When the Hotel Del Coronado opened in 1888, Grover Cleveland was president, electricity was still a newfangled invention, and narrow frill skirts were all the rage in women’s fashion. At the time, the beachside, Victorian-style resort became the largest hotel in the world, and the second largest wooden structure in the United States. It was also one of the first structures to install electricity.
Since then, the Coronado resort has drawn hundreds of celebrity guests, including Charlie Chaplin, Marilyn Monroe, and Oprah. Hotel Del has also inspired famous literature—L. Frank Baum reportedly wrote much of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz there—and it served as the backdrop for famous films such as 1959’s Some Like It Hot. Even Stephen King got a little inspiration from paranormal investigations at the hotel in writing his short story “1408.” It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1970 and a California Historic Landmark in 1977.
The Hotel Del is celebrating 130 years with a series of events from now until the end of the year. That includes a $130 resort credit for anyone who books a two-night stay in 2018, an Icons + Masters Anniversary Gala on February 17 that will transport guests back to the splendor of the Crown Room as it was in its vintage, sepia-toned heyday (featuring culinary goodies from top Master French Chefs), and a special champagne toast with fireworks on February 19 (the actual anniversary of the opening) followed by a throwback anniversary dinner at 1500 OCEAN.
The resort overlooks one of San Diego's best beaches—Coronado Beach. The wide, sandy beach with calm waters is often voted one of the top beaches in America. It serves as the venue for resort offerings like yoga on the sand and mermaid fitness classes.
Check out the full line-up of special anniversary events.
