If you are planning on vacationing in the San Diego area this winter, more options for beauty and adventure exist than you can possibly achieve in such a short time. However, from December 6-31 one very special opportunity exists that will take you back in time and into the lap of luxury. This December, docents from the San Diego Museum of History and Art (Coronado) will be leading special walking tours through the historic Hotel del Coronado located on an island just off the coast of this amazing city.
Coronado’s History
Named a national historic landmark in 1977, the Hotel del Coronado sits across San Diego Bay on Coronado Island, a 32.7 square mile peninsula that is connected to the mainland of California by a 10-mile long isthmus called Silver Strand. In Spanish, Coronado translates as “the crowned one” and currently the island embodies the spirit of that name in its luxury and standard of living. It is one of the most expensive places to reside in the U.S. and boasts one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
The Hotel del Coronado was built in 1888 in the midst of the San Diego land boom and at the time held the title as the largest resort hotel in the world. Currently, it stands as an historic landmark of its period and an excellent example of Victorian all-wooden buildings.
Since that time, Hotel del Coronado has been given the prestigious 4-diamond rating from AAA and continues to rank among California’s most beautiful and luxurious resorts.
The People of Coronado
In addition to its awesome architecture, Hotel del Coronado (nicknames the Del) has played host to some of the most famous people in history including Prince Edward of Wales, Thomas Edison, Charlie Chaplain and Babe Ruth. Many former U.S. Presidents have also stayed at the resort, which includes every president since Franklyn Roosevelt as well as quite a few beforehand.
The Beauty of Coronado Island
While staying in the San Diego area, a visit to Coronado Island is a must. The Go San Diego Card includes ferry fare which will transport you to this exclusive resort village hassle-free and also get you into the San Diego Museum of History and Art located on the island.
Once there, the sights and sounds of the Pacific greet you from all ends, and you will find Coronado Island is a mecca for luxury shopping as well as beach living and recreation. Through the experience of this magical island, ordinary people can glimpse both history and unprecedented beauty.
This December’s offer to take a behind the scenes tour of the Del simply accent what is a wonderful tourist destination year-round. If you are interested in this historic walking tour, reservations are required, call 619.437.8788, the cost is $15 per person.