SAN DIEGO TOURISM 2026 FAST FACTS
The San Diego Tourism Authority (SDTA) is the sales and marketing engine for San Diego’s tourism industry. Our program of work is built to stimulate in bound travel and demand for San Diego.
Incorporated in 1954, SDTA is a private not-for-profit 501C6 corporation that is governed by a 19-member board of directors comprised of industry and non-industry representatives. Recognized as one of the nation’s leading Destination Marketing Organizations, the SDTA has received numerous industry awards and is accredited through Destination Management Association International.
San Diego Tourism Authority is funded in part by our members and the San Diego Tourism Marketing District with City of San Diego Tourism Marketing District Assessment Funds.
Leading San Diego to become the most desirable destination.
Our Committment to “Tourism for All”
To drive visitor demand to economically benefit the San Diego region.
In San Diego, we believe tourism is for all. The San Diego Tourism Authority is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and destination where everyone is welcome, valued, and empowered to thrive.
Tourism builds and sustains communities, and plays a vital role in San Diego’s regional economy, with its impact felt in fueling transportation networks and cultivating a reputation as a premier destination. * Numbers reflective of 2025 ABOUT SAN DIEGO TOURISM AUTHORITY
Billion
TOURISM AUTHORITY PROGRAMS
With an operating budget of $54.5 million, SDTA sales and marketing programs generated 6.5 million room nights for the San Diego region in FY25.*
RETURN ON INVESTMENT*
$28 TO $1
*Based on lodging revenue generated for the City of San Diego Tourism Marketing District (FY25).
REGIONAL ECONOMY IS DEPENDENT UPON STRONG TOURISM DEMAND
SAN DIEGO TOURISM INFRASTRUCTURE
Number of Businesses...............................................................................................................
Number of Hotels, Motels, Bed and Breakfasts, and Casino Hotel Properties......681
Number of Hotel Rooms in County of San Diego ................................................... .68,954
Number of Hotel Rooms in the City of San Diego........................................................... 40,158
year round sunny weather that fuels a unique outdoor lifestyle laid back, friendly and welcoming dynamic city experiences with a beach town vibe San Diego is a place filled with optimism and positivity that inspires people to be their best self
San Diego shines with a kind of natural optimism you just don’t find anywhere else.
Year-round sunshine, a healthy, outdoor lifestyle, and a laid-back, come-as-you-are attitude come together to create something lighter, happier, and effortlessly uplifting. Even in times that feel anxious or pessimistic, this place refuses to dim. It keeps beaming bright and inspires everyone around it to do the same.
While San Diego is known for its sunshine, scenic coastline, and laid-back vibe, the city is also a global hub for innovation, research, and forward-thinking industries. Here, a world-class business community, inspiring venues, and a year-round climate create the ideal environment for collaboration, creativity, and big ideas. From open-air waterfront spaces to cutting-edge convention center facilities, San Diego fuels smarter meetings — where fresh air, fresh perspectives, and bright minds come together to move ideas forward.
SAN DIEGO CONVENTION CENTER
SAN DIEGO BRAND PILLARS