Food Traveler Magazine Winter 2017 | Page 72

travel tips The beach itself is very flat and smooth, so picnicking or laying out to catch some sun comes with an easy setup. CORONADO BEACH, CALIFORNIA Coronado Beach is also among the highest of ratings when it comes to the beautiful beaches of the United States. The Travel Channel ranked Coronado Beach as fifth on the list of “Best Beaches of America.” The word Coronado means “the crowned one” in Spanish, thus the city got its nickname: The Crown City. Coronado Beach, which is also referred to sometimes as Cen- tral Beach – due to its location – begins at the popular Hotel del Coronado. Known simply as “Del” or “Hotel Del” by the lo- cals, the famous hotel was made so by being featured in films, such as Some Like It Hot with Marilyn Monroe. A number of celebrities also choose to va- cation here, making the area in itself something magical and luxurious. Main access to the beach is also near the hotel, which makes for a beautiful backdrop as you get to park and walk to the sand. There are free parking areas all along Ocean Boulevard, so you won’t have to worry about purchasing a day pass. Coronado Beach moves north and ends at Sunset Park, where dog lovers can bring their ca- nines for a day of fun. Also called Dog Run Beach, all dogs here get to roam free, so get ready for enormous splashes of both water and excitement. Even though Coronado Beach only stretches just over a mile, there are plenty of things to do. The beach itself is very flat and smooth, so picnicking or laying out to catch some sun comes with an easy setup. Try your hand at surfing – it’s quite pop- ular here. You may notice bon- fires in the winter months as well, as the hotel hosts bonfires with music. The weather is per- fect, the water is gorgeous, and the people exuberate joy and relaxation. Come take a walk along Coronado Beach, and see for yourself!