Staycation: Beachside Eats and a Spa Retreat at Hotel Del on Coronado Island

The bridge connecting San Diego to Coronado is only two miles long, but once you’re on the pristine island it feels like you’ve traveled much further.
By / Photography By | November 07, 2019
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A few miles down Orange Avenue, you'll find the historic Hotel Del Coronado. The 131-year-old icon that began as a modern marvel of its time now lives on as a reminder of the past, but that’s not to say it isn’t thinking about the future. With enticing amenities, thoughtful dining additions, and property expansions in the works, there will always be a reason to return to The Del when you want to get away.

Make a Stay of It

The bright sun, sand, and exterior of the hotel are starkly contrasted inside by the dimly lit chandelier and dark wood paneling of the lobby. Victorian details, like the gold-caged elevator, are irresistible, and it isn’t hard to imagine why royalty, celebrities, and locals alike have aspired to stay at the property for more than a century. While the rooms are updated, they still embrace the hotel’s original character—and with more than 700 rooms on the property, each one has its own unique charm.

Chill Out

If you’re looking to be pampered, head to the Spa and Salon at The Del. Its infinity pool peering into the Pacific may be reason enough to book an appointment, but there’s still more inside if you need convincing. Separate lounges for men and women each offer a hot tub, steamroom, showers, and lockers, making it the perfect home base for the day. Treat yourself to a nourishing wildflower facial with organic botanicals, like the deeply aromatic Blueberry Detox Stimulation Masque. Looking for something even more chill? Try a CBD-infused massage, pedicure, or facial to take the edge off. Once you’re truly relaxed, hang by the pool or wander to the beach.

Find Beachside Bliss

The Del’s beachside options make it an obvious choice for visitors and locals year-round. Lounge in style on a shaded daybed or rent sand chairs and umbrellas to spend your beach day closer to the shoreline. You’ll find the Beach Shack a few steps away serving cocktails, beer, wine, and freshly made tacos. Why not embrace the island life and order a Double Sesh, a sweet-and-sour cocktail blended with ice and served in a fresh pineapple—perfect for two. Stroll a few steps more and you’ll find On the Rocks, The Del’s recently opened food truck and beverage trailer on the boardwalk. Choose walk-up or sit-down service and settle into a game of giant Jenga with a gourmet beach salad and side of Moroccan loaded fries.

And Dinner with a View

Serẽa is the property’s newest dining destination. Its white walls are softened with peach and blue accents that flow from the indoor dining room to the patio. Soft booths, a fireplace, and muted lighting invite you to stay a while. Executive chef Jojo Ruiz, a 2019 James Beard Foundation Smart Catch Leader, created Serẽa's Mediterranean-inspired menu to highlight local ingredients. Sustainable seafood sourcing is a priority at Serẽa, with fresh catch from Tuna Harbor Dockside Market, Catalina Offshore Products, and Baja California’s Pacifico Aquaculture appearing on the menu. Plus, the restaurant recently earned its Surfrider Ocean Friendly Restaurant certification.

Select a few starters to share like the refreshing local halibut ceviche with coconut, lime, and chile, and beef carpaccio with manchego cheese, watercress pesto, and 20-year aged balsamic. Then step inside to choose a fish from the open seafood display before it’s wood-grilled and filleted tableside.

This staycation is so dreamy, you'll be in danger of forgetting that San Diego is across the bay.

Plan Your Staycation at Hotel Del Coronado

1500 Orange Ave, Coronado

hoteldel.com

Lace up Your Skates

Head to The Del’s beachfront when it’s transformed into an ice skating rink benefiting Make-A-Wish San Diego from November 22, 2019 through January 5, 2020.

More to Look Forward To

The Del is in the midst of a property-wide revitalization known as The Master Plan that will enhance and preserve its existing features while expanding its offerings. Look for 150 additional rooms, underground parking, a refreshed landscaped entry, and a state-of-the-art conference room to be completed late 2021.

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