Meeting on the western edge
By JT Long
Highway 1 between Monterey and Santa Barbara offers some of the most dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean and inspiring venues for groups. Inland, the state capital is in the middle of the action and The City is flexing its hospitality muscles with new life. Whether you are considering one of the most sustainable convention centers in the world, a Paso Robles vineyard resort, a foodie fest, a surfer’s paradise or Funk Zone adjacent properties, go west for memorable thrills.
Resources
Nicole Rogers, executive vice president and chief sales officer
Teresa Savage, senior vice president of business operations, group business development
Ventura County Lodging Association
Brian Tucker, president and CEO
Mariles Krok, chief convention sales and services officer
Catherine Lopez, business development manager
Kristen Carlson, director of sales
5 Reasons Planners Love It
A sustainable partner. Dining after hours in Monterey Bay Aquarium with more than 35,000 creatures is a surreal experience no one will forget. The city, hoteliers and the museum are leading the way globally in demonstrating how earth-friendly practices can also support more comfortable events at Monterey Conference Center and Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay.
Read More: Monterey Bay: How to Meet Authentically in Northern California
Permission to slow down. San Luis Obispo (SLO) and Paso Robles offer laid-back meeting options in beautiful settings. Hotel San Luis Obispo embodies its beach setting, while Allegretto Vineyard Resort Paso Robles offers a sophisticated retreat in the emerging wine country.
Hidden surfer vibes. Ventura County Coast is a value play for Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton is California’s only all-suite beachfront resort. The easy-going destination off the beaten path boasts a cozy water-centric vibe with an award-winning restaurant and distinctive meeting space.
The American Riviera. Sunny Santa Barbara has long captured hearts and film credits for its ocean views and lush, rolling hills. Hotel Californian on State Street is within walking distance of Funk Zone wineries, breweries and art galleries and Pier Santa Barbara is a luxury Spanish Colonial Revival way to meet attendee needs for the finer things in life.
Locally grown. The Golden State’s capital city may have started as a Gold Rush town, but this gem is now shining with new Michelin-noted restaurants and a renovated SAFE Credit Union Convention Center Complex. The Fort Sutter Hotel Sacramento, Tapestry Collection by Hilton is an example of a pioneering hospitality leader turning his vision into 105 guest rooms surrounded by culinary options.
5 Places to Meet & Stay
Convene 100 Stockton breathed new life into the former Macy’s men’s store in Union Square. The full-service property features locally inspired art and fixtures and seven unique meeting spaces with in-house catering and AV.
53,000 sq. ft. of meeting space
The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square has been welcoming business visitors in luxurious European style since 1904. After a recent renovation, including a massive new Westin Club Lounge, the property is now also a modern marvel.
50,299 sq. ft. of meeting space; 1,195 guest rooms
The Jay, Autograph Collection is a newly remodeled Four Star property in the heart of the Embarcadero-Financial District, across the street from the famed Julia Morgan Ballroom at Merchants Exchange. California artist-inspired interiors pair with locally sourced catering choices in the event rooms.
13,447 sq. ft. of meeting space; 360 guest rooms
Embassy Suites by Hilton Sacramento Riverfront Promenade is within walking distance of Sutter Health Park, where the MLB Athletics are playing until their new stadium opens in Las Vegas. Seeing major league baseball in the intimate setting with the Sacramento skyline and Tower Bridge in the distance is a treat.
15,738 sq. ft. of meeting space; 242 guest rooms
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa on Cannery Row is within walking distance of Monterey Bay Aquarium and boasts relaxing bay views from the meeting space and guest rooms.
42,456 sq. ft. of meeting space; 285 guest rooms
This article appears in the May/June 2025 issue. Subscribe to the magazine here.
