who owns the catamaran resort in san diego

Who Owns the Catamaran Resort in San Diego?

By Michael Ferguson

If you’re planning a trip to San Diego and looking for a luxurious resort experience, you may have come across the Catamaran Resort. But have you ever wondered who owns this stunning property?

The History of the Catamaran Resort

Before we dive into the ownership of the resort, let’s take a look at its history. The Catamaran Resort was opened in 1958 by Walter and Betty Zable. It was originally built as a small hotel with just 20 rooms, but over the years, it has expanded into a massive resort with over 300 rooms and suites.

One of the most unique features of the Catamaran Resort is its location on Mission Bay, which offers stunning views of the water and surrounding landscape. The resort also boasts several restaurants, a spa, and multiple outdoor pools.

The Current Owner of the Catamaran Resort

So who currently owns this beautiful property? In 2017, the Evans Hotels group purchased the Catamaran Resort from Pacifica Host Hotels. The Evans family has been involved in San Diego’s hospitality industry for over 60 years and owns several other properties in addition to the Catamaran.

The Evans Hotels group is known for its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendliness. They even won an award from the San Diego Green Building Council for their efforts to reduce energy usage at one of their other properties.

What Sets the Catamaran Resort Apart

While there are many resorts in San Diego, what sets the Catamaran apart? For one, its prime location on Mission Bay is hard to beat. Guests can enjoy water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding right from the resort’s beach.

The resort also offers unique experiences like a nightly sunset cruise on a replica Mississippi-style sternwheeler boat. And for those looking to relax and unwind, there’s an on-site spa offering massages, facials, and other treatments.

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Bill Evans, Man of Influence

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Last month, the San Diego City Council approved an uncommon lease extension for the Bahia Resort Hotel on Mission Bay.

Among the interesting elements of the deal was the timing of the vote, during the last week of Mayor Jerry Sanders’ tenure, and the fact that it reached the docket at that time only by first skipping a hearing before the City Council’s committee on land use issues.

One thing that wasn’t unusual, though, was the fact that the City Council would be concerned with the status of Bill Evans, the recipient of the new lease. One of the city’s most prominent hoteliers, he’s also sat on major regional boards, is a prolific political contributor and was recently considered for a board appointment at the Unified Port of San Diego.

Evans Hotels, the company founded by his father more than a half-century ago, operates three of San Diego’s highest-profile establishments. In addition to the Bahia, it also owns the Catamaran Hotel & Spa on Mission Bay and the Lodge at Torrey Pines overlooking Torrey Pines golf course, as well as two party boats that ferry back and forth between the two Mission Bay hotels.

The Bahia became the family business’s first resort in 1953, when William Evans put forward the only bid to lease the city’s land, back when the area was still a mud flat.

William Evans died in 1984, but the business has continued to thrive under his wife, Anne Evans, who became chairwoman that year.

But the company also owes its success to their son, Bill Evans, executive VP and managing director since his father’s death, and his sister, Grace Evans Cherashore, president and CEO since 1992.

It was Bill Evans who stood before the City Council last month (along with CFO Robert Gleason, also a frequent political donor), making the case for the agreement he negotiated with the city’s real estate assets division, and pledged to make good on the redevelopment hopes he said drove both the company and the city into the deal.

A year ago, he made waves when he spoke out against the financing plan for a Convention Center expansion after he had initially been part of a Sanders-appointed task force to look into the project. He eventually supported the deal because he felt the expansion was vital to the city, but maintained his belief that the hotel taxing structure that paid for part of it was unfair to hotels that aren’t near the Convention Center.

Back in 2009, he was nominated to become one of San Diego’s three appointed port commissioners. He had the support of Councilwoman Marti Emerald, a Democrat, and Councilman Kevin Faulconer, a Republican, but the position eventually went to Lee Burdick.

He’s also a past president of a major regional hotel association and the San Diego Convention Center Corp., and a past board member of the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Convention Center and Visitors Bureau (ConVis), which recently recaptured control of San Diego’s long-term marketing responsibilities from the Convention Center Corp. with Evans’ backing.

In the fall of 2005, he was one of 15 citizens — along with then-businessman Carl DeMaio — to receive a letter from City Attorney Mike Aguirre encouraging him to register as a lobbyist after a San Diego Union Tribune investigation identified him as one of the most frequent people on the appointment calendars of city council members and their chiefs of staff.

He’s also a prolific contributor to political campaigns.

In the last six years alone, members of the Evans family and employees of Evans Hotels have made campaign contributions of more than $27,000 to propositions and city officials, including the mayoral campaigns of Sanders and DeMaio.

Those donations have been spread among Democrats and Republicans, “pro business” and “union friendly” legislators, winners and losers alike.

While the family and company are regular donors to the city’s decision-makers, it’s worth putting the $27,000 over six years in context: Evans Hotels grosses more than $100 million in revenue annually, and has invested over $27 million in the Bahia property since 1985. Checks for $500 to political campaigns aren’t costly expenditures.

But its nonetheless unsurprising that the City Council would prioritize the concerns of a company whose executives sit on influential city boards, make regular campaign contributions and who’ve recently been considered for perhaps the region’s most significant appointed position.

At the City Council hearing during which the new lease agreement won unanimous approval, Faulconer personally thanked members of the Evans family for attending and praised the work Evans Hotels has done on its leaseholds throughout the city.

“You have treated this property I think extremely well. And any time that we’ve had any interactions or issues, which have been very minimal, you were always there,” he said. “That’s the type of relationship I think we wish we had with more of our tenants.”

Emerald, who along with Councilman David Alvarez questioned why the extension had been hurried to a vote before joining their colleagues in unanimously approving it, interrupted her remarks to assure she didn’t question Evans’ intentions.

“To set the record straight, I have absolute confidence in Mr. Evans and his organization, who do a first-class job with anything that they do there,” she said. “But I do respect the process for review, and I just don’t understand where’s the fire, where’s the urgency to get this done now when next week we have a new council coming in, a new mayor?”

I’m Andrew Keatts, a reporter for Voice of San Diego. Please contact me if you’d like at [email protected] or 619.325.0529 and follow me on Twitter

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The Catamaran Resort and Spa, San Diego

The Catamaran Resort Hotel & Spa is situated between Sail Bay and the Pacific Ocean where San Diego’s Scripps family once had their summer home. The elegant hotel at the corner of Mission Boulevard and Pacific Beach Drive was designed with a 1950s Polynesian vibe. The lobby’s dramatic island Mulberry Tapa (barkcloth) that hangs behind the Tahitian Black Koa wood welcome desk, an exotic stone waterfall and koi pond, hand-crafted Mexican Cantera floor tiles, and dark Honduran mahogany finishes welcome guests to a private tropical paradise. Imported traditional Pacific Island artworks adorn the lobby and other shared spaces in the hotel, and complement the colonial Hawaiian architecture.

Catamaran Resort Rooms

There are seven kinds of guest accommodations at the Catamaran that are divided between bay front and garden view choices. Bay front rooms provide a king or two double beds, a sitting area, and a small fridge. Bay front suites have separate bedrooms and couches in the living areas that fold out to beds, plus wet bars and fridges. Bay front suites are between the Tower and Sail Bay. Bay front rooms are in the building next to the suites facing Sail Bay.

Deluxe bay front and garden suites have separate bedrooms and fold-out couches in the living area, but also have kitchens with stoves, ovens, and full-size refrigerators. Bay front and garden studios have full kitchens, two double beds, and dining areas. All deluxe suites and studios are located in the Tower where you can enjoy epic views of either Coronado Bridge and beyond to Mexico, or Crystal Pier and north to La Jolla , depending on your room location.

Many bay front accommodations open to the sandy shores of Sail Bay, separated only by a grassy area. Garden view rooms open to the lush tropical plants and trees throughout the property; some open up to the pond or pool areas. To choose the room location that’s right for you, check out the property map . All rooms have patios or balconies, free HBO, hi-speed wireless Internet (paid upgrade for larger bandwidth), an iPod docking station, coffeemakers, laptop size room safe, irons and ironing boards, and hair dryers.

If you want a little more privacy away from the action combined with epic views, choose a room on the upper floors of the Tower. The best bay front rooms and suites are the ones facing Sail Bay. This area is in the heart of the action and convenient to the water, so if you want to watch passersby on the bike/walkway that encircles Sail Bay, get in on one of the many resort activities, or catch an occasional wedding, this is the place to be. Some guests have expressed concern that rooms at the Catamaran are dated, so if aesthetics is your primary reason for choosing this hotel, check out the accommodation videos on their site before making a reservation.

Catamaran Resort Amenities

Ah, amenities. This is where the Catamaran Resort Hotel & Spa really shines. You will never run out of things to do here. Adults will love Atoll Restaurant, Moray’s Lounge, the Bahia Belle, and the Catamaran Spa. Kids will go wild for the Kids’ Club and Arcade.

There are many wonderful places to eat near the hotel, but if you only eat one time at Atoll Restaurant at the Catamaran, make it Sunday Brunch with bottomless mimosas from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Weather permitting, take your brunch on the outdoor patio. It’s a little pricey, but oh so worth it.

Moray’s Lounge features local seasonal craft brews as well as a full bar. Happy Hours are daily from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Appetizers are $10, craft brews are $5, well drinks are $5.50, and house wines are $6. Inside, enjoy their 800 gallon saltwater aquarium and outside enjoy the late afternoon ambiance.

Bahia Belle hour-long cruises on Mission Bay are complimentary for Catamaran guests. Choose from family or cocktail sternwheeler cruises. Seasonal dining options are also available aboard the Bahia Belle, and often cocktail cruises feature DJs or live music.

Get your Zen fix at the Asian-inspired Catamaran Spa . Take a few minutes to yourself in the relaxation room with a fruit-infused water, work out in the fitness room, get a facial and make-up for a night out, or enjoy the steam room, sauna, or outdoor hot tub. Go all out and ask about the 2-hour Ritual.

Kids are important at the Catamaran. They’ll love the Kids’ Arcade with Dance Dance Revolution, air hockey, pool, arcade games, and more. Check out Kids’ Corner for more great activities for kids around the resort, the neighborhood, and out and about in San Diego.

These are just a few of dozens of activities at the resort and in the area. Hang out bayside on the beach, walk across the street to the Pacific Ocean for an entirely different beach experience, catch one of Catamaran’s complimentary Movies on the Bay or one of their famous luaus. Try yoga on a standup paddle board or learn to surf. Rent paddle boards, Funcats, kayaks, sail boats, Segways, bicycles, ski boats, you name it. If it says outdoor fun, the Catamaran can hook you up with a great time again and again.

Amenities tip:

Some guests have expressed concern about the costs of equipment rentals at the Catamaran, including steep deposits as much as $100 to $500. The suggestion is to stop by Mission Bay Sportcenter where many of the same rentals can be obtained at cheaper prices. Another frequent guest concern is the $18 per day self-parking fee, so be aware. Parking is tough anywhere in Pacific Beach and Mission Beach and the city does not hesitate to tow away your vehicle; be careful and read all street signs if you try to avoid this fee.

Catamaran Resort San Diego Neighborhood

The Catamaran Resort Hotel & Spa is central to Mission and Pacific beaches . Just a four-minute walk away is World Famous , a wildly popular beachside restaurant. They’re open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert; check out their menus . If you can only get there once, make it breakfast. Rent bikes and hit Ocean Front Walk (bike/walkway along the beach) after breakfast. There are a ton of shops between World Famous and Crystal Pier , or ignore the shopping and simply enjoy the view. Go the opposite direction and ride down to Belmont Park for a nostalgic ride on the Giant Dipper . Across the street from Belmont Park ia Sandbar Sports Grill where you can get a refreshing mid-afternoon adult beverage. Across Mission Boulevard is lovely Bonita Cove Park ; here, you can lie in the grass and relax before getting back on the bikes, crossing West Mission Bay Drive, and taking Bayside Walk (bike/walkway along the bay) back to the Catamaran.

Catamaran Resort Promotions

There are abundant free activities and events going on at the Catamaran Resort Hotel & Spa all the time. The Bahia Belle cruises are also complimentary for Catamaran guests. Happy Hour in Moray’s Bar is every day of the week from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. The Catamaran Spa often has Groupon deals, as does the resort.

Catamaran Resort TripAdvisor Reviews.

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Discover the Catamaran Resort Hotel  A San Diego Beachfront Resort

Welcome to the Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa, a tropical hideaway in San Diego’s Pacific Beach community. Our Polynesian-themed resort, only 8 miles from San Diego International Airport, offers casual elegance with palm trees, lush vegetation, tiki torches, koi ponds, waterfalls, and exotic birds that like to strike up conversations with guests. With Mission Bay as our backyard and the Pacific Ocean across the street, there's no better choice among Pacific Beach San Diego hotels.

Whether you enjoy sunbathing at the beach, relaxing by the pool, rejuvenating in The Catamaran Spa’s hot tub that overlooks the bay, paddle boarding, or cruising up and down the boardwalk on a bike, we have something for everyone. When you’re ready to venture out into America’s Finest City, you are just 3 miles from SeaWorld San Diego, 12 miles from the world-famous San Diego Zoo, and 28 miles from LEGOLAND California.

Our family-owned hotel has made the difficult decision to temporarily close, in accordance with [ORDER] and [GUIDANCE]. While we are incredibly disappointed that it has come to this, the safety and well-being of our guests, employees, and community remain our top priority. We hope to reopen as soon as possible.

For existing reservations between DAY, MONTH DATE and DAY, MONTH DATE, guests will automatically receive a full refund. For reservations made through our travel partners, please contact them directly for their company’s policies. For group guests, please contact the organizer of the event.  Should you have any questions regarding reservations, please call (858) 488-1081 .

From our family to yours, we wish you the utmost health and safety during this uncertain time. We will all get through this together, and we look forward to welcoming you in the not too distant future.

Settle into your welcoming accommodations with postcard views of either Mission Bay, the Pacific Ocean, or lush tropical gardens.

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A San Diego summer tradition on the shores of Mission Bay

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Your Ultimate San Diego Adventure Awaits

Be spoiled with endless activity options both on-property as well as in the surrounding Pacific Beach neighborhood. Relax at the resort with a waterfront meal and renewing spa treatment, or check out the exciting nearby attractions. From an on-site spa to award-winning California cuisine and a vibrant beachside community, enjoy the luxury you want and perks you expect from this top-rated beachfront hotel in San Diego.

Savor award-winning California cuisine paired with gorgeous bay views.

Explore the charming beachside community and best local attractions.

Unwind and focus on your health at San Diego's only beachfront spa.

A Spectacular Setting for Every Occasion

Make it your best event yet with an unbeatable Pacific Beach location. Experience the best of both worlds at our renowned San Diego beach resort with beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces that accommodate groups and occasions of all sizes. Plan your corporate meeting, dream wedding, or any social event at the Catamaran’s beautiful and versatile venues.

An unforgettable location for your convention or group meeting.

Romance is in the air at The Knot’s Best of Weddings winner.

All special occasions deserve a memorable setting to match.

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3999 Mission Boulevard, San Diego, 92109, CA

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Catamaran overlooks Mission Bay, one of the largest manmade aquatic parks in the world with playgrounds, bike paths and sailboat rentals. The Catamaran features more than 300 rooms and suites that are spacious with balconies or patios. Units include plasma televisions, iPod docking stations and free high-speed Wi-Fi. The Catamaran Kids Club provides an educational club, while the hotel offers a number of many family-friendly activities and attractions, including an exotic bird room, arcade, mad science camp and pool. San Diego is also the perfect city for families, with the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld and many beaches and parks. Atoll Restaurant is an award-winning establishment that is known for its Sunday Brunch. If you visit the hotel in the mid-to-late summer, make sure to witness the Summer Sunset Luau — a Polynesian themed party with traditional food and dance.

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Family amenities.

by Alan M

My colleagues and I stayed at this resort for a conference and were very satisfied with our experience. We had breakfast every morning at the Oceana costal kitchen and had the pleasure of being served by Jeanelle and the rest of the incredible wait staff. Looking forward to coming back soon!

by MarkW4305

I was recently in San Diego for work and stayed at the catamaran. We had a delicious breakfast at the Oceana Coastal Kitchen. Our server was Jeanette who provides excellent service with a laugh and a smile. Will definitely be back!

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Catamaran Resort and Spa

Hello everyone! This is a friendly reminder that any of these fun places we may visit, we are a guest at. Please treat both businesses and trails with the utmost respect. We here at Hidden San Diego follow the 'Leave no Trace' mantra, meaning whatever you bring with you comes back with you. If you see trash on a trail, please do your part to help remove it. Remember, we are not picking up trash from another person but instead cleaning up for Mother Nature. Happy adventures!

3999 MISSION BOULEVARD  SAN DIEGO CA 92109

32.790647992, -117.25162787

Dog-Friendly:  Yes    Kid-Friendly:  Yes

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About the Catamaran Resort

The Catamaran Resort and Spa is San Diego’s premier Polynesian-themed resort located in Mission Bay . When visiting get ready to enjoy a lush paradise over-flowing with fun things to do and see!

View room options

We stayed in their Bayfront Suite while visiting which I highly recommend to anyone interested in booking a stay!  From our front door we could see (and loudly hear) the lobby’s waterfall.  I would open the door often just to hear the sound of the soothing water.

From the back-door we were right along Mission Bay.  During the evening’s luau we literally got to watch and appreciate the show right from our hotel room!

Room Amenities

Restaurants

The Catamaran Resort has two restaurants on property: Oceana Coastal Kitchen and Moray’s Outdoor Lounge.  Although they sit right next to each other, they both have their own unique features and different menus.  Visiting both is a must!

Oceana Coastal Kitchen

View their menu

Moray’s Outdoor Lounge

We came here for their Sunday Champagne Brunch and this was hands down one of the best brunches I’ve ever had!! They had oysters, crab legs, charcuterie boards, a variety of salads, vegetables, sushi, fruit and so much more!

Definitely get here early to take advantage of all the amenities such as their relaxation waiting room with fruit0infused water and teas.  They have a steam room and dry sauna with iced towels for your face when you get out.

Personal Experience

I have visited the Catamaran Resort in the past for their luau and was blown away with how beautiful this property is.  Immediately when you enter the lobby you are greeted with a 20 foot waterfall complete with live orchids and other exotic plants growing out of it. It such a welcoming spectacle to see!

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Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa vs Paradise Point Resort & Spa

Both properties are highly recommended by those who travel for a living. Overall, Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa is the choice of most writers compared to Paradise Point Resort & Spa. Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa comes in at #18 in San Diego with recommendations from 10 reviewers such as Gayot, Star Service and The Telegraph.

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• Pet Friendly

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Evans Hotels Company Overview

San Diego natives and entrepreneurs William and Anne Evans founded Evans Hotels in 1953 and the company has been a part of the fabric of America’s Finest City ever since, with two properties on Mission Bay and one in the prominent seaside community of La Jolla.

We are dedicated to providing a positive experience for each of our guests.

Deliver excellent service by a friendly, efficient and well-trained staff.

Create and maintain an environment that addresses the personal and professional needs of all employees.

Our Programs

Evans Hotels is committed to supporting and enhancing employee well-being through a variety of programs that support and nurture its team professionally and personally.