Hotel del Coronado
The Hotel del Coronado is a magical romantic spot. It's considered one of the country's most romantic beachfront resorts, and it's housed in a classic 19th century building complete with turrets, rich wood accents and the alleged ghost of Kate Morgan.
Select a room in the Victorian building to get a feel for what the hotel was like at the turn of the century, and you'll enjoy luxurious bedding and period furniture. If you want to seek out Morgan's ghost, request room 3327. The hotel has an award-winning spa. It also offers spectacular dining, including a stunning Sunday brunch complete with chocolate fountains and ice sculptures in a room that features chandeliers in the shape of crowns.
Hotel del Coronado
1500 Orange Ave.
Coronado, CA 92118
800-468-3533
www.hoteldel.com
Sunset at Mount Soledad
Get off the beaten path by going up Via Capri in La Jolla to watch the sun set. At the top of the hill, there is a 43-foot cross that is part of a veteran's memorial--certainly worth exploring--but the view from Mount Soledad encompasses Coronado Island, Mission Bay, Scripps Pier and the coastline going north. At sunset, the park is popular with locals, and you can enjoy watching the sun drop over the Pacific as the sky turns from hues of pink to orange to brilliant red. Bring a blanket and a bottle of wine for the full experience.
Mount Soledad
Via Capri
La Jolla, CA
www.mountsoledad.com
Visit Black's Beach
Though popular with surfers and nude sunbathers, Black's Beach is one of the most romantic and beautiful beaches in San Diego. Accessible only by hiking down the 300-foot cliffs that protect the sandy beach, you can find a secluded spot for a picnic, or just sit back and listen to the ocean crash against the beach. Since there is no ambient city noise and little foot traffic, you'll feel almost as though you've discovered your own secret beach. While sunset here would be spectacular, don't stay too late. The hike back to the top is treacherous in the dark. You can watch the sunset from above, and you'll see the sun shimmer against the water and cliffs.
About The Author
J.D. Chi is a professional journalist who has covered sports for more than 20 years at newspapers all over the United States. She has covered major golf tournaments and the NFL as well as travel and health topics. Chi received her Bachelor of Arts in professional writing from Carnegie Mellon University and is working toward a master's degree in journalism.
