Top Things to do in Coronado Island

Often referred to as an island, Coronado is actually a peninsula surrounded by three bodies of water: the Pacific Ocean, San Diego Bay, and Glorietta Bay.  In the early days of settlement, the "strand" would occasionally flood at high tide. Before the Coronado Bridge was built in 1969, automobile ferries were the only connection to this vibrant beach community, which added to the misnomer of it being an island. The fairyland aspect of Coronado inspired the author of "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz," L. Frank Baum, when he wintered in San Diego while writing his "Oz" books.  Hence, the reason for Coronado’s nickname, Emerald City.

Hotels

Of course, in the same breath of saying Coronado, it is impossible not to also say the "Del" - as in Hotel Del Coronado.  Built entirely of wood in 1888, it is one of the last remaining Victorian seaside resorts, designed in the Queen Anne revival style with its signature brick red turrets and asymmetrical design.  A star in its own right, it served as the seaside location for an infamous scene in "Some Like it Hot," a motion picture co-starring comedians Jack Lemmon, Tony Curtis, and the iconic Marilyn Monroe. Hotel Del Coronado also features one of the best spas in San Diego. 

Hotel Del Coronado now offers the V.I.K. (Very Important Kid) program designed to make younger guests (ages 4 to 12) feel extra special beginning at check-in with a V.I.K. pass.  Kidtopia is a colorful brightly decorated facility with crafts and playtime for this age range as well.  Three-hour camps include dinner or lunch, which also feature scavenger hunts, sandcastle contests, beach Olympics, luaus and bonfires.

Since Coronado’s inception, the community has taken a careful approach in planning development, maintaining both the quality of the residential lifestyle and the business community.

Real Estate

Contributing to the dedication of preserving the beauty of Coronado are two real estate professionals, Del Realty and The Jackman Group.  Del Realty team is led by Ruth Ann Fisher whose in-depth knowledge of Coronado and San Diego markets is unsurpassed and whose business address is at the prestigious "Hotel Del". 

Sheryll A. Jackman, ASID, CID, is the president and director of The Jackman Group (founded in 1978), a Coronado-based multi-disciplinary firm offering planning, design and construction.  Sheryll Jackman also holds a General Contractor’s license and a Real Estate broker's license.  She is a big proponent and lecturer of Historic Preservation.

Also rich in history, and possessing a charming hacienda atmosphere, the beautiful El Cordova Hotel sits in the heart of the Village of Coronado, a block from the best beaches on the island.  This hotel was originally built as a retirement mansion house for wealthy industrialist Elisha Babcock in 1902.  In 1930, it was converted to a Spanish Village hotel with numerous updates and expansions to accommodate the burgeoning tourist trade.

Restaurants

Try this local favorite: Tavern, The Henry, or Chez Loma

Shopping

If you need a gift for a lady friend or fancy something new to wear for dinner, visit the high-end clothing boutiques with an unexpected price point that is affordable.  Considering the neighborhood with numerous styles and rinses of designer denim available, shopping is a pleasure.  In addition, to designer swimwear and with special considerations for plus sizes, swimwear for children is also available. The selection is extensive in regard to sweaters, jewelry, dresses, purses, and accessories.  This trendy boutique is the latest of "island" fashion in Emerald City.

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