A man posted a TikTok sharing his disappointment with his room in the historic Hotel del Coronado in California. Viewers are split over whether his disappointment is justified.
On July 25, a traveller (@ranting.boomer.dad) posted a TikTok about his experience at the hotel. He says, “And I’ve got a rant today about the Del Coronado Hotel.”
Why Was He So Dissatisfied With This Hilton Hotel?
He expresses disappointment in the room he received at the historic Hotel del Coronado, saying the accommodations did not match the nearly $800-a-night price tag. In the video, he walks through the hallway and room, pointing out what he believes are major issues with the stay.
“This is what you get for $800 a night,” he says while walking down the hallway, which he says has no air conditioning.
“This is probably one of the worst rooms I’ve ever seen at this price point,” he adds.
After entering the room, he criticizes the size and the view, showing viewers a small space with what appears to be a view of nearby rooftops. “I mean, it is tiny,” he says, before walking into the bathroom, which he admits is “probably the nicest part of it.”
He says the room is not what he expected from such a famous and expensive hotel.
“Terrible. Mediocre,” he concludes, explaining that he planned to request a different room because he felt the experience did not justify the cost.
In a follow-up video, he clarifies that he was moved to a different room that he is much happier with. “This is the room we should have gotten in the first place,” he says. “It has a sitting area, a view of the ocean, and is just 100% nicer.”
Not Everyone Is On His Side
The video sparked debate among viewers, with some agreeing that an $800 room should offer more luxury, while others argued that guests are paying partly for the history and location of the iconic California hotel.
“You don’t go to the Del Coronado expecting modern accommodations,” wrote one commenter. “It’s an old hotel full of history and moviemaking. And what a location, right on the beach.”
“It’s an iconic historical hotel,” added another. “You’re also there in one of the most popular months. They’ve always treated us so well, and all the rooms we have had have been amazing.”
However, many viewers echoed his frustration. “You had a right to complain,” said a third. “That looks like a barely finished attic.”
Why Is The Hotel Del Coronado So Expensive?
The Hotel del Coronado commands high prices because guests are paying for more than just a room. The beachfront location, historic reputation, and luxury branding all contribute to its rates. The hotel opened in 1888 and remains one of California’s most recognizable resorts.
Additionally, the property is also a National Historic Landmark that has hosted numerous celebrities, presidents, and major events throughout its history. Its distinctive Victorian architecture and connection to Hollywood history make it a destination rather than a typical hotel stay.
The Hotel del Coronado is part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, a group of historic and distinctive hotels that operate under the Hilton network while keeping their own names and identities. Unlike a traditional Hilton-branded hotel, the resort does not carry the Hilton name, but guests can still book through Hilton.
Historic hotels often charge premium prices because they sell an experience tied to heritage and location. Guests may pay for atmosphere, stories, and exclusivity, even when rooms lack some modern features. However, many older luxury hotels have smaller rooms, unusual layouts, and aging infrastructure because they were built before modern hotel standards.
BroBible reached out for comment to @ranting.boomer.dad via TikTok direct message and the TikTok comment section and Hotel del Coronado via email.