Los Angeles vs San Diego: Which City Offers the Best Venues for Team Retreats?

As we kick off 2026, the conversation around corporate retreats is heating up, especially in two of California's most vibrant cities: Los Angeles and San Diego. Did you know that 85% of teams report improved collaboration after an offsite? Choosing the right venue can make all the difference in maximizing this benefit. In this guide, we'll dive into the best venues in both cities, comparing their offerings to help you decide which is best for your next team retreat.

Why Choose Los Angeles or San Diego for Your Retreat?

Los Angeles: The Entertainment Capital

Los Angeles boasts a diverse array of venues, from historic theaters to modern conference centers. Its vibrant culture and access to top-notch entertainment make it an attractive option for companies looking to mix work with leisure.

San Diego: The Beachside Paradise

San Diego offers a more laid-back atmosphere with stunning coastal views. Its temperate climate and beautiful beaches provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation and team bonding, making it ideal for retreats focused on wellness and creativity.

Venue Comparison Table

| Venue Name | Location | Capacity | Price/Person/Night | Best For | Standout Feature | F&B Included | |-------------------------|---------------------|--------------|---------------------|-------------------------|-----------------------------------|--------------| | The Grove LA | Los Angeles | 100-300 | $150-250 | Large Teams | Iconic outdoor setting | Yes | | The Ritz-Carlton, LA | Los Angeles | 50-200 | $300-400 | Luxury Retreats | Rooftop pool with skyline views | Yes | | The Westin Bonaventure | Los Angeles | 50-500 | $175-275 | Mixed Activities | Unique revolving restaurant | Yes | | Omni San Diego | San Diego | 30-250 | $200-350 | Mid-Size Teams | Rooftop bar with city views | Yes | | Paradise Point Resort | San Diego | 50-400 | $175-300 | Team Building | Private beach access | Yes | | Kimpton Hotel Palomar | San Diego | 20-150 | $150-250 | Small Groups | Chic, modern design | Yes | | The US Grant | San Diego | 50-300 | $250-400 | High-End Events | Historic charm with modern flair | Yes | | Hilton San Diego Bayfront| San Diego | 200-600 | $200-350 | Large Gatherings | Waterfront views | Yes |

Best Venues for Small Teams (1-50 Participants)

1. Kimpton Hotel Palomar

   • Location: San Diego
   • Capacity: 20-150
   • Price/Person/Night: $150-250
   • Best For: Small Groups
   • Standout Feature: Chic, modern design
   • Insider Tip: Book direct for 15% savings.

2. The Westin Bonaventure

   • Location: Los Angeles
   • Capacity: 50-500
   • Price/Person/Night: $175-275
   • Best For: Mixed Activities
   • Standout Feature: Unique revolving restaurant
   • Insider Tip: Request a room block early for best rates.

Best Venues for Large Groups (100+ Participants)

1. The Grove LA

   • Location: Los Angeles
   • Capacity: 100-300
   • Price/Person/Night: $150-250
   • Best For: Large Teams
   • Standout Feature: Iconic outdoor setting
   • Insider Tip: Plan for off-peak seasons to save on costs.

2. Hilton San Diego Bayfront

   • Location: San Diego
   • Capacity: 200-600
   • Price/Person/Night: $200-350
   • Best For: Large Gatherings
   • Standout Feature: Waterfront views
   • Insider Tip: Book 4+ months ahead for summer dates.

Activity Recommendations

Los Angeles Activities

1. Studio Tour at Universal Studios
   • Time Needed: 3 hours
   • Group Size: Up to 50
   • Cost: $70/person
   • Energy Level: Moderate
   • Logistical Notes: Venue provides transportation if needed.

San Diego Activities

1. Beach Olympics
   • Time Needed: 2-3 hours
   • Group Size: 20-100
   • Cost: $50/person
   • Energy Level: High
   • Logistical Notes: Bring your own equipment or rent from local vendors.

Sample 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Welcome

• Morning: Arrival and check-in at venue
• Afternoon: Team lunch and icebreaker activities
• Evening: Group dinner at a local restaurant

Day 2: Workshops and Activities

• Morning: Keynote speaker session
• Afternoon: Breakout workshops
• Evening: Group activity (e.g., Beach Olympics)

Day 3: Reflection and Departure

• Morning: Team reflection session
• Afternoon: Departure

Budget Breakdown for a 20-Person Team Retreat

• Venue: $4,000 (40%)
• F&B: $2,500 (25%)
• Activities: $1,500 (15%)
• Travel: $1,500 (15%)
• Contingency: $500 (5%)
• Total Estimated Cost: $10,000

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice

When considering venues for your next team retreat, both Los Angeles and San Diego offer unique advantages. Los Angeles is perfect for teams that thrive in a bustling environment with diverse activities, while San Diego caters to those seeking a relaxed atmosphere with beautiful scenery.

Action Items:

1. Review the comparison table to identify the best venue for your team size and budget.
2. Schedule a site visit to your top choices to get a feel for the environment.
3. Create a detailed itinerary and budget based on your selected venue and activities.