Wondering what there is to do during Christmas at the Hotel del Coronado?
If you’re dreaming of a white sand Christmas this year, skip the snow and head to the Hotel del Coronado, where holiday magic meets the Pacific Ocean. For more than 135 years, this iconic red-roofed Victorian resort has transformed into a seaside winter wonderland, drawing families from all over the world to celebrate the holidays in true Southern California style.
For Christmas 2025, The Del is going all out with its “A Holiday in Oz” theme, inspired by Wizard of Oz author L. Frank Baum, who spent winters at the hotel and wrote portions of the Oz series here. From a glittering Yellow Brick Road to dazzling nightly light shows, the holidays at The Del will feel like stepping into a storybook. And the best part is, many of these Hotel del Coronado Christmas activities are totally free to enjoy!
We live nearby and visit Coronado Island during the holidays every year just to enjoy the unique, beachy ambiance of this historic hotel. The hotel is breathtaking any time of year (especially summertime, if you are looking for beach fun!) but Christmastime brings a special kind of magic.
Whether you’re planning to stay overnight or just stopping by for the day, here’s your complete guide to Christmas at Hotel del Coronado in 2025.
What’s New in 2025: A Holiday in Oz
Here’s a quick look at what’s new this year at the Hotel Del Coronado during the holiday season, as they add a whimsical twist to beloved traditions:
► Follow the Yellow Brick Road through festive pathways.
► Marvel at holiday décor inspired by Emerald City and the Land of Oz.
► Experience nightly light shows and special events with Oz-inspired flair.
Holiday Events & Activities at The Del
Here’s a rundown of everything happening this holiday season at the Hotel del Coronado, from Thanksgiving until early January. I have included times, dates, and prices when available, but be sure to check the hotel’s website for the most up to date information!
Holiday Festival & Skydiving Santa
Date: Tuesday, December 2, 2025
The holiday season kicks off with the Holiday Festival at the Hotel Del Coronado, with Santa skydiving onto the beach at 4:30 p.m.
There will also be holiday performances by local school groups, photos with Santa, themed light shows, and a fireworks show on the beach at 6:45 p.m.
Oz Light Show Spectacular
Dates: Nightly, November 21 – January 4
The Del’s historic pine trees sparkle to life with a dynamic light show choreographed to an Oz-inspired soundtrack and a finale of snow flurries.
The show lasts for about 10 minutes and runs every 30 minutes from 5 to 9 p.m. It is free to watch.
Skating by the Sea
Dates: November 21, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Skate just steps from the Pacific Ocean at The Del’s famous beachfront ice rink. With the waves crashing in the background, it’s one of the most unique holiday traditions in Southern California. This spectacular beachfront ice rink features stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and benefits Make-A-Wish® San Diego. Tickets include ice skate rental and up to 90 minutes of skating. Skate aids are available for kids.
Top Tip: Sunset skate sessions are the most magical, so make reservations early.
Frostbite Lounge (Rinkside Fire Pit Seating)
Dates: November 21, 2025 – January 4, 2026
You can also reserve a rink side lounge at Frostbite Loung – A Place to Chill, which features plush seating around a roaring fire pit with full food and beverage service for up to eight guests. It’s the coziest way to watch the rink action without lacing up skates.
Beachside Igloos
Dates: November 21, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Book a private, beachside dome decked out with twinkling lights and cozy décor. Enjoy hot chocolate, cocktails, and ocean views right from the sand. These igloos sell out quickly, so book in advance.
Gingerbread House Decorating
Dates: December 12-14 and 20-24
Kids and families can decorate pre-built gingerbread houses with a rainbow of candies and icing. Everything you need is provided for a festive, hands-on holiday memory.
Jingle Roast Bonfires & S’mores
Dates: December 1-25
Gather around a private beach bonfire with blankets, chairs, and all the s’mores fixings. It’s a relaxed, memorable way to spend a December evening by the sea.
Holiday Movies on the Beach
Dates: November 29, December 6, 13, 20, 27, and 31
Snuggle up on Del Beach for our favorite family holiday movies and cult classics in a theater under the stars. You can reserve a private bonfire with s’mores and relax in a beach daybed or enjoy seating in Del Beach sand chairs.
Victorian Tea
Dates: December 18-22
Take a step back in time with a classic Victorian Tea for the holidays in the beautifully restored Crown Room at the Hotel Del Coronado. Enjoy a variety of teas, finger sandwiches, and sweets. There is also a special kids’ plate so little ones can join in the experience.
Holiday Shopping at The Del
Browse the Holiday Market and Shops at The Del for one-of-a-kind ornaments, toys, resort wear, and local artisan goods. It’s a great spot to find gifts and stocking stuffers while soaking up the festive atmosphere. I found this wonderful, uniquely Hotel del Coronado Christmas ornament last year that was at the shop off the lobby.
► For more fun things to do during the holidays, be sure to read this guide to Christmas in San Diego, filled with 2025 holiday events and activities all across San Diego County.
Holiday Dining
Celebrate the holidays in the most memorable way possible! Yes, these feasts are pricey, but each one is a bucket list experience you won’t soon forget.
Thanksgiving – November 27
Splurge on a decadent Thanksgiving dinner with all the traditional Thanksgiving dishes, champagne, and indulgent desserts. You can choose to dine in the beautifully restored Crown Room or Coronet Room.
The Thanksgiving dinner buffet is available from 1 to 6 p.m. and costs $275 per adult and $152 per child, aged 5-12. Kids 4 and younger are free. Reserve by October 31 for pre-sale pricing. Adult pricing increases by $25 on November 1.
Christmas Eve Dinner – December 24
Enjoy a festive buffet in the Crown & Coronet Rooms with seasonal dishes and holiday desserts.
The Christmas Eve buffet dinner is available from 3 to 7 p.m. and costs $230 per adult and $120 per child, aged 5-12. Kids 4 and younger are free. Reserve by December 8 for pre-sale pricing. Adult pricing increases by $16 on December 9.
Christmas Day Brunch – December 25
This signature feast features a carving station, fresh seafood, sweet treats, and ocean views. Santa often makes an appearance, too.
Christmas Day buffet brunch is available from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and costs $230 per adult and $120 per child, aged 5-12. Kids 4 and younger are free. Reserve by December 8 for pre-sale pricing. Adult pricing increases by $16 on December 9.
New Year’s Eve – December 31
Ring in 2026 at The Laundry Pub with live rock and blues, an open bar, tray-passed hors d’oeuvres, decadent desserts, and access to both the historic Laundry building and outdoor beer garden.
While this celebration is adults 21 and older only, families can still enjoy earlier evening activities at The Del – including like dinner, the light show, and strolls along the beach – before ringing in the New Year their own way.
Final Thoughts: Things to Do During Christmas at Hotel del Coronado
From skating by the sea to watching Santa parachute onto the beach, the holidays at Hotel del Coronado are unlike anywhere else. The 2025 “Holiday in Oz” theme adds even more whimsy to the hotel’s already enchanting celebrations.
Here are a few final things to consider.
If you are planning to book a stay at The Del or make reservations for any of these Hotel del Coronado Christmas activities, be sure to book early as the hotel and many popular experiences (ice skating, igloos, dining) sell out.
Also keep in mind, hotel guests can get priority reservations, package discounts for holiday activities, as well as dining and resort credits with some packages. Hotel guests can also more easily enjoy things like the beautiful Christmas trees and decorated grounds at off-peak hours when there are no crowds.
Of course, I realize an overnight stay at this iconic resort is not within everyone’s budget, so it’s wonderful to know that you can still enjoy the many perks of visiting at Christmas at Hotel del Coronado.
Whether you’re here for a festive dinner, a weekend stay, or simply visiting the hotel to see the lights and tree, The Del promises a Christmas you’ll never forget. It’s more than a vacation—it’s a holiday tradition in the making.
Wishing you happy holidays and a very Merry Christmas in San Diego or wherever you are celebrating this year!
Hotel Information & Reservations
- 1500 Orange Avenue, Coronado
- (619) 386-1336
► Check Hilton.com Direct for Rates & Availability for Hotel del Coronado
Save These Hotel del Coronado Christmas Events and Activities for Later!
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