Coronado Beach

Overview

Coronado Beach is a wide, sparkling strand along the Silver Strand peninsula, consistently ranked among the best beaches in the United States. The iconic red-roofed Hotel del Coronado provides a stunning backdrop.

Highlights

• Gold-Flecked Sand: The sand sparkles due to mica content deposited from erosion of local cliffs.
• Hotel del Coronado: The 1888 Victorian resort anchoring the beach is a National Historic Landmark.
• Gentle Waves: Calm surf makes it ideal for families and beginner bodyboarders.

History

Coronado was developed as a resort community in the 1880s by railroad magnate John D. Spreckels. The Hotel del Coronado, completed in 1888, was the largest resort in the world and helped establish Coronado as a premier beach destination.

Visitor Tips

• Sunset views from the beach looking west toward Point Loma are spectacular.
• Free parking is available along Ocean Boulevard, though it fills early on summer weekends.
• Duration: 1.5–3 hours.