2 days in San Diego

Question

We are 2 couples in our 70s, coming to SD in mid-October, and we will have 2 days to see some sights. We will have a rental car. We would like to go to Coronado Island to see the hotel and maybe have a drink there. Three of the four of us have various orthopedic issues, so a lot of walking is not what we are looking for. What would parking cost for a couple of hours? Is it all valet parking, or are there some self-parking lots? Wondering if the Ho/Ho bus stop is close by, or how much of a walk would we have if we rode the bus there. Any other advice for septuagenarians greatly appreciated!

Answer

For a short 2-day visit to San Diego, especially considering limited walking due to orthopedic concerns, Coronado Island is a very suitable destination. The Hotel del Coronado is the main attraction, and it’s manageable to enjoy the area without extensive walking.

Parking at Hotel del Coronado and Coronado Island:

The Hotel del Coronado primarily offers valet parking. Rates are generally around $25–$40 for a few hours, depending on the season. Self-parking options are limited on the hotel property itself.
There are public parking lots nearby on Coronado Avenue and Orange Avenue that offer self-parking. Rates are typically $2–$3 per hour, capped at $15–$20 for longer stays, but availability can vary on weekends or during events.
Street parking is an option in some areas, but check signage carefully to avoid restricted or permit-only zones.

Using the Hop-On Hop-Off (Ho/Ho) bus:

The Coronado Island stop is relatively close to the Hotel del Coronado—expect about a 5–10 minute walk from the nearest Ho/Ho stop. The walk is generally flat along sidewalks, but watch for occasional street crossings.
Using the Ho/Ho bus is a good way to minimize walking while still seeing several attractions. You can combine it with short rides to the waterfront, Balboa Park, or other downtown San Diego areas.

Additional tips for septuagenarians:

Consider taking a scenic harbor cruise if you want a gentle activity with views of downtown, Coronado, and the bay without much walking.
For downtown sightseeing, choose areas with benches and shaded spots for rest. The Embarcadero, Seaport Village, and Balboa Park (short visits around the plazas) are suitable.
Bring orthopedic-friendly footwear and possibly a small folding seat or walking stick if you plan short strolls along beaches or boardwalks.
If timing allows, consider an early visit to avoid crowds, especially at popular spots like the Hotel del Coronado.

Overall, with a car, limited walking, and a combination of Ho/Ho bus and short strolls, you can comfortably enjoy the highlights of Coronado Island and a few other San Diego sights in two days.

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