Reasons to Visit the Hotel Del Coronado

Travel - Hotels/Lodging

By: tahoemom 15-Jan-2011

Introduction:

The Hotel del Coronado on Coronado Island in San Diego, California is a sight to behold. This beautiful landmark holds a rich history, interesting architecture and is located on one of the most beautiful beaches anywhere.

If you are going to be in the San Diego area, you will want to spend part of a day exploring this exquisite site.

The Architecture

Construction of the Hotel del Coronado took place from 1885 to 1888. It was built as an all-wooden, Victorian style resort and was the first to use electricity for lighting. The red turets and the many interesting architectural features are pleasing to the eye.

The History

The Hotel del Coronado is designated both as a California Historic Landmard and a National Historic Landmark. The resort was completed in 1888. Unfortunately, a real estate bust happened just as the hotel was opening. A new owner took over and the resort has flourished since.

Presidents, European royalty, celebrities and American legends (Babe Ruth, Charles Lindbergh and others) have all visited the Hotel del.

"Some Like it Hot" with Marilyn Monroe is the most famous movie filmed there, but there were others.

The Del is even reported to be haunted by the ghost of Kate Morgan, a young lady who checked into the hotel, but never checked out. Speculation about her death still circulates, but many have reported paranormal events.
(I have never seen or "felt" her presence in my few stays there).

The Beach

The beach in front of the Hotel del, and on much of Coronado island, is soft, wide and gentle. This makes it a great place for kids to play and for families to relax. Even with people visiting the island during high-tourist times, these beaches never seem to get too crowded. Stay for sunset if you can as watching the colors of the sky change against the backdrop of the ocean is one of life's great pleasures

The Restaurants

Nothing at the "Del"is cheap, so plan ahead. If you want to hang at the beach, you may want to bring snacks and then plan to just enjoy one meal in one of the restaurants or snack bars, if money is an issue (like it is for most of us).

If you are splurging or staying at the Hotel del Coronado, the brunch in the Crown Room is absolutely amazing. And it should be for the price of $76.50 per adult. Is it worth it? Oh, yeah. At least once.

There are a variety of other dining venues at the resort as well. The Sheerwater is a more casual restaurant with outdoor, oceanview seating. It is not cheap either, but their lunch menu is very satisfying. The Babcock and Story Bar (named after the original owners/builders of the hotel) has appetizers, cocktails and delicious entrees priced under $20 each.

The Romance

The historic building, the scented gardens and the gorgeous coastline with the gentle waves lapping the beach make the Hotel del Coronado one of the most romantic settings in the country -- and I'm not just saying that because I got married there. Peace, relaxation and a sense of seclusion contribute to the romance. Spend the day or a night or a week here with your sweetheart. You can't help but feel closer.

Final Thoughts

San Diego has many beautiful sites and the Hotel del Coronado is definitely a jewel in its crown.

Give this list a high five!

Comments

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tahoemom 1/15/2011
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Thank you! I wish we could put a picture, just for lists like this, but their website has tons of great photos. I was really craving a visit while I was writing and reminiscing.
goodselfme 1/15/2011
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Your travel information about this unique spot in California leads me to want to visit. Thank you.