Where Business Meets Bliss
As temperatures drop and the chill sets in, it’s no wonder that planners, like migrating birds, are flocking to warm-weather destinations. There’s something about escaping the cold that makes sunny shores and desert oases all the more appealing for corporate events.
These destinations offer so much more than just year-round sunshine—they’re the ultimate backdrop for unforgettable gatherings. Picture coastal resorts with breathtaking ocean views, or serene desert retreats where business and relaxation blend effortlessly. Whether you’re planning a high-end incentive trip, an executive retreat, or a large-scale conference, warm-weather destinations check all the boxes with their perfect mix of luxury, accessibility, and exceptional weather.
Beyond the beautiful weather, these locations offer incredible amenities—championship golf courses, world-class spas, and stunning outdoor venues that take meetings from the boardroom to the beach.
So, while the rest of the world huddles indoors, now’s the perfect time to book ahead for 2025 and beyond. These sought-after locations won’t stay available for long, and booking early ensures you’ll secure the best rates and prime dates for your event.
Omni La Costa Resort & Spa
Standout Warm-Weather Destinations for Meetings & Events
From sun-drenched coastlines to serene desert escapes, Teneo’s portfolio is packed with warm-weather destinations that elevate corporate gatherings.
Southern California
Southern California remains a favorite, where business meets the beach at properties like Fairmont Grand Del Mar, a Forbes Four-Star retreat blending luxury with coastal charm, and Omni La Costa Resort & Spa, a wellness haven with championship golf and premier meeting spaces. Pasea Hotel & Spa in Huntington Beach brings a surf-inspired vibe to oceanfront events, while Rancho Bernardo Inn offers tranquil gardens and award-winning spa experiences ideal for executive retreats.
Florida
Florida’s mix of sun, sand, and seamless meetings makes it an unbeatable choice. The Beach Club at The Boca Raton pairs private beach access with sophisticated event spaces, while the legendary Fontainebleau Miami Beach offers glamour, luxury, and top-tier conference facilities. Pier Sixty-Six in Fort Lauderdale adds a waterfront touch, and Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo provides world-class golf, a private marina, and tropical elegance.
The Caribbean & Mexico
For those seeking an exotic setting, the Caribbean and Mexico deliver. Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club offers a tropical paradise with fine dining and championship golf, while Atlantis Bahamas combines private beach dining, marine adventures, and an abundance of space for large-scale events. Wyndham Palmas in Puerto Rico provides a modern beachfront escape, nestled between the rainforest and the ocean, making it a dream destination for incentive groups.
The Southwest & Desert Retreats
Meanwhile, the Southwest and desert regions exude serenity and sophistication. Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia brings Andalusian-inspired luxury to executive summits, and Sanctuary Camelback Mountain offers secluded tranquility for board meetings and incentives. In Las Vegas, Red Rock Casino provides an off-strip retreat with a high-energy edge, while The Venetian remains a MICE powerhouse with its world-class convention space and luxury accommodations.
Sanctuary Camelback Mountain
Top Reasons Warm-Weather Destinations Are Trending
During the most recent Teneo Summit, attendees identified the following key industry trends behind the shift toward warm destinations:
Bleisure Travel
Business travelers are extending their stays to incorporate leisure time, making warmer destinations with more predictable weather even more attractive.
Wellness & Outdoor Spaces
Properties with spas, golf courses, and nature-driven activities are highly desirable and more often found in warmer locales where they can be enjoyed for longer.
Sustainable Meetings
Planners are seeking venues with strong environmental initiatives, from eco-conscious accommodations and water conservation, which is a special concern in warmer and drier climates.
Exclusive Experiences
Groups are looking for unique, destination-specific programming, and these locations deliver: from beachfront networking to sunny golf competitions.
Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas
Expert Tips for Planning Corporate Events in Warm-Weather Destinations
1. Book Early. Really Early
With increased demand and extended booking timelines, top-tier luxury event venues and resorts in destinations like Florida, the Caribbean, Las Vegas, and Southern California fill up fast. While last-minute openings can happen, the best way to secure prime dates and spaces is to plan at least 12-18 months in advance — especially for high-season events.
2. Leverage “Off Peak” Timing for Better Value
Peak season in warm-weather destinations means higher rates and limited availability, but savvy planners can unlock significant savings by booking during off-peak months or shoulder holiday periods. Not only do these times offer better pricing and more venue options, but many destinations also provide added incentives through local CVBs or DMOs (Convention & Visitors’ Bureaus or Destination Marketing Organizations) — maximizing value without compromising on experience.
3. Seek Out Newly Renovated and Expanding Properties
With a wave of revitalization and new developments, many warm-weather destinations are unveiling stunning, state-of-the-art properties. Properties such as La Cantera Resort & Spa in Texas, Surf & Sand Resort in Laguna Beach, and Wyndham Grand Rio Mar in Puerto Rico are unveiling multimillion-dollar renovations, meaning groups can experience upgraded amenities and fresh spaces. Newly opened properties like Amrit Ocean Resort in Palm Beach provide cutting-edge wellness and luxury experiences, making it an ideal executive retreat location.
4. Integrate Hybrid Outdoor and Wellness-Focused Experiences
One of the biggest advantages of warm-weather destinations is the ability to integrate outdoor activities. Resorts like Isla Bella Beach Resort in the Florida Keys offer marina views and beachfront event spaces, while locations like Casa de Campo in the Dominican Republic include activities such as golf retreats, yacht charters, and team-building excursions in the outdoors.
5. Keep Travel Logistics and Accessibility in Mind
Many of the most sought-after destinations — Miami, Orlando, San Diego, Las Vegas, and Scottsdale (Phoenix) — have major international airports and strong airline connectivity. When planning, consider ease of access for attendees. Properties further away needn’t be excluded either. Look for those that offer seamless transfers and transportation options, such as Black Desert Resort in southwest Utah, which offers luxury shuttles to and from Las Vegas’ airport.
Fontainebleau Miami Beach
6. Maximize Oceanfront & Waterfront Venues
Warm-weather destinations offer unparalleled access to waterfront venues, from private beachside pavilions to overwater bungalows and marinas. Consider hosting receptions on yacht charters, arranging private beach dinners, or utilizing ocean-view terraces for networking events to create a memorable setting that’s only possible in these locations. And for an even more unique experience, consider a cruise—through Teneo’s 3D Cruise partners, your groups can explore the world in a whole new way, combining luxury and adventure on the open seas.
7. Take Advantage of Year-Round Outdoor Dining & Receptions
Unlike cooler destinations, warm-weather resorts allow for open-air dining and al fresco receptions throughout the year. Rooftop terraces, garden courtyards, and oceanfront decks provide stunning settings for cocktail hours and gala dinners while embracing the local climate and scenery.
8. Incorporate Destination-Specific Cultural & Culinary Experiences
Warm-weather locations are rich in culture, and planners can elevate events by incorporating local flavors and traditions. Think Caribbean rum tastings, Baja-style beachfront seafood feasts, Hawaiian luau-inspired entertainment, or desert stargazing paired with a curated mezcal tasting. These exclusive experiences make events feel authentic and immersive.
9. Lean on the Experts
You’ve packed your sunscreen and bought new sunglasses. When you’re ready to begin planning your warm-weather event, don’t hesitate to reach out to the sourcing experts of Teneo’s sales team. We can help find the perfect property to suit your group’s need for warm sunshine.
