Will be in San Diego April 2003. Would like to stay at the Del-but would like other's opinions of which type of room to stay in ( the towers/cabanas/old part of the hotel/ etc.) We'll be on vacation with 7 and 9 year old. Last time in SD we stayed at Pacific Terrace but are hoping for a change of scene. Any recommendations for the Del?

We stayed at the Del for Mother's Day weekend a few years ago and thought the best thing about the hotel was the lobby, restaurant, and setting. Our room was in the old part and I'd say it was just ok--not worth the price.

Also,the weather was chilly and overcast the entire time, but of course, there's no saying what it can be for you (might check weatherunderground.com which will give you the history of weather for your planned time.)

Avalon. Run a search on this page of the Hotel Del Coronado. You will find much discussion of this question. We stayed in the old part and our room was small and not charming, especially as the delivery vans were below our window very early in the morning and people were talking loudly to each other outside. Be careful.

You might ask for Room 3327 - the room which belonged to the Ghost of The Del Coronado Kate Morgan. If you don't know the story then do a search on the Internet.

We have stayed there several times with our children and we all enoyed it. We stay in the "old part" and yes the rooms are small, but nice. The last time we were there we stayed in a "partial ocean view" and it was fine...no delivery vans, etc. Their Sunday brunch is wonderful also!

Ask for 3327. This should make for an interesting visit if nothing else. I think the Del is a step up from Pacific Terrace at any rate. You might also investigate La Jolla for a change of the PB area.

if you like Coronado Island but need an option to the Del, we liked Loew's very much with our kids. They were greeted with a special box of toys and games. We hired a sailor and boat to take us around the harbor. They had lots of bikes to borrow and there is a playground on the property (though your kids might be too old). New hotel though, so none of the Del's history.

I've stayed in the "new part" -- the Cabana building near the pool. The room was fine, but not spectacular, with a little patio with high walls. It was, however, more than adequate, quiet, and close to the beach and pool.