Coronado’s newest hotel, The Bower, will open March 21 on property that was once part of John D. Spreckels’ Japanese tea garden. And its design pays homage to that history.
The hotel is helmed by general manager Sean Murphy, who said the architecture is influenced by the wabi-sabi philosophy, which embraces the beauty of imperfections in life and art. It features clean lines blended with organic materials, creating an effortless harmony between the indoors and out.
Thoughtful landscaping reinforces the sense of serenity, while carefully restored neon signs nod to the Coronado of decades past.
Murphy, whose resume spans The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel; The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara; Mexico’s Hotel Esencia and other luxury properties, was hired in advance of the grand opening.
Among The Bower’s offerings is Dive, Coronado’s first rooftop bar and restaurant with views from Point Loma to Mexico.
Murphy said he sees The Bower as more than a place to stay — it is a shift in the island’s hospitality landscape.
“If Hotel del Coronado is a grand cruise ship, The Bower is a luxury yacht — offering a refined, boutique experience where every guest is known by name,” he said. “While The Del is an iconic destination, The Bower provides a secluded retreat within the energy of Coronado.”
Murphy said he envisions The Bower attracting a younger, design-conscious traveler, someone drawn to Coronado’s natural beauty but craving a modernized experience.
To that end, the hotel offers private sunset cruises aboard a 1931 vintage speedster boat, Mini Moke beach picnic outings and e-bike tours.
The general manager said guests will also find an integration of local craftsmanship throughout the hotel.
Pour-over coffee in each room is made with beans from San Diego-based roaster Genteel. The plates are handcrafted by a local artisan pottery studio, The Wheel. Even the stationery is provided by Coronado’s own Seaside Papery.
