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CORONADO — If you have one more road trip in you this year, consider a weekend in Coronado.
The city, just a few minutes outside of downtown San Diego, is as charming as it is fun. Beach houses line the streets on which bicyclists pedal back and forth between home and the beach. It is a busy little beach town, but more relaxed than San Diego, and great for families or a relaxing weekend.
While you will likely want to spend most of your time oceanside, here are a few more suggestions for a trip to the city.
Orange Avenue
Boutiques and unique shops line the main street in town, Orange Avenue. Wherever your interest lies, it’s likely there is a store for you.
For trendy clothing and jewelry, Pretty Please (961 Orange Ave.) is a treasure trove. The store sells cute charm necklaces and plenty of beach-appropriate knits.
If you are looking for paper craft supplies, candles and other gift-type item, Seaside Papery (1162 Orange Ave.) is a charming store with plenty to consider and fascinating displays. The prices are what you would expect in a specialty store, but you can find plenty of special little gifts for under $15.
Board and bike shops are a dime a dozen along the avenue, so you can embrace the laid-back lifestyle of California’s beachside residence.
Clayton’s Coffee Shop
This mom-and-pop diner is full of locals and tourists alike during breakfast hours. Expect a wait before sitting down to delicious waffles or huevos rancheros.
Service at the bar is quick and attentive, and the decor is charming.
While breakfast is king here, don’t forget to come back for a milkshake. And lunch, I guess.
Related:
979 Orange Ave. Coronado, CA 92118Hotel Del Coronado
Known simply as “The Del” by Coronado residents, this historic hotel was the site of the 1959 film “Some Like It Hot” — starring Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis and Jack Lemon. The hotel was built in 1888 and remains a luxury destinations for people looking for a picturesque beach vacation.
If you can’t afford to stay but want to check out the site, roam the perimeter and enjoy the gardens, views of the sea and iconic architecture before heading into the lobby. Once inside, check out the beautiful wood paneling, chandelier and the overall craftsmanship of the building. Observe signs saying where visitors are not allowed, however.
Once you’re done with the lobby, head over to the home boutique for some coastal decor, and to the ice cream shop to get a cone. For a bit of relaxation, treat yourself to a spa day.
If you want to get out, you can rent the Del’s signature red- and white-striped umbrellas and covers as well as bicycles, speedboats, jet skis, waterskis, kayaks and paddleboats. The beach behind the hotel is filled with families and swimmers.
1500 Orange Ave. Coronado, CA 92118
Find the sandman
Near the Hotel Del Coronado, “The Sandman” creates his works of art using sand, a broom and a dustpan. Sometimes he creates the pieces directly in the sandy beaches and other times by drawing on the pavement using sand. Watch him work or observe what he’s already done.
Ride a bike
Bike rental shops are a dime a dozen on Coronado, so find a place that suits your budget and explore the city by pedaling around it.
Bike trails crisscross all over, but take a few minutes for a ride through Coronado’s charming neighborhoods.
The ferry landing area has some beautiful paths for bikes that weave through parks, residential and shopping and dining areas. If you are there on a Tuesday, you can ride your bike to the farmer’s market for fresh produce.
While Coronado residents are polite to cyclists, be sure to do your part and follow the rules of the road. Observe all traffic laws and brush up on your signals if it’s been awhile.









