I’m delighted to share this story I recently wrote for OC Mom Magazine, which you’ll find here. Alas, after more than 126 years, the legendary San Diego coastal resort has gone to the dogs! Hotel Del is dog friendly this summer, which means now you can bring your WHOLE family along to have fun. No dog sitter, no pet arrangements, no worries—woot, woof, woohoo!
We recently took our Pom to experience the new pup policy, and what an enjoyable stay we had. Our guy, Kodi, had a romp of a good time roaming the vast property. He basked in the limelight and Del luxury, and everyone greeted him with pleasure and genuinely delighted in his presence on the property. (“Did you know The Del allowed dogs?” we often heard as we passed fellow guests.) It was our first stay at the resort, so we had a lot to check out. If you’ve not been, or been lately, here are some top things to see and do, including info for all you pet jet-setters.
Downlow on The Del
With a rich heritage of 127 years, Hotel del Coronado is indeed legendary—dating back to Marilyn Monroe and the filming of Some like it hot! The Del is located on 28 oceanfront acres on Coronado Island. Rated one of the top 10 hotels in the world by USA Today, The Del continues to maintain its rich history while also offering contemporary conveniences such as unique beachfront dining experiences, an award-winning spa, upscale shopping, a variety of recreational activities and the luxurious cottages and villas at Beach Village at The Del.
Which rooms to request
As far as accommodations, there are all different kinds of rooms to book! The most pet-friendly may be those in the California Cabanas area (near the pool), right off the sand and with lovely coastal views—they’re ideal for letting your dog in and out. Rooms in the Victorian building are quirky with unusual nooks and shapes, following the architecture of the hotel. The Victorian rooms are also the most adventurous, as they have a century of history. (FYI, it’s said that the ghost of Kate, a former guest who never checked out, haunts the 3rd and 5th floors. And yes, we may have had a light come on in the bathroom by itself and phone ring at 3am with no one there. And we lived to tell about it!) Ocean Tower rooms are the newest and most modern, but they don’t quite have the feel of The Del, if a quaint stay is what you’re looking for.
The best hotel eats
The Del has it all—beachfront fine dining, wood-fired pizza and wine, fresh seafood, craft beer, sunset margaritas and a Sunday Brunch. We quite enjoyed ENO at the hotel. The pizzeria & wine bar was casual, delicious and had outdoor dining alongside fire pits. The culinary program features Neapolitan wood-fired pizzas and small plates built to share or enjoy individually. Wine enthusiasts will enjoy choosing from a boutique selection of California and international wine producers including a few gems that can only be found at ENO.
Pet perks
We didn’t tap into all of these offerings, but some do sound doggie-divine. There’s a gourmet room service menu for furry friends prepared by Hotel Del’s talented chefs. You’ll find Del-ightful Dog and Cat Treats upon arrival (yes, you read that right, they even allow cats at the coastal escape). Pet-walking, pet-sitting, dog grooming and veterinary services are available. Water and food bowls, placemats, kitty scratching pad, waste bags and/or litter box are also available. You can request a Pet-friendly guide to Coronado Island to make life easy. And Dog Beach is located less than 1 mile from the resort. Creature comforts like specialized bedding, crates, collars and leashes can be requested. Finally, “Yappy Hour” is every Sunday, 4-5pm; dogs can lap up complimentary Evian and “yappatizers” (organic gourmet dog treats), while their owners sip on pet-inspired drinks such as a Hair of the Dog, tangy Greyhound or Salty Dog.
Chic shopping
The hotel has a slew of great boutique stores to stroll about. And you can also head into town—only a few short blocks away—to peruse a wider array of shopping. But, hey, you came to the beach to play, so be sure to spend most of your time soaking up the Hotel Del sun at the pool and beach.
Current summer offers
Check out ‘Three by the Sea’-experience more at The Del with this offer that includes a 3-night stay, $300 resort credit, and 3 days of self-parking (a $37 daily value). Call 855-268-1219 to book your stay. More summer offers at: http://hoteldel.com/san-diego-accommodations/san-diego-vacation-packages/
Pet policy particulars
It’s worth noting, animals must weigh 40 pounds or less with a maximum of 2 pets per guestroom (and no pit bulls, pit bull mixes, Dobermans, Rottweilers, Chows or Chow mixes). Also, there is a $125 non-refundable pet charge for guests staying in Hotel del Coronado guestrooms.
We hope you have a fantastic summer, and bring Fido along for the fun!
Hotel del Coronado
1500 Orange Avenue
Coronado, CA 92118
Phone: 619.435.6611/800-HOTEDEL
