San Diego International Airport (SAN): Approximate driving time is 15 minutes and distance is 9 miles.

Driving directions from San Diego International Airport: Turn left on N Harbor Dr and follow signs to I-5 S. Take I-5 south through downtown San Diego, then take Hwy 75 N toward Coronado, and cross the Coronado Bay Bridge. Stay to the left on 3rd St, then turn left onto Orange Ave. Hotel is on the right.

Getting there: Guests can call 1-888-726-4504 before picking up bags and arrange for pick-up. Fee is $16–25 for up to 3 passengers. Otherwise, guests can take a private shuttle (Cloud 9 one-way fare is $5–15 per person) or a taxi (fare is $16–25.) Rental cars, Town Cars, and limousines are more than $36. Fees subject to change without notice. Rental cars are available online.

Getting around: The hotel is close to a number of stores and restaurants so walking is a good way to get around. Guests can hop onto public buses to travel on Coronado or arrange hotel transportation to area attractions for varying fees (San Diego Zoo or downtown are $16–25 for up to 3 passengers or a family.) Ferry service goes daily from Coronado’s Ferry Landing Marketplace to the Broadway Pier in downtown San Diego with one-way fares of less than $5. From downtown, bus, trolley, and Coaster commuter lines are accessible. One-way bus, trolley, and Coaster fares are less than $5. Fees subject to change without notice.

Sheerwater: California coastal fare served. Oeanfront restaurant with exhibition kitchen and expansive outdoor terrace, heaters and large fireplaces.

Crown Room:Offering an extensive and famous Sunday brunch. The arched, 31-foot-high Sugar-pine ceiling was built without a single nail.

Babcock & Story: Tropical drinks and fine wines. Indoor/outdoor lounge, adjacent to Sheerwater. (The carved bar dates from 1888 and was shipped around Cape Horn in one piece.)

Palm Court: Overlooks the garden patio. Breakfast, lunch, and lighter fare served during the day. Spirits/libations served in the evenings.

The Crown Market: Kitschy cave-like deli. Sandwiches, soups, wine, beer, pizza, and Internet access.

Amenity highlights: Completely renovated in 2001, the "Del" (as it's known by locals) pampers guests with cabanas, poolside dining, and luxury health spa services, including in-room massages complete with candlelight and wine. There's also a fitness room, tennis courts, bicycle-, boat-, and jet ski rentals, and special programs for children.

Insider tip: Curious about who some of your fellow guests have been? Marilyn Monroe filmed Some Like It Hot here. Frequent guest and Wizard of Oz author Frank Baum designed the chandeliers in the spectacular Crown Room. Also as guests, Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz concocted their I Love Lucy personae. There's even a resident ghost—Kate Morgan—whose poignant story is told in a lobby display.

Self parking is $15 per day, and valet parking is $20 per day.

The recreactional activities listed below are available either on the site or near the hotel; fees may apply.