Family Fun in the Sun

What started out as a legendary resort for Hollywood Royalty is now a world-class destination for the whole family. From “ I Love Lucy”, “Some Like It Hot” to “Weddings of A Lifetime”, the historic landmark Hotel Del Coronado now has more exciting enhancements. Situated on Coronado’s award winning beach, the latest addition are the exclusive new surfside, first class cottages and villas. This unique offering is an exclusive and private enclave, set apart from the massive hotel property with private entry gates. Guests enjoy private access, personalized concierge services and the utmost in luxury accommodations.

This is truly an all-encompassing seaside resort for the whole family. Named by the Travel Channel as the best beach for families, it boasts 18 miles of white sand beach. Children and adults can surf, sail, boogie board, and jog. year round. There are kids and teen programs, so parents can sneak away for a spa treatment. My favorite was the bike trail around Glorietta Bay as well as kayaking in the bay. You can see the huge naval ships, the downtown San Diego skyline of tall buildings, yet feel nestled away on this peaceful island paradise. With 28 ocean front acres, you’ll never get bored! Privacy abounds amidst this expansive property, and there is a feeling of intimacy and safety for the whole family. There is so much to do for the whole family in the San Diego area from Sea World to Legoland, yet once you set foot on the property, you don’t want to leave!

As far as food, you can get anything you want, from hot dogs to gourmet cuisine, beachside or elegant fine dining. Try 1500 Ocean for fresh regional food and wine. The most fun is the outdoor Sunset Bar with fire pits, cocktails, appetizers and live entertainment. This 6000 square foot restaurant has the feeling of intimacy, with ocean views to watch the sunset.

The ultimate escape for adults is a visit to the new world class Spa facility. Conde Nast Traveler elected it as one of the 75 new spas in the world ‘whose design, service and amenities transcend the industry standards………and destined to become industry classics”. Because it is a popular destination for weddings, the couple massage is a great choice. Everyone loved the Signature Del Massage because it was a combination of different therapies, from Swedish, sports and Oriental, customized to meet your personal preferences. My favorite is the Asian, which combines Shiatsu and Tui Na, and helped me to release stress. I especially enjoyed listening to the piped in sounds of ocean waves and birds, as it lulled me into utter bliss. There is a new plunge pool at the spa and while we were relaxing, overlooking the ocean, there was a wedding ceremony performed on the seaside lawn. It was absolutely lovely, as all the guests watched in delight while the beautiful bride glided to her groom with all the hotel visitors served as the audience to sacred ceremony. Later on in the evening, there were fireworks shooting up in the ocean sky and we all participated in the festivities.

In addition to the spa, there is also the Yamaguchi Salon. Sometimes best part of being away is the opportunity to be a ‘new you’. When you meet Billy Yamaguchi, celebrity hairstylist, you know you’re in good hands. He was the first to introduce ancient Feng Shui Principles to contemporary hair design. After a session with the intuitive gifts that Billy has honed for lifetimes, you feel as though you have been seen and experienced in a new light. Billy is able to read your energy and help you to experience yourself from the inside out. While most are focusing on the outer façade, Billy is able to find the essence of the inner you and bring it out. He is truly a master, and helps you to see yourself in a new light. His hair color reflects the hues of your personality, unlike other stylists who just focus on the latest trends. Everyone who had a personal session with Billy was delighted with the results. In addition, the staff was sublime and it was the best hair experience for all!

Although the hotel property is vast, the beachside villas, with their private enclave of pools and hot tubs feel like an intimate setting amongst this world-class resort. Even the new state of the art fitness center has the feeling of privacy and personal service. This is the kind of place that families return year after year, generation to generation. In fact, next year they will be celebrating their 220th year! Not many can boast the popularity and longevity of a legend! www.hoteldel.com

Marjorie Hope Rothstein
Spa Trends specialist
“The Art Of Living Well’ –lifestyle design expert for the boomer consumer specializing in Interior/Exterior Design and create resort like living at home.