San Diego County showcases travel story at Sacramento Destination Mixer
Gohar Manukyan
Sept. 22, 2025
Visit California hosted a dynamic Destination Mixer at its headquarters in Sacramento, spotlighting San Diego County’s rich and diverse travel experiences. The event brought together staff, contractors, liaisons and industry partners for an afternoon of education, networking and collaboration, sharing why San Diego continues to be one of California’s premier destinations.
The program featured interactive sessions and activations led by the San Diego Tourism Authority, South County Economic Development Council, Visit Carlsbad and Visit Oceanside. Each group highlighted the character, culture and innovations that set their communities apart and keep travelers returning from across the nation and around the world.
San Diego Tourism Authority
The San Diego Tourism Authority (SDTA) guided attendees through the region’s vibrant mix of entertainment, family attractions, arts and culture, and culinary experiences. The presentation highlighted marquee events such as NASCAR in June 2026 and spotlighted the SDTA Tourism Accelerator, the first program of its kind providing resources to businesses owned by people of color, women, veterans and LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs. Joining the team was Chrisell Nguyen, founder and co-owner of Flour Atelier and a graduate of the Accelerator program, who shared how the initiative helped her business grow while strengthening the local community.
South County Economic Development Council
South County energized the audience with a lively game of Jeopardy that showcased regional treasures including the Bayshore Bikeway, coastal parks, open spaces and the Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center. Leaders emphasized how the area has grown beyond being known as a gateway to San Diego, emerging as a cultural hub that blends Filipino and Mexican heritage. They also spotlighted major economic growth, including the recent opening of the Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center, the largest on the West Coast, which adds 1,600 rooms and new momentum for future investment.
Visit Carlsbad
Visit Carlsbad shared why their destination is “All Good,” highlighting Michelin-starred dining, world-class golf courses and coastal attractions. The team also announced the opening of a new space-themed land at LEGOLAND in early 2026, adding to the region’s family-friendly appeal. Attendees participated in an interactive LEGO building activity that captured Carlsbad’s playful, innovative spirit and underscored why the city continues to draw visitors from across the globe.
Visit Oceanside
Visit Oceanside engaged attendees with a food-plating challenge led by Nicholas Webber, co-owner and chef of the Michelin-recognized Chinese restaurant, 24 Suns. Participants were tasked with designing dishes that reflected their sense of community and pride. The team also highlighted Oceanside’s growing lodging and sports tourism, including the inaugural Sports Illustrated Women’s Games this October and the city’s role as a host community for Olympic surfing during the LA28 Games
The Sacramento mixer served as a powerful platform to strengthen connections between destination partners and Visit California staff. The event showcased the breadth and diversity of San Diego County’s tourism assets, reinforcing the region’s vital role in shaping California’s global travel story.
