I have stayed in downtown San Diego and also on Coronado Island. I really like the feel of being on the Island. My favorite hotel is the famous Del Coronado. I have stayed there for business in the past and even had a Christmas dinner there with my family as we were on the way to a cruise to celebrate my Father’s 90th Birthday. By the way, it is gorgeous at Christmastime and the buffet is a family tradition for many locals. There are restaurants, shops and of course the beach to walk and enjoy.
Opened in 1888, it was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1977 so it can be crowded. I love the architecture of the old section which was made famous by one of my favorite movies, Some Like It Hot, starring Tony Curtis, Jack Lemmon and Marilyn Monroe. This is a must on your list of things to do in San Diego.