Coronado Hotels

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  Coronado Island Marriott Resort

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Noted for its affluence, its classic hotel resorts and for its beaches and other such natural wonders, Coronado goes by another name locally, 'the Island'. It is not an island in fact, but a peninsula of San Diego Bay, and the original narrow isthmus road which links the city to downtown San Diego has been joined by a road bridge which makes visiting this 'island' part of San Diego County that much easier. Ferries and boat trips provide further transport options but getting to Coronado is just the beginning of a city stay which will take in not just historic sites, cultural events, and some of the best beaches in America but also the extensive facilities and well honed hospitality of Coronado hotels.

Once in Coronado is it easy to get around on foot or by bicycle. Visitors from San Diego can bring their bikes on the ferry for a small charge and the quiet streets, coastal trails, sunny weather and cycle paths make it a popular way to travel. A must do for those on two wheels is the 8 mile Silver Strand Bikeway, which takes in some of the best views. Much of the north of the peninsula is used for military operations and training and so the city itself is concentrated on the south side, with most attractions within easy reach. There are numerous quality hotels and resorts but there is one which grabs more headlines than most, the Hotel del Coronado. Dating from 1888, it is a National Historic Landmark and major city attraction.

The hotel is a complete hand construction, built by two railway engineers and is characterised by bright exteriors in a Victorian style complemented by later Art Deco interiors. Presidents have stayed here, alongside the rich and famous of American history, from Marilyn Monroe to Babe Ruth, and as well as an appearance in 'Some Like it Hot', it is said to be the inspiration for L, Frank Baum's creation of the Emerald City in the 'Wizard of Oz'. Baum certainly had a good view of the hotel from the room in which he wrote his most famous work, and he himself designed the chandeliers which today still grace the hotel dining room. The Coronado Museum of History and Art offers walking tours which take in these and other high points of the city's historic sites.

The Pacific Ocean coast of the peninsula is where to find the best beaches. Central Beach, accessed from points along Ocean Blvd, is the main focus for beach and sea activities, with further options including Silver Strand State Beach, along the isthmus, which is known for swimming, surfing and camping. Other beaches are incorporated into recognised parks, with family activities and community events all part of the fun. The most popular among these are Spreckels Park, in the heart of the city, and Tidelands Park, north of the Bay Bridge.

While not all hotels can boast the history and appeal of the Hotel del Coronado, most are nevertheless expansive resort style establishments with a host of leisure features inside and out. There will be facilities for sports and recreation, health and fitness, for relaxing by the pool, and for dining, drinks and entertainment. Family-oriented hotels will often have a series of organised clubs and events for the kids, whist others will tender a rather more exclusive appeal for couples who seek some peace and solace within stylish surrounds. There are smaller hotels too, which will offer a more boutique hotel experience and while they cannot be expected to compete with the resorts in terms of leisure facilities they trade rather more on convenience, style and service.

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