Coronado is always a great place to spend the day, but on an 80+degree day in May, with warm tropical breezes, it was exceptional. Fran and I planned a trip for 24 women and 1 man, to tour the island (it's not really an island) and have lunch. Our guide was Geri, co owner of Coronado Walking Tours, and an expert on the area. She's lived there for over 40 years and knows everything there is to know, past and present. (www.coronadowalkingtours.com).
We began our tour at the Glorietta Bay Hotel, a beautiful old historic home, formerly the home of John Spreckles, who built the Del Coronado. He loved Coronado, and lived in this home for many years. He also built another home in the area. Geri's informative tour was so interesting to all of us, but 2 stories caught my attention. Did you know that there was a tent city built adjacent to the Del that operated only during the summer months, from the turn of the century until 1939? The Del was for the rich and famous. The tents were for the common people, who wanted to have a wonderful resort experience. 500 tents dotted the area, and restaurants, pool halls, carousels and other entertainment was everywhere. Families could come for very little cost and have a great vacation. By 1939, the automobile was commonplace, and Americans wanted to move about, so the popularity of the tent city waned. Pictures of the Del at this time are fascinating. The other interesting story Geri told us involved Wallis Spencer, who ultimately married the future king of England, who gave up his right to be king, to marry Ms. Spencer. They met for the first time at the Del. She was on husband #1 at the time, later married husband #2, and later became reacquainted with the future king while living in New York and later London. We all know what happened. Edward V111 gave up his right to be king by marrying Wallis Spencer. And it all started at the Del Coronado.
After our tour, we went to Rhinoceros Cafe for a wonderful lunch. We celebrated the "39th" birthday of Carole again, with delicious chocolate cake. All in all a great tour of the town, one that leaves me wanting to return for more walking, bike riding, beach going, and eating. The big problem with Coronado is parking. There are really no parking lots there, and limited street parking. This keeps the crowds away, which may be the objective of the locals. This is not just a place to take out of towners. It's a spectacular town to visit again and again. Try Christmas in Coronado for a real treat, with lights and parades. But don't wait until then to go. It's just 35 minutes from Carlsbad and such a treat.
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