A San Diego Local's Guide: 10 unique things to do on Coronado Island

About Coronado Island

Before we dive into the 10 unique things to do on Coronado Island, let’s talk about the area and a few things you should know. First, it was officially founded in the 1880s, but it received its name in 1602 by the Spanish explorer Sebastian Vizcaino. While Coronado is called an island, it’s technically more of a peninsula tied to the mainland by what is named the “Silver Strand.” It’s most well-known for the historic Hotel Del Coronado (which is one of San Diego’s main tourist attractions). But today we’re talking about a few of the more unique spots!

10 Unique Things to Do on Coronado Island

1. Take a Gondola Ride

This Venetian-style gondola company offers trips through the canals of the Coronado Cays. You can bring snacks and wine on board to add to the romance! The experience lasts 50 minutes and is offered Wednesday to Sunday.

Location: 503 Grand Caribe Causeway, Suite C Coronado, California 92118
Tickets: ~$120 / 2 people (prices vary depending on package)
Pro Tip: The sunset cruise in the summer months is stunning!

2. Go bike riding at Tidelands Park

Actually the biggest of the parks on the island, Tidelands Park is tucked away off the main tourist drag. It’s the perfect spot to ride a bike, have a picnic, or take a walk. There are picnic tables, a jungle gym, and art installations to enjoy.

Location: 2000 Mullinex Dr, Coronado, CA 92118
Pro Tip: If you don’t have your own bike, you can rent one down the block at Ray’s Rentals. There are also plenty of rental options off of Orange Avenue (about a 6-minute ride to the park).

3. Check out the Wizard of Oz house

Fun fact: The author of the Wizard of Oz, L. Frank Baum spent many of his winter months on Coronado Island writing his series. You’ll find many secret hints from the books throughout the island. The first is the home (featured) which has a small “Oz” sign signifying where he stayed. Other rumors? It is also said that the Emerald City was based on the Hotel del Coronado down the street. The Coronado Museum of History and Art also has 3 of his first edition books.

Location: 1101 Star Park Circle, Coronado, CA 92118
Pro Tip: Combine this quick stop with a visit to the “Baby Del” and Hotel Del Coronado.

4. Admire the “Baby Del” aka The Livingston House

The 134-year-old Livingston House, nicknamed the “Baby Del” after its resemblance to its larger neighbor next door, is one of San Diego’s best examples of Victorian architecture. Built in 1887, its original location was in the Sherman Heights neighborhood until it was moved to the island in 1983. A few other fun facts – it recently went on the market for $24 million!

Location: 1144 Isabella Ave, Coronado CA 92118

5. Have a picnic at Bayview Park

Bayview Park is arguably my favorite spot on Coronado Island. This incredibly small park has one of the best views of the San Diego skyline and is the spot to have a picnic or relax with the views.

Location: 413 1st St, Coronado, CA 92118

6. Explore the Coronado Beach sand dunes

The Coronado Beach behind the Hotel del Coronado is the quintessential Socal beach. What I mean by that is it is exactly what you might imagine when thinking of a white sandy beach. While it gets crowded in the summer, it’s so large that it’s easy to spread out.

Don’t miss the sand dunes because fun fact: the aerial view of them spells out “Coronado!”

Location: Ocean Blvd (behind the Hotel del Coronado)
Pro Tip: This is another great spot for a picnic!

7. Have breakfast at Clayton’s Coffee Shop

This island landmark feels like a blast from the past – circa the 1940s. When you walk in, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to another time in the best way possible. Expect traditional delicious American diner food.

Location: 979 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118
Hours: 6AM -2PM daily
Pro Tip: It gets super crowded on weekends. Get there early to grab a good spot!

8. Appreciate the varying architecture like the Bank of Coronado

While exploring Coronado Island, you’ll find plenty of buildings with varying architecture. For example, what is now known as the Pacific Western Bank features neo-classical architecture. Built in 1911, it was originally home to the Bank of Commerce & Trust. PS: It’s down the street from a great french cafe – Little Frenchie.

Location: Pacific Western Bank – 1190 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118
Pro Tip: Orange Ave. is filled with tons of unique boutiques. Take some time to window shop (or actually shop) while you’re in the area.

9. Take a photo in front of the “Welcome to Coronado” Mural

The “Welcome to Coronado” Mural makes for a great photo op! It features all the historic and recognizable elements on the island.

Location: 844 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA
Pro Tip: I grabbed an ice cream from MooTime Creamery (another locals’ staple) down the street to add to the photo.

10. Grab drinks and watch the sunset at the Hotel Del’s Sun Deck

Taking a walk around the Hotel del Coronado is a quintessential island activity (which I didn’t mention since it’s a given while visiting). While I wouldn’t necessarily recommend eating at the hotel, the Sun Deck bar and grill is a great spot to grab a drink at sunset!

Location: 1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118
Pro Tip: If you’re looking for a dinner option after drinks, the Buona Forchetta Garage is one of my go-to’s.