2024 TOURISM SUMMIT
Photography by Leo Cabal
May 30, 2024— Thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate Oceanside’s tourism industry at our annual Tourism Summit on May 30. While growth was moderate in 2023, tourism continued to be a significant economic driver for our city— creating 3,900 jobs, providing $589 million in visitor spending for local businesses, and raising $25 million in tax revenue for our city. Visit Oceanside continues to manage and implement Oceanside’s tourism brand focusing on inspiring travelers to choose Oceanside. Watch our Year-in-Review video for a look at what we accomplished this fiscal year.
Introducing the STMP
Tourism Summit attendees were introduced to the vision behind the newly completed Sustainable Tourism Master Plan (STMP). Based on a collective desire to build a future where Oceanside stands apart on the SoCal coast for vibrancy, authenticity, and creativity, the plan outlines four main strategic goals:Â Â
1) Elevate and Cultivate Events/Experiences
2) Enhance Connectivity and Mobility
3) Support Environmental Sustainability
4) Champion Community Stewardship
STMP Highlights and Priorities
Short and long term goals outlined in the STMP include:
- Shoreline preservationÂ
- Downtown green areas and gathering placesÂ
- Large conference center
- Signature annual event
- Continued pier area improvementÂ
- South Morro Hills agritourism
- Enhance Harbor programming
- El Corazon and Ocean Kamp build out
- Improved wayfinding
- Greenway/bike trail integration
- Arts and cultural heritage enhancement
Sneak Peak— Oceanside x Craft Coast
Attendees also had the exclusive opportunity to get a taste of another exciting VO brand collaboration with Craft Coast. Coming later this summer, locals and visitors alike can indulge in Craft Coast Beer’s “Respect the O’riginals” citrus Pale Ale, available for sipping, savoring, and even taking home in specially branded cans.
Summer Fun! Handel’s Ice Cream Collab
Tourism Summit attendees were treated to a yummy taste of Oceanside thanks to a new collaboration with Handel’s Ice Cream that has introduced three special destination flavors to the menu. The flavors celebrate Oceanside’s personality and sales benefit O’side beaches by raising money for coastal renourishment projects. Read more here.
Tourism Summit Award Winners
In keeping with tradition, VO recognized tourism champions who went above and beyond in 2023. Congratulations to our award winners:
California Welcome Center Volunteer:
Roz Arellano
Industry Partner of the Year:
Carla Werts and Linda Piña, Carla and Linda’s Local Tours
Local Champion for Tourism Impact:
Charles Webb, US Adaptive Surf Championships
Oceanside 2034 Visionary Award:
Jayme Timberlake, City of Oceanside Coastal Administrator
Tourism Summit Photo Gallery
Visit Oceanside’s annual celebration of the industry was attended by nearly 200 business and community members. The event opened with a cultural performance from Oceanside’s halau hula, followed by a Luiseno land acknowledgment, the summer kick-off beach ball toss, and an informative program led by VO CEO Leslee Gaul. Click HERE to check out the fun. (Photos by @LeoCabal)
