Get to Coronado Island easily and enjoyably with this complete guide — covering ferry, driving, and parking tips, plus insider local routes and the most scenic arrival options.
Coronado Island isn’t just one of the prettiest coastal escapes in Southern California… it’s one of the most rewarding day trips you can do as a California local.
It feels like you slipped away somewhere wildly luxurious — but you didn’t even leave San Diego County.
And the wild thing?
How you get there dramatically changes your entire experience.
Most travelers think this is just a simple “drive over the bridge” situation.
But locals know… the best way to arrive in Coronado (emotionally + atmospherically + visually) is the Coronado Ferry.
It’s the most cinematic.
It’s the most “weekender escape” feeling.
And it’s the most memorable way to start a Coronado day trip — whether you’re brunching, beach-walking, bar hopping seaside, or staying overnight at the iconic Hotel del Coronado.
Best Ways to Get to Coronado Island: Why the Ferry Is Magical
Even as a San Diego-based traveler, your brain shifts the moment you step onto the ferry departing the downtown waterfront.
Suddenly your day trip becomes an experience — not just transportation.
You’re gliding across the bay with skyline views, aircraft carriers in view, sailboats passing, harbor breeze, sea lions sometimes popping up — the entire journey feels like a mini vacation before the day even begins.
Key takeaway: If you want Coronado to feel like a “weekend escape” even if you only have 4 hours — choose the ferry first.
This one decision instantly elevates the energy of your trip.
Get to Coronado Island via Ferry – Insider Tips
There are two departure terminals on the San Diego side.
1) Broadway Pier (Downtown San Diego)
This one feels the most classic — especially if you’re arriving in the area from other public transit or after exploring downtown.
Very easy to combine with brunch or Little Italy before/after.
2) San Diego Convention Center dock
This is the one most locals secretly prefer — it’s gorgeous at sunset especially.
Both ferries drop you at Coronado Ferry Landing on the island — right next to waterfront restaurants and boutiques.
Ferry Price
around $8–10 each way
(kids slightly less — bikes allowed)
Timing
usually every 30–45 minutes depending on season.
Local strategy:
Take the ferry IN to Coronado — and then decide to ferry back or Uber back later depending on how your day unfolds.
The Best Coronado Ferry Day Trip Flow (Local-Proven)
Locals do this route because it hits all the “best energy” of Coronado without trying to pack too much in.
Step 1 — Ferry in from Convention Center Pier
Step 2 — Walk the waterfront path toward the beach side of the island
Step 3 — Explore Orange Ave boutiques + grab coffee or ice cream
Step 4 — Head toward Hotel del Coronado beach + walk the sand
Step 5 — Sunset cocktail / chill and ferry or rideshare back
This exact 5 step flow takes a normal Coronado day from average → luxury coastal lifestyle fantasy.
Where to Eat Near Ferry Landing (Start or End Your Day Here)
These are easy, scenic, and extremely “California weekend” vibes.
Il Fornaio Coronado — waterfront Italian with skyline views
Peohe’s — upscale seafood / sushi with insane views (locals celebrate anniversaries here)
Parakeet Café Coronado — for the casual trendy elevated brunch vibe
Clayton’s Coffee Shop — iconic diner OG Coronado energy
This alone is why the ferry works so well — you step off right into atmosphere and food within seconds.
This also naturally aligns perfectly with weekenders + content share.
People share ferry arrival + food pics more than bridge arrival.
Section 3: Driving to Coronado Island (When You Should Choose Driving Instead)
Driving is still extremely popular — but it changes the vibe dramatically.
Some people absolutely should drive:
- families with beach gear
- dog owners (you can’t take all pets ferry)
- locals going to specific beaches like Silver Strand
- sunset photographers who want to bounce around multiple coastline spots
The Coronado Bridge Drive is one of the most beautiful coastal drives in California — especially at golden hour.
But parking + congestion can be frustrating during summer and weekends.
This is why the ferry is the “romantic arrival energy” and the car is more “utility arrival energy.”
Key takeaway: Driving is best when you plan to move around the island all day — ferry is best when you want a slow luxury day with limited stops.
Parking on Coronado Island: Tips for Weekenders
Even if you’re ferry-first, some travelers prefer driving or combining both methods. Parking in Coronado is a mix of free street spots, paid lots, and resort valet. Here’s what you need to know:
- Ferry Landing Parking Garage – closest to the ferry terminal, ~$2/hr, easy for quick drop-off.
- Street Parking – limited, metered, typically 2–4 hour max. Best for early arrivals.
- Hotel Valet – if you’re staying overnight or having a fancy brunch, many hotels offer valet service.
Local pro tip: Combine ferry and parking if you want flexibility. Park at Ferry Landing, hop on the ferry back, or drive home if sunset timing is key.
Key takeaway: parking exists but it’s stressful in summer weekends — another reason locals love the ferry.
Alternative Transit Options: Bus, Rideshare & Bikes
- Bus: MTS Route 901 connects Downtown San Diego to Coronado via bridge. Cheaper, slower, less scenic.
- Rideshare: Uber/Lyft direct from downtown ~15–20 minutes, ~$20–25. Quick, convenient, but you miss the iconic ferry experience.
- Biking: Some locals combine ferry + bike. Bicycles are allowed on the ferry, so you can explore the island on two wheels.
Recommendation: Ferry + walking or biking = perfect slow-paced day trip for locals.
Best Coronado Day Trip Itineraries
Itinerary 1 – Classic Ferry Day (Romantic / Couples / Weekend)
- Ferry in from Downtown San Diego (~10 min ride)
- Walk along waterfront path toward Hotel del Coronado
- Brunch at Peohe’s or Il Fornaio
- Beach walk + sunbathing
- Sunset cocktail at Hotel del Coronado
- Ferry back to San Diego
Itinerary 2 – Active Local Weekend
- Ferry or drive early morning
- Rent a bike or bring your own
- Loop island coastal path (~10 miles)
- Stop at Dog Beach or Silver Strand for sunrise photography
- Casual lunch at Clayton’s Coffee Shop or Parakeet Cafe
- Ferry back or stay for evening dinner
Itinerary 3 – Family Fun Day
- Drive or take ferry with stroller + small children
- Beach games, sandcastles, picnic lunch
- Ferry back or stay at one of Coronado’s kid-friendly hotels
These itineraries accommodate different preferences while keeping ferry-first arrival as the highlight.
Where to Eat & Drink on Coronado Island
Breakfast / Brunch:
- Clayton’s Coffee Shop – classic diner, family-friendly, elevated locals’ spot
- Parakeet Café – trendy brunch with light coastal cuisine
Lunch / Early Dinner:
- Il Fornaio – Italian waterfront, perfect for romantic or luxury vibes
- Peohe’s – upscale seafood, sushi, iconic sunset tables
Drinks / Cocktails:
- Hotel del Coronado Lobby Bar – historic, luxurious, perfect for local weekenders
- Noble Experiment / local speakeasy spots – if looking for hidden cocktail adventures
Key takeaway: Ferry landing makes all dining options walkable — combine scenic arrival + early brunch for max aesthetic + practical travel photo opportunities.
Luxury Travel Card Strategy (Monetization Friendly)
California locals looking for micro-luxury weekend experiences can leverage travel credit cards in multiple ways:
- Earn bonus points on restaurants & dining — Peohe’s, Il Fornaio, Parakeet Café all qualify.
- Points on transit spend — ferry tickets typically count.
- Some cards provide complimentary or discounted access to resort perks if you’re staying overnight.
- Special experience portals may have Coronado tour add-ons or bike rentals included.
Key takeaway: Using a travel rewards card transforms a $50 ferry + brunch day trip into a points-earning, luxurious local weekend — an elevated version of “micro travel.”
FAQs About Getting to Coronado Island
Q1: Can you walk to Coronado from San Diego?
No, walking across the Coronado Bridge is unsafe and prohibited. Ferry, drive, or rideshare is required.
Q2: Can you bring a bike on the Coronado Ferry?
Yes! Bikes are allowed and it’s one of the most scenic ways to explore the island by pedal after arrival.
Q3: How long does the ferry ride take?
Approximately 10 minutes each way from Downtown San Diego to Coronado Ferry Landing.
Q4: Is parking free on Coronado?
Some street spots are free or metered, but limited. Paid parking lots and hotel valet are available. Summer weekends are busiest.
Q5: Are dogs allowed on the ferry?
Yes! Small pets in carriers are welcome. Larger pets may need to ride with you on the outside deck depending on ferry regulations.
Q6: Can you combine the ferry with other San Diego attractions?
Absolutely. Many locals ferry in from Downtown San Diego after exploring Little Italy, Gaslamp, or waterfront parks.
You Might Also Like:
- Everything You Need to Know About Transportation in San Diego
- Best Beginner Hikes in San Diego
- 7-Day California Coast Road Trip Itinerary
Conclusion
Taking the ferry to Coronado Island is more than a mode of transportation — it’s the best part of your day trip. The short 10-minute ride transforms a simple weekend into an elevated coastal experience: romantic, effortless, scenic, and totally Instagram-worthy. Combine the ferry with waterfront brunch, boutique walks, beach time, or a sunset cocktail and you have the ultimate California micro-escape.
Next step: If you loved this Coronado planning guide, check out our full Everything You Need to Know About Transportation in San Diego page to plan the rest of your weekend adventures — trains, trolleys, ferries, and all the insider tips locals use to explore the city efficiently.
