Just a bridge away from downtown San Diego lies another world: the luxury resort destination of Coronado Island. The striking contrast between the blue sky and white sandy beaches captivates every visitor. Coronado Beach, stretching 3 kilometers, offers endless ways to enjoy your time walking, cycling, or surfing! You can also soak up the ultimate resort atmosphere at ocean-view restaurants, beachside cafes, and bars.
Coronado Bridge
The Coronado Bridge, which connects downtown San Diego and Coronado Island, is known for its beautiful sweeping curve and height above the water. It is designed to allow naval vessels to pass underneath and offers stunning views even while driving across.
Rich in history and charm, the Hotel del Coronado
Founded in 1888, the Hotel del Coronado, affectionately known as ‘The Del,’ is a landmark on Coronado Island, renowned for its beautiful Victorian design. As the oldest wooden structure in America, it has been designated a National Historic Landmark. From its early days, The Del became famous for embracing the latest technology, including using Thomas Edison’s incandescent light bulbs upon opening. This historic hotel has hosted numerous prominent guests, including U.S. presidents, Hollywood stars, writers, artists, and royalty.
The hotel features a “Dragon Tree,” known by its nickname, Dracaena Draco. Although its common name, “Dragon’s Blood Tree,” sounds a bit ominous, the origin of the name is related to the color of its sap. When the tree is damaged, it releases a red sap that is referred to as “Dragon’s Blood,” which led to its Latin name Draco, meaning “dragon.” That’s how it came to be known as Dracaena Draco. This tree even appeared in the 1958 Marilyn Monroe film Some Like It Hot. It’s a popular photo spot, and we also took a picture before reading up on the details (lol).
The author of The Wizard of Oz, L. Frank Baum, also enjoyed extended stays at this hotel and is said to have contributed to the design of the chandeliers. The entrance hall with chandeliers truly has a luxurious atmosphere, fitting for such a historic, prestigious hotel.
Activities Along the Beach
The 2.4-kilometer boardwalk along the beach is bustling with people enjoying jogging and leisurely walks. Along the path, casual drink bars, ocean-view outdoor spaces, and charming restaurants are accessible even if you’re not staying at the hotel. A walk with stunning views or a bike ride with the refreshing ocean breeze sounds perfect!
Surfing and Unique Spots!
Coronado Beach is also a well-known surfing spot, ideal for beginners to intermediate surfers, and offers surfing lessons. You can often see surfers enjoying the waves at their own pace.
When we visited, it happened to be Father’s Day weekend, and an artist was creating a sandcastle with a ‘Happy Father’s Day’ message—such a delightful surprise!
In winter, the beach along the Hotel del Coronado transforms into a unique skating rink known as Skating by the Sea. Imagine gliding along with stunning ocean views, especially at night when the area is beautifully lit up. It sounds like a dream come true (this one is definitely on my bucket list for the future! ).
The northern half of Coronado Island is home to the Naval Air Station North Island, known as a filming location for Tom Cruise’s Top Gun: Maverick and numerous other dramas and commercials. Additionally, Coronado Island has the remains of the SS Monte Carlo, a shipwreck that washed ashore in a 1937 storm. Typically buried in sand, it emerges during low tide or when the waves are strong, making it a hidden attraction about 0.8 km from the Hotel del Coronado. Locals and tourists alike appreciate this intriguing spot!
Surrounded by blue ocean and white sandy beaches, Coronado Island offers a unique blend of history and modernity. You’re sure to enjoy a special time in this resort paradise. Be sure to visit Coronado Island when you visit San Diego!”
Hotel Del Coronado
1500 Orange Ave.
Coronado, CA. 92118
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