The iconic Hotel del Coronado—perched on the sun‑drenched shores of Coronado Island in San Diego—has just emerged from a massive, six‑year, $550 million renovation, now complete.
As one of California’s most historic resorts since 1888, this National Historic Landmark isn’t just refreshed—it’s elevated.
Its restoration blends classic Victorian charm with modern luxury: think an expanded room inventory, refurbished ballrooms, five distinct neighborhoods, a new Nobu restaurant, and exclusive beachfront amenities.
Whether you crave historic ambiance, oceanfront access, top‑tier dining, or next‑level relaxation, this sensational revamp has something for every traveler.
Here’s everything you need to know about the rebirth of this legendary resort—and why it still stands among America’s best beach escapes.
1. A Long‑Awaited Revival: What the $550 Million Paid For
The centerpiece of the renovation is the Victorian Building, with its recognizable red-rooftop “witch’s hat.” The historical structure received a sweeping $160 million facelift, touching up its ornate façade, grand lobby, wraparound veranda, and guest rooms
During the meticulous restoration of the Ocean Ballroom, craftsmen uncovered original 1888 fresco secco ceilings by William Busch and Jacob Gumpertz—now restored in all their glory.
Beyond the main building, the enhancement embraced the resort’s full 28-acre beachfront footprint, including:
- Refreshed guest rooms and suites in the Victorian wing
- Revamped public spaces: front porch, garden courtyard, Crown Room
- New restaurants: Nobu Del Coronado and Veranda with oceanfront dining
- Updated fitness center and redesigned main entrance
This extensive refresh positions The Del to offer timeless elegance with contemporary comfort.
2. Five Distinct Neighborhoods to Match Your Mood
The renovation reached across five unique “neighborhoods” (residential‑style hotel sectors), each with its own character and perks:
The Victorian
The historic, heart-of-the-hotel building, now featuring enhanced Victorian-inspired décor, featuring brighter floral fabrics, updated bathrooms, and unique artwork
The Cabanas
A lively, family‑friendly sector with poolside rooms, tropical terraces, firepits, and an energetic environment.
The Views
Oceanfront rooms and suites featuring private balconies and sunset vistas—perfect for adventurers and relaxation seekers alike.
Shore House
Opened in 2022, this boutique residential neighborhood features one-to-three-bedroom villas with private beachfront pools, bistros, and exclusive service.
Beach Village
A gated enclave of cottages and villas that feel like luxury private residences complete with full kitchens, fireplaces, and VIP beachfront club access.
Staying in Shore House or Beach Village gives you resort-within-resort exclusivity at a premium.
3. Beachfront Bliss: Private Sand, Pools & Wellness
The Del offers more than just a stunning facade—it delivers an oceanfront resort experience in full:
- Exclusive private beach club access for Shore House and Beach Village guests
- Multiple pools—including beachfront and villa-side pools, some with firepits
- Beach yoga, guided meditation, and wellness events included in your nightly rate
- Optional experiences: surf lessons, bonfires with s’mores, tandem bike cruises, and more.
Coronado Island’s gentle waves and yacht-filled bay rounds out the setting for relaxation or adventure—just steps away.
4. Dining Reimagined: Nobu, Veranda & Coastal Classics
A key highlight of the renovation is its upgraded food scene, centered around ocean views and fresh ingredients:
- Nobu Del Coronado: Offering Nobu’s signature high-end Japanese-Peruvian dishes overlooking the beach
- Veranda: Casual alfresco dining serving California coastal cuisine inspired by the newly restored veranda.
- On-site favorites: taco shacks, pizzeria, seafood bistro (Serẽa), beachfront bar, and ice-cream sundaes.
From fresh oysters to sushi and sun-drenched brunches, the dining options cater to every taste.
5. Del‑Lightful Experiences Await
During your stay, indulge in more than sun and spa:
- Ocean Club: A coastal living room—comfort, cocktails, and conversation by the sea
- Fitness & spa: Ocean-inspired treatments and modern workout facilities
- Historic oceanfront event spaces: Perfect for weddings, corporate gatherings, and milestone celebrations
- Local perks: Discounted access to San Diego’s best attractions—USS Midway, Zoo, whale-watching—built into deluxe rates.
The Del thrives as a place to celebrate, unwind, and explore.
6. Preserving History While Embracing Modernity
Throughout the renovation, a keen eye for detail ensured historical integrity:
- Restored 1888 ceilings, veranda, stained-glass windows, Crown Room vaults and façade.
- Designers like Wimberly Interiors, WATG, Burton Studios, and Heritage Architecture & Planning collaborated to match Victorian elegance with modern luxury
- The result: seamless integration of updated comfort with storied architecture
This preservation effort honors The Del’s mantle as a storied resort—without compromising city-of-today comforts.
7. Pricing, Booking & Ideal Guests
As expected, rates reflect the substantial investment:
- Standard Shore House rooms start ~$868/night, Beach Village ~$940/night; most accommodations run $300+ above pre-renovation pricing .
- Victorian wing rates are variable, but architecture-aware guests can still access classic room types.
- Deluxe stays include added benefits: wellness classes, beach access, streaming, and local attraction discounts .
Guests range from heritage-lovers and celebrators to families seeking beachfront luxury and food-focused travelers drawn by Nobu and innovative dining.
8. Why Book Now? Renewal Sparks Renewed Interest
This revitalization marks only the second “grand reopening” since Marilyn Monroe’s “Some Like It Hot” days.
- The property’s historic and cultural legacy is now freshly refreshed.
- With new neighborhoods and upgraded amenities, repeat stays won’t feel repetitive.
- For beach weddings, group retreats, or historic explorations, The Del now offers elevated spaces and services.
It’s a rare moment to experience the resort in its most inspired incarnation yet.
9. Coronado Island & Local Highlights
Your stay isn’t limited to The Del—Coronado’s charm awaits steps away:
- Snap photos along Silver Strand’s sandy beaches
- Explore historic downtown—cafés, galleries, Coronado Museum
- Cycle around the island or ferry over to downtown San Diego
- Dine at local seafood joints or craft breweries
Plus, the resort offers deals on top San Diego attractions, including whale watching, mid-century museums, and naval-historic tours.
Conclusion: A Timeless Destination, Reborn
The Hotel del Coronado’s $550 million overhaul is more than a facelift—it’s an imaginative renovation that honors its storied past while transforming it for modern travelers.
From the restored 1888 ballrooms and veranda to sleek villas and oceanfront Nobu, this is Beach Resort 2.0—alive with history, dressed for luxury, and brimming with experiences for every traveler.
Whether you’re a heritage seeker, gourmet explorer, wellness-seeker, or family planner, this newly revitalized icon offers a vacation experience as vast as the Pacific itself—without losing a strand of its original Gilded-Age charm.
It’s time to rediscover America’s grandest wooden hotel—reborn, reimagined, and unrivaled.
