Hotel del Coronado
About
The iconic Hotel del Coronado transforms its beachfront into a magical winter wonderland with an outdoor ice skating rink that offers a truly unique Southern California experience. Kids can glide across the ice with stunning Pacific Ocean views and the Victorian hotel as a backdrop, creating unforgettable holiday memories in sunny San Diego.
Highlights
- ✓Skating with ocean views - a rare beachfront ice skating experience
- ✓Beautiful holiday decorations throughout the historic Victorian hotel
- ✓Direct beach access for post-skating sand play
- ✓Hot chocolate and seasonal treats available rinkside
- ✓Photo opportunities with stunning coastal backdrop
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early in the season (early November) or on weekday afternoons to avoid holiday crowds and longer wait times
- 2.Bring extra socks and layers - it can be chilly on the ice but warm California sun means you'll shed jackets quickly
- 3.Book your skating session online in advance during peak season (Thanksgiving through New Year's) to guarantee your time slot
- 4.Combine your visit with a stroll through the hotel's gorgeous Victorian lobby and beachfront - it's free and decorated beautifully for the holidays
- 5.Park in the hotel's paid parking lot or use free street parking on nearby residential streets and walk over
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings or early afternoons for smaller crowds and milder temperatures. Sunset sessions (if available) offer spectacular views but book up quickly. Avoid weekends between Thanksgiving and Christmas when crowds peak.
What to Know
Admission typically includes skate rental; sessions are usually timed (45-60 minutes). The hotel offers dining options from casual to upscale, and public restrooms are accessible. Parking fees apply in hotel lots.
Seasonal Notes
The ice rink operates seasonally, typically from mid-November through early January. Check the hotel's website for exact dates and hours as they vary yearly. This is a holiday-season-only attraction, so plan accordingly.
Nearby Eats
Clayton's Coffee Shop inside the hotel offers casual, kid-friendly fare with burgers and milkshakes. For quick bites, walk to nearby Orange Avenue where you'll find Burger Lounge and Miguel's Cocina, both family favorites with outdoor seating.
More Activities Near Coronado
Coronado Ferry Landing
The Coronado Ferry Landing offers families the perfect combination of scenic beauty and kid-friendly fun right on the waterfront. Kids can burn energy at the playground while parents soak in those postcard-worthy views of the San Diego skyline, then browse the charming shops and grab a bite at one of several casual eateries,all without needing to get back in the car.
Bayshore Bikeway (Silver Strand Bikeway)
The Bayshore Bikeway along Silver Strand offers families a spectacular, pancake-flat paved path perfect for cyclists of all abilities. With stunning bay views, minimal traffic, and gentle ocean breezes, this scenic route connects Coronado to Imperial Beach and provides a safe, stress-free environment for kids learning to ride or families enjoying a leisurely bike adventure together.
Centennial Park
Centennial Park is a beloved Coronado gem that offers families a perfect blend of modern play structures and relaxing green spaces. With its well-maintained playground equipment, expansive lawns for running and picnicking, and plenty of shade trees, this neighborhood park provides an ideal setting for everything from toddler playdates to family birthday parties.
Coronado Public Library
The Coronado Public Library is a gem for families seeking both entertainment and enrichment. With its stellar 4.8-star rating, this beautiful community library goes beyond just books, offering engaging story times, hands-on educational activities, and thoughtfully designed children's areas that make learning feel like play. It's the perfect free indoor activity, especially on hot summer days or when you need a quieter outing in charming Coronado.