Your Guide to Exploring San Diego Bay by Bike with the Flagship Ferry

Man and woman riding bicycles after disembarking the Flagship Ferry
August 4, 2026 | Posted in Guides

There is a version of San Diego you only experience from the seat of a bicycle: the breeze coming off the bay, the downtown skyline reflected in the water and miles of waterfront paths unfolding ahead of you. With mostly flat terrain, waterfront paths and spectacular views, you can choose anything from a leisurely ride around Coronado to the full 24-mile Bayshore Bikeway.

No matter where your ride begins, the Flagship Ferry connects San Diego Bay's best cycling routes. Ride from Downtown San Diego to Coronado, complete the iconic Bayshore Bikeway, or simply enjoy a leisurely day exploring the waterfront. Because bicycles are not permitted on the San Diego–Coronado Bridge, the ferry provides the essential link between both sides of the bay.

Four Bike Ride Ideas to Get You Started

Not sure where to begin? We've put together four of our favorite rides that showcase the best of San Diego Bay. Choose the route that fits your schedule—from an easy cruise around Coronado to the iconic Bayshore Bikeway—and let the Flagship Ferry connect the adventure.

Biking along Coronado Central Beach in-front of the Hotel del Coronado

1. Circumnavigate Coronado Island

Approximate distance: 6 miles
Plan for: 1–2 hours

For a relaxed ride with plenty of scenery and places to stop, begin with a loop around Coronado. After stepping off the ferry at Coronado Ferry Landing, follow the waterfront toward Tidelands Park before continuing through the island’s palm-lined neighborhoods.

Make your way toward the iconic Hotel del Coronado, then enjoy the ocean views along Ocean Boulevard. Return through the heart of Coronado, where you will find local shops, cafés and restaurants.

For waterfront dining and one of the best views of the San Diego skyline, save time to explore the restaurants and shops at Coronado Ferry Landing before boarding your return ferry.

Plan Your Coronado Ride

Want to customize your route? The City of Coronado’s interactive bike map highlights recommended routes, bike facilities, local attractions and useful information for cyclists. It is a helpful companion whether you are planning a quick island ride or a full day of exploring.

 

Biking along Silver Strand, part of the Bayside Bikeway around San Diego Bay

2. Ride to Silver Strand State Beach

Approximate distance: 9 miles round trip
Plan for: 2–3 hours

Turn your ferry trip into a beach day with a ride from Coronado Ferry Landing toward Silver Strand State Beach.

Follow the Bayshore Bikeway south from Coronado along a mostly flat route with views of San Diego Bay. Pack beach towels, sunscreen, water and a picnic, then take a break at Silver Strand before riding back to the ferry.

The beach offers both ocean and bay environments, making it a rewarding destination for riders who want to combine cycling with time by the water. Check the California State Parks website before your trip for current hours, access information and any advisories.

 

The Imperial Beach Pier ia a rewarding destination on the ride south from Coronado. Port of San Diego's Public Parks (Imperial Beach Pier) by Port of San Diego

3. Ride from Coronado to Imperial Beach

Approximate distance: 20 miles round trip
Plan for: 3–5 hours

For a longer outing, continue south along the Silver Strand to Imperial Beach. This ride combines a scenic waterfront route with enough time to explore one of San Diego County’s most laid-back beach communities.

Once you reach Imperial Beach, walk out onto the Imperial Beach Pier, watch the surfers or take a break near the ocean. Nature lovers can also explore the Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge, a protected coastal habitat with trails and opportunities to see native and migratory birds.

 

Bayside Bikeway Map with Ferry Routes around San Diego Bay

4. Complete the Full Bayshore Bikeway

Approximate distance: 24 miles
Plan for: Half day to full day

The Bayshore Bikeway is one of San Diego’s signature cycling experiences. The route circles San Diego Bay, connecting waterfront parks, coastal communities, wildlife areas and city neighborhoods.

Because bicycles are not permitted on the San Diego-Coronado Bridge, the Flagship Ferry provides the essential connection between Downtown San Diego and Coronado. You can begin the loop at the Embarcadero, in Coronado, near Imperial Beach or at another convenient point along the route.

The bikeway is largely flat, so riders who are comfortable with the distance can enjoy it at a relaxed pace. Allow extra time for ferry boarding, photos, meals and sightseeing.

Local Tip: Add a Silver Strand Headwind

The Silver Strand is known for its beautiful views and afternoon breeze. Riders heading north toward Coronado will often find lighter winds before approximately 11:30 a.m. or later in the afternoon after about 4 p.m.

Want to make your ride more challenging? Ride north on the Strand between noon and 4 p.m., when a steady headwind can turn this otherwise flat stretch into a workout. Weather and wind conditions vary, so check the forecast before your ride.

Returning to San Diego after Biking the Bayside Bikeway around San Diego Bay

FAQs About Bikes & the Ferry

Yes! Bicycles ride free aboard the Flagship Coronado Ferry, space permitting. Simply roll your bike aboard and enjoy the scenic trip across San Diego Bay.

Bicycles are not permitted on the San Diego–Coronado Bridge. The Flagship Ferry provides the connection between Downtown San Diego and Coronado, making it an essential part of completing the Bayshore Bikeway.

No. Bikes are accommodated on a first-come, first-served basis. We recommend arriving at least 10 minutes before departure, and a little earlier on busy weekends and holidays.

Yes. Electric bikes are welcome aboard the Coronado Ferry, space permitting.

You don't need to bring your own bike to enjoy these rides. There are several excellent rental options around San Diego Bay, making it easy for both locals and visitors to explore the Bayshore Bikeway.

Downtown San Diego Embarcadero
Coronado Ferry Landing
  • Holland's Bicycles – A longtime Coronado favorite offering bike rentals, sales and service.
  • The SUP & Saddle – Rent bikes, paddleboards and more just steps from the ferry landing.
Imperial Beach
  • Rad Power Bikes – Electric bike rentals are a great way to explore the southern portion of the Bayshore Bikeway.
  • IB Bikes – Local bike shop offering rentals, repairs and cycling gear.

Tip: Reserve your bike in advance during weekends and holidays, especially if you're planning to ride the full Bayshore Bikeway.

Absolutely. Many riders bike directly to the ferry or join the Bayshore Bikeway from another point along the route. You can also park at several Port of San Diego parking areas located along the Bayshore Bikeway.

Yes. The route is mostly flat with only a few gentle grades. You don't have to ride all 24 miles—many cyclists choose shorter routes around Coronado, Silver Strand State Beach or Imperial Beach.

The City of Coronado's Interactive Bike Map is an excellent planning resource with recommended routes, bike facilities and local attractions.

California law requires riders under 18 years of age to wear a properly fitted helmet. Helmets are strongly recommended for riders of every age.

Bring water, sunscreen, a helmet, sunglasses, comfortable clothing and a bike lock. For longer rides, it's also a good idea to carry snacks, a spare tube or repair kit and a portable phone charger.

Make the Ferry Part of Your Ride

From a relaxed loop around Coronado to the complete Bayshore Bikeway, taking your bike aboard the Flagship Ferry turns a trip across the bay into the beginning of an adventure.

Check the latest Coronado Ferry schedule and ticket information, choose your route and discover San Diego from a new point of view—one waterfront mile at a time.

Routes, distances, ferry operations, bicycle policies, parking conditions and business hours are subject to change. Follow posted signs, obey traffic laws and check current information before beginning your ride.

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