Miami vs Los Angeles for Team Building Retreats: Which City Wins?
Miami vs Los Angeles for Team Building Retreats: Which City Wins? (2026)
In 2026, team building retreats are more essential than ever, with studies showing that companies with regular offsite meetings see a 21% increase in productivity. However, choosing the right city for your retreat can be a daunting task. Miami and Los Angeles each offer unique advantages and experiences. Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide which city is the best fit for your team building retreat.
Overview: Why Choose Miami or Los Angeles?
Miami
Why Miami? Known for its vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and warm climate, Miami is perfect for teams looking to unwind while fostering creativity. The best seasons to visit are from December to April when the weather is pleasantly warm and dry.
Getting There: Miami International Airport (MIA) is a major hub with countless domestic and international flights, making it accessible for teams traveling from various locations.
Los Angeles
Why Los Angeles? LA is a bustling metropolis that offers a mix of entertainment, culture, and outdoor activities. The ideal time to visit is from March to May and September to November, avoiding the summer crowds and heat.
Getting There: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is one of the busiest airports in the world, providing extensive flight options.
Venue Comparison: Miami vs. Los Angeles
| Venue Name | Location | Capacity | Price/Person/Night | Best For | Standout Feature | |-------------------------------|-------------------|--------------|--------------------|-------------------|---------------------------------------| | The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne | Miami, FL | 50-300 | $275-$400 | Luxury Retreats | Oceanfront views | | Kimpton EPIC Hotel | Miami, FL | 30-200 | $230-$350 | Creative Sessions | Rooftop pool and bar | | The Biltmore Hotel | Coral Gables, FL | 50-400 | $210-$340 | History & Elegance | Historic charm with modern amenities | | The Beverly Hilton | Beverly Hills, CA | 40-400 | $250-$450 | Celebrity Events | Iconic Hollywood setting | | Hotel Angeleno | Los Angeles, CA | 30-150 | $200-$300 | Intimate Gatherings | Panoramic views of the city | | The Line Hotel | Los Angeles, CA | 50-300 | $220-$370 | Trendy Meetings | Art and design-focused atmosphere | | The Westin Bonaventure Hotel | Los Angeles, CA | 100-500 | $180-$320 | Large Groups | Unique rotating restaurant | | The Fontainebleau Miami Beach | Miami Beach, FL | 50-600 | $300-$500 | Beachfront Retreats | Iconic Miami Beach luxury |
Our Top Picks
For a Luxury Experience
- Miami: The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne ($275-$400/person) offers oceanfront views and luxurious amenities.
- Los Angeles: The Beverly Hilton ($250-$450/person) provides a glamorous Hollywood setting.
For Creative Sessions
- Miami: Kimpton EPIC Hotel ($230-$350/person) features a rooftop pool conducive to brainstorming and relaxation.
- Los Angeles: The Line Hotel ($220-$370/person) is perfect for teams seeking an artistic atmosphere.
For Large Groups
- Miami: The Biltmore Hotel ($210-$340/person) has a capacity of up to 400, ideal for large gatherings.
- Los Angeles: The Westin Bonaventure Hotel ($180-$320/person) can accommodate up to 500 attendees, perfect for conferences.
Activity Recommendations
Miami Activities
-
Beach Olympics
- Time Needed: 3 hours
- Group Size: Up to 50
- Cost: $50/person
- Energy Level: High
- Logistics: Venue provides beach access, you bring the games.
- Skip if: Team prefers indoor activities.
-
Art Deco Walking Tour
- Time Needed: 2 hours
- Group Size: 10-30
- Cost: $35/person
- Energy Level: Low
- Logistics: Book a local guide.
- Skip if: Team isn’t interested in history.
Los Angeles Activities
-
Hollywood Studio Tour
- Time Needed: 4 hours
- Group Size: 20-50
- Cost: $75/person
- Energy Level: Moderate
- Logistics: Needs advance booking.
- Skip if: Team prefers hands-on activities.
-
Beach Volleyball
- Time Needed: 2 hours
- Group Size: Up to 30
- Cost: $25/person
- Energy Level: High
- Logistics: Requires beach access.
- Skip if: Team has mobility issues.
Sample 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Team Bonding
- Morning: Arrive at your chosen venue.
- Afternoon: Icebreaker activities.
- Evening: Welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Workshops and Activities
- Morning: Team-building workshop (3 hours).
- Afternoon: Outdoor activity (Beach Olympics or Studio Tour).
- Evening: Group dinner and reflection session.
Day 3: Strategy and Departure
- Morning: Strategy session (2 hours).
- Afternoon: Wrap-up meeting and lunch.
- Evening: Departure.
Budget Breakdown for a Typical Team Size of 20
- Venue: $4,500 (40% - $225/person)
- F&B: $2,000 (25% - $100/person)
- Activities: $1,200 (15% - $60/person)
- Travel: $1,500 (15% - $75/person)
- Contingency: $300 (5% - $15/person)
Total Estimated Cost: $9,500 (approximately $475/person)
Conclusion: Which City Wins?
Both Miami and Los Angeles have distinct advantages for team building retreats. Miami shines with its beach atmosphere and luxury venues, while Los Angeles offers a vibrant city experience and diverse activities.
Action Items:
- Determine your budget and preferred venue type.
- Choose your city based on your team's interests.
- Start reaching out to venues to check availability and secure bookings.
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.