California: Hotel del Coronado celebrates its 125th

February 25, 2013|By Anne Harnagel | Los Angeles Times staff writer

The Hotel del Coronado, the grand dame of California resorts, is celebrating its 125th anniversary with the publication of a coffee table book.

"Hotel del Coronado History" celebrates the resort's storied past, from its construction and opening in 1888 to its legendary guests such as Charlie Chaplin, Clark Gable and Marilyn Monroe.

There's even the story of Kate Morgan, a beautiful young woman who checked into the hotel in November 1892 and later was found dead on a staircase leading to the beach. Some believe her ghost still resides at the Del.

The book features more than 440 photographs, most of which have never been published, including behind-the-scenes snapshots of Monroe during the filming of "Some Like It Hot" in 1958.

The book sells for $39.99 and is available at the Hotel del Coronado or online.

The Del will also honor its 125th anniversary with a partnership with United Through Reading, a national military program that helps ease the stress of separation for military families. To help fund the effort, the hotel will donate $1.25 from the sale of each new history book.

The hotel is celebrating its years of hospitality with special local events, historic-themed exhibits and guest packages.

The Hotel Del Coronado came of age in the Victorian era, drawing guests from around the world. Today, it's a National Historic Landmark.

Follow us on Twitter @latimestravel, like us on Facebook @Los Angeles Times Travel.

FEATURED