Coronado, California, also referred to as “The Island,” sits along the shoreline of the San Diego Bay, and connects to the mainland via a stretch of land called the Silver Strand. The area is popular among vacationers due to its warm weather, vacation rentals near the beaches, and ocean waters that are perfect for surfing, fishing, and water sports. Nicknamed “The Crown City,” Coronado offers visitors their own little island paradise in the good old USA. If Coronado is on your list as your next holiday destination, this top eight list will help you find the perfect location for your Coronado vacation rental abode.
1. Imperial Beach, California
Located to the south of Coronado, Imperial Beach is a great vacation rental location if you’re looking for a peaceful getaway, as the town is surrounded by miles of uncrowded sandy beaches and beautiful natural wetlands. Imperial Beach is often referred to as “Classic Southern California,” as its small-town, family-friendly atmosphere is inviting, cozy, and welcoming. Spend your days collecting seashells and relaxing on the beach, or grab your camera and take a guided bird-watching nature walk at the Tijuana Estuary.
2. La Playa, San Diego, California
For gorgeous views of downtown San Diego Bay and convenient access to the waters of the San Diego Bay, consider choosing a vacation rental in La Playa. Many rentals in this charming neighborhood sit just minutes from the La Playa bayfront beach, making it easy to head out on the water for a day of surfing or watersports. La Playa is also located within walking distance of the San Diego Yacht Club, where you can sign up for a day of sailing lessons and enjoy a waterfront meal.
3. Point Loma, San Diego, California
Point Loma offers amazing panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, as this seaside peninsula is bordered by the water on both the south and west sides. You’ll also find a number of San Diego’s most popular attractions in Point Loma, including the San Diego Zoo and the 1,200-acre Balboa Park, which houses a number of museums, restaurants, and nature areas. One of the most beautiful natural attractions in all of Point Loma is the 68-acre Sunset Cliffs, Natural Park. Pack a picnic and hike to the top of the cliffs, then sit back and enjoy the incredible views.
4. Ocean Beach, San Diego, California
If you’re looking for a vacation rental in a relaxed environment with easy access to fishing and some of the friendliest locals around, Ocean Beach can’t be beaten. This small beach town sits just north of Point Loma, offering gorgeous views of the Sunset Cliffs and a mile-long fishing pier. Spend the morning catching some largemouth bass, then take a walk along Main Street, peruse the shops, and munch on some local tacos.
5. San Diego Bay, California
Vacation rentals in the San Diego Bay overlook the beautiful waters of the Pacific and sit just minutes from the San Diego Harbor, where you can rent a sailboat for the day or sign up for a guided harbor boat cruise. All cruises take place on a spacious modern yacht, complete with a snack bar and complimentary drinks. Spend the day cruising the waters and learning about San Diego’s unique history, then stop by Humphrey’s waterfront restaurant for some live music and California seafood.
6. Mission Bay, California
If you’re planning to spend a lot of time at the beach during your visit to Coronado, consider a vacation rental in Mission Bay. Known for its 4,600 acres of equal parts water and shoreline, Mission Bay is truly a beach city. Take a ferry out to Fiesta Island to check out the sand dunes and spend the day jet-skiing and tubing, or host a family bonfire or picnic at Ski Beach. For a bit of underwater exploring, visit the Quivira Basin Mission Bay and sign up for a scuba-diving charter.
7. Chula Vista, California
If outdoor recreation is high on your vacation activity list, Chula Vista is the perfect vacation destination. Sitting along the San Diego Bay, this city features incredible views of the water, two boat harbors, and offers convenient access to the Los Padres National Forest. Rent a boat for the day and navigate the waters of the bay, then pack up some camping gear and head over to Los Padres National Forest for a few nights in the great outdoors.
8. North Harbor, San Diego, California
The North Harbor neighborhood sits just a few blocks away from the Point Loma Marina, making this spot an ideal vacation rental location for boating and fishing enthusiasts. Rent a fishing boat from the marina, or sign up for a guided sports fishing trip to reel in some yellowtail or bluefin tuna. Harbor Drive in the North Harbor area is also known for its delicious waterfront restaurants, so be sure to stop by Buster’s Beach House and Longboard Bar for some Barbados crab cakes, or pop into Tom Ham’s Lighthouse for some Maine lobster and craft beer from local breweries.