Meeting planners seeking meeting spaces with exceptional coastal views should consider California. The state combines world-class accommodations with stunning shoreline settings, making it an ideal choice for conferences, retreats and special events.
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Catalina Island
Perched 22 miles off the Southern California coast, Catalina Island is a picturesque setting for meetings and events. Easily reached by high-speed ferry, the island offers venues designed specifically for group gatherings. The Catalina Casino overlooks Avalon Bay and can host intimate gatherings or events for up to 3,000 guests. For a quieter, immersive retreat, Two Harbors village provides waterfront accommodations and natural surroundings well suited to team building and strategy sessions.
Marina del Rey
Just four miles from Los Angeles International Airport, Marina del Rey features more than 100,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting space across multiple properties. The area includes seven waterfront hotels, several recently renovated, offering flexible event spaces and modern amenities. Planners can pair meetings with coastal activities such as sailing, kayaking or biking along a 22-mile paved waterfront trail to create memorable group experiences.
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Oceanside
Located between Los Angeles and San Diego, Oceanside offers a classic Southern California beach-town vibe with easy access and a range of venues. Properties such as Mission Pacific Beach Resort and The Seabird Ocean Resort & Spa provide curated group experiences, from culinary classes and wellness programs to interactive team challenges inspired by shows like The Amazing Race. These options help planners tailor events to attendees’ interests and objectives.
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Pebble Beach Resorts
Famous for its world-class golf and dramatic coastline, Pebble Beach offers three distinct properties: The Lodge at Pebble Beach, The Inn at Spanish Bay and Casa Palmero. These resorts accommodate groups ranging from 20 to 800 in venues that take advantage of shoreline views and regional charm. Beyond traditional meeting spaces, organizers can design team-building activities such as group golf tournaments, guided hikes, cycling excursions, gourmet dining experiences and spa treatments to build connections and reward attendees.