About Little Sam’s
Coronado’s old-school beach rental shop — family-run since 1997, still at the same spot, still with the same charm.
Our Story
Just a block from the Pacific Ocean and across from the Hotel del Coronado, Little Sam’s Island & Beach Fun has been part of the island’s everyday rhythm for over 25 years. Sam Frederick first came to Coronado in 1993, managing Mike’s Bikes before taking over the space and re-naming it Little Sam’s in 1997.
From the start, Sam’s philosophy has been simple: keep prices fair, treat customers like neighbors, and make sure everyone leaves ready for a great day at the beach. The TV from 1993 still hangs on the wall, the shop still rents at “old school” prices, and the welcome you get is as warm as the Coronado sun.
Through ups and downs — from the 2020 closures to his second-best year ever just one season later — Sam’s stayed true to his love of community, conversation, and the simple joy of helping people get outside.
A Look Back
Mike’s Bikes Manager
Sam moves to Coronado and manages Mike’s Bikes at 1343 Orange Ave — the same spot that will become Little Sam’s.
Mike’s Bikes Manager
Sam moves to Coronado and manages Mike’s Bikes at 1343 Orange Ave — the same spot that will become Little Sam’s.
Little Sam’s Opens
Sam takes over and renames the shop Little Sam’s Island & Beach Fun. Same location, same TV, same neighborly service.
Little Sam’s Opens
Sam takes over and renames the shop Little Sam’s Island & Beach Fun. Same location, same TV, same neighborly service.
Island Staple
Becomes a go-to for visitors and locals. Rentals by the hour or day: beach cruisers, surf & boogie boards, skimboards, wetsuits, chairs, umbrellas, strollers.
Island Staple
Becomes a go-to for visitors and locals. Rentals by the hour or day: beach cruisers, surf & boogie boards, skimboards, wetsuits, chairs, umbrellas, strollers.
Old-School Prices
Sticks to fair pricing and simple service. Over decades, prices barely budge — the “little beach shack” keeps it accessible and fun.
Old-School Prices
Sticks to fair pricing and simple service. Over decades, prices barely budge — the “little beach shack” keeps it accessible and fun.
One Tough Month
First closure ever (Apr 6 – May 6). Reopens with added sanitization; Sam’s son (CHS ’20) lends a hand as people head back outside.
One Tough Month
First closure ever (Apr 6 – May 6). Reopens with added sanitization; Sam’s son (CHS ’20) lends a hand as people head back outside.
Big Comeback
Rental demand surges; July–November outpace 2019. With 95% tourist traffic, more West-coast visitors discover the shop.
Big Comeback
Rental demand surges; July–November outpace 2019. With 95% tourist traffic, more West-coast visitors discover the shop.
25 Years In
Same owner, same location, same TV — and the same habit of pointing folks to other local shops when it’s the right fit.
25 Years In
Same owner, same location, same TV — and the same habit of pointing folks to other local shops when it’s the right fit.
Still Old School
Across from the Hotel del, one block from the Pacific. Call to rent or just stop by — fair prices, friendly help, and beach day magic.
Still Old School
Across from the Hotel del, one block from the Pacific. Call to rent or just stop by — fair prices, friendly help, and beach day magic.
Hours & Location
Little Sam’s Island & Beach Fun
1343 Orange Ave
Coronado, CA 92118
Daily: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Phone: (619) 435-4068
One block from the Pacific and across from the Hotel del Coronado.