11 Best Hotels on Coronado Island San Diego

‘America’s Finest City’ San Diego could sometimes be overshadowed by the cosmopolitan San Francisco or the sexier Los Angeles. However, the city holds a treasure that neither city has: Coronado. This resort city, which is a tied island within San Diego County, sits its own strip of land and is connected by a narrow strip of beach to the mainland. We loved the detached yet somewhat sleepy and leisurely vibe of this gorgeous place, which is all about legendary beaches and a slowed-down island feel. So, we had tons of amazing choices for hotels on Coronado Island, San Diego. What’s more, they are spread all across the tiny island, right from the downtown strip to the miles of gloriously uncrowded and sun-kissed beachfront. Hence, it was easy to see why it instantly put us in a permanent vacation state of mind.

One of the most special parts about visiting here is the way to get here — the curvilinear San Diego-Coronado Bridge that connected the island to downtown San Diego. The drive might have lasted just a few minutes, but we were treated to spectacular, all-encompassing views of the city’s skyline, as well as the sprawling naval base and shipyard. Not for nothing is Coronado Beach one of the best beaches in California, and now you’ll see it too.

El Cordova Hotel

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Best for families. We begin with the El Cordova Hotel, which sat right on Orange Avenue, close to Glorietta Bay and the Ocean Boulevard. So, its location couldn’t be better; we were in the thick of all the Orange Avenue action and could saunter across the street to an excellent beach.

We loved the Spanish style of this boutique hotel, whether it was the common spaces or the rooms and suites. The standout amenity in the rooms was the fact that most had kitchens, so we could whip up meals whenever we felt like and didn’t want to step out. This was very useful as we also had one and two-bedroom suite options and we were traveling with the kids. So, this is an excellent option for families visiting the island.

Despite there being kitchens in most of the rooms, two onsite restaurants, Miguel’s Cocina and Brigantine, served steaks, seafood, and Mexican cuisine for lunches and dinners. Our favorite part of the hotel, though was the gorgeous courtyard with the freeform pool, where the kids had a ball.

Glorietta Bay Inn

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Since we love historic stays, we had to stay at the stunning Glorietta Bay Inn, which is close to both the Glorietta Bay and the beach, just like the El Cordova. The inn is the former 1908-built home of sugar baron John D. Spreckels, who put San Diego on the map with his savvy business ideas. We loved the 1920s sense of place, whether it was the entry lobby, the common areas, or the rooms. The historic vibe extends to the rooms and suites, which derive their names from multiple things: their location in the home, Spreckels’ yacht, and even his grandchildren. We were booked into one of the Mansion Rooms, as they were bursting with charm, thanks to the original fixtures and period furniture, besides the mod-cons, of course.

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The rest of the hotel was no less impressive. Every day began with included and complimentary continental breakfasts, despite there being no restaurant on the property. Of course, we were spoilt for choice when it came to dining options given the inn’s prime location. Since we were right across the street from San Diego Bay, we even indulged in watersports like powerboating, kayaking, etc.

Hotel Marisol Coronado

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Best boutique hotel. Imagine snagging an award-winning coastal boutique hotel just a block from the beach on Coronado Island; that’s Hotel Marisol for you. Nestled on a quiet street, the hotel was still a stone’s throw from many of the island’s attractions and sights.

We had the choice of just 15 rooms, making our stay as intimate as it felt exclusive. Our Junior Suite was oh-so-indulgent, with plantation shutters and luxe bathrooms with air bathtubs and bespoke bath products. Even then, all rooms boast pillow-top beds with soft Italian bed linens, small fridges stocked with bottled water, and even in-room Keurig machines with complimentary hot chocolate, tea, and coffee.

Despite not having an onsite restaurant, the hotel offered the most tantalizing complimentary daily breakfast spread from 7-10 am in living room. We’d gorge on delectable pastries, boiled eggs, oatmeal, yogurt, and fresh fruit before setting out for beachcombing, shopping, and sightseeing. At the end of the day, we’d come back and soak in the coastal breeze in the secluded private courtyard.

Coronado Beach Resort

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Best value-for-money. Excellent Orange Avenue location? Check. Close to the beach? Check. Amenities? Triple check! Welcome to the Coronado Beach Resort, one of the best value-for-money traditional hotels we found right on Orange Avenue, across the Coronado Beach. The location couldn’t be more perfect, especially since we were looking for a traditional hotel with all the frills.

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Even though it was a value-for-money hotel, we found all the comfortable amenities here. For instance, the resort offered options for apartments with kitchenettes. So, not only could our large group stay comfortably, but also we could whip up meals when we didn’t feel like stepping out or didn’t want to spend money unnecessarily. What’s more, all apartments boasted all mod-cons, including flatscreen TVs, modern bathrooms, and even dining and living areas with sofa beds.

Coming to the rest of the property, there was not only a rooftop sun deck, but also barbeque facilities, a fitness center, free Wi-Fi, and a sauna. Did we mention that we had access to an off-site basketball court and an outdoor pool too? Yep.

Coronado Island Marriott Resort & Spa

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If secluded luxury is what you’re looking for, then look no further than the Coronado Island Marriott Resort & Spa. It’s tucked on the other side of the island, facing San Diego, near the ferry center and overlooking the Bayshore Bikeway. So, we’d actually grab bikes and cycle down to Coronado Beach right by the ferry center.

We had a great choice of rooms that offered superb downtown San Digeo skyline views. All rooms were spacious with queen or king beds, flatscreen TVs, luxe bathrooms, and even space for rollaway beds. We chose the one-bedroom cottage with a bay view, making for the perfect abode for our secluded escape on the island. That’s why it’s considered one of the most romantic Hotels in San Diego.

We loved the location of the main pool, which overlooks the bay and boasts a bunch of loungers perfect for relaxing. After that, we’d head to the wellness facility and the spa, which also had tennis, yoga, and other classes. Two restaurants serve all meals, including cocktails and a fantastic breakfast with bay views. Since we were close to the Ferry Landing Marketplace, we’d head there in the evenings for dining, shopping, and fun.

Loews Coronado Bay Resort

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Most luxurious. Luxury is the name of the game at the secluded Loews Coronado Bay Resort, which sits on a secluded island of its own in the Coronado Cays. It’s close to Silver Strand State Beach, and thus, farther from everywhere else. However, it was the perfect romantic nest for us, and we’d rented a car to explore the island anyway. Even then, it was a mere 10-minute drive into downtown San Diego, but it felt plenty removed from all the bustle.

This goal of this Coronado Island hotel was to make us experience the best of San Diego without having to leave the property, thanks to the “Flavor by Loews” program. They’d integrated locally-brewed beers, distilled spirits, locally-caught caught seafood, and more into the menus at the four onsite restaurants. In fact, some produce is even grown onsite in the lovely gardens, where we’d enjoy long walks. Since the property sat on a secluded 15-acre peninsula, we could enjoy uninterrupted beach time, as well as watersports. Did you know they even arranged for golf cart shuttles to and back from Orange Avenue and the beach? Yes!

As is with all bay-view hotels, the bay view rooms and suites boasted fantastic views, with the suites even featuring separate living rooms with sofa beds. What’s more, they all had sand, blue, and white hues, patios/balconies, terrycloth robes, Keurigs, and mini-fridges. That’s why it’s also one of the best luxury hotels in San Diego.

Cherokee Lodge

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Best B&B. Located two blocks from Orange Avenue in the heart of Coronado Village is the Cherokee Lodge. We loved everything about this historic 14-room 1896-built B&B, which was an excellent break from staying at traditional hotels. It derives its name from the fragrant Cherokee roses that grow wild across the property.

So, what makes it so historic? Back during World War II, the Cherokee Lodge was the home of Rear Admiral Raymond A. Spruance, who was essential to the country’s victory at the Battle of Midway. Moreover, he’s considered as one of the greatest admirals in American naval history. So, we were thrilled to be staying in such a historic place, given that we’re crazy about history too. Even today, the lodge retains all its historical significance and touches, but has modern conveniences too. Every day, we’d wake up to a wonderful breakfast, after which we’d set out to explore the island. Furthermore, the B&B even had maid service between 9 and 10 am, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Of the 14 suites, most were rooms for 2 people, while some could accommodate 4 people. What’s more, all rooms had sleigh beds, small fridges, coffeemakers, and bespoke bath products.

1906 Lodge Coronado

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There’s yet another lodge on this list; this time, it’s the 17-room 1906 Lodge Coronado. Its location was a block from the bustling Orange Avenue, Glorietta Bay, and the beach, so we loved the quieter ambience around us. Originally built as a boarding school, the lodge might not have a fitness center, a bar, or a restaurant, but there was plenty included in our room rate. This included complimentary breakfast spreads with bottomless mimosas and hors d’oeuvres and wine every evening to complimentary beach gear; think umbrellas, bags, towels, chairs, and even beach cruisers that we could use during our stay.

“We loved the extras that came with our stay at the 1906 Lodge!”

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Even the rooms and suites were no less amazing. This is one of the rare lodges to have a huge room that can accommodate up to five adults, like the Garden Double Queen Spa Guestroom. However, the best room for couples, which we also booked, was the Grand King Spa room. It not only had a plush bed, a luxe bathroom, and in-room mod-cons, but it even came with an in-room spa bathtub just steps from the bed.

It’s no surprise that the 1906 Lodge won Tripadvisor’s 2022 Traveler’s Choice award for the “Top 25 Most Romantic Hotels,” as well as the Business Insider Award for being one of “America’s Best 30 Boutique Hotels.”

Shore House at The Del, LXR Hotels & Resorts

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Located at the southern end of Coronado Beach, the Shore House at The Del, LXR Hotels & Resorts, felt like a hotel within a hotel. The U-shaped boutique hotel was all about amenities and perks, especially since it overlooked the shoreline and the ocean. Our most favorite place was the oceanfront swimming pool, where we’d enjoy swims followed by languorous lounges on the daybeds under the umbrellas. It was also from where we could easily access the sandy beach, enjoying some much-needed tranquility. The onsite restaurant served all meals, and there was even outdoor lounge seating where we could enjoy dinners with superb sea views. An onsite spa, concierge services, seasonal activities like beach movies and bonfires, surf lessons, etc. round up the amenities here.

What we loved was that we had the choice of many rooms ranging from queen/two-queen rooms to multi-bedroom villas. Moreover, all villas had gourmet kitchens, plush linens, washer-dryers, and luxe bathrooms. Plus, we even had view choices, including resort, bay, and ocean views, including completely oceanfront villas (which you should choose if your budget allows it!).

Beach Village at The Del, LXR Hotels & Resorts

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If some place is named “Beach Village,” then there’s no way we’re letting go of staying there! Welcome to Beach Village at The Del, LXR Hotels & Resorts, a private enclave of luxury cottages and villas on a quiet but central stretch of Coronado Beach. Since this place is all about location and getting away from the bustle, the accommodations are the focus here. They range from one- to three-bedroom designer residences, some even with full kitchens. Even entry-level rooms might cost as much as USD 1,000/night here! If you’re looking for something romantic, consider the cottages with patios and outdoor fire pits. Do you want more space? Check out the bi-level Two-Bedroom Ocean Villa Loft Suite.

Even though this wasn’t a traditional hotel, we still had access to a few upscale and swish amenities, like concierges and Del Beach access (along with umbrellas and two sand chairs). Furthermore, since the Beach Village is actually part of the Hotel Del Coronado, we could access the amenities of the main hotel, but not the other way round.

Hotel del Coronado, Curio Collection by Hilton

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Sitting at the top of the list is the historic Hotel del Coronado, Curio Collection by Hilton, which is widely regarded as one of the best beachfront hotels in San Diego. Additionally, Coronado Beach is right out front, and the stretch of sand outside is the best, cleanest, and most tranquil in the region.

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Since we’re outdoorsy people, we loved the long roster of activities here, which included everything from outdoor spin classes on the sand to private evening s’mores roastings. Every day would begin with massive spreads of complimentary breakfasts. What’s more, we had the choice of not one or two, but six restaurants to choose from, which is why the dining experience is second to none in all of San Diego. The ultimate is the main outdoor swimming pool, which is sprinkled with sun loungers and umbrellas for the ultimate in unwinding.

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Interestingly, there were many options for views, like The Oceanfront rooms and The Cabana Beachfront Terrace Fire Pit rooms. We loved our firepit room as it was right outside the eponymous outdoor terrace, and it felt like an extension of our room. For value, look to the oceanfront rooms, which boast floor-to-ceiling windows with partial ocean views.

Our Verdict!

You might think that Coronado Island might not have many options for stays, but this list proves that it isn’t so. Here’s a whittled down list that will help you choose too.

• Best value for money: Coronado Beach Resort
• Most luxurious: Loews Coronado Bay Resort
• Best B&B: Cherokee Lodge
• Best for families: El Cordova Hotel
• Best boutique hotel: Hotel Marisol Coronado

Where to Stay in Coronado Island, San Diego?

Coronado Island might be a small slice of land, but it does have a bunch of good neighborhoods that we needed to choose from to stay at. The Village sits at the core of Coronado Island and is its center of entertainment and business. Moreover, the local restaurants and even the beaches are walkable. Secondly, there’s the Cays, an upscale boaters’ community with private slips and docks, as well as access to a private yacht club. Moreover, it has many gorgeous parks, including an off-leash dog park for your four-legged friends. Of course, the laidback lifestyle is the key.

No place does luxury living better in Coronado than the Shores, an exclusive enclave of high-rise condos near the beach. You can enjoy access to everything from tennis courts and pools to private beaches. Finally, there’s the Ferry Landing Marketplace, an entertainment, shopping, and dining hub and which offers spectacular views of the San Diego skyline.

Which Coronado Island hotels are best for watersports?

That would be the Loews Coronado Bay Resort, as it has an onsite watersports rental facility from where you can rent boats, kayaks, jet skis, and more.

How to get from Coronado to Downtown?

While the road is always an option, do take the Coronado Ferry at least once. Costing just USD 8/person each way, it’s the country’s oldest working wood ferry. Don’t use it for urgent transport times; rather, do it at leisure.

Does the location of your stay in Coronado matter?

Yes, it does. Don’t make the mistake of assuming that it doesn’t matter since Coronado is small. The most important thing to understand is how near or far you are to Orange Avenue and Coronado Central Beach.