Waiting on the other side of the infamous San Diego – Coronado Bay Bridge awaits a cozy beach town that’ll have you wondering if you’re really still in San Diego. Although we have the same white sand beaches and sunny weather as the rest of the county, many can attest that the small-town culture creates a unique vibe that truly makes Coronado stand out. So, what are some of the things you can’t miss in this one of a kind town? Here are some of my recommendations!

HOTEL DEL CORONADO

If you’ve done any research into Coronado Island, you’ve certainly come across praises of the Hotel Del Coronado’s beauty and rich history. Built in 1888, the Hotel Del has famously welcomed guests from former President Benjamin Harris to stars like Marilyn Monroe. 

Setting aside vacation time to explore a hotel that you might not be staying at may seem a little odd – but it truly cannot be missed whether it’s your first trip to Coronado or you’ve lost count. Grab a quick bite at the Beach & Taco Shack before lazing around on the award-winning Del Beach, or take one of the Hotel Del’s tours to discover some of the incredible history this hotel holds. Depending on the time of year you’re visiting, you may be able to enjoy the holidays at The Del. Ice skating by the sea, beach igloos, and a unique light show mark the start of the holiday season here in Coronado and have become a tradition both tourists and locals look forward to.

Even if you don’t plan on spending a lot of time exploring the Del, it’s definitely worth checking out and grabbing a couple photos at! The Sundeck is a casual bar and grill that overlooks the Pacific – this is the perfect spot for some sunset beach pictures. Make sure to get a picture infront of the Hotel Del’s iconic red turret as well! 

LOCAL FLAVOR

Greek, Thai, Italian… you don’t need to leave the island to find what you’re craving. If you’re down at the Ferry Landing, you’re near local favorites like Costa Azul (Mexican), Il Fornaio (Italian), Rosemary Trattoria (Italian), and Tartine (European – Inspired Cafe). Further south on Orange Avenue you’ll find Village Pizzeria (Pizza + Drinks), Miguel’s (Mexican), Clayton’s (Bakery + American), and The Henry (American).

If you’re feeling something sweet after dinner, MooTime is the local go-to for ice cream. They have rotating flavors of the month that make it easy to try something new, or you can go for a classic waffle cone. MooTime also serves up fun creations like MooTacos and an array of sundaes! Everyone in your group is sure to find something they love here. The Islander’s Dinky Donut stand on Orange Avenue can’t be missed either while you’re on island – it’s the best spot for a quick morning coffee and mini donut run! I recommend getting a dozen of their mini donuts to sample the flavors they have to offer. Some staff faves here at Coronado Golf Carts would have to be the fruity pebbles donut, powdered sugar donut, and the maple bacon donut. 

In search of a pick-me-up? There’s no shortage of coffee spots on the island! Better Buzz recently opened up a Coronado location, and I can’t recommend it enough. Conveniently located across the street from The Hotel Del, it’s in the perfect location to stop at before you begin your day. My favorite food items would have to be the Ham and Cheese Croissant, Turkey Pesto Sandwich, and Cheese Danish. For drinks, I typically opt for the Lavender Tea Latte or a Caramel Buzz (blended coffee). There’s a Starbucks on Orange Avenue, and Trident Cold Brew just a couple doors down from them. If you’re on the other side of the island, swing by the Coronado Coffee Company at the Ferry Landing! This is the best spot for some locally owned coffee. I usually get an iced Milky Way latte if I find myself close by.

FOURTH OF JULY PARADE AND FESTIVITIES

You know it’s summertime in Coronado when the town is abuzz with excitement towards the Fourth of July Parade. Flags line the avenue, locals and tourists alike wake up before the sun rises for the perfect spot to watch the floats, and a whole day of festivities is lined up – this is undoubtedly the busiest time of year in our small town. 

The first of the festivities is the Crown City Classic, a 12k or 5k race that begins at 7AM at Tidelands Park. Once 10AM rolls around, you can find everyone on Orange Avenue for the main event – the annual Fourth of July Parade. The parade is typically followed by other events such as concerts around the island that are announced closer to the day of.

Of course, Fourth of July wouldn’t be complete without some fireworks to close off the day. Fireworks usually begin around 9PM and people flock to The Ferry Landing, Tidelands, or the Golf Course area to catch the best views on island! 

SHOPPING LOCALLY

One of the best things about Coronado has to be all the local shops. From 1st Street to The Hotel Del, you’ll find everything from household necessities to gifts you can’t find anywhere else and smiling faces in each storefront to help you out.

Coronado Hardware on 1st and Orange has everything from gardening essentials to cute trinkets and Coronado themed stickers/pins. Emerald City is the go-to for casual beachwear, accessories, and skating essentials. Geppetto’s Toys will be a favorite for any kids or children at heart in your group. From throwback toys to the latest and greatest, it’s super easy to get lost in everything offered here! Seaside Papery is a couple doors down – you’ll know you’re there when you see their seasonal window display that always wows passersby. Inside, you’ll find walls lined with unique greeting cards, candles, stationery, Jellycat plush, and the cutest stickers. Also on Orange Avenue is Bay Books, an independently owned bookstore that carries everything from classics to children’s books.

Make sure to take some time to drop by the local shops here on island – you’re sure to find something that’ll make you smile!

GOLF CART RENTALS

A quintessentially perfect day in Coronado isn’t complete without a golf cart!

This is the best way to explore the island; enjoy the scenery and sunny weather unobstructed, don’t worry about getting sand in your own car, enjoy  the ease of parking, and save on gas money! Renting a cart in Coronado is just like renting a regular vehicle. They’re all street legal so you can drive them on any roads in Coronado Village (can’t drive on the Strand Freeway 75, over the Coronado Bridge, or on sand, bike paths, or sidewalks.) Our carts come with 4, 6, or 8 seats so you can ride solo or bring the entire family along! Cruise for as little as an hour, or as long as several months – there’s options for every adventure.

If you’re planning a beach day but don’t have the essentials with you, we’ve got you covered. For $25, 2 towels, 2 chairs, 2 boogie boards, and 1 large beach umbrella are yours for the day! Simply add on the beach package option if booking online, or ask us about it while booking over the phone. 

Book online, contact us at 619.504.5537, or email [email protected] to book today!

Thanks for reading!