Los Angeles vs San Diego: Which City is Best for Team Offsites?
Los Angeles vs San Diego: Which City is Best for Team Offsites? (2026)
Did you know that 92% of employees believe that team offsites boost productivity? However, planning the perfect offsite can often feel overwhelming, especially when choosing the right city. In 2026, Los Angeles and San Diego both offer unique advantages for team offsites, but which city is the best fit for your team? Let’s dive into the details to help you make an informed decision.
Overview: Why Choose Los Angeles or San Diego?
Los Angeles
Los Angeles, known for its vibrant culture and extensive entertainment options, is the perfect backdrop for creative brainstorming sessions. With a wide range of venues and activities, LA is ideal for teams looking to combine work and play.
- Best Season: Spring (March-May) for mild weather and outdoor activities.
- Getting There: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is a major hub with numerous international and domestic flights.
San Diego
San Diego boasts stunning coastlines and a more relaxed atmosphere. It’s an excellent choice for teams seeking a more laid-back setting that still offers plenty of activities and venues.
- Best Season: Fall (September-November) for perfect beach weather without the summer crowds.
- Getting There: San Diego International Airport (SAN) is conveniently located just minutes from downtown.
Venue Comparison: Los Angeles vs. San Diego
| Name | Location | Capacity | Price/Person/Night | Best For | Standout Feature | |----------------------------|-------------------------|---------------|---------------------|--------------------|-------------------------------------| | The NoMad Hotel | Downtown LA | 100 | $250 | Large Teams | Rooftop pool with city views | | The Westin Bonaventure | Downtown LA | 500 | $175 | Conferences | Iconic architecture and meeting space | | The Lodge at Torrey Pines | La Jolla, San Diego | 300 | $275 | Nature Retreats | Overlooking Torrey Pines State Reserve | | Hotel del Coronado | Coronado, San Diego | 400 | $300 | Luxury Experiences | Historic beachfront hotel | | The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey | Marina del Rey | 450 | $290 | Executive Retreats | Waterfront views and upscale dining | | Ace Hotel | Downtown LA | 200 | $200 | Creative Teams | Artsy vibe with unique meeting spaces | | Bahia Resort Hotel | Mission Bay, San Diego | 350 | $220 | Team Building | Private beach and water activities | | InterContinental Los Angeles | Century City | 600 | $265 | Big Events | Grand ballrooms with state-of-the-art AV |
Our Top Picks
For Large Teams
The Westin Bonaventure (LA) - Ideal for conferences with its expansive capacity and central location.
For Creative Retreats
Ace Hotel (LA) - Perfect for brainstorming sessions with its unique décor and vibrant atmosphere.
For Relaxed Gatherings
The Lodge at Torrey Pines (San Diego) - Excellent for nature-inspired offsites with breathtaking views.
Sample 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Welcome Dinner
- Morning: Arrive at your chosen city and check into the venue.
- Afternoon: Welcome meeting and overview of the agenda.
- Evening: Group dinner at a local restaurant (e.g., Bestia in LA or The Fish Market in San Diego).
Day 2: Workshops and Activities
- Morning: Team workshop focused on strategic planning.
- Afternoon: Outdoor activity (e.g., hike in Griffith Park or beach volleyball in San Diego).
- Evening: Team-building dinner with a fun theme.
Day 3: Wrap-Up and Departure
- Morning: Final meeting to discuss outcomes and next steps.
- Afternoon: Depart for home.
Budget Breakdown for a Typical Team of 20
| Category | Cost Estimate | Percentage Allocation | |---------------------|--------------------|-----------------------| | Venue | $4,000 | 40% | | F&B | $2,500 | 25% | | Activities | $1,500 | 15% | | Travel | $1,500 | 15% | | Contingency | $500 | 5% | | Total | $10,000 | 100% |
Risk Mitigation: What Could Go Wrong?
- Weather Issues: Always have a backup plan for outdoor activities. Consider indoor alternatives if rain is forecasted.
- Vendor Reliability: Confirm all bookings 2 weeks in advance and have a backup vendor list.
- Travel Delays: Encourage teams to arrive a day early to avoid last-minute issues.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
Both Los Angeles and San Diego offer fantastic options for team offsites in 2026, but your choice will depend on your team's specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as venue capacity, desired atmosphere, and available activities to make the best decision.
Action Items
- Determine your team size and budget.
- Review the venues listed and select your top three.
- Start the booking process, ideally 4-6 months in advance, to secure your preferred dates.
Get a Free Custom Offsite Proposal
Tell us your team size, dates, and goals. We'll send venue options, activity ideas, and a full budget breakdown within 48 hours.