If you’re lucky enough to call Coronado home, chances are your social calendar bursts like Clayton’s on a Sunday morning. You may field some requests from friends eager to fly solo and spend a few days away, otherwise known as a girls’ getaway, a ladies’ weekend, what have you. These weekends can get overwhelming, fast. So much to do! So much not to do! (This is the beach after all.)
As the host, your goal is to craft a weekend of optimal relaxation and rejuvenation, filled with plenty of Coronado charm. For such a weekend, loosely follow the below itinerary, grab your SPF and your sunnies, and enjoy the best of Coronado with your girlfriends.
Day 1
Once your friends arrive, it’s time for Welcome Cocktails. Prior to their arrival, set up your bar. Embrace the chance to flourish it “aloha style” with bar ware and as many themed party accoutrements as you see fit. Seaside Papery is your one-stop shop for this. Whip up some cucumber jalapeño margaritas (inspired by those at Miguel’s) or use seasonal fruit from Coronado’s weekly Tuesday Farmers’ Market to make some sangria spritzer. If you’d rather venture out, sample the tastings at Wine A Bit, voted the best wine bar in Coronado. The hardest part about Welcome Cocktails is remembering to move on to dinner.
Before the sun goes down, mosey on over to Orange Ave. A number of restaurants on the island are great for groups and feature local cuisine; however, this particular hub offers a unique dining experience close to the action. If there’s a wait time, dip in to one of the great boutiques, brainstorm new book club titles at Bay Books, or wander through some galleries.
Day 2
The next morning, take advantage of the reliable weather and exercise outdoors. The most adventurous in your group may opt for a stand-up paddleboard lesson, while others may like a power walk through neighborhoods. Walking Tours are amazing in Coronado – and often one of those things locals don’t experience until they have guests in town. Gym buffs can take a class at the Coronado Fitness Club, while water lovers can kayak through Glorietta Bay, and yogis can find their center at multiple facilities in Coronado. Those who truly enjoy a good themed party will be thrilled to test out Mermaid Fitness at The Del (read about our FINtastic experience).
After you work off your Welcome Cocktails, it’s time to head to the ocean. Indulge in a few hours of blissful beach time and just chill.
As sunset approaches, social activities on a boat are always real crowd pleasers. Sail San Diego is across the bridge, but their three-hour Sunset Tour takes guests out on the ocean and in front of Coronado. Your friends will gush over the view of the island, with Point Loma to the west and Mexico to the southeast. After the sun waves goodnight, take your girlfriends out for a good meal at a more intimate restaurant. The tone of the second night is usually more subdued than the first, which calls for the right atmosphere.
Day 3
Begin your third day with brunch at one of Coronado’s casual, outdoor bistros – later meals are unlikely if the group is headed home at various times. Once you’ve been jolted with coffee, indulge in a spa treatment, such as the Vitamin Sea Facial at the Marriott. Nothing calms a sunburnt face better than a little R&R.
In the evening, take it easy. Scoop up your beach towels, head to Boney’s and pick up some cheese and crackers for a cozy happy hour at the beach. Dream up your next Coronado weekend together and toast to your fabulous friendships and fond memories.
