Discover Coronado Beaches
Coronado Beaches Basics
Set against the backdrop of storied and iconic Hotel del Coronado, and featured in Marilyn Monroe’s 1958 film “Some Like it Hot,” Coronado is the quintessential San Diego postcard experience and a great place for a romantic getaway or a fun-filled family beach vacation. The long sandy beaches here are special and literally sparkle, thanks to the mineral mica in its golden sand. It's just one of the reasons Coronado was ranked No. 15 on Tripadvisor's 2022 Travelers Best tally of best beaches in the United States, and has regularly landed on other top-beaches lists.
A drive across the sweeping, 200-foot-high San Diego-Coronado Bridge treats you to one of the best views in all of San Diego, as you descend upon the charming and picturesque oceanfront community of Coronado. A day at the beach is a must, along with a stroll past Orange Avenue's shops and restaurants, and a pint of local suds at the award-winning Coronado Brewing Company. Coronado is also a popular stop on the Old Town Trolley Tour and can be accessed from Downtown using the Coronado Ferry or a water taxi.
Popular Activities
- Surfing, paddle boarding, boogie boarding, sunbathing
- Body surfing and swimming in gentle waves facing west, or tranquil waters facing the bay
- Tidepools during low tide at Coronado Central Beach
What to Know
- Some beaches have curfews starting at 11:00 p.m.
- Alcohol & smoking are prohibited at all beaches and parks.
- Traffic can be heavy. Like any popular area, Coronado’s streets can fill up with cars and pedestrians alike.
What to Love
- Tidepools during low tide at Coronado Central Beach.
- Making s’mores on the beach at the many fire pits located throughout Coronado’s beaches.
- Fishing from the Ferry Landing Pier.
- Beach volleyball at Coronado Central Beach.
Where to Go
- Coronado Central Beach runs along Ocean Boulevard, with a backdrop of fine homes and mansions and the Hotel del Coronado at the southern end.
- North Beach is dog-friendly, frequented by locals and their canine companions.
- Glorietta Bay offers a unique view of the Glorietta Bay Hotel and the San Diego-Coronado Bridge. With a large, grassy park, restrooms, playground equipment and a small beach area, Glorietta Bay Beach is a great spot for families.
- Silver Strand State Beach is located 4.5 miles south of Coronado Village along the Silver Strand. An underpass allows access to bayside beach and picnic areas and the Loews Coronado Bay Resort.
- Ferry Landing Marketplace offers a sandy beach area adjacent to the fishing/ferry pier. With a grassy lawn and sweeping views of San Diego Bay, this is an excellent place to take in views of Downtown San Diego while enjoying the tranquil waters of the bay.
Services
Lifeguards
- Lifeguard stations are staffed seasonally depending on weather conditions and the number of beach patrons.
Bathrooms & Showers
- Restrooms and shower facilities are available at most beaches in Coronado and on the Silver Strand.
Directions & Parking
Directions
- From the 5 freeway just south of Downtown San Diego, take the San Diego-Coronado Bridge (now toll-free) over the bay to Coronado. The bridge opens onto Third Street. Turn left on Orange Avenue and follow it down past the Hotel del Coronado to Coronado Bay Road and look for signs to parking.
Parking
- Free parking on Ocean Boulevard and at Ferry Landing Marketplace
- Designated lots for those staying at the hotels or resorts.