staycation (noun) stay·ca·tion: a vacation spent at home or nearby
The definition of staycation detailed by www.merriam-webster.com offers a reasonable explanation to describe the decision of a Coronado resident who chooses to spend their leisure time in the Crown City instead of venturing OTB (over the bridge) on any given day. Coronadans are lucky to be permanently immersed in the beauty and charm of a vacation spot that others travel thousands of miles to enjoy.
The newly renovated Coronado Island Marriott Resort & Spa, however, redefines ‘staycation’ in Coronado. With its jaw-dropping bayfront views, stellar hospitality, and now state-of-the-art luxury facilities, the opportunity to ‘stay’ or visit the resort — whether for an hour, a weekend, or longer — is an indulgent treat to rival any far-flung destination in the world.
Hotel Manager Ricardo Garcia says the renovations have been a labor of love with results that everyone is pleased with. “We are very proud of what has become of this four-and-a-half-year journey,” says Garcia. “We wanted something that was both relaxed and upscale. A sort of ‘bohemian chic’ to reflect the California lifestyle.”
The bohemian chic aesthetic was achieved using warm, natural materials and creating a seamless indoor-outdoor flow with multiple fire pits and cozy nooks to take in the view of downtown San Diego and the iconic San Diego-Coronado Bridge. The restaurant, ALBACA, boasts locally-sourced and organic ingredients that are characteristic of California and its regional cuisine.
“The name ALBACA comes from the origins ‘Alta’ and ‘Baja’ which are the two historical regions of California that inspire the menu,” explains Ricardo. “The food reflects the very heart of California which is fresh seasonal produce and seafood. Of course, there is also influence from neighboring Mexico. We want guests to enjoy a dining experience that is not fussy, but still feels special.”
The multi-phase renovation project included a spa ‘makeover’ and addition of a wellness center, a complete guest room upgrade, and a complete overhaul of the lobby and meeting and event spaces.
The resort facelift and new restaurant offerings were revealed in a grand opening event held on Thursday, May 16th. The event, coined “Spring into Summer” featured live entertainment, signature cocktails, craft beers, and local wines as well as an extensive culinary sampling of oysters, ceviche, roasted vegetables, and a taqueria bar with a range of mouth-watering tacos.
Attendees included local party-goers Alan and Lisa Kinzel, Tania Luviano, Councilmember Whitney Benzian and others, as well as a large population of tourism professionals and press. All were impressed with the setting and enthusiastic with their praise. “I have been coming here with my family for years,” says Coronado resident and entertainment personality Tania Luviano. “The Marriott needed this makeover, but wow – the updates are amazing. This is the best set up with the most beautiful view. This is going to make the Marriott the best on the island.”
Luviano’s sentiment was echoed by visitor Andrea Naversen, Editor-at-large for the Ranch and Post Magazine: “I just love coming Coronado. It is already such a special place, but this new renovation has really raised the bar. It is remarkable.”
True to its namesake, Coronado Island Resort and Spa also showcased its five-star spa services at the event and offered guests complimentary hand and back massages as well as a sampling of aromatherapeutic essential oils.
“Wellness is a way of life,” reports Spa Director Veljko Savic. “We want for all who visit us to feel empowered to take the feelings and lessons of wellness they experience at the Coronado Island Marriott Resort & Spa, and engrain them in their everyday life.”
The night concluded with delicious dessert offerings and a goodie bag with treats from the restaurant and spa. Contained within the parting gift to guests was the following message:
This is a place where memories are made, everyday moments become brilliant, and wellness is a way of life. To us, wellness is engrained in everything we do. It powers our mind and bodies. It fuels us to explore, create, and inspire. We believe that wellness is not a luxury, but a way of life. It is an ongoing journey of growth, gratitude, and exceptional experiences that encourage a here, now, and tomorrow, in which we can be our best, happiest, and most fulfilled selves. We believe that travel transports us to this place. A place where we can truly live well.
Live well, indeed. And for those lucky enough to live in Coronado, the travel to transport us to this place — isn’t very far at all.
The Coronado Island Marriott Resort and Spa is located at 200 2nd Street. The property features 300 guest rooms, 28 cottages, and 7 executive suites; as well as three swimming pools, a variety of dining options, a two-story wellness center, and a full-service spa. For further details or to make a reservation visit marriott.com.
