

Better Buzz Coffee

If you fancy a fun coffee shop vibe, then head to Better Buzz coffee. They do some great coffees and teas, the lavender tea latte is delicious. They also do a great selection of healthy yoghurt bowls with granola as well as cakes and pastries.

• Map Location & Details I Better Buzz Coffee 
• Price Range I $
• Reviews I See what fellow diners are saying

Parakeet Cafe

If you love healthy smoothies and immune boosters plus fresh colourful burritos and wraps then Parakeet Cafe is for you. Decorated in bright colours to match the food, this causal spot is great for a breakfast wrap, or pit stop. We love the  breakfast spinach wrap with scrambled eggs, avocado, veggies and slaw accompanied by a superfood smoothie.

• Map Location & Details I Parakeet Cafe
• Price Range I $/$$
• Reviews I See what fellow diners are saying

The Henry 

Very friendly restaurant which does fantastic brunch, coffee, lunch or dinner. The cinnamon French toast is delicious. The decor is bright and airy and it’s always busy which is testament to its quality of American food on the menu.

• Map Location & details I The Henry
• Price Range I $$
• Reviews I See what fellow diners are saying

Miquels Cocina

A busy bustling Mexican restaurant, part of a small chain that serves Margaritas and Californian inspired Mexican cuisine. It a lovely friendly casual atmosphere and perfect for a lunch or early dinner.

• Map Location & Details I Miquels Cocina
• Price Range I $$
• Reviews I See what fellow diners are saying

Buona Forchetta   

A casual Italian restaurant serving fresh pasta and traditional Neapolitan pizza, plus a big range of wine and cocktails to accompany the delicious carbs!

• Map Location & Details I Buona Forchetta   

• Price Range I $$
• Reviews I See what fellow diners are saying

Serea

A beach view restaurant located at The Hotel del Coronado, that serves up Mediterranean as well as Portuguese inspired small plates and mains. If like us you like patatas bravas, this is your place on the island.

• Map Location & Details I Searea
• Price Range I $$$
• Reviews I See what fellow diners are saying

Where to Stay on Coronado 

For a small island Coronado has  a great range of hotels, just like mainland San Diego with it’s boutique hotels, and guest houses to choose from to suit couples, families and solo travellers. Here are a few of our recommendations

We didn’t stay at a hotel on Coronado, however we did throughly research them when looking for where to stay in San Diego. They were also recommended to us by friends who live in the city. The below is from our research.

// Related Article: The best quirky boutique hotels in San Diego

Hotel del Coronado (Luxury)

The most famous hotel in San Diego, The Hotel Del Coronado is a historic beachfront hotel oozing with charm. 

An island Constitution and made famous by the 1958 movie, Some like it hot starring Marilyn Monroe, this is a hotel with oodles of charm and impeccable service. It has around 774 rooms scattered in the form of village and Cabana format to mention a few. Originally opened in 1888, the hotel will see it’s final restoration project come to an end in early 2025. 

This hotel is perfect for special occasions, and definitely great for a one off splurge whilst on the island to experience The Dell ambience and walk in the footsteps of movie legends who have stayed here.

• Location I 1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118  I Tel. +1 619 435 6611
• Map I Location: 
• Details I Check in: 16:00 Check Out: 11:00 
• Breakfast I Yes – available at The Sheerwater Restaurant from 07:30 each morning. 
• Family Friendly I Yes, connecting rooms are available on request.
• Dog Friendly I Yes, there is a non refundable pet charge of $125 to cover deep cleaning costs after every pet departure.
• Parking I Yes. Overnight Parking – Self-parking in the North Parking Garage is $55 per night, per vehicle. Valet Parking is $75 per night, per vehicle.

1906 Lodge Coronado (Mid-Range)

If it’s a beach hotel with quiet, calm romantic vibes you’re looking for, 1906 Lodge Coronado is the best choice for you. It has been beautifully restored and has been on Coronado Island for over a century. 

It’s just a block away from the main shops of Orange Avenue, restaurants and galleries and a short walk away from the beach and the world renown Hotel del Coronado.

1906 Lodge Coronado is more along the European boutique system of only having 17 guest rooms, with each being individually designed. There are seven room categories including Historic lodge King room but we love the idea of the Grand King Spa rooms as they have a spacious living area and a spa bath. 

Some lovely things that the hotel does is loan guests bicycles, beach chairs, bags as well as umbrellas incase of the odd shower. 

There is a complimentary happy hour as well as filtered water, coffee, and tea available throughout the day.

We LOVE that again another feature of European style boutique hotels, the breakfast is complimentary with stays. It’s a daily buffet style set up and bottomless mimosas are served from 08:00-09:30. We also heard every afternoon, there are freshly baked biscuits for guests. There is no restaurant but, there’s  a great choice of local places located a block away.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by 1906 Lodge (@1906lodge)

• Location I 1060 Adella Ave, Coronado, CA 92118   I Tel. +1 619 4371 900
• Map I Location
• Details I Check in: 15:00 Check Out: 11:00.
• Breakfast I Yes, complimentary breakfast daily with bottomless Mimosas.

• Family Friendly I Yes, Suites are large enough for small families.
• Dog Friendly I Yes, An advance dog reservation is required prior to your trip, with a refundable fee.
• Parking I Yes. Parking is complimentary throughout your stay.

Hotel Marisol Coronado (Good Value)

Hotel Marisol is another Coronado gem that oozes true boutique hotel style and the most personalised service you’ll encounter when it comes to this genre of hotels in San Diego. This family owned and managed hotel is tucked away down a quite street but within great proximity to walk to shops, restaurants and points of interest in La Jolla. 

The exterior of Hotel Marisol is bright and airy with a Spanish flair. There are only 15 guest rooms here ranging from, four Junior Suites, nine Deluxe King Rooms, two Queen Rooms (including an ADA accessible room). They are all decorated in a fresh white and light grey palette with colour splashes in the form of soft furnishings. 

This hotel is a perfect retreat style hotel for couples. It’s possible to loan bicycles, beach chairs and beach towels and all rooms have in room fridges with chilled bottled waters. There is also a private secluded courtyard to relax in. Complimentary WIFI is available throughout the property.

There is no onsite restaurant but access to restaurants is within walking distance. There’s free public parking on the street as well as on other locations close by.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Hotel Marisol Coronado (@hotelmarisolcoronado)

• Location I 1017 Park Pl, Coronado, CA 92118 I Tel. +1 619 3654 677.
• Map I Location.
• Details I Check in: 15:00 Check Out: 11:00.
• Breakfast I Yes, served daily from 07:00 -10:00. No hot food items included.
• Family Friendly I Yes but better for couples than a family with young children.
• Dog Friendly I No pets are allowed.
• Parking I free public parking on the street as well as on other locations close by.

Helpful Information

• Alcohol is NOT allowed to be consumed on beaches
• Beaches on Coronado have a 23:00 curfew so make sure you leave before that time.
• We had no idea that the whole of Coronado including its streets, alleys, pavements, and parking lots are smoke free.
• Windsor Cottage was once the Coronado home of socialite, Wallis Simpson (the lady Prince Edward abdicated England’s throne for). Windsor Cottage is now the social hub of the Hotel Del Club, deemed an exclusive venue for members and VIP guests.
• There is a dog friendly beach at the North end of the island, just West of central beach. Map Location: Coronado Dog Beach.

The Best Photography Locations on Coronado

If you’re planning to capture some lovely images on the island, we’d recommend early morning or golden hour as a great time to avoid light bleaching. Many areas will be quieter and therefore less crowded. Here are a few locations we think make memorable photo spots if you like shooting instagram style content.

• Hotel del Coronado // Find it here
• Coronado Beach // Find it here
• Sunset at Centennial Park // Find it here
• Coronado Bridge Viewpoint // Find it here
• Ferry landing Pier // Find it here
• Parakeet Cafe // Find it here
• In front of mansions on the island (be respectful of residents) // Find it here
• On a Gondola cruise // Find it here

Why Coronado Is So Well Known

. As mentioned previously, Hollywood history was made, when in 1958, The Hotel del Coronado became the filming location for ‘Some Like it Hot’. Marilyn Monroe and the whole crew stayed at the hotel whilst they shot the film.. Guests can look through the history exhibits of the hotel and photographs downstairs near many of the shops in the hotel. Lots of Marilyn Monroe souvenirs are available to buy in the shops in the hotel too.

The Emerald City in ‘The Wizard of Oz’ was said to be inspired by Coronado. Author L Frank Baum, who rented a house in Coronado between 1904 and 1910 and during the summers he wrote three of the Oz series of books here.

Much of Top Gun (1986) and Top Gun Maverick (2022) starring Tom Cruise was filmed in the North Island Coronado Naval base, which is inaccessible to the public but can be seen blocked off if you happen to be walking around the island.

Image Courtesy: Hidden San Diego

Unfortunatel we didnt get a chance to head to Coronado Library where they have the first edition of the Wizard of Oz books. You can also drop by the house that L Frank Baum stayed in when he was in Coronado. It’s a cute yellow residence at 11 Star Park Circle. Try and spot the wicked witch above the door. The house is now privately owned so be respectful during your visit.

More Than One Day on Coronado Island?

If you have more than one day on Coronado Island you are very lucky. We would recommend slowing things down significantly and allocating a full day on the beach to soak up the sun, relax and enjoy the sea air. 

A sample 2-3 day itinerary

• Day 1 I Have a beach day, enjoy a late brunch, watch the sunset and head for dinner at one of the glorious eateries suggested in this guide.
• Day 2 I Hire a bike or walk around the island to learn a bit more about the culture at the museum and head to different neighbourhood. Spend time in the parks and open spaces. Enjoy the surrounding views, go for coffees, try local restaurants, hit the shops to support local.
• Day 3 I Another day in Coronado is a privilege. Why not discover a more wider San Diego and take the trolley or simply fill with more of your favourite activities from the things to do list above.

FAQs About Spending One Day on Coronado Island

#1 Why do people visit Coronado Island?

You may be surprised to know that tourists don’t come to Coronado for the Naval Air Station, the U.S Navy SEALS centre or the Frank Baum’s Oz House, Wallis Simpsons house or the Hotel Del. It’s actually for the white sandy beaches, included in the America’s top 10 beaches and the laid back vibes plus the downtown San Diego views.

#2 Is Coronado Island Worth Visiting?

Yes, hopefully this article has helped answer that question. If you love a relaxed, slow, beach town vibe where time almost stands still, Coronado island is for you. Think balmy days in the beach, beautiful waterside hotels, stunning views of downtown San Diego, delicious restaurants and history.

#3 What is special about Coronado Beach?

This mile and a half stretch of golden sand contains tiny pieces of mica which makes it sparkle in the sun. The beach itself, even in the height of summer weekends never gets too busy, you’ll always be able to find a little spot to call yours. It’s also a great beach for families and is supervised by lifeguards.

#4 Do I need a car to visit Coronado?

No you don’t. Infact, Coronado is very walkable. You can make your way to Coronado via the ferry from Downtown San Diego or get an Uber over the Coronado Bridge.

If you walk from one end of the island to the other from the Ferry landing terminal, it should take around 40 minutes just make sure you walk via Orange Avenue, the main street on Coronado.

Many of the things to do in Coronado are located at each end of the island sandwiched by a residential section, we walked but if you’re short of time, it’s possible to grab an Uber.

The use of bikes is encouraged on Coronado and you can always get the Old Town Trolley from San Diego if you’re short of time and exploring the tops sights of the city.

#5 Is Coronado Island budget-friendly?

Before visiting, we heard Coronado was quite pricey however, yes it cna be very budget-friedly. You can actually get a commuter ferry from Downtown San Diego that leaves at the latest time of 08:30 am and you will be issued with a special ticket which is complementary and you can return at any time before the route closes for the day.

#7 What can Culture Vultures Do on Coronado?

As well as visiting the Hotel del Coronado, it’s possible to take a walking tour of the island, head to the Coronado Museum to learn more about the heritage of the island. This includes from when it was under Spanish rule, right up to present day. The Coronado Historical Association on Orange Avenue also hosts heritage walks that dive into the island’s history.

#8 Can non-guests go inside Hotel del Coronado?

Yes. The public are able to access the shops, lobby, spa, restaurants, and some onsite activities. It’s even possible to rent lounge chairs at Del Beach and have food and beverages delivered to you as you relax by the beach.

It is possible to take a formal tour of the hotel for an additional fee. A member of the hotel team will take you through the history, hauntings and lots of facts over the time it has been in business. The Ice House Museum at The Del is free to visit and also paints a great history lesson.

Further details I Hotel del Coronado formal tour

More Coronado Island Tours

If you fancy seeing Coronade Island in a little more of an active way, then have a look at these small group tours that last around three hours and are perfect for a half day visit.

Spend One Day in Coronado Round Up

Coronado is bursting with history, culture and so many things to see and do. The best part is that it doesn’t need to cost an arm and a leg and can be done in a budget friendly manner. Hop over on the ferry, explore the ferry landing area for the open spaces and San Diego skyline views then head up the famous Orange Avenue.

Do not miss the world renowned Hotel del Coronado, hang out at the beach, wander around the corridors which were once graced by no other than Ms Marilyn Monroe herself. Walk along the golden sandy beach, dine at one of the restaurants on Orange Avenue and head back to watch the sunset before making your way back to San Diego. Coronado is a wonderful day adventure from San Diego that should be on everyone’s itinerary when visiting Southern California. 

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