Coronado Bridge
Bridge · San Diego Bay ·

Coronado Bridge

Bridge · San Diego Bay ·

Iconic bridge with skyline, bay & ship views

coronado island
downtown san diego
chicano park murals
architecture
bay area
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null
Coronado Bridge by null

Information

CA-75, Coronado, CA 92118 Get directions

No restroom

Information

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CA-75, Coronado, CA 92118 Get directions

+1 619 688 6699
dot.ca.gov
@coronadobridge
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@CaltransHQ

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•No restroom

Last updated

Jan 19, 2026

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Now Is the Perfect Time to Visit San Diego’s Coronado Island | Vogue

"Opened in August 1969—its debut fittingly timed to the 200th anniversary of San Diego’s founding—this historic overpass made the peninsula much easier to reach, and for the last 56 years vacation-bound cars have crossed it with windows down, soaking in breezes and sweeping views of San Diego Bay and downtown." - Lindsay Cohn

https://www.vogue.com/article/coronado-island-san-diego-guide
Coronado Bridge

Doug H.

Google
The San Diego–Coronado Bridge, commonly referred to as the Coronado Bridge, is a bridge crossing over San Diego Bay, linking San Diego with Coronado, California. It is part of State Route 75. The construction of a bridge across the San Diego Bay was proposed several times since the 1920s, but was turned down feared a bridge could collapse due to an attack or an earthquake and trap the ships stationed at Naval Base San Diego. By 1964 the Navy supported a bridge if there was at least 200 feet (61 m) of clearance for ships which operate out of the nearby Naval Base San Diego to pass underneath it. To achieve this clearance with a reasonable grade, the bridge length was increased by taking a curved path rather than a more direct path to Coronado. The clearance would allow an empty oil-fired aircraft carrier to pass beneath it. This was then approved and construction began and completed and the bridge was opened for traffic in 1969. At first it was a toll bridge until 2002. The bridge contains five lanes: two eastbound, two westbound, and a reversible middle lane with a barrier. The pillars supporting the bridge on the eastern end are painted with huge murals as part of Chicano Park, the most extensive collection of Chicano art murals in the world. The Coronado Bridge is frequently used as a suicide bridge; trailing only the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco as the bridge most-often used for suicide in the United States.

Oscar G.

Google
It’s definitely a cool bridge to go over, and the only way to get to Coronado Island unless you go by boat. It’s a short ride of a little over about two minutes but fun. There is a great view on either side, and it’s neat to see ships passing below as you drive over. Overall, it’s a good experience and a solid bridge, especially if it’s part of your daily commute.

Akram A.

Google
Such an amazing drive and view ❤️❤️

charlie C.

Google
Rode the ferry ONCE in 1965, Watched the construction of the bridge, great saving time and fuel. Sailed my boat under it many times, great for sunset photos, especially from the water.

Lorenzo R. C

Google
Wow! Breathtaking bridge that connects San Diego to Coronado. Access from San Diego Freeway. There is no access to pedestrians and cyclists due to the height. You're able to see the scenery of the bay area. Highly recommend if you love architecture. See San Pedro Bridge also.

Jay T.

Google
Here are some in-depth pics of the inner workings from this bridge and its gorgeous views over looking Coronado and Downtown San Diego. A lot of hard work and dedication goes into maintaining this bridges integrity and its 2+ mile long beauty. Big salute to the men/women risking their lives daily... Thank you for all you do! SALUTES🫡

Amy R. P.

Google
We enjoy visiting this bridge because you can see Mexico, and you can see all of San Diego's Skyline , pluss Coronado Island from this bridge. When you are traveling under the bridge, it looks like the shape of a bell.

Rashan&Toya T.

Google
Many people have enjoyed this bridge and we have as well. The sights are amazing day and night. The kids loved seeing themselves enter and leave coronado.
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Omar S.

Yelp
Other people here have discussed the architecture and history of the Coronado Bridge, so I'm going in a different direction: I'm going to tell you a little bit about fishing it. I've uploaded a nautical chart from the now-defunct SDFish forum that highlights three highly-productive areas. Depending on the season and the weather, the north side of the bridge, all the way from the moored boats to the west to Cesar Chavez Park on the east side, is loaded with sand bass and "spotties", and, less frequently, rockfish, mackerel, barracuda, leopard sharks and rays, bonito, corbina, croaker, and white sea bass. And, if you're lucky, you'll hook bonefish and halibut, though I've had my best results targeting those fish on the south side of the bridge. There, you'll occasionally pick up bonefish, near Glorietta Bay, and farther down, near the salt ponds, in the shallow flats and eelgrass beds at the southern end of the Bay. Some people fishing bonefish get free bait by pumping ghost shrimp out of the muddy banks of the Coronado Municipal Golf Course, but I buy them from a bait shop, or use a damned lure. The catch I prize the most, though, is California Halibut. Fun to catch, fantastic on the plate, our halibut aren't as large as the more famous Pacific Halibut, but catching those other ones is like hauling a Volkswagen Beetle up from the bottom of the sea, so F that. Our halibut gather on the flat south of the Coronado Bridge's eastern terminus. I do well fishing for them with live bait or jigs, anything that will catch their eye. Bounce along the bottom and you'll be fine. So, here's the tricky thing about all of this: the US Navy would really rather that you go somewhere else, away from the Bridge and from their operations along either side of the Bay. You can't post up underneath and plunk against the Bridge's piers, which is, of course, where the fish are. You can, however, can drift under the span, motor back, and drift again, which works. You just have to stay 25 feet away from the structure. While on the Bay, you also can't come within 100 yards of any Navy vessel, and you must operate at a minimum speed within 500 yards of such a vessel. Take these rules seriously, or the Navy security guys will show up, screw up your fishing, and make credible threats of fines and punishment. They're nice people, but they're not fvcking around. Finally, if you don't have a boat, that's no problem. Seaforth Boat Rentals in Coronado (Glorietta Bay, near the Hotel Del) rents everything from skiffs to power boats. Order ahead, go pick up your boat, and you'll soon be under the Bridge, enjoying a day's action. Tight lines and fair winds.
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Travis T.

Yelp
I have always enjoyed driving across this bridge. I love the views of the ships in the harbor as you pass over it. The Coronado Bridge is a girder bridge (27 of them) that connects San Diego and Coronado Island. It is two miles long and five lanes across with a reversible middle lane. They built it high so that ships out of the nearby Naval Base San Diego can pass underneath it. For years, constructing this bridge was met with opposition until they finally opened it in 1969. I still remember back when there was a toll to cross over the bridge until they did away with it years ago. There are a few places that I enjoy seeing the Coronado Bridge from afar. Seaport Village and Coronado Ferry Landing Park are great spots to get a nice panoramic shot of the harbor with the bridge in the background. You can get a glimpse of its length from the USS Midway Museum. Sometimes when I drive on the bridge, I like to make my passenger nervous by driving close to the bridge wall. Sadly, a high amount of suicides have occurred on Coronado Bridge since it opened.
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Lorenzo W.

Yelp
COOL AERIAL ViEWS of SD! It's obviously a must-see and drive for anyone visiting the area. The Coronado Bridge connects the mainland with Coronado Island a luxury hotel and boating destination! The bridge is hardly ever packed each time I go on it and the road is smooth. I love visiting at night or early dusk to see the city lights! As you can see, it's challenging to take a quality pic of the bridge without getting a view from the water below it. Therefore, I recommend taking a short cruise or boating excursion to really take it all in. I took the Patriot speed boat (which is way too fast) but I went under the bridge and got an amazing view of Coronado Bridge. I couldn't get a pic though as my phone would've gotten drenched during the speed boat ride. Otherwise, the water is the way to go to get some good snaps in! Coronado Bridge gets you to the island in no time at all and is pretty easy to navigate. It's a massive bridge and takes you pretty high up so if you're afraid of heights you might get shaky! The good news is the beauty around you is gorgeous. I'm scared of rollercoasters and I never get nervous on this bridge. It's like being an a massive high-rise. I felt safe.
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Jason K.

Yelp
When in San Diego you will see the Coronado Bridge which connects the mainland to Seal island Coronado. It is a scary bridge to drive across since it is so tall that Navy ships can go under it.
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Christopher I.

Yelp
I love driving on this bridge when visiting San Diego and Coronado Island. The view of the San Diego Harbor is amazing. Lots of great photo opportunities if there was a place to stop to take pictures. Watching the boats going to and from is fun as you drive over the bridge. :)
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Cydney M.

Yelp
DROVE OVER THE BRIDGE ON MONDAY, AUGUST 28, 2023 ================================================ My husband and I were staying in South Mission Beach for our anniversary and we decided to go to Coronado on Monday, August 28, 2023. We thought about riding our bikes there on Sunday, August 27, 2023 for the Bike the Bay event, but we decided to avoid the biking crowd. The Coronado Bridge is only open for bikes a few hours on that one particular day a year if you are ever interested in riding across. The Coronado Bridge officially opened to traffic on August 3, 1969 during the 200th anniversary of the founding of San Diego. I'm glad no toll is required to cross now. But just be prepared to pay through the nose for parking in Coronado. I think I paid the most I've ever paid in my life to park for two hours in an underground garage by the Hotel del Coronado. I'd advise that you wear really comfy shoes and park as far away from that hotel as possible. You live and and you learn.
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Sharon B.

Yelp
When in San Diego recently we drove over to Coronado California and drove over the bridge as it flows over San Diego Bay. It may not have the old world charm of the bridges of NYC but it's interesting to see all concrete in a bridge over the water. It looks to be at least 2 miles long so it's something that you don't see in the old time bridges. There is no toll to go over it so it's probably coming out of the California tax on residents!
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Georgie M.

Yelp
The San Diego Coronado Bridge is a bit of fun going over, as well as a wee bit stress for my passengers, too. LOL The bridge is somewhat iconic for San Diego as is, the downtown hotels and Convention Center view from the Coronado side. See photos. The Toll booths are closed, so this is a freebie now. You gotta do it, if only to view the ocean beaches and views from Coronado side.
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Phil A.

Yelp
A simply awesome bridge that connects San Diego to Coronado Island. It's only a hair over 2 miles long, and it goes up high enough that ships can pass underneath. This bridge stands out so much that you feel like you just have to drive over it, and if you're a passenger, you get some great views. No tolls, it's still totally free to drive in either direction, and at night this bridge really lights up in a cool way. I think the only thing cooler than driving over it would be to pass underneath it on a boat, which is next on the list!!!
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Anne F.

Yelp
I think the best way to see the bridge is by boat. First you'll drive over the bridge, stay in the right lane to get the best view. Then go rent a kayak from Coronado and spend the afternoon kayaking towards and under the bridge. I think there is a company that does it as part of a guided tour. I'd recommend getting a double kayak to share the workload with a friend if you can, but it's a beautiful way to see the SD skyline and explore this landmark. There are other tours that take you under and below the bridge. I think it's an iconic must-do if you're only in SD for a few days.
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Ane V.

Yelp
Another must see when you are visiting San Diego. This bridge connects San Diego and Coronado Island. We drove during the day and What a beautiful view. No toll. Next time, we will drive at night. I have heard the lights are breathtaking.
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Joel C.

Yelp
The many years the history of San Diego you can see the many history monuments that tell a walk-in history and the many that had helped with the creations of the building of creations of time and history. There is one piece that has intrigued many and there are many that wandered at the coming together of the generations of people that had come together to create one that has mas made so much possible. The greatest creation is located in the midst of the San Diego Bay, and it spans two different land masses one that was for the sea coastal towns and the main city of San Diego Calif. When the city of San Diego had purchased the Island of Coronado for the price of 100,000 dollars in silver after which the city of Coronado was the city of beach side resorts back in the 1830 for the rich business folks that had come to San Diego by way of the train depot that is at Santa Fe Depot. Through many years the Island of Coronado has become of the largest Naval Base and the many ships that service the Island the many ports that comes to the Island of Coronado and the City of San Diego. During the 1920s that the city of Coronado advocated for a bridge that the United States Navy looked at the navy as the reason if an earthquake had happened it would trap the United States Navy in the bay because many of the Pacific Fleet are stationed here in That travel to and from the Island the use of ferry boats which were used from the docks of San Diego. With the growth of San Diego and the many ways of travel the Coronado Bay bridge that had taken many years with the help of many constructions' groups there was so many that the bridge would have caused more conflict. The many years that when the bridge was opened in the year 1969 the traffic that was back and forth was the civilian and the military traffic that has been the main traffic and the building flow to the Island of Coronado. The many city areas that border with the Coronado Bridge the many areas of the Bario Logan which has so many areas of art which decorated the many areas of the lower parts of the Coronado bat bridge. As a yelp reviewer the many times that you travel over the Coronado Bay Bridge you see the many years as you travel over and when you pass the other side the old toll booths have become a thing of the past. To visit the Island by Ferry and the use of the use of the city buses gives you a great chance to see and walk-through history.
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Vuyelwa W.

Yelp
Always love bridges due to the fact that my dad was a civil engineer! Something about the skill and technical expertise that culminate into a beautiful structure ! Coronado bridge is soooo beautiful the design the views and the lights . There is no toll to cross the bridge and it connects downtown San Diego to Coronado! From whatever angle this bridge is beautiful ! 10 stars !!! Will be back !
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Chris L.

Yelp
Love this bridge. It's winding and majestic. Perfectly compliments the sky and water. Views from the top are sublime. They were lighting it up at night and I hope they do it permanently. Great night time views.
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Ultima M.

Yelp
This bridge connects your from San Diego to Coronado We drove across it during the day. No toll fee Awesome breathtaking views.
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Nadine C.

Yelp
Bridge theme day... We visited two other bridges during our day trip to San Diego, so, why not explore another bridge? The San Diego-Coronado Bridge is about 2.1 miles long and connects the City of San Diego to Coronado Island. We had dinner reservations for a restaurant in Coronado, so we drove over this bridge. It was such a smooth transition that it took me a while to realize that we were on the bridge! Wow! From Coronado Island, we could see the bridge lit up at nighttime... so pretty! Makes me want to drive over in the daytime!
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Leo H.

Yelp
Can't believe I am writing a review on a bridge. I don't dislike the bridge, but I am old enough to remember the car ferry. But thats not my beef. The beef is the city promised to stop once the bond was paid. This is from Wiki, "Although the bridge was supposed to become "toll-free" once the original bridge bond was paid (which occurred in 1986), the tolls continued for sixteen additional years." This was a scam, and it went on for years. So that's the low rating. Otherwise, the bridge serves a great purpose, but the old Ferry was an exhilarating ride for minor children until the bridge ended it.
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Walker S.

Yelp
The Coronado Bay Bridge is a prominent landmark in San Diego. It spans 2 miles across the San Diego Bay at a height of 200 ft. connecting the city of San Diego with the resort city of Coronado. Drive across offers breathtaking views of the San Diego skyline, the bay, and the Pacific Ocean. From various vantage points along the bridge, visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas of the cityscape, the naval ships docked in the bay, and the beautiful Coronado Island. It was constructed in late 1960s replacing the ferry service. The Annual Navy Bridge Run/Walk takes place each May and allows participants to traverse the bridge on foot, providing a unique opportunity to experience the stunning views and the architectural grandeur of the bridge.
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Vlad V.

Yelp
Coronado Bridge is the bridge which separates San Diego and Coronado. Coronado is a well-to-do suburb of San Diego with nice beaches. The Coronado Bridge is a long bridge over water to take you from one city to another. Crazy enough, it's the site of quite a few suicides each year. Despite that somber fact, the bridge is best seen at night when it lights up.
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Jessica S.

Yelp
I saw the map to Cornodo Island. It looked small and many of my well traveled Yelp buddies had enjoyed the beach. We were going to take the cute little bridge I saw on the map! On the way to the bridge all the free way underpasses had homeless people under them. As well as along side the edge. I have never seen so many! I was sad. As we came upon the bridge my husband was laughing and he said oh no don't look!" Just look straight at the road. I thought maybe there was a naked person doing something on the side as we just passed a large group. I asked him to tell me why? He wouldn't say a word. Just told me to keep looking straight. I figured it was something inappropriate he saw and didn't want to share it with me in front of our little ones. I kept driving. The road was going up, up up and up! Oh there was more up. I began feeling funny. I wasn't feeling so well. He said we are almost over the middle just hang in there. It was like a dream I have had where you drive way up high in your dream! Come to find out that is why he was laughing because once he saw the bridge he knew I was going to flip. This is not for the squeamish! I made it over to a beautiful island with gorgeous homes and a wonderful park amd restaurants with amazing live bands. Perfect for any age. But beware of the bridge for those who again are squeamish. You might want to head south and go around! This isn't a straight long low over pass. I think I would have been fine if it was straight. It was the arch that threw me off. The big big big arch. Lol
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Raquel A.

Yelp
You gotta checkout Coronado if you're in SD. Beautiful island only accessible through the bridge. Great views. Big military presence here. Love the beaches here. Clean and the sand is golden. Top three beaches in SD.
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Ron R.

Yelp
I've been across a few of famous bridges in my life but few speak of spectacular like this one. Let's say in design, there appears to be nothing that would make it overly attractive. The supports are sort of angled and the steel structure is just painted a lighter blue. But why do we really love it? It could be because it takes us from the city to the touristy locale called Coronado. It could be because there is a spectacular view of the ocean as your reach the peak of the bridge. It may be as you look toward the right you might catch a ship heading to sea on the bay the bridge crosses. It could be because you see the reach of Point Loma in the greater distance, knowing that the side you see is a place where heroes rest at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery. How about that beautiful overlook of the city of San Diego itself? Yes, day or night there's nothing like it! And how about that view to toward the mountains in the distance? Something that always makes a rough day so much better! I only grieve for the folks who speed across this bridge and miss all the beauty that surrounds it! Well, this bridge may not be spectacular in its structure and appearance but it is idyllic nevertheless and all San Diego at it's core!
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Vin T.

Yelp
Innocent and sweet Yesterday you cried Will you be so relieved To see my under side I can understand how you'd be confused I don't envy you Life's a little bit of everything All rolled into one I'm a bridge, red in color In the rain, or the thunder You'll turn off the interstate Will anything be the same I'm your hell, or your dream But I'm nothing in between You know it doesn't have to be this way So take my words if you can This may mean You'll have to be a stronger man Rest assured that When you start to really think And It's going to these extremes Tomorrow things will change And today won't mean a thing I'm a bridge, red in color In the rain, or the thunder You'll turn off the interstate Will anything be the same I'm your hell, or your dream But I'm nothing in between You know it doesn't have to be this way ~ Mr. Anthony Bourdain, coolest guy on the planet 1956-2018 Talk with, listen to, love one another Suicide Hotline: 800-273-TALK (8255)
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Amari A.

Yelp
I love this place so much. Very beautiful view,my brother did his wedding here and it was beautiful, you can see all of downtown, at night its even better!
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Marcus F.

Yelp
Growing up in Coronado there wasn't a lot to do.. If you didn't surf, you were crap out of luck. Luckily for me, the Coronado Bridge was within walking distance and was a fun place to explore. - According to urban legend, the bridge is rigged with explosives in the center section. In times of war the bridge would be disabled in the middle so to that enemy forced couldn't invade the military base. At least that's what I heard growing up. - As a boater it's always fun to go under the bridge and hear the loud bangs of the cars going over the metal separators. - You can actually ride your bike under to the bridge on a walking/bike path. - You used to be able to walk under the actual bridge via a catwalk ( pre-911).
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Nijole T.

Yelp
What a neat looking bridge, and now also free to cross. There are plenty of lanes and I have never been stuck in traffic here, neither coming or going. It connects right from downtown and it only a short 2-3 minute drive, but feels like you are going into another world. From a modern downtown, to a romantic, dreamy sanctuary surrounded by water. What a great build, cool AND useful, unique and beautiful, worth the drive for sure.
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Archie A.

Yelp
I live on Coronado and love driving over this bridge. If I check-in each day I wonder what my annual total would be?
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Yonnie C.

Yelp
FREE, no toll required. So fun to travel over this bridge to Coronado Island from San Diego. We had a great time seeing the water / boats in the water as we crossed over the elevated bridge. Can't believe it's free too, that's just wonderful. :)
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Ashley M.

Yelp
I great view of Downtown San Diego! It's a scenic route to get to Coronado if you don't want to pay for the ferry ride over. You can see boats anchored and the Navy ships. It's a fun trip and Coronado is beautiful! You can spend the whole day there or a couple hours. They have shops, dining, beaches, etc..there is a lot to see and do.
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David M.

Yelp
" Beautiful, Fast, Cheap, Scenic, & No Ferry " The Coronado Bay Bridge has come along way in the 39 years after it was built. The 200 ft high bridge used to have a $1.50 toll each way before the Bridge was paid off years ago. So now it is Free to drive over the bridge from several different freeway systems and get to the beautiful Hotel Del Coronado, or visit other areas and sites in Coronado. And without having to drive the 25 extra miles going around through Imperial Beach to get to Point Loma, like you used to have to do. The Bridge also means people don't have to use the slow but scenic and expensive Coronado Ferry System like the used to, to get from San Diego to Point Loma. The Bridge is a must try when you are in San Diego!
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Elaine C.

Yelp
all this bridges a connection between San Diego and Coronado there's no business on it But the view is really nice
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Samantha K.

Yelp
We have driven across the Coronado Bridge many times. This time we were on a Flagship south bay cruise and cruised under the bridge. It is intriguing to see the bridge from the water area.
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James Catalino R.

Yelp
I love going to the navy base saturday early afternoon. The weather was nice with good breeze. The navy base well conserved and clean. Nice area, and friendly folks around the beach . The base is very big and have everything. I did not take many photos from this visit maybe next time i am in there i will Take more time for giving detail reviews with photos.
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Soleil S.

Yelp
Driving over the Coronado was actually a lot more fun than I thought it would be. Normally man made structures like bridges don't put me in awe... unless it's a historically significant or a particularly beautiful bridge. The Coronado is quite impressive as it held several records as the longest bridge in the world till early 2000s when a Chinese bridge took over that record. I do recommend heading over to the Point Loma and Coronado side to see the true expanse of it ... it helps they're both gorgeous views of the SD skyline but it truly gives you an understanding how HUGE this bridge is. Most of the time, a big bridge would be 10 seconds crossing over it and then it'll be straight. What makes Coronado extraordinary is that you go up at an angle that is looking towards the sky... on a perfect blue day, it feels like you're heading to only where birds go. And you're doing this for around 10 minutes on a regular day. I've heard it's painfully slower on a weekend. I do have to mention the railing do cover most regular car views so don't expect complete panoramic views as you drive towards Coronado. For me, I've driven on the bridge about 4 times... I will warn you that the act of getting on and off the bridge will require a lot of yoga breaths. It can be a HUGE pain in the butt with people not knowing how to merge or all of a sudden, they need to turn onto a street. The crazy part is that all my 4 trips were on 'low volume' off season days. That being said, once you're on the bridge, it's quite a good easy drive. I do suggest the nervous drivers DO NOT drive on here... the heights can be dizzying and the lack of land being seen on the horizon as you drive up can cause some terrible drivers to slam on the brakes and cause traffic jams. I suggest go onto a tour bus or let someone else drive instead cause nothing is worse than causing a crash on this bridge. It's probably one of my fond memories of San Diego because driving the bridge was giddy inducing. I kept thinking 'is this bridge done going up... now? How about ... now? Oh god, I'm still climbing up. Oh damn, this is high.' Meanwhile, you will hear your passengers going 'wheeeeee go faster' in the back. Interesting fact I learned... the bridge's height is very specific. The 200 ft is to accommodate the safe passage of an aircraft carrier. I personally didnt see that but it would have been pretty cool. Also the incline grade of nearly 5% is the highest it can be before it is graded as hazardous! Though it's not something you can do for hours (unless you're stuck in traffic), it's is something to be done ... not only because it's a historic landmark but the experience is quite unique and quintessential San Diego.
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William G.

Yelp
This bridge and I go way back to my military years. I'm a proud veteran, and this served as my connection to the SD mainland countless times when I was aboard NAS North Island. Coronado is a great place, as is downtown SD. There is a lot to do, and very beautiful sights to see. Beautiful people too, and I don't just say that because I'm a Californian. Enjoying both places is made possible by this long, narrow, and scenic bridge. It connects directly to the 5 freeway and leads into the heart of Coronado. Four lanes wide, and no pedestrian pathway. It goes up high before coming back down on either side. A good tip for photography: drive onto Coronado at sundown, and have someone take a photo as you descend upon the island. It is definitely picturesque. A good traffic tip: Avoid crossing this bridge at the conclusion of the 4th of July fireworks. Leave early, or be prepared to sit in 2 hours of traffic just to get back to the mainland. I never encountered any issue crossing INTO Coronado on the 4th of July.
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DJ M.

Yelp
A drive over the Coronado Bay Bridge offers the most spectacular sights I have ever seen. Having lived in Coronado for eight wonderful years, I drove this bridge almost daily and it never failed to amaze me. I am afraid of heights and bridges always get my nerves going, but this bridge is different, because your eyes have so much wonder and beauty to absorb along the way. Coronado is a Peninsula off the coast of San Diego. It is attached by land to the south at Imperial Beach. You can then continue to drive south to Tijuana or head east towards Chula Vista. The other connection is the Coronado Bay Bridge, from San Diego. As you start to drive over this bridge from San Diego, you view the beautiful bay on either side of you, colorfully speckled with boats. Ferries are streaming back and forth from San Diego to Coronado's Landing. The infamous red roofed Hotel Del Coronado comes into view, in the distance. A strip of land, known as the Silver Strand Highway is to your left and a magnificent full view of the ocean is beyond that. Point Loma juts out into the ocean to your right. As you are coming down from this magnificent ride, you have Coronado's Golf Course, where President Clinton enjoyed golfing. Hillary and Chelsie were often there and Chelsie was stopped once, for not having a bike helmet on. Traveling from Coronado towards San Diego gives you beautiful views of San Diego's awesome Skyline to your left and the beautiful Chicano Park to your right. This park has some awesome murals decorating it's walls. This bridge is over 11,000 feet long and has a graceful swirl as it connects from land to land. Not to turn this beautiful dream into a nightmare, but this bridge, like any bridge is known for suicide attempts. In fact, it is the third largest for suicide attempts in the USA. They used to keep this bridge open and traffic semi flowing to stopped, when a suicide attempt was about to take place. http://suicidehotlines.com/national.html One day, a man who was about to jump, was coaxed into thinking twice and maybe talking to someone about his devastating thoughts. A sailor in a car near him, screamed "I have to get to work, just jump or get down you stupid SOB". I will not tell you what happened next, but the bridge has been closed since, when a suicide attempt is about to take place. The Number for the National Suicide Hot line again is: 1-800-suicide or 1 800 784-2433 Back to the bright side, look at the beautiful pictures to get an idea of this bridge. If ever in Coronado, have lunch or dinner at The Landing and enjoy the views of the San Diego Skyline and this beautiful bridge. When I do return for visits, I reserve a convertible as my rental. The first place I head is to Coronado and I am in the air and flying free on this bridge.
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Janelle F.

Yelp
You can't stop on the bridge, but the views from the entire drive on the bridge are amazing. You can also rent kayaks and kayak all the under the bridge from Coronado and back. Great photo ops.
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Ron L.

Yelp
We went slow on top... Because I just wanted to see and feel what it's like on top of this bridge. Windy and the freshest air that you can imagine. The bridge literally moves...scary.. http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/CEQTm8EN_kkqtw0vVXfx4w?userid=cjotiAHFSbFuvbxTWmGi1Q I looked over... wow...it looks more like miles then feet... http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/CEQTm8EN_kkqtw0vVXfx4w?select=qXosTK29pK4x1Cesc1Zm-Q Now I rapidly hurried back to San Diego on flat land through Imperial Beach rushing to the restroom to change my colorful clothes... Beautiful bridge..well designed.... love it... It's like a roler coaster when I zoooom zoooom up and down too... Nice bridge...nice bridge...nice bridge.... Now..I'm having nice dreams tonight... Beautiful, well designed bridge
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Dave O.

Yelp
At 2.1 miles long the designers of this bridge didn't pay much attention to the old saying " the shortest distances between two points is a straight line". If one erects similar figures with corresponding sides on the sides of a right triangle, then the sum of the areas of the ones on the two smaller sides equals the area of the one on the larger side or a² + b² = c² or did the curvature of the earth play a part in the calculation, or was it the depth of the bay responsible for the unique design or possibly an artistic touch by an architect with a fee based on the total project value. Well it's not really that complicated, it seems that some Admiral demanded in order to build this beautiful bridge his boats must be able to navigate under the bridge at will during high tide just as easily as they could at low tide, not so complicated one would think, but the challenge would to build the center span with enough clearance to allow the tallest of the Admiral's boats to have unlimited access or he would take all his toys and relocate them somewhere else, trust me when I say no one wants to lose a government contract and the billions of dollars associated with even the smallest of the pork barrel spending. To accomplish this feat a straight line wouldn't work, the distance must be spanned by bending the route yet maintaining a path that the people driving across the concrete structure could transverse at speed without fear. The Admiral was no engineer but he could read a ruler so to further complicate the matter he demanded the bridge have a clearance of at least 200 feet off the water. It's common knowledge that a 90 deg. bend is a corner and would not be feasible to maintain a consistence flow of automobile traffic even back in the day, but an 80 deg. bend is still considered a curve and provided a grade of less than 5 % or in this case 4.67% to be exact making it functional, safe at the rated posted speed limit and very pleasing to the eye. For me the drive leaving the island is a much more interesting ride than the approach, with the extremely low outside barrier and inertial you may want to follow the posted speed limit or things could get interesting in a hurry, unless you have wings or a parachute I recommend a reasonable speed is in order. At the time this bridge was constructed it was considered something that had never been done before,still today it is considered very unique and the design isn't widely used. Not only is the view breath taking from the top or from the shore you can't help but feel a rush come across you when making the crossing so buckle up and and enjoy the free ride across since there is no longer a need to subsidize the funding....
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Jennifer H.

Yelp
Must drive on the bridge! Its beautiful during the day and night. Ever experienced the Vincent Thomas Bridge? ( http://www.yelp.com/biz/vincent-thomas-bridge-san-pedro#query:San%20Pedro%20bridge ) Feels like you're crossing that bridge at the Coronado Bridge, but 100 times better! Recommended for you SD visitors! If you're visiting San Diego, must come to the Coronado Island to visit. If you end up visiting Hotel Del Coronado, from the beach, you can totally see Mexico from across the sea, which is pretty awesome :) Visit at night time, you'll see the beautiful city of SD and it'll make you want to come back again, because it sure did for me!
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Angie T.

Yelp
Anyone who lives in or has ever visited San Diego knows that everything there is FUCKING GORGEOUS. Jaw dropping speechless type of gorgeous. The beaches. The ocean. The cliffs. The (brings tears to your eyes) sunsets. It's no wonder Hollywood stars are attracted to this place. Because even the bridge is beautiful. The Coronado Bridge is a marvel of architectural genius. It isn't the first thing of beauty you'll notice in San Diego. It's not in your face and saying, "Hey you!! Look at me! Aren't I pretty?"..it's subtle and sort of elusive. But once you do take notice of it, prepare to fall in love. Viewing it from Liberty Station is nice. It curves in a way that I can only describe as that curve a woman has from her torso to her hip. Driving on it and taking in the view. OMG you guys. No words. Except these two...Fucking gorgeous. From Coronado Island back down to San Diego is amazeballs. It feels like you are on a roller coaster descending into heaven. In the opposite direction. It's beautiful. If you haven't seen it in person, please go if you're able. Pictures don't do it justice. Not by a long shot.
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Wilson A.

Yelp
It's a bridge. It happens to be a San Diego landmark. It's what you see on so many postcards, posters, paintings, etc. Great view. Speed limit is set at 50 mph, so you can honestly go as fast as 65 mph without being targeted by the cops. There is no curb or sidewalk. It gets plenty of traffic in the morning for those who use the bridge in the morning to get to work or wherever they need to go outside of Coronado. I personally haven't seen anybody attempt to commit suicide, but always keep an eye out for that. It's the main reason why they have signs for the suicide hotline posted all along the bridge. At one point in time, there had to have been a toll to get into Coronado. But fear not. Even though the booths are still there, it is free drive into Coronado. Watch out for the cops that are at the Coronado end of the bridge.
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Amy B.

Yelp
Sweet Jesus. I never thought I would review a bridge. I really had every intention of driving over you when I got to San Diego. I even saw you from the USS Midway when I was cruising through my tour. But alas, I was scared to drive over you myself. Back when I was here the first time, my friend drove me over you and we did a quick tour of coronado. It was dark, and late, and I dont think it really registered what I was doing. Now, during the day light, I just couldnt do it by myself. No way. And even if I had someone else in the car with me, I STILL wouldnt drive over. Bridge, you are beautiful to my eyes. You are HUGE. But very scary. maybe someday soon, I shall drive over you.
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Mel C.

Yelp
San Francisco has the Golden Gate Bridge, Los Angeles has the Hollywood Sign, and San Diego has the Coronado Bridge. I can't imagine San Diego without the big blue bridge that links you from San Diego to Coronado Island. This is 619's landmark for sure. There's something about this bridge. It's not the prettiest bridge up close, but sure is a beautiful sight to see when I'm landing into Lindbergh or driving south on the 5. The Coronado Bridge is another reminder that I'm almost home. Unless you plan on driving to Southside and through Silver Strand to get to Coronado, this bridge is really the best option. I remember years ago when this bridge was a toll bridge unless you carpooled. So as a broke teen, I made sure my car had passengers to avoid the $2.00 charge. Since the bridge has been payed off, it's free of charge to get through it. So, drop what you're doing folks and head over here. This bridge is your connection to Coronado and its beach, Ferry's Landing, and Glorietta Bay. I've never had the opportunity to stand, walk, or run on the actual bridge. In fact, it's illegal to and there's no space for pedestrians. Come May 19, 2013, I will get that chance since half of the bridge is shut down for the Bridge Run/Walk, which I'm doing with my teenager. Two words...Can't Wait!
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Kinga H.

Yelp
At first I was afraid, I was petrified.... and then I grew up and now love my drives over the bridge, well when there is no traffic and mostly because it means I get to see my lovely friends... The bridge is a beautiful stretch of highway connecting downtown San Diego to Coronado island. I ALWAYS have the urge to take pictures of the spectacular views while here... Trust me, no matter how many times you take this drive the views are alwats AHH-MAZZING! Back to the picture taking, dangerous if you are the driver, so I only do so when riding passenger and so should you!
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Grace K.

Yelp
Every bridge I have ever driven across extends to me a specific and unique feeling - - an aura, if you will. - For example, the Bay Bridge (top level) always makes me feel very driven - - it's always the bridge that takes me somewhere, quickly. I hate the bottom level. If it weren't so out of the way, I'd drive down to San Mateo to take that bridge back to the E. Bay. - The Golden Gate Bridge always makes me feel like I am going on vacation, even if all I am doing is heading to Sausalito. - I do not like the Dumbarton Bridge. At all. - My favorite bridge in all of the Bay Area, though, is the San Mateo Bridge - - which always reminds me that life is good. Life is GOOD!!! This past week, I took the San Diego-Coronado Bridge, or the Bay Bridge as they call it. I now have TWO favorite bridges in California. While this one doesn't quite rival the majesty of San Mateo Bridge - - it does give you the feeling that you are now leaving one place to head some place better. It's up high - but it looks sturdy - - it's highly visible, and it has a mission. And I can't quite describe how cool it is to have naval ships pass under it, barely touching the bridge, with motorboats and sailboats twirling below it all day long - - -such a huge contrast between "work" and "play", all going on under this bridge. It's not quite a serene bridge, like the San Mateo, but it is majestic and powerful in its own way. You almost expect background music as you exit Interstate 5 to hop onto this bridge.... like A-Team music or something. I posted my photos - - - ain't it COOL LOOKIN'????????
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Alisa M.

Yelp
The view from this bridge is amazing if you are brave enough to peek at it while you drive over. For some reason this bridge terrifies the crap out of me. I always drive over it with my teeth, knuckles and buttcheeks clenched. In the future I may have to wear depends so I can make it across.
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Maria C.

Yelp
A historic San Diego landmark, and a definite must see. As many times as I have gone over or pass this bridge, I am still in awe. I've actually ran over this bridge a couple times during the annual Navy Run and love the views. Half the bridge is shut down to runners/walkers for this event, and it's awesome to hear the honks from the passerbys in support!!! Now that it's free, its even more a reason to head over to Coronado for the day!
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Linda D.

Yelp
Amazing view from the bridge. I like the sunset view. Even better is the night skyline view of San Diego's city lights. Once you look back at the bridge it is kind of amazing that you just crossed that elevated beast. I have to admit that driving over the bridge gives me the heebie jeebies. I would rather be a passenger in a vehicle than to be the driver. Call me a scaredly cat...yes I am Sometimes when we cross the bridge and enter Coronado, I look forward to reading the board that the police put up. The messages can be humorous at times.