7 Shocking Facts About The Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center: California's New Mega-Resort

The long-awaited arrival of the Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center has officially redefined the Southern California hospitality landscape, marking a monumental achievement for the region. This massive $1.3 billion development, a collaboration between Ryman Hospitality Properties and Marriott International, finally opened its doors on May 15, 2025, after a dream that was more than two decades in the making. Located on the picturesque Chula Vista Bayfront, the resort is not just a hotel; it is a sprawling destination designed to attract major conventions and offer an unparalleled luxury escape, setting a new standard for scale and amenities on the West Coast.

As of December 2025, the Gaylord Pacific is fully operational, transforming the Chula Vista Marina area into a premier travel and business hub. This article dives deep into the most significant and surprising facts about this colossal property, covering everything from its record-breaking size to its unique features and massive economic impact on the San Diego area. Prepare to be amazed by the sheer scope of California's newest mega-resort.

The Largest Hotel in California: By the Numbers

The scale of the Gaylord Pacific Resort is difficult to overstate. It was conceived as a destination that could handle the largest conventions and still offer an intimate, luxurious resort experience. The following statistics illustrate why this property is considered a game-changer for the entire state.

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• Record-Breaking Room Count: The resort boasts an impressive 1,600 guest rooms, along with 89 luxury suites. This makes the Gaylord Pacific the single largest hotel in the state of California, a title that immediately elevates its status in the competitive Southern California market.
• Massive Convention Footprint: Designed with meetings and events as a primary focus, the property features more than 450,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting and event space. This includes four expansive ballrooms and 28 dedicated meeting rooms, making it a powerhouse for large-scale conventions.
• The "Mega" Conference Room: One of the most staggering figures is the size of the largest conference room, which spans 140,049 square feet. This enormous space is capable of hosting events that previously had to bypass the San Diego region due to lack of suitable capacity.
• A $1.3 Billion Investment: The total cost of the project was reported to be $1.3 billion USD, reflecting the complexity and sheer size of the development on the Chula Vista Bayfront.

Unrivaled Amenities and the Southern California Experience

The Gaylord Pacific is a true resort destination, offering a plethora of amenities that cater to both business travelers and families seeking a luxury Southern California escape. The design, executed by HKS, Inc., blends the convention-focused mission with a leisure-centric atmosphere.

The culinary offerings alone are extensive, with a total of 12 restaurants located throughout the property. This variety ensures that guests have a diverse selection of dining experiences, from quick bites to high-end, sit-down meals, without ever needing to leave the resort grounds.

For leisure, the resort's water features are a major draw. Guests can enjoy a dedicated water park spanning 17,200 square feet, offering aquatic fun for all ages. Beyond the water park, the property features multiple pools, a full-service spa, and a range of recreational activities.

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Additional amenities that enhance the guest experience include:

• A game room for family entertainment.
• Beauty services, including facial treatments, waxing, and makeup services.
• Live music and performances.
• Bicycle rental and canoeing options, leveraging the resort's stunning waterfront location.
• Electric vehicle charging points, catering to modern travelers.

The Economic and Regional Impact on Chula Vista

The opening of the Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center is more than just a new hotel; it is a pivotal moment for the city of Chula Vista and the entire San Diego metropolitan area. Local dignitaries have hailed the project as the realization of a long-term vision, transforming the Chula Vista Bayfront.

A Catalyst for the Bayfront

The resort is the centerpiece of the ongoing Chula Vista Bayfront development, which aims to revitalize the waterfront area. Its presence is expected to be a major economic catalyst, drawing significant tourism and business revenue to the city. The location, just 7 miles from downtown San Diego, offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the picturesque Chula Vista Marina.

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Job Creation and Local Benefits

The construction phase alone was a massive undertaking, creating 3,850 jobs. Now that the resort is operational, it provides thousands of permanent hospitality and convention-related jobs, offering a substantial boost to local employment. The influx of visitors is also expected to benefit surrounding businesses, restaurants, and attractions.

Strategic Location Advantages

While the resort is a destination in itself, its location offers excellent access to other key Southern California points of interest. Guests are only a short distance from major attractions, including Petco Park, the home of the San Diego Padres, and the San Ysidro Border Crossing. This strategic positioning makes it an ideal base for both domestic and international visitors.

The Gaylord Pacific is the sixth property under the successful Gaylord Hotels brand, which is known for its meetings-focused approach and massive, self-contained resort environments. Its successful launch in May 2025 solidified Marriott's expansion to the West Coast and cemented its role as a key player in the convention industry. For travelers, event planners, and the Southern California community, the Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center represents a new era of luxury, scale, and opportunity.