Back to Membership Directory
DMO Membership
Joanna Bear
President/CEO
Visit Laguna Beach
Contact information may be available to logged in members.
Professional Bio
Hospitality Leader | Former General Manager, Surf & Sand Laguna and Board Chair, Visit Laguna Beach
For more than two decades, Joanna Bear built her career at the iconic Surf & Sand Laguna Beach in Laguna Beach, California, where she held progressive leadership roles culminating in her tenure as General Manager from 2016 to 2025. In this role, she was responsible for all aspects of the resort’s operations, including financial performance, guest experience, food and beverage, retail, spa, banquets and catering, commercial strategy, and employee culture. Her leadership helped solidify Surf & Sand’s standing as one of California’s premier oceanfront destinations.
Beyond her work at Surf & Sand, Joanna has been a dedicated leader in the community. A VisitLaguna Beach board member since 2013, she was appointed Board Chair in 2024, where she continues to strengthen Laguna Beach’s reputation as a world-class coastal destination.
For more than two decades, Joanna Bear built her career at the iconic Surf & Sand Laguna Beach in Laguna Beach, California, where she held progressive leadership roles culminating in her tenure as General Manager from 2016 to 2025. In this role, she was responsible for all aspects of the resort’s operations, including financial performance, guest experience, food and beverage, retail, spa, banquets and catering, commercial strategy, and employee culture. Her leadership helped solidify Surf & Sand’s standing as one of California’s premier oceanfront destinations.
Beyond her work at Surf & Sand, Joanna has been a dedicated leader in the community. A VisitLaguna Beach board member since 2013, she was appointed Board Chair in 2024, where she continues to strengthen Laguna Beach’s reputation as a world-class coastal destination.
Organization
Visit Laguna Beach
DMO Membership