Hotel del Coronado, known locally as “The Del,” is a grand Victorian beach resort on Coronado Island, just across the bay from downtown San Diego. Opened in 1888, its white wooden wings and red, cone-shaped turrets rising over the Pacific make it one of the most recognizable hotels in America, and it is a designated National Historic Landmark.
The setting is the star. The hotel sits right on Coronado Beach, a wide stretch of soft, sparkling sand that regularly ranks among the best beaches in the country. Guests and visitors can stroll the shoreline, watch surfers and sailboats, and catch spectacular sunsets from the oceanfront terraces.
Inside, the historic main building is full of character, with a dark-wood lobby, a grand Crown Room, and long, sunny verandas. Over the years The Del has welcomed presidents, royalty, and Hollywood stars, and it famously served as a filming location for the 1959 classic Some Like It Hot. It is also known for its resident legend, the ghost of Kate Morgan, a guest who checked in in 1892 and is said never to have left.
Today the resort combines that history with modern comforts: rooms in the Victorian building and newer beachfront cottages and villas, several restaurants and bars, a spa, oceanfront pools, and boutique shops. Even if you are not staying overnight, it is easy to visit for a meal, a drink with an ocean view, or a walk through the historic halls.
Tips for your visit: reserve dining and spa treatments ahead, especially on weekends and holidays. Parking can fill up quickly, so consider arriving early or taking the Coronado ferry from downtown San Diego. During the holidays, look out for seasonal events such as the beachside ice-skating rink. Check the hotel’s website for current rates and offers before you go.
Address: 1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118. Website: hoteldel.com
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