The Hotel Del Coronado: 6 Reasons to Choose this Luxurious Resort

I received a complimentary stay and amenities at Hotel Del Coronado, sponsored by OluKai. All opinions about the Del are my own. 

If you’re looking for a luxurious getaway on the coast of Southern California, there’s no better choice than Hotel del Coronado. This stunning resort is renowned for its gorgeous Victorian architecture, stunning ocean views, and a rich history that spans over a century. It is located on Coronado, which is just minutes from Downtown San Diego across the large San Diego-Coronado Bridge.         

Hotel Del Coronado History

The Hotel del Coronado was first built in 1888, and since then, it has been a favorite destination for travelers from all around the world. The hotel was designed by architects James W. Reid and Warren E. Smith, who sought to create a grand seaside resort that would rival any in the world.

Throughout its long history, the hotel has hosted numerous notable guests, including presidents, movie stars, and royalty. Some of its most famous visitors include Marilyn Monroe, Charles Lindbergh, and Thomas Edison.

The hotel has also played a role in American history, serving as a naval training center during World War II. In fact, the hotel’s iconic red roof was painted black during the war to help it blend in with the surrounding landscape and avoid detection by enemy ships.

The hotel’s rich history is on full display throughout the property, from the classic Victorian architecture to the vintage photos and memorabilia on display in the lobby.

6 Reasons to Choose Hotel Del Coronado

1. Beautiful Oceanfront Location

One of the main reasons to choose Hotel del Coronado is its stunning oceanfront location. The resort sits on a pristine stretch of beach overlooking the Pacific Ocean, providing guests with breathtaking views and access to some of the best surfing and water sports in Southern California.

2. Luxurious Accommodations

Hotel del Coronado offers a wide range of luxurious accommodations to suit any traveler’s needs. There are a lot of different lodging options at the Hotel Del Coronado. Guests can choose from rooms with views of the ocean, courtyard, or city skyline, as well as suites with separate living areas, fireplaces, and private balconies. 

We stayed at the Cabanas building, which offered lovely views of the Cabana pool and the ocean. Our building was newly renovated so it felt very modern and clean. It was also quite large with a private patio that overlooked the pool and ocean. We also had a large standing shower and the room offered free water and coffee, along with two queen beds. I loved the proximity to the dining options, the pool right next to our building, and access to the beach only steps outside of our building. I’d definitely recommend the Cabanas building. I especially loved our private patio with amazing views. 

3. Hotel Del Coronado Restaurants

The Hotel del Coronado offers a range of dining options to suit every palate and occasion. Guests can choose from several restaurants, cafes, and bars, each with its own unique atmosphere and menu. One of the most famous restaurants at the hotel is the Crown Room, which serves up classic California cuisine in an elegant setting with ornate chandeliers and a historic ambiance.

The Sheerwater restaurant offers stunning ocean views and serves fresh seafood and regional specialties. For a more casual dining experience, guests can visit Eno Pizzeria & Wine Bar, which offers artisanal pizzas, wine flights, and craft beers in a laid-back setting.

The Sun Deck Bar & Grill is the perfect spot for a relaxed lunch or dinner by the pool. We were invited to enjoy dinner on our last night at the Sun Deck as we watched the sunset over the gorgeous Pacific Ocean views. The food was really amazing. We had this grilled shrimp dish that was phenomenal. It was some of the best shrimp I’ve ever had. The seasoning was perfect. We also had this crudites plate with falafel and edamame hummus which was really tasty. 

Brunch at Hotel Del Coronado

If you’re looking for something special for Mother’s Day, head over to the Hotel Del Coronado brunch. Held in the Southpointe ballroom, the brunch at the Del Coronado San Diego would be a great way to celebrate mom. The lavish brunch features a chilled seafood bar, regionally inspired dishes, international cuisine, carving stations, and a spectacular dessert bar. For those over 21, you also get a glass of champagne.

4. Extensive Amenities

San Diego Hotel del Coronado offers a wide range of amenities to make your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. From a full-service spa and fitness center to multiple swimming pools and hot tubs, there’s something for everyone at this luxurious resort. They also have plenty of shops right in the Del where you can get clothes, gifts, and much more. The Del also offers a surf academy, bonfires, ocean explorers – an educational experience for kids, the Ice House Museum, and more. 

Hotel Del Coronado Spa

We were lucky enough to spend a large part of one of our days at the Hotel Del Coronado Spa.  They offer a wide range of treatments and services, including massages, facials, body wraps, and more. The spa also features a steam room, sauna, and hydrotherapy tub. They also have a full-service salon for hair and nail treatments. The spa also offers its own pool, just for spa guests.

We received the oxygen and smores facial, which was a 50-minute treatment that included a cocoa mask, a marshmallow moisturizer, and an oxygen mask. My skin was absolutely glowing after the treatment, and it was also really relaxing with a hand and arm massage. We also each received a 50-minute massage. I opted for deep tissue, and it was one of the best massages I’ve received. 

The Spa staff were also so helpful and friendly. The entire experience felt very luxurious and we spent a lot of time in the sauna, hot tub, and outdoor private pool. 

5. Hotel Del Coronado Has a Rich History

Perhaps the most compelling reason to choose Hotel del Coronado is its rich history and culture. This iconic resort has been a fixture of the Southern California coastline for over a century. I shared more about the history above. The hotel has a lot of areas you can explore the history if that’s your thing.

6. Close and Easy to Explore Coronado Island

Downtown Coronado Island is a vibrant and picturesque area with a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. One of the main draws is the Coronado Ferry Landing. It is a historic spot that offers shopping, dining, and stunning views of San Diego Bay. Another popular attraction is the Coronado Museum of History and Art, which offers fascinating exhibits on the island’s rich history, culture, and architecture.

You can also head to Orange Avenue, the main street of downtown Coronado that is lined with shops, restaurants, and landmarks. If you want to do something outside, you can check out Spreckels Park. It is a lush green space that offers a great place to picnic, people-watch, and enjoy live entertainment during the summer months. For beaches, you can visit Coronado Beach, North Beach, and South Beach.

Other popular activities in downtown Coronado include renting a bike or surrey to explore the area, taking a harbor tour to see the sights of the San Diego Bay, playing a round of golf at the scenic Coronado Municipal Golf Course, and enjoying the nightlife at bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. Overall, downtown Coronado Island has something to offer for visitors of all ages and interests.

San Diego del Coronado Hotel is a one-of-a-kind destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a luxurious beachfront getaway, this iconic resort is definitely worth a visit. 

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