Hotel Adds New Shore House That Blends California Style With Iconic Glamour

Photos courtesy of Hotel Del Coronado

Historic hotels across the country have a specific essence about them: unique architecture, a rich past that transcends decades, and generations of family memories. One such property is the Hotel Del Coronado in San Diego, a quick direct flight from Denver—making it a popular destination for many Coloradans. 

The newest addition to the celebrated hotel, Shore House at The Del, was designed by renowned architect Leo A. Daly. Completed in 2022, the property blends the best of the famed location’s classic influences with modern lines, eclectic inspiration and great American style—think breezy beach house vibes with hotel amenities galore.

Eat, sip, lounge and splash at The Cabanas. Contemporary rooms with private terraces, complete with your own fire pit steps from the ocean or pool.

Upon arrival, Shore House guests immediately experience top-notch service as they drive through the private secluded resort entrance, separating it from the other five boutique experiences that make up Hotel Del Coronado. In contrast to the signature rich dark woods of the main hotel, the first thing you notice is airiness and brightness as you walk through to the centerpiece of the property: the zero-edge pool and lounging area. With a chef’s-table dining experience, soft turf for games, well-appointed cabanas and pool loungers all overlooking the Pacific, it’s the perfect place to spend the day in the sun. 

Charred cauliflower and chickpeas paired with a crisp California white wine are stand-outs at The Sun Deck Restaurant.

The design touches that play off the laidback California style and landscape are both calming and invigorating. For example, a collection of lively art layered on floating shelves contrasts with natural-fiber pendant lights and a palate of crisp whites and blues. Scattered throughout are touches of Queen Anne Revival design, a nod to the main hotel that ensures a seamless aesthetic.

On top of the impressive interiors, the culinary offerings are top-notch. Whether grabbing a frozen treat at Sundaes or a cocktail at the beautiful mahogany bar of Babcock & Story (named after the founders of the hotel), there is a delight around every corner of the hotel grounds. 

Fireside drinks during Blue Hour, when the sun sets over the Pacific, marks the end of a day well spent.

House-made pastries, fresh smoothies and protein-packed dishes at The Bistro fuel you up for a day of adventures. Steps from the crashing surf, the thatched-roofed Beach + Taco Shack dishes up some of the best fish tacos around and a plethora of rum drinks, margaritas and local beers. It’s the perfect spot for lunch or a casual dinner.

The Sun Deck is a favorite spot for many guests, overlooking the beach; if you’re lucky, you’ll see Navy jets landing at the nearby Coronado Naval Base (cue the Top Gun soundtrack). Serving California coastal dishes, it’s an experience not to be missed.

Blue Hour (the instant the sun sets over the Pacific) is a daily ritual featuring light bites and cocktail specials at the poolside bar, or reserve your own wood fire pit, complete with ghost stories of The Del and gooey s’mores. 

A new culinary gem on the property, Serẽa, offers a sustainable sea-to-table menu with seasonal produce and heritage meats provided by local farmers and ranchers. The quality of the ingredients shines in Serẽa’s simple yet sophisticated dishes. For example, the catch of the day is prepared with olive oil, lemon, red wine vinegar and sea salt and wood-fired over an open fire for a unique flavor profile. De-boned tableside, the dish is spectacular. 

Of course, there are other things to do besides indulge in delicious dishes. Exclusive Shore House wellness activities include beachside Pilates and spin and yoga classes, and personal trainers are at the ready. To top it all off, guests can book poolside spa services in the comfort of private cabanas complete with ocean views.

Each “neighborhood,” as they are called, of The Del has its own personality and attractions. While the history, glamour and lore of The Victorian, The Cabanas, The Views and Beach Village have enchanted celebrities and guests for decades, the addition of the Shore House is sure to add to the romance of the Hotel Del Coronado experience for years to come. 

Chad Chisholm is a Denver-based freelance photographer and writer who travels the globe seeking the beauty in this world. Follow him on Instagram @chadjchis and @luxemodelsglobal.