Chill out in Coronado, California.
Check out what to do to chill out in Coronado. Check out where to eat, play and stay in San Diego’s own Coronado Island, California.
Feature photo provided courtesy of Ryan Luke Photography. Do not use without express consent. Please contact Ryan Luke via http://www.ryanlukephoto.com/
Coronado, California is one of our favorite destinations in San Diego. It’s easy to spend an entire weekend here without running out of options. And while it may be upscale, you can definitely get by with a few of our affordable options for activities and dining. Where to go in Coronado is easy, usually walkable, and often affordable.
For one thing, getting around is a cinch. A beach cruiser can take you to any part of the “island” with ease. In fact, it can be far faster and efficient than finding a parking space for a vehicle!
Not sure what to do in Coronado? We know, you thought Coronado was a fancy beach resort! But we took the opportunity to highlight the places that are fun and lack a “fancy” dress code. We even fit in a throwback diner and a dog’s beach paradise, both of which only require flip flops!
**Disclaimer**
The businesses and events highlighted are in no way a “Best Of…” list. They are simply places and activities our Savvy Cali Girl contributors have deemed worthy of a shout out. If you want us to tell our readers about your favorite place, tag us with #scgplacestogo and we’ll catch you next time we come through town!
Clayton’s Coffee Shop, A Coronado Landmark
Looking for a trip back in time? You can do no better than Clayton’s Coffee Shop on Orange Avenue. Clayton’s embodies the classic diner and soda shop. They serve up breakfast, malts, pie, classic comfort food dinners, and a full espresso offering including our personal favorite, the Mexican Mocha.
The littlest travelers will get a kick out of the counter with its old-time leather and metal swivel chairs. It’s the perfect setting for slurping whip cream and sprinkles off of a milkshake. There are tabletop juke boxes and fresh flowers on every table. Even the ladies all wear handmade aprons – available for sale – and a great souvenir gift for bakers and home cooks alike!
It’s small restaurant so don’t forget to check out the side window, full of pastries and a full espresso bar.
Treats At Moo Time Creamery
www.mootimecreamery.com/@mootimecreamery
While there are a lot of mix-in ice cream shops now, Moo Time Creamery has been delighting locals and visitors alike for nearly twenty years. The Orange Avenue location is the original location, open since 1998.
The ice cream is handcrafted of course but perhaps the smell of waffle will lead you to its doors. Our favorite options are the MooPies, ice cream sandwiched between your choice of freshly baked cookies, waffles, or cereal bars.
Oh, and by the way, your Instagram-worthy shot may include Elvis or a cow, just FYI.
Mootime Creamery Photo via Facebook
Clayton’s Coffee Shop is hopping every morning with limited seating so expect a wait. Being a huge fan of “Brinner” myself, I’d suggest popping in later in the day or mid-week.
Fun in the Sun
Take a Stroll Down Orange Avenue, The Main Street of Coronado
Image by Savvy Cali Girl
Many visiting Coronado, have eyes on big San Diego attractions like the Zoo or Legoland. But if you just want to stroll, find a few gifts, grab a treat or lunch then an afternoon cruising on foot along Orange Avenue is perfect.
Choose from a variety of restaurants, cafes, sandwich and coffee shops to grab a meal on any budget for every setting from flip flips to jacket required. We highlighted just a couple budget-friendly options to get you started.
If you’d like to shop or play tourist for the afternoon you’ll find surf shops and clothing boutiques. You also may be surprised to find specialty stores like Coronado Taste of Oils for oils and vinegars, Celtic Corner offering Scottish items. a full-fledged candy store with Fuzziwig’s Candy Factory and of course the Coronado Museum Store. There are many more all along Coronado’s Downtown District on Orange Avenue.
Bike Around Coronado Island Without Ever Needing a Vehicle
Did you know that you can actually bike nearly around Coronado Island? There are bike paths along the golf course, under the bridge, past Tidelands Park and on to the Coronado Ferry Landing. The list of stops goes on and on but a sunny day with stunning views and plenty of rest stops makes this an inexpensive activity worth the effort.
We highly recommend bringing a bicycle with you but if that’s not an option, you can rent them in town. Hollands Bicycles is an excellent option for rentals or a quality purchase. For a longer stay, consider purchasing a beach cruiser and donating it locally after your stay. There are plenty available on Offer Up or the local Walmart.
Fun Fact! Check out the bike/jogging map created by the Coronado Visitor center to help you get around. Click here to view their page for the Walking, Jogging, Biking Map and a few more resources you may want to look into, depending on your interests.
Commune with Nature – Coronado Beach
Next to “The Del” is one of the best beaches in the world. it is THAT white, sandy beach we imagine for vacation. It a mile and a half beginning at the Del at the south end. There are fire pits and a large amount of open sandy areas to play. You might even find Bill Pavlacka, known as The Sand Castle Man creating his latest sandy masterpiece.
The area starting at the Hotel Del and the far north of Dog Beach is Central Beach. This is the typically the beach that sells magazines and travelers rave about on Instagram. The sand has mica in it which can make it seem silvery at times. This beach is also very flat so you can venture out into the waves, surf, skim board or just stroll along shallows. Be careful on a sunny day, when the sand can heat up. It is a little off the street to get to the shoreline so keep your sandals on until you lay out that beach blank.
The northern most section is Coronado Dog Beach. Park near Sunset Park on the street. You’ll have a bit of a walk to get to the area so on a hot day, be careful with your pup’s paws! Also keep them leashed until you actually get to the sandy areas.
The Iconic Hotel Del Coronado
First, the Hotel Del Coronado is a historical landmark with a rich history. It is the quintessential stay in Coronado. “The Del” is adjacent to Coronado’s world-renowned beach and just steps away from Orange Avenue. We do recommend booking early if you plan to stay as availability is staggeringly difficult during the summer season as well as during the winter holidays when there is an ice rink, a massive Christmas tree in the lobby with a different theme every year.
It has been undergoing renovations recently so we will do a thorough walk-through in a future blog post and include more of its rich history, even its ghostly past.
Rest & Recharge: Glorrieta Bay Inn
www.glorrietabayinn.com/ @glorrietabayinn
In addition, Coronado is a luxury destination so it can be tough to find an affordable spot to kick up your feet. The Glorrieta Bay Inn is across from the Del, has all the amenities you could ask for and reasonable rates. You’ll feel like you’re on an extravagant vacation.
With a range of room types, you can find space for family or a comfy spot for a romantic getaway. You won’t need a vehicle with every type of dining available on a short stroll down Orange Avenue. You can also catch a quick ride down to the Ferry Landing with even more restaurants, shopping, and a gorgeous view of the downtown San Diego skyline, day or night.
More California Towns To Explore
There is far more to explore along San Diego’s coastline. There are marvelous little neighborhoods up and down the coast worth exploring. In addition, there are areas all across San Diego including Julian, a quaint mountain town and the other famous San Diego beach destination, La Jolla, California.
