Few hotels capture the nostalgia of a classic California beach vacation quite like Hotel del Coronado, Curio Collection by Hilton. Set directly on Coronado Beach just across the bay from downtown San Diego, this legendary oceanfront resort has welcomed travelers since 1888. Its signature red-roofed Victorian architecture, sprawling beachfront setting, and more than 135 years of history have made “The Del” one of the most recognizable luxury hotels in Southern California and a designated National Historic Landmark.

Following a six-year, $550 million transformation completed in 2025, Hotel del Coronado blends its historic character with a much more polished modern resort experience. Guests can choose between several distinct areas of the property, from the beautifully restored rooms of The Victorian to the contemporary beachfront rooms at The Views, lively poolside accommodations at The Cabanas, and spacious villas and cottages within Shore House and Beach Village.

This is an especially strong choice for travelers who want a true San Diego luxury beach resort rather than simply a hotel near the ocean. Days can be as relaxed or active as you want, with beach time, spa treatments, surf lessons, poolside afternoons, oceanfront dining, fitness classes, bike rides, and sunset bonfires all available without having to venture far from the resort. At the same time, downtown San Diego, Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo, and other major attractions are close enough to incorporate into a longer Southern California getaway.