The clocks have officially moved back an hour, summer’s in the rear-view mirror, and our California adventure is coming to a close. The bright side? We’re ending on a high note — the legendary Hotel del Coronado.

Since opening its doors in 1888, The Del has been a place where travelers from all over the world — especially Texans — have created memories worth returning to, season after season.

Restoring an Icon: How Hotel del Coronado Balances Heritage with Contemporary Luxury

The Del has never been one to stand still. The resort has embarked on a remarkable journey of renewal, uncovering stories and architectural gems hidden beneath 137 years of history. Over the last few years, a $550 million restoration has brought new life to the property, reviving its timeless glamour while honoring its roots. That journey culminated in a spectacular grand reopening on June 18, 2025.

A Celebration of Legacy

The festivities began with a garden party in the beautifully restored Garden Courtyard, featuring a special appearance by Brooke Shields, who reflected on her connection to The Del. “Many places don’t preserve history,” she shared, “but this place does — and invites us to step into it.” You can truly feel that sentiment as you walk through the property; the air itself seems to hold whispers of another era.

From there, the celebration moved poolside at Shorehouse, where guests enjoyed culinary creations from Sereá and Nobu Del Coronado — including a champagne sorbet creation. A synchronized swimming performance, lively music, and an array of coastal bites and cocktails kept the day buzzing with energy.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the evening unfolded with a caviar and mezcal happy hour at the Ocean Club, featuring a guest appearance by Aaron Paul, before culminating in a grand finale on Windsor Lawn — complete with live music, towering seafood ice sculptures, and a dazzling fireworks show over the Pacific.

Find Year-Round Bliss in Rooms That Capture the Spirit of Every Season

When it comes to accommodations, The Del truly offers something for everyone. I stayed in the Victorian building and loved its historic charm — floral wallpaper nodding to the gardens, elegant curved headboards, and that soft ocean breeze drifting in from the balcony each morning.

Guests can choose from a variety of “neighborhoods,” each with its own style and vibe — from The Victorian and The Cabanas to The Views, Shorehouse, and Beach Village. No matter which you pick, there’s a certain kind of timeless magic that makes you feel at home. 

Indulge in Seasonal California Cuisine at the Historic Hotel del Coronado

Start your day at ENO Market with a breakfast sandwich and coffee to go, or linger over to ocean views at the newly reimagined Veranda Restaurant, inspired by the hotel’s original wraparound porch. For  Ocean Club members— the elevated breakfast experience there is complete with an omelet station and curated buffet, the perfect balance of indulgence and ease.

Of course, one of The Del’s most exciting additions is Nobu Del Coronado, where Japanese-Peruvian classics meet California coastal flair. My personal favorites? The Wagyu dumplings and the Lychee Elderflower Martini — a match made in heaven.

And don’t skip Sereá Coastal Cuisine, where Chef JoJo Ruiz crafts a sea-to-table menu that’s both simple and stunning. The spicy lobster rigatoni and grilled swordfish piccata are standouts — and yes, the hibiscus spicy margarita is every bit as good as it sounds.

Soak Up the Last of the Sunshine with Fall Fun by the Sea

Whether it’s waking up to the sound of waves, grabbing a latte at ENO Market, or joining a morning spin or beach yoga class, The Del is designed for relaxation and rejuvenation.

For football fans, Game Day at The Laundry offers a lively sports bar atmosphere with pub-style bites and themed cocktails — try the Halftime Show or the Touchdown Old-Fashioned.

Fall at The Del is full of cozy, coastal experiences: from movie nights on the sand (catch The Nightmare Before Christmas on November 29th) to Thanksgiving dinners in the Crown Room or Ocean Ballroom that blend tradition with oceanfront elegance.

Families can bike along Coronado Island, book a beach bonfire, or take a heritage tour through the resort’s storied past. On my tour, Heritage Manager Gina Petrone shared fascinating stories — including how, in the early 1900s, the hotel had a separate “ladies’ entrance” for single women to check in discreetly, protecting their reputations in that era. It’s these glimpses into history that make you feel like you are a part of The Del’s rich history. 

So as fall settles in, take a breath, slow your pace, and savor this season by the sea. Whether it’s your first visit or your 50th, The Del has a way of calling you back — year after year, season after season.

For another take on The Del — and a peek at a SoCal summer adventure perfect for families — check out LA Parent’s recent feature on Hotel del Coronado from this summer! 

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Cover Photo courtesy Hotel Del Coronado

A lover of all things travel, pretty running trails, and good coffee, Analise Flatt is a travel freelancer based in Louisiana. Check out her Instagram to stay updated on her latest travel adventures.