San Diego Date Ideas – Coronado Cycling
Many people think of Coronado as an island, but in reality it is just a peninsula disguised as an island; most of it is connected to the mainland to the south by a long, thin strip of land called the Silver Strand. But no matter what you call it, Coronado is definitely one of the most picturesque places to visit in San Diego. The island (I say so too) has over 15 miles of dedicated bike trails that will take you along the San Diego Bay, the Pacific Ocean, the golf course, under the Coronado and Silver Bay Bridge. Strand. The good thing is that the entire area is relatively flat, allowing you to enjoy great views of the San Diego skyline, Pacific Ocean, and beaches without getting exhausted. Add a stop at the Hotel Del Coronado to explore the grounds and white-sand beaches of this world-famous hotel, and you’ve got yourself a great date in San Diego.
Now for the nuts and bolts. If you are staying downtown I recommend taking the ferry across the bay and renting bikes right there at the Coronado ferry dock. To get there, head to the San Diego Ferry landing at the intersection of N. Harbor Drive and Broadway, the ferry leaves every hour on the hour from 9 am to 9 pm. After you cross the bay, you’ll find Bikes and Beyond right there. The company offers beach cruisers, road bikes, tandem bikes, and surreys, and while they don’t take reservations, there are usually plenty of bikes available. If you’re concerned, give them a call ahead of time at (619) 435-7180 and ask what their current inventory looks like. Those unable to walk or hail a cab can drive over the Coronado Bay Bridge and park at Ferry Landing. You’ll miss the ferry ride, but you’ll also miss finding parking spots and paying for it like you would on the San Diego side.
Hire your transportation and then begin a leisurely drive south along the coast, going under the bridge and next to the golf course until you reach Glorietta Blvd. Turn left and follow Glorietta to Hotel Del. After spending some time walking around the hotel’s interior, grounds, beach, and shops, wind down with lunch in Sheerwater or Sunday brunch in the Crown Room. When you’re done with lunch, you can cycle through the center of town, head north along the coast to the Naval Air Station and golf course, or continue south on Silver Strand. If you’re feeling energetic, head south on Silver Strand (ocean side) and take the paved trail that runs the length of the peninsula. It’s a completely flat 18 mile round trip with views of the ocean on one side and the bay on the other.
Don’t forget to bring a hat and sunscreen. Have fun!