On top of the annual addition of seasonal staff, Orange County’s largest hotels are reporting a steady stream of business so far in 2025.

As the sun rises over Orange County, the hum of activity at the shoreline hotels signals a promising season for the hospitality industry. With the allure of golden beaches, family-friendly attractions, and a burgeoning culinary scene, 2025 is shaping up to be a banner year for the region’s hotel sector. Reports indicate that not only are hotels preparing for an influx of summer travelers, but they are also witnessing robust local stays, underpinning a hospitality renaissance fueled by strong economic recovery.

Solid Growth Across the Hotel Landscape

This year, the landscape is dotted with 55 hotels boasting 200 rooms or more, collectively accounting for a staggering 23,653 rooms throughout Orange County. Recently released industry data reveals that hotel employment has surged, with a reported total headcount of about 14,113 employees as of May 2025—an encouraging 6.7% increase compared to last year.

• Seasonal Hiring: Hotels like Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa and The Waterfront Beach Resort, a Hilton Hotel, credit their growth to hiring seasonal staff in anticipation of summer.
• Local Stays: Properties such as DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Anaheim Resort-Convention Center cite a steady stream of local visitors as a contributing factor to their increased hiring.
• Projected Occupancy: Sheraton Garden Grove-Anaheim South Hotel predicts increased occupancy for the coming months.

For instance, the DoubleTree Suites in Anaheim, with its 252 rooms, reported a remarkable 14% increase in staff, now totaling 125. “The surge in demand required us to evolve swiftly to meet the needs of our guests,” said General Manager Mark Thompson. “We are anticipating a busy season ahead.”

Emerging Trends in Regional Tourism

The relentless growth can also be attributed to major developments unfolding in Anaheim. With projects such as DisneylandForward and the ongoing construction of OCVibe around the Honda Center, local tourism is experiencing an invigorating push. Industry analysts predict that these developments will create a ripple effect across the hospitality sector, enhancing the appeal of Orange County as a vacation destination.

“We’ve noticed a dynamic shift in consumer behavior,” states tourism expert Dr. Linda Giordano, who has researched regional travel trends extensively. “Even as international travelers adjust their plans, the regional recovery remains robust. Staycations and local tourism are thriving, effectively revitalizing the market.”

Transformations in Established Hotels

Among these emblematic properties is the Hilton Anaheim, the largest hotel in the area, housing 1,574 rooms. The establishment is nearing the end of a monumental $200 million renovation, with the final pieces set to complete in late August. Noteworthy enhancements feature a new restaurant, Poppy’s, slated to open in July, led by Executive Chef Prabeen Prathapan. “This renovation isn’t just about revitalizing the hotel; it’s about establishing a hub for the local community as much as for tourists,” said General Manager Sergio Bocci.

Similarly, Montage Laguna Beach has also embraced change. This top-tier resort, with its oceanfront views, reopened its newly branded restaurant, Studio Mediterranean, on June 26, having assembled a new team dedicated to elevating the guest experience. General Manager Victorio Gonzalez, returning to lead the flagship property after years in other locations, remarked, “This is a full-circle moment for me, and I am excited to enhance local engagement and create unforgettable memories.”

Recognition in Quality and Service

With excellence in service recognized across the board, the Hyatt Regency Irvine has recently earned a prestigious AAA Four Diamond designation following a $55 million transformation. Sid Ramani, the area general manager, shared, “This recognition is a powerful validation of our commitment to providing exceptional service and quality.”

As of 2025, Orange County now boasts 19 Four Diamond hotels, including notable mentions such as the Disneyland Hotel and JW Marriott Anaheim Resort. The competitive landscape suggests that establishing and maintaining high quality is paramount, drawing in both regional visitors and tourists.

“For many people, the Four Diamond designation is a symbol of trust,” notes hospitality analyst Rachel Myles. “Guests often gravitate towards that level of assurance when selecting where to stay, especially in a region like Orange County where luxury and leisure converge.”

Adapting to a New Era

While external factors cause some visitors to shorten their stays, many hotels are witnessing not just a rebound, but an adaptation to new market demands. The Viv Hotel in Anaheim highlights this trend. Under the stewardship of newly appointed General Manager Maria Evans, the 326-key property is consistently refining its approach to meet consumer expectations post-pandemic. Evans commented, “Adaptability is crucial. The industry is constantly evolving, and we aim to be ahead of the curve.”

With the arrival of summer, Orange County’s hotels are not merely preparing for an influx of travelers; they are embracing a transformative phase of growth. Through strategic renovations, enhanced hiring practices, and efforts to engage both tourists and locals, these establishments are crafting a narrative of resilience in the hospitality industry—a sector adapting and evolving to the preferences of a new generation of travelers. The commitment to creating memorable experiences, whether for a weekend getaway or a corporate retreat, positions Orange County as a formidable contender in the ever-competitive landscape of tourism.