The Del
Among my favorite San Diego venues for a destination wedding or a romantic elopement, the iconic Hotel del Coronado, affectionately as the Del” is on the enchanted Island of Coronado just across the bay from San Diego. With its Victorian architecture and large red cupola roofs, it’s a Californian landmark dating back to 1888. When it first opened, it was the biggest resort in the world and has hosted celebrities and presidents throughout the years. Many movies were filmed there including the 1959, Some like it Hot, starring Marilyn Monroe.
One of the things I like most about the Del is that it’s a world of its own, with pristine white sandy beaches along the Pacific Ocean, a perfect place for a romantic getaway, an elopement and a honeymoon. And San Diego’s perfect climate guarantees 365 days a year of sunshine.
Low-Key or Hollywood Glamour-Themed Wedding
There are a couple of great options for your Coronado elopement. You can either have a casual California style wedding with a barefoot ceremony on the beach, or you can have an old Hollywood 1960s glamour-themed wedding. Either way will be perfect.
If you go low-key, for your ceremony, you can hire a local officiant. The ideal time is at sunset, right in front of the hotel either on the beach on the lawn with he picturesque Del Coronado behind you.
If you invite more than 25 guests, you’ll have to get a permit from California Parks and Recreation. It’s a popular venue, so reserve early, as they only allow one wedding per day.
You can either hire a local wedding planner or can reach out to the Coronado staff who are well equipped to assist you.
If it’s just the two of you, I’d arrange for a candlelit dinner along the beach. For larger parties, the hotel offers a selection of elegant ballrooms for you and your guests.
Travel from out of State
If you’re traveling to San Diego from out of state, you can fly directly into the small and friendly San Diego International Airport, which is only about a 20-minute drive from Coronado island.
For more information on how to obtain a marriage license, contact the San Diego County Clerk’s office.
If you need referrals for local wedding vendors, such hair & make-up, officiants or wedding planners, email me, noting your likes and dislikes, and I’ll be happy to hook you up with the right people from my extensive lists, based on your tastes.
