San Diego Series: Hotel del Coronado
The Hotel del Coronado, or Hotel Del, is a true San Diego icon. Built and opened at the end of the nineteenth century, the Hotel Del is one of the oldest, all-wooden, Victorian-style structures in the country. Pristinely sitting beachfront across the San Diego Bay on quaint Coronado Island (just a 10 minute drive from downtown San Diego across the huge, sleek Coronado bridge), this hotel and its boutiques, restaurants, and grounds are a beautiful throwback to another era. You'll find tourists roaming the grounds, perusing the dimly lit hallways for old Hollywood stars' pictures and memorabilia, and admiring the impressive, intricate interior architecture. But since Coronado was just rated one of the best beaches in the US, even locals stop by for a drink at one of the patio eateries or bars after a beach day. While restaurant and bar prices are high, the types of restaurants and bars range from a more casual, outdoor patio setting to formal ballroom meals to a breezy, inviting wine bar. Go to The Del to absorb its vintage charm and experience the excellent white sand beaches, great restaurants, outdoor trails and fun bars.
Locals' tips: All things Hotel Del can be pricey. There is a pay-to-park lot on the premises but finding metered parking on the street (like main street Orange Ave.) will keep cost in check. By day, stroll the white sand beaches. Take in the coastal views and hotel ambiance. Grab a drink at Splash, the hotel's beachfront bar. By night, consider starting with drinks and apps at the hotel pub, Babcock & Story (with its awesome original mahogany bar), and moving on to a downtown restaurant for dinner (downtown is just 10 minutes away by car). Even the colder months hold unique experiences at The Del: check out ice skating on their beach rink around the holidays!
See more info at Hotel Del.
Hey Locals! What's YOUR must-do at the Hotel Del? Got any family-friendly tips? Chime in below.
