Coronado Ferry San Diego: Is It Worth Taking to Coronado Island?
Our experience riding the ferry, current ticket prices, ferry schedules, and tips for avoiding common mistakes.
If you’re looking for an easy way to visit Coronado Island, the Coronado Ferry San Diego is one of the best options. The ride takes about 10 minutes, costs less than many San Diego attractions, and offers some of the best views of the skyline, harbor, and Coronado Bridge.
We’ve ridden the ferry several times over the years, most recently during a visit to San Diego in May. On our latest trip, we boarded at the Convention Center Ferry Landing, enjoyed the views from the upper deck, explored the famous Hotel del Coronado, and had lunch overlooking the water.
Whether you’re staying downtown, visiting for the day, or arriving on a cruise ship, the ferry provides a fun and affordable way to experience both sides of San Diego Bay.
One thing many visitors don’t realize is that there are multiple ferry landings in downtown San Diego. Taking the wrong ferry back can leave you with a much longer walk than expected. I’ll share the ferry schedule, ticket information, our experience, and tips to help you make the most of your trip to Coronado.
Why We Recommend the Coronado Ferry San Diego
The Coronado Ferry San Diego is one of the best values in San Diego. For a modest fare, you get transportation to Coronado Island plus incredible views of the harbor, skyline, and Coronado Bridge.
We enjoy taking the ferry because it turns a simple trip into part of the experience. Instead of dealing with traffic and parking, you can relax and enjoy the scenery during the quick 10-minute ride across San Diego Bay.
It’s also a great option for cruise passengers. The Broadway Pier Ferry Landing sits within walking distance of the cruise terminal, making it easy to spend a few hours exploring Coronado before returning to your ship.
Our Experience Riding the Coronado Ferry
We’ve ridden the Coronado Ferry several times over the years, but our most recent trip was during our May visit to San Diego. We boarded at the Convention Center Ferry Landing and purchased our tickets from the self-service ticket machine on the dock.
Boarding was quick and easy. After purchasing our tickets, we waited just a short time before the ferry arrived. The process was straightforward, even for visitors who had never ridden the ferry before.
Boarding at the Convention Center Ferry Landing
The Convention Center Ferry Landing is located along the waterfront behind the San Diego Convention Center. The area is easy to reach from many downtown hotels and offers beautiful views while you wait for your ferry.
Since the weather was nice, we headed upstairs to the outdoor seating area. If you enjoy taking photos, the upper deck provides some of the best views during the crossing.
What We Saw During the Ride
The ferry ride takes only about 10 minutes, but there’s plenty to see along the way. From the upper deck, we enjoyed excellent views of the San Diego skyline, the iconic Coronado Bridge, and boats moving through the harbor.
Even though we’ve taken the ferry several times, we still find ourselves reaching for our cameras. The combination of city views and waterfront scenery makes this one of the most scenic short ferry rides we’ve experienced.
Exploring Coronado After Arrival
After arriving at Coronado Ferry Landing, we took the scenic walk to Hotel del Coronado. The route is flat and easy, with beautiful views of the waterfront along the way.
We spent some time exploring the historic hotel before heading across the street for lunch at Brigantine. The combination of the ferry ride, waterfront walk, and relaxing lunch made for a perfect afternoon in Coronado.
Coronado Ferry Schedule and Ticket Information
The Coronado Ferry operates daily between Coronado and two downtown San Diego locations, Broadway Pier and the Convention Center Ferry Landing. During our visit, tickets cost $9 per person each way and were easy to purchase from the ticket machine at the dock. Ferry tickets are sold as one-way fares, so you’ll need to purchase a ticket for each direction if you plan to return by ferry.
Coronado Ferry Schedule
The Convention Center route typically departs every 30 minutes throughout the day, while the Broadway Pier route operates every hour. Schedules can change, so we recommend checking the latest departure times before your visit.
You can view the current schedule and purchase tickets online through the official ferry operator, Flagship Cruises & Events.
Ferry Landing Locations
One detail that surprises many visitors is that the ferry serves two different downtown San Diego locations. You can board at either Broadway Pier near the cruise ship terminal or the Convention Center Ferry Landing along the waterfront.
Both routes travel to the same Coronado Ferry Landing, but they return to the specific downtown location shown on your ticket. We recommend paying close attention when boarding your return ferry.
During one of our visits, we returned to Broadway Pier after departing from the Convention Center. While both locations are downtown, they’re far enough apart that you’ll have a longer walk than expected if you end up at the wrong landing. Taking a moment to confirm your return ferry can save both time and steps.
Ticket Prices and Where to Buy Tickets
During our most recent visit, tickets cost $9 per person each way. We purchased our tickets from the self-service kiosk at the Convention Center Ferry Landing and found the process quick and easy.
You can also purchase tickets online before your visit. Buying in advance can save time, especially during busy weekends and holiday periods. If you’re already near the ferry landing, the ticket machines make it simple to buy tickets just before departure.
What to Expect on the Coronado Ferry
The ferry ride between downtown San Diego and Coronado takes about 10 minutes. While the trip is short, the views make it feel like an attraction rather than simply transportation.
The ferries offer both indoor and outdoor seating. We prefer sitting upstairs outside whenever the weather cooperates because it provides the best views of the harbor, Coronado Bridge, and San Diego skyline.
The ride is smooth and suitable for most travelers, including families with children and visitors using strollers or mobility devices. Boarding is straightforward, and the ferry crew helps keep the process organized.
If you’re visiting on a sunny day, don’t put your camera or phone away. Some of our favorite photos from San Diego have come from this short trip across the bay.
7 Things to Do Near the Coronado Ferry Landing
One of the best things about taking the ferry is that several popular Coronado attractions are located within walking distance of the landing. Whether you have a few hours or an entire day, you’ll find plenty to do after stepping off the ferry.
1. Visit Hotel del Coronado
Explore one of California’s most famous beachfront hotels and admire its historic architecture, gardens, shops, and ocean views.
2. Walk Along Orange Avenue
Stroll Coronado’s main street and discover local shops, restaurants, coffee houses, and galleries.
3. Relax at Coronado Beach
Spend some time on one of Southern California’s most popular beaches, known for its wide shoreline and soft sand.
4. Enjoy Lunch at Brigantine
Grab a meal overlooking the water at this popular restaurant located near Hotel del Coronado.
5. Shop at Coronado Ferry Landing
Browse local boutiques, gift shops, and specialty stores while enjoying views of San Diego Bay.
6. Rent Bikes and Explore the Island
Bike rentals are available nearby and offer a fun way to see more of Coronado at your own pace.
7. Take in the San Diego Skyline Views
Before catching the ferry back, spend a few minutes along the waterfront enjoying some of the best skyline views in the region.
👉 Explore Coronado Island on a Self-Guided Audio Tour
Is the Coronado Ferry Worth It for Cruise Passengers?
Yes, we think the Coronado Ferry is one of the best activities for cruise passengers visiting San Diego. The Broadway Pier Ferry Landing is located about a block from the cruise terminal, making it easy to reach on foot.
The short ferry ride allows you to experience both downtown San Diego and Coronado in a single day. You can visit Hotel del Coronado, enjoy lunch, explore the waterfront, and still have plenty of time to return to your ship.
Unlike many shore excursions, the ferry is affordable and easy to do on your own. If your cruise schedule allows several hours in port, Coronado makes an excellent addition to your day in San Diego.
Tips for Riding the Coronado Ferry in San Diego
Double-Check Your Return Ferry Landing
Pay attention to which downtown ferry landing you’re returning to. Broadway Pier and the Convention Center Ferry Landing are both downtown, but they’re not close to each other. Choosing the wrong return ferry can leave you with a much longer walk than expected.
Sit Outside on the Upper Deck
If the weather is nice, head upstairs for the best views. The outdoor seating area offers excellent photo opportunities of the San Diego skyline, Coronado Bridge, and harbor.
Arrive a Few Minutes Early
The ferry loading process moves quickly. Arriving a little early gives you time to purchase tickets, find a seat, and avoid feeling rushed.
Keep Your Camera or Phone Handy
The ferry ride may only last about 10 minutes, but there is plenty to see. Some of the best views appear shortly after leaving the dock, so be ready for photos.
Check the Schedule Before You Go
Ferry schedules can change throughout the year. We recommend reviewing the latest departure times before your visit so you can plan your day and avoid a longer wait between sailings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Coronado Ferry San Diego
If you’re planning to ride the Coronado Ferry in San Diego, these answers can help you prepare for your visit and avoid a few common surprises.
Yes, bicycles are allowed on the ferry, making it easy to explore more of Coronado without needing a car. Many visitors ride to Coronado and then spend the day biking along the waterfront, through neighborhoods, and around the island before returning downtown.
Yes, you’ll find several restaurants, cafes, and casual dining options within walking distance of the ferry landing. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, coffee break, or sit-down meal, there are plenty of choices nearby without needing transportation.
The best time to ride depends on the type of views you prefer. Morning sailings often offer calmer conditions and fewer crowds, while late afternoon and evening departures can provide beautiful lighting for photos of the skyline and harbor.
The Wrap-Up: Coronado Ferry San Diego
The Coronado Ferry San Diego is much more than a way to get from one side of the bay to the other. It’s an affordable experience that combines beautiful harbor views, a relaxing ride, and easy access to some of Coronado’s most popular attractions. Whether you’re spending the day in San Diego or visiting on a cruise, it’s a simple outing that’s well worth adding to your itinerary.
If you’re planning to spend more time exploring the area, be sure to check out our other San Diego articles for more ideas on things to do, where to eat, and how to make the most of your visit.
