Coronado is linked to San Diego by one of America's most iconic bridges, but the island city offers an alternative ambiance to San Diego's cosmopolitan nature. Ironing-board-flat sandy beaches tempt relaxation and contemplation of all that hustle and bustle across the water. When you want to join in, however, you can venture back across the bridge or stay on your island retreat. After all, 2 million visitors don't come each year to do absolutely nothing.
Coronado's quintessential beach bum atmosphere is no hindrance to those who fancy a spot of strenuous exercise. The mile-long walk along Orange Avenue is just a tease to the adrenaline that can be pumped up to the max by visiting Action Sports Rental or a number of other outfitters who can kit you out with power boats, jet skis, wake boards and sail boats. You can take things a little easier in a kayak or bike along 15 miles of flat paths with equipment to rent at the Ferry Landing. Hit the tees at the Coronado Municipal Golf Course, open since 1957, or work on your backhand at one of 19 public tennis courts in Coronado.
The beach is not just a view from a window in San Diego, it's a way of life. There are simply dozens in the city and everyone has a favorite. For the Travel Channel, it is Coronado Municipal Beach, but back on the mainland San Onofre State Beach appears to offer a clue as to what southern California might have looked like before the crowds arrived. Windswept bluffs and tidal wetlands provide a playground for skim-boarding, windsurfing and scuba diving. If you prefer something a tad more upscale with fine-dining establishments within easy reach, then La Jolla is it. Alcohol is not permitted on any San Diego beach, but you will certainly find it in the bars of the luxury lodgings like Estancia La Jolla and La Valencia Hotel.
Even the most determined sun worshipper has to come indoors at some point, and despite almost year-round sunshine, San Diego is not afraid of the dark. It can claim two Tony Award-winning theaters and numerous museums, including the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center with more than 100 interactive exhibits, the USS Midway Museum on board America's longest-serving aircraft carrier and the Maritime Museum, which counts the world's oldest active ship among its collection. In Coronado a visit to the historic Hotel del Coronado is a must, if only to sample fine wine, rare cheese and gourmet chocolate in the ENO wine bar, dedicated to that very activity.
