The Wander List

I wrote an article for Phoenix Magazine this month about Hotel del Coronado, a legendary resort off San Diego’s coast.

My grandparents started a family tradition of vacationing in San Diego. And while they always chose more affordable accommodations, we would cross the bridge to Coronado, ride bikes and walk around the 121-year-old hotel grounds.

I was fortunate enough to stay at The Del while researching this article last year. Trip highlights included cheese plates with chocolate and honeycomb, a bonfire on the beach with root beer floats, and a room with turquoise ocean views.

I discovered many truths on Coronado Island, like: people with puny arms shouldn’t kayak. That became apparent on a trip around the bay when an instructor had to pull me along with his paddle; bike riding is a fun way to explore streets lined with glorious, historic mansions; and I will never afford to live on Coronado Island. That luxury is reserved for military officials who bought property early, and the McCains.

All photos courtesy Hotel del Coronado

At least The Del lowered its summer prices so the rest of us have a shot at beach luxury.  You can stay five nights for the price of three, with rates starting at about $250. These prices aren’t cheap, but they’re better — one bonus of a bad economy.

Also special this year, the hotel is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the film Some Like it Hot. The story is set in Florida, but actually, Marylin Monroe gallivanted along the Del’s beach. It’s a good time to revisit a classic.