California’s Largest Hotel Just Opened in San Diego: Meet the Gaylord Pacific

San Diego has a new giant on its hotel scene. The Gaylord Pacific Resort in Chula Vista is now open, officially taking the title of the largest hotel in California. The property includes 1,600 rooms, 12 dining spots, a full waterpark, and a sizable convention center, making it one of the most significant hospitality openings the region has seen in years.

This opening marks a shift in the types of stays available in San Diego. Here’s how the new Gaylord Pacific fits into the local travel landscape, and how it might shape future visits.

Like other Gaylord properties around the country, this one brings a range of amenities under one roof, with restaurants, shops, event spaces, and plenty of room for families to spread out.

What makes this debut interesting for San Diego is that the city doesn't really have anything comparable. Mission Bay has its long-standing resort hotels, and North County has family properties like the Legoland Hotel, but nothing on the scale of a full resort convention center.

What It Could Mean for Travelers

For families planning a trip to San Diego, the resort's waterpark and all-in-one layout could make it a popular base, especially for visitors who like having everything in one spot. The property also offers day passes, which could easily turn it into a draw for locals looking for a different kind of weekend activity.

On the business side, the sheer number of rooms is notable. San Diego frequently runs into availability issues during peak seasons, and rates can jump quickly. A 1,600-room hotel convention center won’t solve that, but it does expand the city's capacity for larger events and conferences.

A Different Kind of Stay for the San Diego Area

The biggest shift here is how the Gaylord Pacific Resort expands what a trip to San Diego can look like. Until now, the region leaned heavily toward beach hotels and smaller independent properties. A large-scale, self-contained resort introduces a style of travel that hasn’t really existed in the area until now.

It won’t appeal to everyone, and that’s okay. Some travelers prefer quieter coastal experiences or walkable neighborhoods. But for visitors who prioritize amenities and convenience, the Gaylord Pacific adds an option San Diego didn’t have before.

As more travelers learn about the new property, it’ll be interesting to see how this Chula Vista project settles into the broader San Diego travel landscape.

To book a stay at the Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center, click here.

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