Blog
Gaylord Hotels Expands to the Golden State with New Resort

Gaylord Hotels Expands to the Golden State with New Resort

Naomi MacCan
by 
Naomi MacCan
5 minutes read
News
May 21, 2025

Grand Opening in California

The recent unveiling of the Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center marks a momentous occasion in the tourism landscape of California. This opened its doors as the first property of Gaylord Hotels on the West Coast, making it the sixth establishment in the brand’s expanding portfolio. Developed through a collaborative effort with RIDA Development Corporation, the project represents a $1.3 billion investment aimed at enhancing premium meetings and unforgettable experiences.

Resort Features

The expansive new resort boasts an impressive 1,600 guest rooms, including 89 luxurious suites, along with an enticing selection of 12 food and beverage options. For those seeking fun beneath the sun, a remarkable 4.25-acre water park comes equipped with several pools. Beyond the leisure facilities, the complex provides over 477,000 square feet of adaptable meeting and event space, making it a versatile venue for gatherings of all kinds.

A Transformative Milestone

According to Johann Krieger, the Vice President and Managing Director of Gaylord Hotels, the introduction of Gaylord Pacific signifies a transformative milestone for the brand. The resort successfully brings the all-encompassing experience that Gaylord Hotels is renowned for to the West Coast for the very first time. The endeavor represents a decade-long partnership with the City of Chula Vista and the Port of San Diego, further embedding the resort into a thriving community.

Accommodations

The Gaylord Pacific offers a variety of room options that blend coastal elegance with the comforts of home. The standard guest rooms, ranging from 389 to 623 square feet, come with a dedicated workspace and offer breathtaking views of the bay or nearby mountains. The Executive Suites extend up to 838 square feet and feature a separate living area, making them perfect for families or groups.

Luxury Suites

For a truly elevated experience, the resort includes six Luxury Suites, 10 Presidential Suites, and two Penthouse Presidential Suites that redefine relaxation. The Penthouse options provide over 3,254 square feet of indoor and outdoor space, showcasing a private furnished balcony overlooking breathtaking vistas of the San Diego Bay, Coronado Island, and the Pacific Ocean. These suites are not just places to stay but perfect venues for unforgettable moments with loved ones.

Meeting and Event Spaces

With the debut of Gaylord Pacific, the hotel network enhances its offerings for groups and conventions, setting new standards for immersive meeting venues. The resort features 135,000 square feet of outdoor event space, alongside 67 breakout rooms and four exquisite ballrooms. This flexible layout ensures that various events, from corporate meetings to intimate celebrations, can be executed seamlessly.

Dedicated Event Teams

A full-service events team, famously known as the “Teal Coats” for their signature teal blazers, specializes in tailoring unique experiences for each group. Their expertise ensures the smooth execution of everything from large galas to serene family gatherings, highlighting the resort’s versatility as a convention destination.

Diverse Culinary Offerings

Under the leadership of Chef Jakob Esko, the Gaylord Pacific Resort welcomes guests to indulge in a culinary journey through its diverse outlets. Guests can experience a range of dining options, each showcasing a unique flavor profile:

  • Old Hickory Steakhouse: A hub for surf and turf enthusiasts, featuring locally inspired cuisine.
  • Trēō Kitchen + Bar: Showcases the best regional ingredients in its seasonal menu.
  • Growlers Sports Bar & Taproom: Perfect for catching a game, featuring elevated bar food and a communal atmosphere.
  • Oeste Bar: Serves marine-inspired bites and refreshing beverages.
  • Taiyō: Offers a casual dining experience with an assortment of sushi.

Waterpark and Activities

The resort’s 4.25-acre water park is a prime attraction, catering to all ages with thrilling waterslides, a lazy river, wave pool, and numerous pools. Families will appreciate the designated dining options, which include casual fare and local brews, ensuring that all guests have access to delightful snacks and beverages.

Additional Amenities

Beyond water adventures, the resort features the Relâche Spa & Salon, providing a plethora of treatments in a serene environment. Fitness enthusiasts will enjoy the 7,500 square feet fitness center, while bike rentals allow guests to explore the beautiful surroundings of sunny San Diego. Just a stone’s throw from downtown San Diego, the resort invites exploration of notable nearby attractions such as the iconic San Diego Zoo.

In Summary

The arrival of the Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center is an exciting development in California’s tourism landscape, transforming the hospitality experience for travelers and enhancing the range of offerings available in the region. With comprehensive amenities, luxurious accommodations, and dynamic spaces for meetings and events, this addition not only focuses on leisure but prominently elevates the standards of group gatherings. While reviews can illuminate aspects of what this resort offers, nothing compares to experiencing it firsthand. By booking through GetExperience.com, visitors can explore excellent value packages from verified providers that marry quality with reasonable pricing. Enjoy a plethora of unique options tailored to every taste and budget. Book your Trip now and see what Gaylord Pacific has in store!

Ultimately, the integration of adventure activities, museum tours with live guides, eco-friendly experiences, and more ensure that this destination stands out in a competitive market, uplifting California as a premier travel choice. Be prepared to dive into a world of travel experiences that enrich the soul and create lasting memories!