A Coastal Christmas at Hotel del Coronado: 2026 Holiday Guide
Last updated on September 29, 2026
Looking for all the details on Hotel del Coronado Christmas 2026?
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 2026, Hotel del Coronado has announced its theme will be “A Holiday Through Time,” celebrating the different eras that shaped The Del’s extraordinary legacy, from its opening in 1888 through today.
The Hotel del Coronado Christmas decor will follow the hotel from its Victorian roots, through the Golden Age of Hollywood, all the way to modern holiday traditions. You’ll see beautiful and imaginative Christmas trees inspired by different chapters of the hotel’s history, plus the return of holiday favorites like Skating by the Sea and the Lightshow Spectacular.
And the best part is, many of these Hotel del Coronado Christmas activities are totally free to enjoy!
We live in Southern California and visit Coronado Island during the holidays every year just to enjoy the unique, beachy ambiance of this historic hotel. The Del 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 Hotel del Coronado Christmas 2026.
What’s New in 2026: A Holiday Through Time
Here’s a quick look at what’s happening this year during Christmas at Hotel del Coronado:
► Beautiful themed Christmas trees and holiday décor representing different eras of the hotel’s history
► Returning holiday favorites include Skating by the Sea, Frostbite Lounge, traditional holiday meals in the Crown Room, Photos with Santa, Beachside Igloos, the nightly Lightshow Spectacular, and more
► New Holiday Lodge located inside The Del’s historic 1919 Laundry building
► Nightly light shows and special events throughout the season
► Holidays at The Del begin on November 20, 2026 and will run through January 3, 2027.
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.
Since of course photos of Hotel del Coronado Christmas 2026 are not yet available, I am using some pictures I took during past holiday seasons. (I just love Hotel del Coronado Christmas events and decorations and go every year!) I will update this article with fresh photos as the season unfolds.
Skating by the Sea
Dates: November 20, 2026 through January 3, 2027
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 are $35 to $45 per person for general admission, with a $5 discount for hotel guests, members, military, and first responders. Each Skating by the Sea session is 90 minutes. Skate aids are available for kids.
Top Tip: Sunset skate sessions are the most magical, so make reservations early.
Frostbite Lounge (Rink-side Fire Pit Seating)
Dates: November 20, 2026 through January 3, 2027
You can reserve a rink side seat at Frostbite Lounge – 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.
Lightshow Spectacular
Dates: November 20, 2026 through January 3, 2027
The Del’s historic pine trees sparkle to life with a dynamic light show orchestrated to a holiday soundtrack, with a finale of snow flurries.
The show lasts for about 10 minutes and runs nightly every 30 minutes from 5 to 9 p.m. It is free to watch!
Holiday Lodge
Dates: November 21, 25-29, December 2, 4-6, 10-13, 17-30 and January 1-3
New this year, you can experience the Holiday Lodge, located inside The Del’s historic 1919 Laundry building, which will be transformed into an immersive holiday destination with glittering lights, festive décor, a family-friendly pub-style menu, holiday shopping, and children’s activities including cookie and stocking decorating.
Beachside Igloos
Dates: November 20, 2026 through January 3, 2027
Book a private, beachside dome around a fire pit, decked out with twinkling lights and cozy holiday décor. Enjoy hot chocolate, cocktails, s’mores, and ocean views right from the sand. These igloos sell out quickly, so book in advance.
Holiday Lodge
Dates: November 25-29, December 2, 4-6, 10-13, 17-30, and January 1-3
New this year, you can experience the Holiday Lodge, located inside The Del’s historic 1919 Laundry building, which will be transformed into an immersive holiday destination with glittering lights, festive décor, a family-friendly pub-style menu, holiday shopping, and children’s activities including cookie and stocking decorating.
Holiday Decorations
Dates: November 20, 2026 through January 3, 2027
My favorite part Christmas at the Hotel del Coronado is their fun and imaginative trees and decorations. In 2025, the theme was Wizard of Oz, and the courtyard was decorated with a series of Christmas trees each themed after a character in the story. There were also things like lights and decor simulating the field of poppies. It was absolutely magical, and I can’t wait to see what the hotel comes up with this year!
Holiday Festival
Date: December 2
Join Hotel del Coronado for its annual community Holiday Festival. Festivities include Skating by the Sea, photos with Santa, and performances by Coronado school children. With a special “skydiving Santa” parachuting in to join the festivities and a fireworks show, it’s a fun way to start to the holiday season.
Gingerbread House Decorating
Dates: Select dates, December 5-27
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. The Del’s culinary team will be pre-assembling the gingerbread houses so your family and friends will have more time for decorating and creating holiday memories.
Jingle Roast Bonfires & S’mores
Dates: December 1-27
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. Reservations are required, with one pit accommodating up to 10 guests.
Holiday Movies on the Beach
Dates: Friday and Saturday nights, November 20 through December 31
Snuggle up at this theater under the stars with a selection of holiday family classics including “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” “The Polar Express,” and more. If you want, upgrade your experience to include a private bonfire with s’mores and plush daybed. Reservations are required.
Photos with Santa
Dates: Select dates, December 4-24
Capture a classic photo with Santa at The Del and receive a professionally printed image.
Victorian Tea
Dates: December 18-20
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 2026 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 Dinner – November 26
Splurge on a decadent Thanksgiving dinner with all the traditional Thanksgiving dishes, sparkling wine, and indulgent desserts. Dine in the beautifully restored Crown Room beneath soaring sugar pine ceilings and ornate chandeliers designed by Wizard of Oz author L. Frank Baum..
The Thanksgiving dinner buffet is available from 1 to 6 p.m. and costs $292 per adult and $165 per child, aged 5-12. Kids 4 and younger are free.
Christmas Eve Dinner – December 24
Enjoy a festive buffet in the Crown and Coronet Rooms with seasonal dishes and holiday desserts.
The Christmas Eve buffet dinner is available from 3 to 7 p.m. and costs $246 per adult and $130 per child, aged 5-12. Kids 4 and younger are free.
Christmas Day Brunch – December 25
This signature feast in the Crown and Coronet Rooms 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 $246 per adult and $130 per child, aged 5-12. Kids 4 and younger are free.
Rockin’ New Year’s Eve Party – December 31
Ring in 2027 at The Laundry Pub with live rock ‘n’ roll and blues, a full open bar, tray-passed hors d’oeuvres, and a decadent dessert bar. Celebrate inside the historic and restored Laundry building.
While this celebration is adults 21 and older only, families can still enjoy New Years Eve at The Del. Celebrate with dinner at the hotel, the Lightshow Spectacular, strolls along the beach and other festive activities before ringing in the New Year.
Hotel Information & Reservations
- 1500 Orange Avenue, Coronado
- hoteldel.com/experience/holidays
- Book direct on Hilton.com
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.
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.
Wishing you happy holidays and a very Merry Christmas in San Diego or wherever you are celebrating this year!
Read these articles for more help planning your San Diego vacation:
Save These Hotel del Coronado Christmas Events and Activities for Later!
Planning a visit to San Diego, California during the holiday season? Pin the image below for future reference.
