The holiday season on Coronado Island is truly magical. Our beautiful island and the greater San Diego area come alive with a special kind of festive cheer, blending classic holiday traditions with our signature Southern California sunshine. As a guest of Coronado Beach Resort, you are in the perfect place to experience it all, and we’re so excited to share some of our favorite local activities with you.
We believe that vacations are for creating memories that you’ll cherish for years to come. From sparkling boat parades right in our backyard to charming festivals just a short drive away, there are so many wonderful experiences waiting for you. Whether you’re here for a fun-filled family trip or a romantic escape, Coronado Beach Resort is the perfect home base for every adventure.
Iconic San Diego Events from Your Coronado Home
San Diego is home to several beloved annual events that perfectly capture the spirit of the season. From your stay on Coronado, you have a front-row seat to some of the very best. We highly recommend adding these to your holiday itinerary!
Holidays at the Hotel del Coronado
Just a short stroll from your resort, the legendary Hotel del Coronado transforms into a whimsical winter escape for the season with A Holiday in Oz (November 21–January 4). Inspired by L. Frank Baum’s timeless tales—and his historic connection to The Del—the hotel comes alive with Oz-themed décor, dazzling holiday trees, thousands of twinkling lights, and festive feasts in the iconic Crown Room, where Baum designed the famous crown chandeliers. This year also kicks off with a special performance on Saturday, November 22 at 5pm, featuring Broadway star Jenna Leigh Green, known for her roles as Elphaba and Nessarose in the national tour of Wicked.
A perennial favorite, Skating by the Sea invites you to glide across a beachfront ice rink with the sound of Pacific waves breaking just steps away—an only-in-Coronado experience guests rave about long after they return home. After skating, warm up with a gourmet hot chocolate and stroll through the magical holiday displays. We love having such a spectacular seasonal celebration right here in our neighborhood for you to enjoy.
The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights
Get ready for a truly breathtaking sight! The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights is a cherished tradition where dozens of boats, all lavishly decorated with festive lights, sail across the bay. The parade route passes directly by Coronado, giving you an unparalleled view of the spectacle. For two Sundays in December, our community comes together to create this floating festival of lights.
We suggest finding a cozy spot along the waterfront, perhaps near the Ferry Landing, to watch this beautiful procession. It’s a magical evening that truly showcases the maritime heart of our city, and we’re always so proud to see it unfold.
Festive Family Fun for All Ages
Creating joyful memories with your loved ones is what the holidays are all about. San Diego offers countless activities that will bring smiles to everyone’s faces, from the youngest members of your family to the young at heart.
Balboa Park December Nights
A short drive or ferry ride from Coronado will take you to Balboa Park December Nights, a wonderful gift to the community. Usually held on the first weekend of December, this free event transforms the nation’s largest urban cultural park into a festive wonderland. You can stroll through the park enjoying dazzling light displays, live music, and cultural dance performances.
Many of the world-class museums open their doors for free from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., offering a fantastic opportunity to experience art and culture. You’ll also find a delightful array of international food vendors. It’s a joyful celebration that we’re sure your family will love.
Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo
The world-famous San Diego Zoo, located within Balboa Park, gets a festive makeover for its Jungle Bells celebration. The park stays open late, allowing you to wander through a landscape filled with twinkling lights, holiday music, and special animal encounters. Enjoy seasonal treats, watch lively performances, and maybe even catch a glimpse of Santa. It’s a wonderful way to combine a passion for wildlife with the joy of the holidays.
Savor the Season: San Diego’s Holiday Food and Drink
San Diego truly shines during the holiday season, and its festive bar and restaurant pop-ups are a delightful way to toast to the magic of this time of year. Whether you love over-the-top décor, nostalgic themed experiences, or simply sipping a seasonal cocktail beneath twinkling lights, the city offers countless spots to get into the holiday spirit. Here are a few of our favorite places to celebrate, each bringing its own joyful twist to the season:
- Beachside Igloos at Hotel Del Coronado: Enjoy a cozy evening in a private Beach Igloo with warm lounge seating, then step outside to roast s’mores and sip hot cocoa around a glowing fire pit with your toes in the sand.
- Deck the Halls at Nason’s Beer Hall: Nason’s goes all-in on holiday cheer with over-the-top décor, frosty beers, themed cocktails, seasonal bites, and plenty of festive merriment.
- The Golden Girls Christmas Experience at Bayside Kitchen: Celebrate like Dorothy, Blanche, Rose, and Sophia with themed sweets, seasonal cocktails, and fun photo ops in a playful space inspired by the beloved sitcom.
- Nolita Hall: A stylish and spirited spot that embraces the season with creative holiday cocktails and vibrant décor in the heart of Little Italy.
- The Lafayette Hotel & Club: A maximalist winter wonderland with floor-to-ceiling decorations, festive cocktails, Holiday Tea Service, and lively seasonal programming through the New Year.
- Elf on the 12th at Mister A’s: Sip whimsical holiday cocktails like Resting Grinch Face and Let’s Take an Elfie while taking in one of the best panoramic views in the city.
Romantic Outings and Cozy Escapes
The holiday season provides a beautiful opportunity to connect with your special someone. The stunning scenery of Coronado and the festive atmosphere of San Diego create the perfect setting for romance.
A Romantic Stroll Through Seaport Village
Take a ferry across the bay to Seaport Village, a charming waterfront shopping and dining area. With its cobblestone paths and stunning views, it’s a delightful place for a romantic walk. During the holidays, the village is adorned with beautiful lights and decorations, making it even more magical. You can browse the unique shops for gifts, listen to carolers, and share a quiet dinner at a bay-front restaurant. It’s a simple yet beautiful way to spend an evening together.
Explore Julian for a Mountain Getaway
For a change of pace, consider a day trip to the historic mountain town of Julian, about an hour’s drive from San Diego. Famous for its delicious apple pie, this charming town feels like stepping back in time. During the holiday season, Julian’s Main Street is decorated with wreaths and lights, creating a cozy, old-fashioned Christmas atmosphere. You can enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride, browse quaint antique shops, and warm up with a slice of that world-famous pie.
Coronado Beach Resort: The Heart of Your Holiday
After a day full of festive exploring, there’s nothing better than returning to the comfort of Coronado Beach Resort. Here, you can relax, unwind, and reflect on the memories you’ve made. Staying with us means you get the best of both worlds: easy access to all the holiday excitement and a peaceful retreat to call your own.
Make the most of this wonderful season and book your stay at Coronado Beach Resort!
