Miami vs San Diego: Which City Offers Better Options for Team Retreats?

Planning a team retreat can be a daunting task, especially when choosing between two vibrant cities like Miami and San Diego. Did you know that companies that invest in offsite retreats see a 20% increase in employee engagement? With 2026 upon us, let’s dive into the specifics of what each city offers for team retreats—from venues to activities and budgeting.

Overview: Why Choose Miami or San Diego?

Both Miami and San Diego boast beautiful weather, stunning beaches, and a variety of venues.

• Miami: Known for its vibrant nightlife, art deco architecture, and multicultural vibe, Miami is perfect for teams seeking a lively atmosphere. The best time to visit is from December to April when temperatures are mild and the city is buzzing with events.

• San Diego: With its laid-back vibe, beautiful coastline, and family-friendly activities, San Diego is ideal for teams looking for a relaxed retreat. The best time to visit is from April to June and September to November, avoiding the summer crowds.

Venue Comparison Table

| Venue Name | Location | Capacity (Range) | Price/Person/Night | Best For | Standout Feature | F&B Included | |-------------------------|-------------------|------------------|--------------------|------------------------|--------------------------------------|--------------| | The Confidante Miami | Miami Beach | 10-400 | $200-300 | Large groups | Oceanfront views | Yes | | Kimpton EPIC Hotel | Downtown Miami | 10-600 | $150-250 | Mixed team sizes | Rooftop pool with city views | Yes | | The Fontainebleau | Miami Beach | 10-1000 | $250-400 | High-end retreats | Luxury spa and multiple restaurants | Yes | | Hotel del Coronado | San Diego | 10-500 | $300-500 | Historical retreats | Iconic beachfront hotel | Yes | | Paradise Point Resort | San Diego | 10-500 | $200-350 | Outdoor activities | Private island feel | Yes | | The US Grant Hotel | Downtown San Diego | 10-1,200 | $200-400 | Formal gatherings | Historic charm | Yes | | Omni La Costa Resort | Carlsbad | 10-600 | $175-350 | Golf retreats | Championship golf courses | Yes | | Marriott Marquis | San Diego | 10-2,000 | $150-300 | Large conferences | Waterfront location | Yes |

Best Venues for Small Teams

Miami:

• The Confidante Miami: Ideal for intimate brainstorming sessions with a capacity range of 10-50. Price ranges from $200-300 per person per night. Best for teams looking for a creative atmosphere.

San Diego:

• The US Grant Hotel: Perfect for small to medium teams (10-100). Price ranges from $200-400 per person per night. Best for formal gatherings with a historic backdrop.

Best Venues for Large Groups

Miami:

• The Fontainebleau: Accommodates up to 1000 people and offers a luxurious setting. Price ranges from $250-400 per person per night, making it ideal for high-end retreats.

San Diego:

• Marriott Marquis: This venue can host up to 2000 guests, perfect for large conferences. Pricing is around $150-300 per person per night.

Activity Recommendations

Miami Activities

1. Art Deco Walking Tour

   • Duration: 2 hours
   • Group Size: Up to 30
   • Cost: $25/person
   • Energy Level: Low
   • Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor
   • Logistics: Guided tour; no special requirements.

2. Beach Olympics

   • Duration: 3 hours
   • Group Size: Up to 50
   • Cost: $40/person
   • Energy Level: High
   • Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor
   • Logistics: Requires beach access and equipment.

San Diego Activities

1. Kayaking in La Jolla Cove

   • Duration: 2 hours
   • Group Size: Up to 20
   • Cost: $60/person
   • Energy Level: Medium
   • Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor
   • Logistics: Rental kayaks needed.

2. Team Building Workshop at Seaport Village

   • Duration: 4 hours
   • Group Size: Up to 100
   • Cost: $150/person
   • Energy Level: Medium
   • Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor/Outdoor
   • Logistics: Venue setup required.

Sample 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Welcome

• Morning: Arrive at the hotel
• Afternoon: Welcome lunch at the venue
• Evening: Team dinner at a local restaurant

Day 2: Workshops & Activities

• Morning: Team-building workshop
• Afternoon: Outdoor activity (Beach Olympics/Kayaking)
• Evening: Free time to explore the local area

Day 3: Wrap-Up & Departure

• Morning: Final team meeting
• Afternoon: Lunch and check-out
• Evening: Depart

Budget Breakdown for a Typical Team Size of 20

• Venue: $200-400 per person/night (40%)
• Food & Beverage: $50-75 per person/day (25%)
• Activities: $30-60 per person/day (15%)
• Travel: $1000 total (15%)
• Contingency: $500 (5%)

Estimated Total: $247-350/person/day including lodging, meals, and activities.

Conclusion: Clear Action Items

1. Decide on your preferred city: Miami or San Diego.
2. Choose your venue based on your team size and budget.
3. Plan activities that align with your team's goals and energy levels.
4. Create a detailed itinerary and budget breakdown.
5. Book your venue and activities at least 4-6 months in advance to secure the best rates.

No matter which city you choose, both Miami and San Diego offer fantastic venues and activities for a successful team retreat in 2026.