Tourism

Return to About the Region

San Diego’s tourism Industry

With more than 70 miles of coastline, state of the art hotel and convention spaces, and an array of entertainment options throughout the region, San Diego is positioned as one of the top visitor and convention destinations in the world. Dubbed by Fodor’s as a “vacationer’s paradise” and by the U.S. Weather Bureau as “the closest thing to perfect weather in America,” San Diego’s world-class waterfront and award-winning international airport make it accessible from destinations across the globe.

Recently, San Diego was named the #1 best city for conferences/conventions in the country (SmartAsset, 2021), and listed #2 in Conde Nast Traveler’s annual Readers’ Choice awards (Conde Nast, 2023).

JOBS

206,767

ESTABLISHMENTS

9,870

AVG. ANNUAL WAGES

$38,722

Key Companies

  • Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens
  • Evans Hotels
  • Pendry San Diego
  • Del Mar Fairgrounds
  • Comic Con Museum
  • USS Midway
  • Hotel Del Coronado
  • Legoland
  • Hornblower Cruise and Events

Key Resources

San Diego Tourism Authority is a private, non-profit, mutual benefit corporation composed of approximately 1,000 member organizations, businesses, local governments, and individuals seeking a better community through the visitor industry. San Diego Tourism Authority members include tourism-related entities in such categories as lodging, dining, arts, attractions, shopping, and transportation, among others, as well as other companies indirectly involved in tourism.

San Diego Convention Center Corporation (SDCCC) is a non-profit public benefit corporation created by the City of San Diego to manage, market, and operate the San Diego Convention Center. The Convention Center is the region’s premier gathering place, hosting conventions, trade shows, and community events that economically benefit the City of San Diego and advances our convention and tourism industry.

Verified Programs of Business talent have been identified by employers as the top training programs in San Diego for high-demand jobs. Through EDC’s Advancing San Diego program, Verified Programs participate in a competitive application process and are evaluated annually against a skills-based criteria developed by industry, a commitment to industry engagement, and their ability to reach and serve a diverse student body.

More on the industry

San Diego’s Changing Business Landscape: Companies struggle to keep up with resurgent growth

San Diego’s Changing Business Landscape: Increasing optimism despite continued challenges

San Diego’s Changing Business Landscape: Turning the pandemic corner

Question about this Industry Profile? Get in touch:

Liz Muthoni
Liz Muthoni

Coordinator, Economic Development