About the San Diego Tourism Authority
Tourism Matters to San Diego
Tourism is the second-largest segment of San Diego's economy and employs approximately 214,000 people here. It is vitally important to the economic health of the region. See Why Travel Matters to all San Diegans.
The San Diego Tourism Authority is a private, nonprofit, mutual benefit corporation composed of approximately 1,000 member organizations, businesses, local governments, and individuals seeking a better community through the visitor industry. San Diego Tourism Authority members include tourism-related entities in such categories as lodging, dining, arts, attractions, shopping, and transportation, among others, as well as other companies indirectly involved in tourism.
As a sales and marketing organization, the main objective of the San Diego Tourism Authority is to promote and market the San Diego region as a preferred vacation and meeting destination. The San Diego Tourism Authority also represents and supports the interests of the visitor industry as a whole. The majority of funding received by the San Diego Tourism Authority is derived from San Diego Tourism Marketing District Assessment Funds. Lodging business in the District raise these funds through self-assessments for the purpose of promoting tourism in the San Diego region. The San Diego Tourism Authority also receives financial support from member dues and promotional assistance from the membership through donated in-kind services.
Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
In San Diego, we believe tourism is for all. The San Diego Tourism Authority is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and destination where everyone is welcome, valued, and empowered to thrive.
Learn more about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at the SDTA
SDTA Tourism Accelerator
A key to building a thriving tourism industry in San Diego is to reflect the diversity of the destination and promote equity and inclusion. The San Diego Tourism Authority's Tourism Accelerator program — the first of its kind — provides resources for businesses owned by people of color, women and veterans, and those in the LGBTQIA+ community.
Learn more about the Tourism Accelerator Program
San Diego Tourism Foundation
The San Diego Tourism Foundation aims to elevate San Diego as an inclusive destination that is sustainable and equitable for all by diversifying and strengthening San Diego’s travel and tourism industry through education and training, workforce development, civic engagement, and other charitable services.
Learn more about the San Diego Tourism Foundation
Sustainability in San Diego
With its coastal location and renowned biodiversity, sustainability is in San Diego’s DNA. It’s who we are and how we live every day. From its founding, San Diego’s coastal culture, values and vibe are all about clean air, water and living in harmony with nature. San Diego is committed to preserving its natural beauty and offering responsible ways to explore the region for generations to come.
Find Out More About the SDTA
The San Diego Tourism Authority employs a staff of approximately 50 people.
- Discover the many benefits of Membership
- Find out about Job Openings at SDTA
- Learn more about our Visitor Information Centers
- Speaker Request
- San Diego Tourism Authority's Board of Directors
- San Diego Tourism Authority's Strategic Leadership Team
- San Diego Tourism Stewardship Plan
- See open Requests for Proposals (RFPs)
San Diego Tourism Authority Contact Information
750 B Street, Suite 1500
San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: 619.232.3101
E-mail: [email protected]
Annual Reports and Financials
Tourism Grant Program
Funding is available from SDTMD for events and programs that drive visitors to San Diego and generate room nights at TMD assessed properties. Organizers of major athletic, cultural and other high-profile tourism initiatives in the City of San Diego are encouraged to contact the Executive Director to find out more.
Contact: Colleen Anderson at [email protected] or visit www.sdtmd.org/applications.