We’re privileged to enjoy numerous nearby coastal escapes all over SoCal, but the idyllic town of Coronado is not to be missed this summer. The tranquil island (technically a peninsula) near San Diego offers a timeless mix of retro luxury, refined elegance, mom-and-pop shops, and spectacular scenery at one of the best beaches in the country. You’re in for a treat if you can make the drive from L.A. to experience one of the best small-town gems on the California coast.
What’s more, Travel + Leisure singled out Coronado among the 15 best summer destinations in the country, citing its walkable size, historic hotel, and penchant for live music among numerous reasons to visit. Read on for a breakdown of what makes Coronado so special, plus some tips for how to maximize your experience there.
What to do in Coronado
With fewer than 20,000 residents across less than 8 square miles of land, you’ll find that most people get around Coronado on foot or by bike. Here are some essential stops to make during your visit.
Coronado Beach
The pristine Coronado Beach has ranked among the best beaches in the country for decades. Because of the mineral mica in the sand, the beaches on this part of the coast literally sparkle in the sunlight. Take a walk along Coronado Beach and marvel at numerous coastal mansions until you arrive at the magnificent Hotel del Coronado on the southern end.
Hotel del Coronado
Arguably the crown jewel of Coronado, this iconic vintage hotel has a rich history dating back to 1888. “The Del,” as it’s known, has hosted presidents, royalty, and celebrities for decades, and its Queen Anne Victorian architecture has even landed it a designation as a National Historic Landmark. During the summer, The Del hosts fun and inviting activities like movie nights, bonfires, themed pool parties, and roller skating.
Parks and common spaces
- Coronado Ferry Landing – Shop, dine, and enjoy live music on weekends at this waterfront pedestrian thoroughfare.
- Spreckels Park – Look for free outdoor concerts on Sundays in the summer and the century-old Coronado Flower Show in the spring.
- Coronado Tidelands Park – Lounge on the grass or ride a bike along the pathways at this spacious park on the water.
- Orange Avenue – Spend an afternoon exploring Orange Avenue’s boutiques, restaurants, galleries, theaters, and the Coronado Museum.
Where to eat in Coronado
Whether you prefer a more laid-back time bopping around the beachfront cafes or a more elegant experience savoring the freshest seafood, you’ll find a great lineup of dining options in Coronado. Here are some restaurants to try, from breakfast to dessert.
Coffee and breakfast: Clayton’s Coffee Shop
This leisurely local landmark has preserved its classic American diner design for decades, all centered around its original horseshoe counter. Get a coffee to go at the early-morning donut window, or dine in for a loaded breakfast plate of chicken and waffles. You can also head over to the nearby Clayton’s Bakery & Bistro for some French-inspired pastries and brunch.
🌐 Website: Clayton’s Coffee Shop
Lunch and drinks: The Henry
This all-day casual restaurant has great cocktails, loaded salads, and tasty entrees. Take a seat in the stylish dining room and dig into a serving of fresh oysters, truffle fries, the roasted turkey French dip sandwich, or a classic Caesar salad. They also serve some delicious seasonal spritzes in flavors like grapefruit and pomegranate hibiscus.
🌐 Website: The Henry
Dinner: Il Fornaio Coronado
This upscale Tuscan-inspired eatery offers an elevated atmosphere and one of the best San Diego skyline views in town. Choose from a range of freshly-made pasta dishes, grilled meats, and seafood for a flavorful meal near the Ferry Terminal. Consider visiting during happy hour on weekdays from 3-6 pm for a selection of discounted drinks, appetizers, and pizzas.
🌐 Website: Il Fornaio Coronado
Dessert: MooTime Creamery
Order a cup or cone of rich ice cream from this 1950s-inspired spot on Orange Ave. They’re known for handcrafting fine ice cream flavors from scratch, adding 16% of butterfat to amp up the flavor.
🌐 Website: MooTime Creamery
If you’re looking for a relaxing retro escape in SoCal this summer, consider Coronado for your ultimate coastal destination just over 2 hours from L.A.