Named by the Travel Channel as the fourth best beach in the country in 2003 and rated number three by Travelocity.com as one of the country's most romantic beaches, Coronado Island is one of Southern California's most sought-after vacation destinations.

When you're not watching the sunset over the white sandy Coronado beaches, gasping in awe at the majestic Coronado Bay Bridge or taking in the charm of this picturesque seven-and-a-half square mile island located just a couple miles off the coast of San Diego, the many attractions Coronado boasts will provide you with endless hours of fun and enjoyment against one of the country's most naturally beautiful settings.

No Coronado vacation is complete without a visit to the island's most famous landmark, the Hotel del Coronado. Visitors to this upper-class Coronado attraction will enjoy exploring the high-end retail shops, being pampered at the Spa at the del, one of San Diego's premier spa resort destinations, or heading to the Crown Room to enjoy the best brunch in San Diego while overlooking the sparkling waters of the Pacific Ocean.

Coronado golfing enthusiasts will want to head to the Coronado Golf Course for its beautiful greens and dramatic views of the Coronado Bridge, Hotel Del Coronado and the San Diego Bay.

Much of the most scenic Coronado attractions are best accessible via organized tour. Old Town Trolley Tours is a great place to start. This two-hour guided tour takes you through the best of historic Old Town San Diego, downtown San Diego and Coronado, as well as past some of Coronado's legendary Naval installations. For a romantic Coronado tour, try cruising in a private gondola through the enchanting canals and waterways of the Coronado Cays with the Gondola Company.

The Ferry Landing Marketplace is another must-see for Coronado visitors. The breathtaking view of the San Diego skyline and San Diego Bay alone is worth the trip. One of the most family-friendly Coronado attractions, this waterfront park also features a fishing pier and sandy beach. Pop into one of the landing's specialty shops or art galleries. Rent bikes and take a two-wheeled tour of the island or enjoy a savory seafood dinner at Peohe's, the island's premier water-front restaurant. When you're done shopping, head to the Coronado Ferry Pier and catch a San Diego Harbor Excursion ferry to downtown's historic Gaslamp Quarter.

While in the Gaslamp, check out the architectural wonder that is Horton Plaza, San Diego's most beloved outdoor shopping center. If you get hungry, try authentic winery faire at the Napa Valley Grille, atop Horton Plaza. The Gaslamp is also home to some of the area's most romantic restaurants for waterfront dining near Coronado, including the intimate Molly's Restaurant and the tropical-themed Buster's Restaurant. Adult Coronado visitors who are looking for nightlife will enjoy dinner and dancing with a Spanish flair at Ole Madrid.

Coronado's family visitors will want to make sure to visit Seaport Village, another waterfront attraction just across the bay from Coronado that features several four-star restaurants, shops, street vendors and performers and a classic carousel.

Coronado is also in very close proximity to other renowned family attractions, including the world-famous San Diego Zoo, San Diego Wild Animal Park and the beautiful and spacious Balboa Park, with its kid-friendly museums and playgrounds.

And don't forget to make time to visit Old Town San Diego for the best Mexican food (and margaritas) this side of the border.