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Southern California is full of unique travel spots that offer their own take on the SoCal lifestyle and beauty. We fell in love with the vibe of Coronado Island during our first trip to San Diego many years ago and this year we finally took the time to go stay on the island. We took a mini vacation over the Thanksgiving weekend and got a much needed break from reality while staying at The El Cordova Hotel. With so many fun things to do right within walking distance to the hotel, everyone in our family got a chance to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
The El Cordova Hotel offers a smaller feel than larger chains and has a boutique vibe to it that is a favorite for tons of travelers. The suites are great for families that travel because you have plenty of space and a private retreat for parents after the kids go to bed. Plus, with a full kitchen in our room, staying at The El Cordova Hotel allowed us to save money on dining out.
Rent Some Bikes
The El Cordova Hotel is situated nearby the beach making it the perfect location for bike rentals! With small kids, we weren’t sure how far we would really get if everyone rode their own bikes so this tandem family bike was perfect! While the beaches are packed during summer months, our tip is to visit Coronado during spring and fall when the beaches are less crowded but the weather is just as beautiful!
More to enjoy all for yourselves!
Shop While You Walk
The weather was beautiful during our weekend at The El Cordova Hotel so we left the car parked and walked almost everywhere. There are plenty of unique shops right by the hotel so stop in to shop; the shops are perfect for finding those gifts for hard to buy for people and our kids loved talking to store owners and listening to their stories.
Walk Along the Beach
I never tire of the beach and the ocean air. Being able to stay at an affordable hotel so close to the ocean was a nice perk and we found ourselves taking walks along the beach time and time again.
If you travel during the holidays, keep an eye out for sand sculptures (because who needs ice?). One day we saw Santa and the next it was a snowman; they are spectacular to watch being built, too.
Go for a Swim
The hotel pool at The El Cordova is located right in the middle of the courtyard making it easy to see from most rooms. With both of our kids being competitive swimmers, they loved being able to hop in the pool and we as parents enjoyed being able to see them from the room when we needed to run back for snacks and necessities.
Go Ice Skating by the Sea
Oh yes, you read that right. Hotel Del Coronado is right across the street from the El Cordova and has an ice skating rink with an ocean view. There are not many places that you can actually ice skate…in your shorts…with an ocean view so make sure you take advantage of it if you are visiting Coronado during the fall and winter season.
SheBuysTravel Tip: Book your skating session ahead of time to avoid waiting in long lines and to make sure you get a spot on the ice when it is busy. We booked ours a week ahead of time with total ease.
Dine at Miguel’s Cocina
After a day of fresh air and being active, we worked up an appetite but didn’t want to drive or go far for dinner. Miguel’s Cocina is literally located right off the El Cordova Hotel courtyard – it’s so close you can smell their food while you sit at the pool. They have a fantastic menu and a white sauce that is to die for!
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