Hotel del Coronado
1500 Orange Avenue
San Diego, CA 92118
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"The Del" has a special place in Playboy's heart. After all, our original Centerfold Marilyn Monroe donned skimpy numbers for the filming of 1958's Some Like It Hot at this majestic Victorian beach resort. This National Historic Landmark occupies 28 oceanfront acres on San Diego's Coronado Island. Built in 1888, the Coronado has seen famous guests through the years, from Greta Garbo and Rita Hayworth to Demi Moore and Jack Nicholson. Frank L. Baum spent time at the hotel writing some of his Oz series books and Charles Lindbergh celebrated his successful transatlantic flight in the Del's Crown Room in 1927. The Del manages to maintain its architecture and integrity -- from the original mahogany bar shipped by boat from Philadelphia in 1888 to the Otis hand-operated cage elevator in the lobby -- while shelling out for renovations including a newly unveiled spa and fitness center. The 679 rooms located in the main (and allegedly haunted) Victorian Building, Ocean Towers or California Cabanas areas of the hotel will get you to the center of the action, or opt for the new Beach Village addition.

WHAT'S COOKING: Try the acclaimed Bubalus Bubalis Buffalo Ricotta Gnudi at 1500 Ocean. Or just relax in the new Sunset Bar, complete with firepits and, naturally, ocean views.

SUITE DREAMS: Opt for the two- to three-bedroom Cottage and Villa suites in the Del's new Beach Village. Each villa includes a dining room, living room, gourmet kitchens and ocean views from balconies and private terraces. Oh, and fireplaces, if you really like it hot. ($800-$5,000 per night)

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Photos: Courtesy of Hotel del Coronado