Golden Sands

Golden Sand and Heroes

There’s something magical about driving across the soaring curve of the Coronado Bridge, leaving behind the buzz of San Diego and entering a world that feels straight out of a coastal storybook. Just don’t miss the exit or you could end up in Mexico!

Today, we’re diving (get it?) into the golden beaches, Navy SEAL sightings (yep, really), firefighter drills, and retro diner bites that will make your heart - and stomach - very happy. It’s impossible to be sad here (even after seeing the housing prices).
- Cris

Coronado Beach

Golden Shining Sand

If you only have time for one stop in Coronado, make it the beach. But not just any beach. Coronado Beach is consistently ranked among the top beaches in the U.S. and for good reason. Wide, clean, and peaceful, it’s ideal for sunbathing, sandcastle building, or just listening to the gentle rhythm of the Pacific. The beach is so wide that it never feels crowded or overwhelming, even when the multiple volleyball courts and fire pits are all in use. There is just so much space available that no one gets territorial. Everyone can spread out and have fun.

What sets it apart? The sand literally sparkles, thanks to flecks of mica that catch the light and give the shoreline a fairytale shimmer. It’s soft, it's scenic, and it’s perfect for everything from romantic strolls to family fun. My younger sister confidently declared Coronado to be her destiny because the sand appears to be made of gold 😀 

Local tip: Head toward the southern end of the beach (near the dunes) and look at the sand art - local artists occasionally shape the dunes into giant letters that spell "Coronado" from above.

We Can’t Stop Laughing (or Coloring)

We stumbled across these unhinged, unfiltered, definitely NSFW coloring pages—and now we can’t look away. They’re from a brand so gloriously inappropriate we can’t even print their name. Their website literally warns: “This is not a place for the weak.” If laughter is therapeutic, can we deduct this?

Hotel del Coronado

A Living Legend

Towering just steps from the shore is the iconic Hotel del Coronado, a Victorian masterpiece that looks like it was plucked from a Hollywood film - because it was! (Some Like It Hot, anyone?)

Built in 1888, “The Del” has hosted U.S. presidents, Hollywood royalty such as Marilyn Monroe, and curious travelers from around the world. But you don’t have to be an overnight guest to enjoy its charm. You can walk the historic grounds, grab a drink at the Sun Deck Bar & Grill, or explore the on-site shops and museum. For locals, it’s a ritual to have lunch on the Sun Deck at least once a year because the view of golden sands, sailing yachts, and Navy cruisers is relaxing and inspiring every single time. Meals are healthy and affordable, and no one would dare rush you. The vibe here is relaxed and friendly. People will happily wait for hours for a table because they can walk the beach or go for a swim in the pool while waiting.

Don’t miss: The oceanfront fire pits at sunset - bring you s’mores kits. Or if you’re feeling indulgent, book a spa treatment in a cabana that faces the sea. It’s relaxation on a whole new level.

Witness Navy SEALs in Training

Real-Life Action, No Ticket Required

Believe it or not, you can sometimes witness elite military training just by being in the right place at the right time.

Coronado is home to Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, the heart of Navy SEAL training. Early mornings on the southern stretch of Coronado Beach (near The Del) might surprise you with a glimpse of wetsuit-clad teams running with boats overhead, plunging into the surf, or performing calisthenics in the sand.

It’s not a show - it’s the real deal. And while public access is limited and interaction is off-limits (do YOU want to be interrupted when carrying a heavy boat?), quietly observing from a respectful distance offers a unique peek into one of the world’s toughest training programs. Rent a sailboat and notice that the Captain avoids those little buoys with boats nearby. Why? Those buoys mark the location of SEALs training underwater. The boats above are to intervene if someone doesn’t know how to sail and ends up in their space. That is not recommended. I was once on a sailboat whose centerboard snapped, leaving us dead in the water. The Coast Guard and a SEAL team on break came to get us. Bestill my heart - that was the best sailing trip ever!

It’s humbling. It’s awe-inspiring. And it’s one of the coolest things you didn’t expect to see on a beach day. One tip? It’s highly likely that the cute guy you met at the bar last night lied when he claimed to be a SEAL. While it is legitimately possible to meet a random SEAL at a bar, be smarter than that. EACH bar has several SEALs? Probably not.

Firefighter Training

Hometown Heroes

Fire is a very serious threat in San Diego and locals are grateful for firefighters. It is a profession of the highest honor and respect. Make your way inland a few blocks to 1001 6th Street, where the Coronado Fire Department sometimes conducts live training drills.

Tower climbs, hose drills, rescue simulations - you’ll be surprised how fascinating it is to watch these everyday heroes practice their craft. It’s a real-time demonstration of skill and coordination that kids (and adults!) find absolutely riveting. Even if they sell calendars, please don’t ask them. Just look in the local stores and gift shops. Have some self respect as you wipe the drool from your face.

There’s no schedule posted, so it’s a bit of a lucky catch - but if you see firefighters out and active, hang around. It’s a local experience you won’t find in any guidebook. It’s ok to take a picture as long as you don’t interrupt them or try to make it a selfie. No one will believe you took part in training.

I’ll be sitting on the Sun Deck, eating french fries, wondering why I don’t have muscles like the firefighters.

See you next Wednesday.

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