Did you know that the first official triathlon was held in San Diego in 1974? The city’s calm bays and temperate climate made it the perfect place to swim, bike and run—and that tradition continues today in the numerous triathlons, marathons, half marathons, and 5Ks hosted in and around San Diego.

Coronado Island is a particularly fine place for athletic competitions. Where else can you sweat it out while enjoying views of sailboats and sandy beaches?  If you’ve ever dreamt of running a half or biking over the Coronado Bridge, consider one of these annual events.

• Silver Strand Half Marathon. Named for the thin strip of land that connects Coronado Island with the mainland, this half marathon features relatively flat terrain and views of the water on both sides of the course. The 13.1-mile run ends in Imperial Beach, a low-key beach town approximately 20 miles south of downtown San Diego.  For a more moderate challenge, walk or run the 5K or 10-mile course. The Silver Strand Half Marathon is typically held in November.

• Bike the Bay. While Bike the Bay is a non-competitive, non-timed event, it certainly deserves a place on this list. For one day every August, two lanes on the Coronado Bridge are open to cyclists, who enjoy scenic views of the San Diego Bay from 200 feet up. After crossing the bridge, participants ride down the Silver Stand and back to the Embarcadero via the Bayshore Bikeway, making a 24-mile loop.  

• SUPERFROG Triathlon. Designed to prepare Navy SEALs for the Hawaii Ironman Triathlon, the SUPERFROG Triathlon is the first and longest running half Ironman. Participants swim 500 meters in the chilly but calm Silver Strand Beach Bay. Then there’s a flat 20K bike ride on scenic SR 75 followed by a 6K run on a dirt trail. The triathlon is held every September. Think you’ve got what it takes to compete head-to-head with Navy SEALs? Check out the Superseal and Seal Sprint in March. 

• Optimist Sports Fiesta. The Optimist Sports Fiesta events start and end at Sunset Park, one mile northwest of Coronado Beach Resort. The “Big-Three” include a triathlon, a 5K run, and a one-mile rough water swim. There’s also a sandcastle competition and a youth paddleboard race. The fiesta is typically held at the end of August and proceeds benefit the children of Coronado.

Of course, you’ll want to crash after the big event, and Coronado Beach Resort offers comfortable accommodations close to the action. Treat yourself to sizzling fajitas at Miguel’s across the street from us (you deserve it!). Then soothe your tired muscles in our rooftop spa overlooking the Hotel del Coronado. Contact us today at (619) 522-6000 to learn more or to book your stay.