The Bayshore Bikeway
San Diego Bay Never Looked So Good
Palm trees and the sun-soaked coastline make the Bayshore Bikeway an iconic ride, and a must if you’re looking for a memorable cycling outing during your stay in San Diego.
The San Diego County Bicycle Coalition's recommended route along the San Diego Bay is a 24-mile bicycle circuit, which includes about 13 miles of car-free bicycle paths. The rest of the route consists of on-street sections designated as either bicycle lanes or bicycle routes.
Starting Downtown take Flagship's Coronado Ferry across San Diego Bay and start your ride upon docking at the Coronado Ferry Landing. The Bikeway makes its way through Coronado, along the Silver Strand, through the communities of Imperial Beach and Chula Vista and back into Downtown San Diego. The ride will take you through the quaint town of Coronado and past the historic Hotel del Coronado Hotel, built in 1888, which has played host to presidents, celebrities and royalty for over 120 years. You'll also ride past the U.S. Naval Amphibious Base (where the Navy SEALs train). Continuing on the path, you'll trek past Silver Strand State Beach, a beautiful stretch of coast; and the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge, a 3,900-acre wetland that is home to many endangered and migratory birds.
The continuous, paved portion of the rail-trail ends at the south end of San Diego Bay at Main Street in Chula Vista. Bike lanes along streets with light traffic connect to another portion of trail near the S. Bay Freeway and over the Sweetwater River, connecting to the Sweetwater Bikeway. To complete the 24-mile loop around the bay, the trail links with on-street bike lanes and bike routes through Chula Vista, National City and downtown San Diego. Rather than complete the 24-mile circuit, families might want to loop back on the same path at Imperial Beach to avoid the on-street bike lanes.
Don't want to hassle bringing a bike on your trip? There are many bike rental shops in and around Downtown and Coronado. Search for "bike rentals" on this site or on the route map below to find your preference.
San Diego's Bayshore Bikeway Map
Bayshore Bikeway FAQ
- 990 N Harbor Dr., San Diego, CA 92101
- Waterfront Stops – Both Seaport Village and the Coronado Ferry Landing make great stops along the route, offering waterfront dining, local shops and scenic views of San Diego Bay.
- Bring Your Camera – Keep your camera handy. The route begins or ends with a scenic cruise across San Diego Bay aboard the Flagship Ferry, offering plenty of photo opportunities.
- Pack for Adventure – The Bayshore Bikeway passes beaches, public parks and a national wildlife refuge. Bring a picnic, Frisbee, swimsuit and binoculars to make the most of the outdoor experiences along the route.
- Bay Views – Whether you're riding the Bayshore Bikeway or taking the ferry, you'll enjoy scenic waterfront views throughout the route. Plan a few stops along the way to take in the sights.
- A SoCal Classic – Have extra time? Take a short detour to the iconic Hotel del Coronado for waterfront dining, shopping and one of San Diego's most recognizable landmarks.
- Natural Wonders – Explore the region's rich biodiversity at the Sweetwater Marsh National Wildlife Refuge, where you can view native habitats, go bird-watching and visit the Living Coast Discovery Center to learn more about local wildlife.
- The Bayshore Bikeway features a mix of separated bike paths and on-street riding sections. Riders should use caution in areas where the route transitions to roadways and remain alert to vehicle traffic, pedestrians and changing conditions.
- Portions of the Bayshore Bikeway are currently under construction as additional bike path improvements are completed. Route conditions and detours may change, so check the SANDAG website before your ride for the latest construction information and route advisories.
- Although the City of San Diego and the State of California don't require adult bicyclists to wear helmets, it is strongly suggested you do.
- California does require all bicyclists under the age of 18 to wear a helmet.
- All riders must adhere to posted signage rules regarding electric bicycles.
- The Bayshore Bikeway begins and ends along the Embarcadero on North Harbor Drive near the Flagship Ferry Landing. The route is easily accessible from Interstate 5 via several downtown exits.
- The start and finish point can also be reached by public transit. Santa Fe Depot serves the San Diego Trolley's Blue and Green lines and is within easy riding distance of the Embarcadero. The Metropolitan Transit System's Route 215 bus also stops nearby.
- Several paid parking lots and garages are available near the Flagship Ferry Landing and along the Embarcadero. Arrive early on weekends and during peak travel periods, as waterfront parking can fill quickly.
For more information about what's happening in San Diego's biking community, visit the San Diego County Bicycle Coalition website.