The best cycling routes in Cabrillo National Monument

The Bayshore Bikeway offers a delightful touring bicycle experience, showcasing San Diego's diverse coastal beauty. You'll glide past the iconic Coronado Bridge and the historic Hotel del Coronado, then transition to the serene Silver Strand, a narrow strip of land separating the bay from the Pacific Ocean. Keep an eye out for migratory birds as you pass the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge, making for a varied and engaging ride.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the route is free to access and offers amenities like coffee shops and bike rentals in towns like Coronado. Parking is available at various access points, and public transport via the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System can also get you there. Remember to bring sun protection and water, as shade can be scarce along some sections.

This easy 10.8-mile (17.4 km) touring bicycle route, with a gentle 326 feet (99 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hour and 1 minute. It's an excellent choice for beginner cyclists or anyone seeking a relaxed ride with stunning views, connecting to the larger California Coastal Trail and other local bikeways.

This touring cycling loop from Point Loma Nazarene University offers a fantastic blend of coastal and river scenery, making it a rewarding moderate ride. You'll begin near the Pacific Ocean, enjoying fresh sea air and views of the San Diego River Estuary, a haven for local birdlife. The route then follows the San Diego River Bikeway, transitioning through varied terrain that includes both natural riverbanks and urban stretches, before reaching the picturesque Mission Bay and Leisure Lagoon with its expansive bay views. Expect mostly paved surfaces, but be ready for some gravel and potentially uneven concrete sections along the way.

To make the most of your ride, consider starting early in the morning to beat the heat and potential crowds, especially around popular areas like Mission Bay. While the route is generally accessible, some parts of the San Diego River Trail have reported uneven surfaces and ongoing construction, so a quick check on current conditions can save you some bumps. Parking is available near Point Loma Nazarene University, providing a convenient starting point for this adventure.

The San Diego River Bikeway is a significant part of the city's developing bike network, aiming to provide routes largely free of auto traffic. This particular loop connects you to the vibrant recreational hub of Mission Bay Park, known for its beaches and activities, and offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching, particularly in the estuary areas. It's a great way to experience San Diego's diverse natural and urban environments on two wheels.

This easy 7.2-mile (11.6 km) touring cycling loop around Spanish Landing Park offers a delightful ride with minimal effort. You'll pedal along the San Diego Bay waterfront, enjoying continuous views of the marinas, Harbor Island, and the city skyline. Keep an eye out for naval activity in the bay and the various public art displays scattered throughout the park, making for a visually engaging 40-minute journey.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the path is largely flat and paved, suitable for cyclists of all abilities. Parking is available at Spanish Landing Park, though it can get busy during peak times. Given the easy 68 feet (21 metres) of elevation gain, this route is perfect for a leisurely spin any time of day, but a morning ride offers cooler temperatures and fewer people.

The historical significance of Spanish Landing Park adds an interesting layer to your ride; it marks the site where Gaspar de Portolá's and Junípero Serra's 1769 expedition landed. You'll find bronze artworks commemorating this event, as well as a unique Cancer Survivors Park section. The nearby USS Recruit, a landlocked training ship, is another fascinating landmark to spot along the way.