California Poppy Awards 2026 Finalists Announced: Celebrating the Best in Tourism Marketing and Destination Stewardship in the US

The highly anticipated California Poppy Awards have revealed their finalists for 2026, honoring the state’s outstanding achievements in tourism marketing and destination stewardship. The prestigious awards recognize the efforts of organizations that have significantly contributed to positioning California as the number one travel destination in the United States. This year, over 160 submissions were reviewed by a panel of industry experts, narrowing down the top contenders across nine categories.

California’s thriving tourism industry, which supports over 1.2 million jobs, plays a pivotal role in the state’s economy. The Poppy Awards not only recognize creative and impactful marketing campaigns but also acknowledge the positive influence of tourism on communities throughout the state. From immersive digital experiences to sustainable tourism initiatives, these awards showcase the best of California’s tourism industry.

The winners of the 2026 Poppy Awards will be unveiled during a special ceremony on March 11, 2026, at the Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center in Chula Vista, as part of Visit California’s annual Outlook Forum. This three-day industry conference, taking place from March 10-12, is expected to gather over 800 tourism leaders, offering a platform for networking, innovation, and knowledge sharing.

The Finalists Across Categories:

Best Brand Advertising Campaign ($1 Million and Up)

1. Aquarium of the Pacific
2. Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board
3. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
4. Universal Studios Hollywood
5. Visit Greater Palm Springs
6. Visit Napa Valley
7. Visit Newport Beach

Best Brand Advertising Campaign (Under $1 Million)

1. Belmont Park
2. The Broad
3. The San Francisco Peninsula
4. Visit Oxnard
5. Visit San Luis Obispo

Best Content Marketing

1. Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park
2. Mendocino Railway
3. San Diego Tourism Authority
4. SIXT Rent a Car LLC
5. Visit Oceanside
6. Visit San Luis Obispo

Best Influencer Campaign

1. Mendocino Railway
2. Murrieta Hot Springs Resort
3. Pacifica Hotels
4. Visit Carlsbad
5. Visit Carmel
6. Visit San Luis Obispo

Best Public Relations Campaign

1. Hotel Maya, Long Beach
2. LEGOLAND California Resort
3. See Monterey
4. Sensorio
5. The Lodge at Torrey Pines
6. Visit Anaheim
7. Visit Newport Beach

Best Strategic Partnership

1. Howard Johnson Anaheim & L’Auberge Del Mar
2. Mendocino Railway
3. Visit Oakland and Visit Mendocino County
4. Visit Sacramento
5. Visit SLO CAL, Travel Paso, and Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance
6. Visit Yosemite | Madera County

Best Sustainability or Resilience Award

1. Portola Hotel & Spa
2. Rush Creek Lodge
3. The Ranch at Laguna Beach
4. Visit Lake Tahoe
5. Visit Pasadena

Best Trade and Media Activation

1. San Diego Tourism Authority
2. See Monterey
3. The Ameswell Hotel
4. Visit Newport Beach

California Welcome Center of the Year

1. Ridgecrest Area Convention & Visitor’s Bureau
2. Salinas Valley Tourism & Visitors Bureau
3. Visit Oceanside

These finalists have stood out for their innovative strategies, community engagement, and commitment to sustainable tourism practices. With an increasing emphasis on resilience and sustainability, the 2026 Poppy Awards spotlight efforts that contribute not only to the state’s economic growth but also to preserving the natural beauty and cultural integrity of California for future generations.

As California continues to evolve as a premier tourism destination, these Poppy Awards demonstrate the industry’s strength and its crucial role in shaping the state’s global image. The ceremony promises to be a grand celebration of creativity, partnerships, and a collective commitment to enhancing the visitor experience across the Golden State.

Conclusion

The finalists for the 2026 California Poppy Awards have been carefully selected, each reflecting the dynamic and diverse aspects of California’s tourism industry. Whether through powerful brand campaigns, influential partnerships, or cutting-edge sustainability initiatives, these organizations have contributed to California’s remarkable tourism success. The upcoming awards ceremony at the Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center will undoubtedly be a momentous occasion for all involved, providing a platform to celebrate and further elevate the Golden State’s global tourism standing.

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