2026 CEO Summit
EXPLORE | The Mindset of Modern Leadership
March 30 - April 1, 2026 | Newport Beach, CA
About the 2026 CEO Summit
The CEO Summit brings together destination leaders for immersive conversations on the complexities, opportunities and demands of modern leadership. Held March 30–April 1, 2026 in Newport Beach, CA, this year’s program invites you to explore the mindset required to lead your organization—and yourself—with purpose, clarity and resilience.
Through thought-provoking presentations, collaborative discussions and peer-to-peer exchange, you will dive into the issues shaping our industry today. From workforce dynamics to personal well-being and organizational culture, CEO Summit provides a trusted space to share challenges, gain new perspectives and build strategies that support long-term success.
Join fellow CEOs and executive leaders in an environment designed for openness and insight. Together, we will explore bold ideas, modern leadership practices and the collective intelligence that moves our destinations forward.
Register now to secure the best price on attendance!
2026 Pricing
Standard Rates | Register through March 5, 2026
*Save $150 by registering early.
DMO Member/Partner Rate
US$1,395
DMO Non-Member Rate
US$2,095
Last Chance Rates | Starting March 6, 2026
DMO Member Rate
US$1,545
DMO Non-Member Rate
US$2,245
Please note, not all partner tiers are eligible for this event. Please consult your partnership agreement or contact [email protected] if you have any questions.
What to Expect
Visionary Speakers
Hear from renowned thought leaders and innovators, both within and outside the industry, delivering insights and actionable strategies to elevate your destination and inspire your teams.
Flashes of Brilliance
Dive into quick, dynamic presentations that showcase cutting-edge tools, technologies, and creative approaches to destination management and marketing.
CEO Roundtables
Share ideas, address challenges, and uncover solutions in an exclusive, collaborative space designed specifically for CEOs.
Immersive Offsite Experience
Discover the unique connections between destination development, community engagement and workforce innovation with a curated offsite visit to explore Newport Beach’s best practices in action.
Small Destination Scholarships
The Destinations International Foundation is pleased to offer eligible employees of small destination organizations ($3Million or less operating budgets) opportunities for registration scholarships to attend the 2026 CEO Summit.
Attendees by Budget Size
CEO Summit is an opportunity for all members of the industry to gather and network, regardless of destination size or budget. Take a look at the breakdown of attendees by budget size.
-
30%Greater than $10 Million
-
38%$2 Million - $10 Million
-
30%Under $2 Million
Destination & Travel
Host Hotel: VEA Newport Beach
900 Newport Center Dr
Newport Beach, CA 92660
949.640.4000
The rates start at $335/night plus applicable taxes and fees.
33.616560031552, -117.87897128705
The hotel booking link will be provided in your registration confirmation email. Please register for the event prior to booking your room.
The hotel cutoff date is Thursday, March 5th, 2026.
Getting to Newport Beach
Newport Beach is conveniently located next to John Wayne Airport, Orange County (SNA) in Orange County, California, but can also be accessed from the following surrounding airports:
John Wayne Airport-Orange County
- Distance from host hotel: 5 miles
Long Beach Airport
- Distance from host hotel: 25 miles
Los Angeles International Airport
- Distance from host hotel: 44 miles
San Diego International Airport
- Distance from host hotel: 90 miles