San Diego's Charming Beach Towns
San Diego has an array of charming beach towns with distinct personalities and scenic beauty like Del Mar, Carlsbad, Coronado, and La Jolla.
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Overall Score: 6.6/10
Summary
Overall, Coronado Beach gets a rating of 6.6/10. It scores fairly high in regards to beach cleanliness and safety. However, it varies in parking, crowds, and amenities depending on which part of the beach you're going to. The frequent poor water quality also brought the score down. Overall, Coronado Beach is a highly favorited and sought out beach, and it is a great place to go if you're looking for a relaxing and peaceful beach day.
Notable Mention
Coronado Beach and the surrounding area is very nice. When taking into account factors such as water quality, parking, activities available, etc., it isn't going to be ranked as high, which lowers the overall score, but it is truly a fantastic beach to spend time at and enjoy.
Scale
1 - Worst Case Scenario
10 - Best Case Scenario
Continue reading below for an in-depth analysis of Coronado Beach and an understanding of each score. If you have any questions or think something should be added, feel free to comment below or send us a message via chat!
Parking
For parking at Coronado Beach, your best option is street parking. Coronado Island is primarily residential, offering numerous street parking options. However, because there aren't any large free parking lots, street parking can become congested early in the day during peak times. Nevertheless, if you're willing to walk for about 15 minutes, you can usually find a parking spot on the island and still be within a mile of the beach. While it may not be in your desired beach area, there is always street parking available somewhere on the island.
The availability of street parking depends on the specific beach area you want to visit. Naturally, the vicinity around Hotel Del Coronado tends to be more congested, making it challenging to find parking even on weekdays. However, you can still locate parking nearby and enjoy a pleasant walk to reach that area if you're willing. If you're aiming for North Beach, which is the opposite end of the beach from Hotel Del Coronado, it might be easier to find parking on the streets in that area. This is because it primarily consists of houses, resulting in less traffic compared to the other side of the beach.
Other Information
Most of the residential streets on Coronado are quite spacious, so if parallel parking makes you nervous, you may find it less intimidating here.
Furthermore, all residential street parking is free, which adds to the convenience.
Similar to other areas along the San Diego Coast, it can be nearly impossible to find a parking spot during peak times, such as weekend afternoons in the summer or on holidays. Arriving before 10 am during the summer months will help secure a spot and avoid some of the traffic.
Visiting Coronado is a major attraction for many when in the San Diego area, so it can be quite crowded with tourists and locals alike. Additionally, many people commute to Coronado for work.
Therefore, keep in mind that traffic can be a significant factor when trying to leave the island in the afternoons or evenings, or when arriving in the morning or afternoon. This can also make parking seem more challenging.
Rating = 5/10 - There will always be parking somewhere on the island that you walk to the beach to, but it may be far, not ideal, and even frustrating to find during busy times. However, during non-busy times, parking is widely available and easy to find.
Crowds
A lot of people visit Coronado Beach, and for good reason, it's beautiful! However, it can feel quite crowded in certain areas. Typically, the most crowded areas are going to be near the Del, near the main Lifeguard Tower off of Isabella, and by North Beach near lifeguard Tower 6C off of Ocean Drive. Additionally, near any of the other access points to the beach it will be more crowded.
If you walk onto the beach from any access point and continue in either direction, you'll find that it becomes much less crowded. The beach is extensive and spacious, so there is always plenty of open space available. It ultimately depends on how close you prefer to be to the ocean and how far you're willing to walk on the sand. Most people tend to set up near the access points and walkways, or try to get as close to the water as possible
Rating = 6/10 - If you seek out places where there are no people, you can find them, it might just be far from the water or a far walk from one of the access points.
Amenities
The area around Hotel Del and the Main Lifeguard Tower off Isabella Avenue offers the most amenities compared to other parts of the beach. Here, you can find restaurants, cafes, water sport rentals, beach bathrooms, fire pits, and more. Along this stretch of the beach, you have access to everything you might need within a 15-20 minute walk, depending on where you are.
More towards North Beach by Lifeguard Tower 6C, there are beach bathrooms and also beach firepits. However, there isn't nearby food or rentals.
Rating = 7/10 -There are plenty of amenities by the beach to be enjoyed, but it really depends on which part of the beach you're at, as that factors into the ease of access of the amenities available.
Safety
Coronado Beach is one of the safest options, thanks to continuous lifeguard patrols and minimal threats from other beachgoers or nearby. It exudes a serene and peaceful atmosphere, which significantly enhances the sense of security. However, while enjoying the beach, it's essential to remain vigilant regarding various conditions and wildlife that you may encounter. Coronado Beach is known for having stingrays, so always be careful!
***Please note that the ocean is unpredictable and there can be strong currents anywhere on the beach at any time. Be sure to take necessary precautions before getting in the water and always ask a lifeguard if it is safe if you are unsure.
Rating = 9/10 - This beach is practically as safe as it could be, but there can always unforeseen elements when in nature.
Beach Cleanliness
Coronado Beach is exceptionally clean and well-maintained. The quality of the sand is top-notch, making it a truly outstanding beach destination. Thanks to regular clean-up efforts, it's relatively rare to come across litter or excessive seaweed. However, the possibility of encountering such issues remains, as it can occur when beachgoers leave items behind or if you visit the beach after high tide.
Rating = 9/10 - The beach feels very clean and is well maintained.
Water Quality
Water quality at Coronado Beach can often be subpar, particularly after rainfall, as contamination from the Tijuana River can lead to elevated levels of bacteria in the water, prompting advisories or closures. The City of San Diego conducts daily water testing, and you can find the results on the County of San Diego Beach Water Quality website (sdbeachinfo.com). It's advisable to check this information before heading to the beach to ensure your safety. Additionally, some areas may have posted signs indicating whether there is a swimming advisory or closure in effect.
It is important to note that after rain, it is recommended to wait at least 72 hours before getting back in the water due to increased contaminants and sewage going in the ocean. This beach is more susceptible to sewage contamination, so be sure to check the link above after rainfall.
Rating = 4/10 - Typically not the cleanest place to get in the water due to high bacteria levels.
Activities
Coronado Beach is more of a tranquil and serene beach rather than a bustling one. It offers a peaceful and relaxing environment, but it may not provide as many activity options as some other coastal destinations.
While you can enjoy activities like biking along the boardwalk, playing beach volleyball and other games, boogie boarding, or having a bonfire, surfing isn't as common here due to the wave conditions. If you're interested in surfing, Stan's Beach on the other side of Hotel Del Coronado is a better choice.
If you're seeking a leisurely and laid-back beach experience rather than an action-packed one, a day at Coronado Beach could be the perfect choice!
Rating = 6/10 - There are few activities to do, especially when compared to other beaches in San Diego. However, this beach has a more peaceful vibe, which is nice to experience too.
Coronado Beach
Sleep, Eat, Play, & Relax In the Water, On The Water, or Near the Water!
This site only includes information and experiences relating to everything in, on, or near the water. When in San Diego, why not experience the beach and beautiful waterfront as much as possible!? From dining experiences to accommodation options, we have everything you need to start planning your waterfront vacation in Coronado.
Check out the best beachfront accommodation and ocean views on Coronado Island!
See all the waterfront dining options available to you and pick where in Coronado you want to eat, grab drinks, and see the blue water!
Look at all the activities available in Coronado and enjoy the ocean by trying something new or doing your favorite activity!
Accommodation
Coronado
Between both vacation rentals and hotels, Coronado has quite a few options to stay in on the water! See below for the different waterfront options available when staying in Coronado.
Disclosure: This section features several affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission if you purchase through these links. However, not all links posted are affiliate links. Click here to learn more.
Vacation Rentals
Staying in vacation rentals from sites like VRBO, Airbnb, Homestay, etc. can be a more costly option on Coronado, but is the best bet if you are travelling in a large group. There are rentals on Coronado with views of the water, but it can be difficult to find as it's a popular place with a limited amount of waterfront rentals. Most of the homes by the water are lived in and are not used as vacation rentals.
View of Hotel Del Coronado
Hotels
Hotel Del Coronado - This is the most well-known hotel on the island, and has multiple different room types from your standard hotel room to beach villas and more. There are multiple beachfront restaurants, beach umbrella and lounge chair rentals, pools, hot tubs, a fitness center, shops, and more. This is the only hotel on Coronado that is located directly on the beach, making it a highly sought after and visited place. Even if you don't end up staying here, it's definitely worth a visit!
Loew's Coronado Bay Resort - This hotel is on the San Diego Bay on the Silver Strand, with Silver Stand State Beach just outside the entrance across the road. This hotel sits next to the Coronado Cays and provides water sport rentals, bay front dining, and rooms with bay views.
Coronado Island Marriott Spa & Resort - This hotel is located on the San Diego Bay within a short walk to Ferry Landing. It provides views of the Coronado Bridge and downtown San Diego, and it also has a pool, fitness center, basketball court, and more.
There are other hotels located on Coronado that are near shops and restaurants, but don't provide views of the ocean, bay, or beach. Check out Expedia or Hotels.com to see what else might be available.
Waterfront Dining
Coronado
Coronado has a nice amount of waterfront dining options to choose from on both the ocean and the bay. See below for a list of restaurants, cafes, and more right on the water.
Disclosure: This section features several affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission if you purchase through these links. However, not all links posted are affiliate links. Click here to learn more.
Oceanfront Dining
Sun Deck - This restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and sits right on the boardwalk at Hotel Del Coronado. Every seat has ocean views and they offer different seating options from tables, couches, firepits, and bar seating. This restaurant is all outdoors.
Sheerwater - This restaurant is open for brunch and dinner, and is located at Hotel Del Coronado. It is an indoor-outdoor restaurant and provides views of the ocean in the distance.
Serea Coastal Cuisine - Located at Hotel Del Coronado, this restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating and ocean views in the distance. It's only open for dinner.
Beach + Taco Shack - This is located on the beach by Hotel Del Coronado and is open for lunch and dinner. There are tables on the beach by the boardwalk where you can enjoy your meal, providing great views of the water.
View from Sun Deck at Hotel Del Coronado
Bayfront Dining
Crown Landing - This restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating and has limited views of the San Diego Bay. It's located at Loew's Coronado Bay Resort and is open for breakfast and dinner.
Bluewater Boathouse Seafood Grill - Located on San Diego Bay, this restaurant offers some bay views and is open for lunch and dinner.
Albaca - Located at the Coronado Island Marriott Resort and Spa, this restaurant has bay and downtown SD views on the patio and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Il Fornaio Coronado - This restaurant sits directly on the bay at Ferry Landing and offers views of downtown. It's open for lunch and dinner.
Peohe's - Offering some bay views from Ferry Landing, this restaurant is open for lunch and dinner.
Spiro's Mediterranean Cuisine - Open for lunch and dinner, this restaurant is at Ferry Landing and offers some views of the bay and downtown San Diego.
Village Pizzeria Bayside - This restaurant is located at Ferry Landing, offering views of the bay and downtown SD. It's open for lunch and dinner.
Costa Azul Coronado - This restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and located at Ferry Landing. This restaurant sits right on the boardwalk and offers views of the bay and downtown SD here.
There are several other restaurants and cafes located in Coronado, but I only included the ones offering views of the water. There are lots of places off of Orange Avenue where you can eat or even get food to go to take to the beach.
Activities & Tours
Coronado
Coronado has several activities available to do on the water or with views of the water. See below for a list of activities available near the ocean and bay.
Disclosure: This section features several affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission if you purchase through these links. However, not all links posted are affiliate links. Click here to learn more.
Ocean-Related Activities/Tours
Water Sports - Surfboards, boogie boards, SUPs, Kayaks, and more are available to rent to enjoy in the ocean and bay. Additionally, many companies offer private and group surf lessons, so you don't have to brave the water alone if interested in catching some waves!
Whale Watching - Set out on one of the Whale Watching Tours that leaves from San Diego Bay and see different types of whales and hundreds of dolphins. There are many different group tours and private tours available. There's even a sunset tour too!
Professional Beachfront Picnics - Want to have a romantic lunch or dinner? How about a group picnic with friends at sunset where everything is taken care of for you? Enjoy a luxurious picnic on the beach from one of the many companies offering this service.
Bonfires - Nothing better than enjoying a bonfire on the beach after the sun goes down to end the day! There are several companies that will set everything up for you and all you'll have to do is show up. You can also reserve a firepit with everything include at Hotel Del.
Bike Rentals - Do you like to ride bikes? Have fun riding a bike around the island as you take in ocean and bay views.
E-Scooter Tours - Take an informative tour around Coronado Island on an e-scooter! Stop by the beach, Hotel Del, and more.
Activities/Tours on the Bay
Water Sports - Have fun on the calm bay waters on a paddleboard or kayak rentals available. There are several rental options available.
Boat Rentals - Rent a boat for just a few hours or the whole day. They come in all sizes and vary from speedboats to pontoons.
Jet Skis - Rent jet skis and have fun playing in the bay. Be sure to go the proper speed limit in the different zones as there are often people swimming, paddle boarding, boating, etc. to watch out for.
Professional Picnic - Want to have a romantic lunch or dinner? How about a group picnic with friends where everything is taken care of for you? Enjoy a luxurious picnic on the beach from one of the many companies offering this service.
Bike Rentals - Do you like to ride bikes? Have fun riding a bike along the boardwalk as you take in the bay. You can rent bikes from Ferry Landing and start your ride there!
Don't forget you can always enjoy beach games such as volleyball, spike ball, and more when at the beach and bay!
Transportation
Coronado
The best way to get around Coronado is by car, foot, or bike. See below for more information.
Disclosure: This section features several affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission if you purchase through these links. However, not all links posted are affiliate links. Click here to learn more.
The best way to get around depends on what you plan to do, where you're staying, and the time of year. During busy times such as 4th of July, there is limited parking so using your car is probably the worst way to get around, especially at peak times.
If you are flying into the San Diego airport, I recommend renting a car so that you can explore other areas too. There are many rental car companies to choose from at the airport.
Walking or biking between your vacation rental or hotel to the beach and to restaurants is a great option if you can handle it.
Overall, I believe it's best to have a car, as that gives you freedom to explore other areas without having to worry about public transport or lyfts/ubers. As long as you keep in mind where you are going and the parking situation, you should be fine. If exploring other areas nearby such as La Jolla, downtown, etc., you might have to pay to park if it is crowded.
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