Jam's First Road Trip: Exploring Baby-Friendly Coronado - Hotels and Activities Guide
I'm dishing out the tea on Jam's very first road trip. Our mission? To visit some friends in the charming coastal paradise of Coronado, California. 🚗💨
Jam was a lively 5-month-old bundle of joy at the time, and let me tell you, he rocked that road trip. We kicked off our journey from Los Angeles, and thanks to SoCal traffic, what should've been a breeze turned into a four-hour extravaganza. Yep, you heard me, FOUR hours. 😅 But fret not, because we took a break halfway and Jam took a lot of naps (Thank GOD!)
Now, you might be wondering, what's the secret to keeping a baby comfortable during this extended car ride? Well, stick around because I've got you covered with a few burning questions I had before we hit the road with Jam. And yes, I'm spilling all the beans on how we made this trip as smooth as a lullaby. Here are the questions and answers:
How can you ensure your baby is comfortable during the long drive?
Our choice for Jam's road trip debut was Coronado—just a hop, skip, and a jump away from LA. It was the perfect litmus test to see how our little explorer would fare. To keep Jam comfy on the road, we did a couple of things. First, we scheduled a pit stop to grab lunch. Which was delicious we stopped in Irvine and grabbed food from Rice Bunn Onigiri and boba from Presotea. Recommend both of those places 10/10.
That break was golden for our baby and us! We also had a stash of toys, and you better believe his trusty pacifier was within arm's reach for those much-needed naps.
What should you pack for your baby on the road trip?
We lucked out because our friends in Coronado also have a little one. They set up a crib and a Pack 'N Play, ready to rock and roll for Jam's arrival. We packed like pros—extra clothes for inevitable baby messes (think 2x outfits per day), diapers, wipes (a parent’s best friend), and all the feeding gear. Plus, I made sure to have our trusty travel stroller and a carrier. You know, for those places where strollers don't quite fit the bill. 😉
Now let’s get to the fun part! The destination -
Where is Coronado?
Across the glittering waters of San Diego Bay, Coronado is a charming gem located in Southern California. This sun-kissed paradise boasts a picturesque setting, offering visitors the perfect blend of coastal beauty and small-town charm. With its close proximity to San Diego, Coronado is easily accessible and makes for an ideal getaway for families looking to explore the California coast.
Where to Stay with a Baby or Kids in Coronado?
We lucked out during our Coronado adventure because our friends graciously hosted us in their beautiful room. Look at this set up it looks like an Airbnb. It was a dream during Sunset when the light was cascading in. Jam was also a fan of the bed!
But hey, if you're not traveling with the ultimate hookup, here are three boutique hotels where you and your baby can live it up in style. Plus these are on my list for future trips:
Pendry San Diego: While not located directly in Coronado, Pendry San Diego offers a chic and family-friendly experience. They have spacious rooms and provide cribs upon request. This boutique hotel is known for its modern design and rooftop pool, which might be a hit with parents and babies alike.
El Cordova Hotel: Located in the heart of Coronado, El Cordova Hotel is a charming and family-friendly option. They offer spacious suites with kitchenettes, perfect for families. The hotel's courtyard is a lovely spot for parents to relax while their little ones explore.
Hotel Marisol Coronado: For a more intimate and boutique experience in Coronado, consider Hotel Marisol. They offer cozy rooms and provide baby amenities upon request, making it a welcoming choice for families. Plus, it's just a short walk from the beach and other attractions.
What to Do in Coronado with a Baby?
Our time in Coronado was a whirlwind of fun, and we made sure Jam was part of the action! We strolled along the main street, indulging in some irresistible ice cream from MooTime Creamery. And, of course, we couldn't resist the allure of the beach near the famous Coronado Hotel. While we (the parents) sipped cocktails, had lunch, and listened to music, our little explorers soaked up the ocean's wonders.
But wait, there's more! Here are 6 other fantastic baby-friendly activities you can enjoy in Coronado:
Coronado Ferry Landing: Head to the Ferry Landing for breathtaking views of San Diego's skyline. Plus, the waterfront restaurants make it a prime spot for a casual meal while your baby takes in the sights.
Centennial Park: Seeking tranquility and a peaceful picnic spot? Look no further than Centennial Park, offering panoramic views of the San Diego skyline.
Babcock & Story Bar at Hotel del Coronado: Fancy a drink or snack? This historic hotel's spacious outdoor patio is ideal for families. Enjoy the ocean views while your baby takes in the scenery.
Coronado Community Center Playground: If your little one is ready for some playtime, this playground is a must-visit. It's designed with various age groups in mind, so your baby can explore safely.
Tidelands Park: For open spaces and a large playground, head to Tidelands Park. It's perfect for your baby to crawl or take those precious first steps. And don't forget to pack a picnic!
Family-Friendly Dining: Coronado is a treasure trove of family-friendly restaurants. Look for places with outdoor seating and high chairs. During our trip, we enjoyed mouthwatering pizza from Prince Street Pizza and checked out The Henry for a fancier, Instagram-worthy dining experience.
This Coronado trip was our grand experiment in baby travel before our upcoming first airplane journey. Jam aced it and absolutely adored being by the water. I'm already counting down the days until we return next year!
And before I go, here's a quick shoutout to some must-have items that saved the day on our trip:
Baby Carrier: A lifesaver for hands-free exploring. I live in this leopard one.
Jam’s Sun Hat: Stylish and sun-smart, it's a baby essential. I love Jam’s because it’s reversible.
Mini Speaker: Perfect for beach days and playing baby's favorite tunes. I always travel with this sony one.
Camera: Capture all those priceless moments. This is the camera I use to capture our travel moments!
Easy Travel Toys: Keep your little one entertained on the go.
For more Summer and beach fun check out my post on Beach Day Essentials and 6 Must-Have Gear for a Sun Filled Season
Stay tuned for more adventures with Jam and more travel tips coming your way! 😄🌴🌊
xoxo
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