For over a century, world-travelers have frequented the Hotel del Coronado (or “The Del” for short) for a restorative experience, be it a walk on the white sandy beach, an afternoon at the spa, or simply people watching at the central pool. More recently, the colossal Victorian, beachfront jewel of San Diego underwent a six-year long renovation, which ushered The Del into the modern era.
“What I love most about The Del’s revitalization is the tremendous care taken with the restoration of The Victorian, which is a registered National Historic Landmark and the heartbeat of this iconic destination,” says General Manager Marco Tabet.
Photos courtesy of Hotel del Coronado
“Our heritage manager, in collaboration with the architectural team, conducted extensive research to restore and recreate elements that guests would have seen here in 1888 and the resulting experience feels both historic and fresh at the same time.”
The newly reimagined seaside retreat embodies grandeur and nostalgia coupled with modern élan. The entire property beams with an airy brightness – its original woods meticulously stripped and polished, hidden ceiling frescos and original doors painstakingly uncovered and restored, and beautiful botanical wallpapers enlivening the guestrooms and halls. Guests will find that every inch of the sprawling property has been elevated including the property’s new grand entry and porch, replete rocking chairs, renovated gardens, expanded fitness center, and refreshed pools areas.
The Del’s spa makes for the ideal quiet retreat away from the property’s lively ecosystem. After a rejuvenating steam and sips of champagne, cocoon into silky-soft sheets of the heated massage table. During the Ground Wellbeing Body Polish treatment, a therapist meticulously exfoliates the skin with a coconut sugar and ginger scrub, which is meant to stimulate the lymph system with a gentle, rhythmic motion that causes one to slip off into a trance-like state. Following a steamy, refreshing shower, return to the spa bed for hydration with a warm, vegan-oil laced with fragrant grapefruit and sweet orange. The light, tension-melting massage leaves the skin completely replenished and silky soft. Afterward, linger by the private vanishing-edge pool, soaking up the warm sunshine and sounds of the surf.
“Hotel del Coronado’s very roots lie in wellness, as founder Elisha Babcock first discovered Coronado Island when he traveled the US seeking a climate where his health would be restored,” says General Manager Marco Tabet.
“The sea air and active Southern California lifestyle inspire today’s guests to enjoy experiences like beach yoga, sunrise spin, guided cycling tours, sailing lessons and spa treatments inspired by the ocean and the land.”
After the spa, explore the hotel’s many culinary options: sea-view Nobu celebrates the art of sushi, Serea focuses on fresh, sustainable Mediterranean seafood and Veranda explores the bounty of Southern California. Finally, round off the day sat by the firepits under a starry night (and if you still have room after dinner, don’t forget to roast some s’mores).
