SanDiegoVille: San Diego's Iconic Hotel Del Coronado Celebrates 130 Year Anniversary In 2018

January 17, 2018

More than just an iconic skyline, architectural marvel or seaside resort, Hotel Del Coronado represents a bygone era, a relaxed SoCal mindset and a timeless elegance, and there is no better time to frolic on the beach like Marilyn Monroe in Some Like it Hot than during its 130th anniversary in 2018.

Hotel Del Coronado is a California gem that has charmed travelers from around the world since 1888 with its beachfront location, luxury accommodations and elegant soirées. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1977, The Del will honor its milestone anniversary with a dynamic roster of experiences that solidify its place in history.

"The property has this tremendous allure and every guest who stays here is part of our heritage," said General Manager Harold Rapoza Jr. "For 130 years, we have hosted millions of 'Del memories' - for Hollywood celebrities and British royalty to generations of families gathering for their iconic beachfront photo with the turret. This anniversary both celebrates the past and looks forward to the next 130 years - the legend lives on."

Hotel Del's "Year of Epic Events" kicks off in February with more special events held throughout the year - the grandest fete being the Icons + Masters Anniversary Gala, a black-tie celebration with five of the nation’s French Master Chefs on Saturday, February 17. Guests will first enjoy a gallery showing of some of the world’s most iconic stars, seen through the lens of legendary celebrity photographer John Russo, and enjoy an incredible menu collaboration from Xavier Salomon, Olivier Dubreuil, Steve Benjamin, Frederic Castan and The Del’s own French Master Chef Patrick Ponsaty. Together, the chefs will create a five-course dinner inspired by vintage menus of The Del, capped off by dancing and entertainment, courtesy of a multi-piece orchestra. Guests will also receive a commemorative charger plate and the night’s menu etched in metal. VIP ticket holders will enjoy a special champagne reception in the Coronet Room, an autographed Master Chefs of France cookbook and an opportunity to mingle with John Russo and the culinary lineup.

Continue the celebration on The Del’s actual birthday, Monday, February 19, where the community of Coronado will join guests and city members for a complimentary sunset champagne toast, followed by a stunning fireworks display set to music by DJ Hevrock. Following the finale, ticketed guests will walk to 1500 OCEAN for a spectacular 130th Anniversary Dinner where Patrick Ponsaty takes a modern twist on one of the original menus from The Del’s first chef Frederic Pierre Compagnon.

Legendary events will continue throughout the year including the Celebrity Chef Clambake Series this June through August, Gary Sinise Father’s Day Concert on the Beach on June 17, the San Diego Pride Kickoff Event on July 11, the 4th of July Del Beach Bash on July 1, Beach Polo at The Del on August 25 & 26, the annual Chef Throwdown to Benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in September, Hallo-wine & Spirits Party on October 27, the Coronado Island Film Festival this November 8 though 11, and Hotel Del's annual holiday season events from November 22 through December 31.

The Hotel Del is also offering a special 130th Anniversary offer, which includes a $130 resort credit with any two-night stay in 2018. Stay a little longer and enjoy a $65 resort credit for each additional night.

For more information about Hotel Del Coronado, visit hoteldel.com and check out some of the historic photos below taken during the resort's 130-year history.