SPIE Optics + Photonics 2026 is the premier international meeting for optics and photonics, featuring a 5-day conference (23–27 August) and a 3-day free exhibition (25–27 August) at the San Diego Convention Center. The event covers optical engineering, nanotechnology, quantum science, and organic photonics, with over 2,000 technical presentations and a large exhibition of leading suppliers.
Advanced MaterialsMeasurement, Control & TestingMicro & NanotechnologiesTelecommunications, Computers NetworksSciences for Engineers - Research & DevelopmentEquipments & Technologies for Medical and Surgery
Dates
23–27 Aug 2026
City / country
San Diego, United States
Venue
San Diego Convention Center
Time
Conferences: 23 – 27 August 2026 | Exhibition: 25 – 27 August 2026 | Courses: 23 – 26 August 2026
SPIE Optics + Photonics is the leading multidisciplinary conference and exhibition for optical science and technology.
The event brings together researchers, engineers, and industry leaders to share breakthroughs in optical engineering, nanotechnology, quantum science, and organic photonics.
The free three-day exhibition connects attendees with top suppliers showcasing the newest products and latest technologies in optical components, materials, devices, and systems.
TL;DR
1Free three-day exhibition (25–27 August 2026) at the San Diego Convention Center.
2Over 2,000 technical papers and presentations across 45 conferences.
4Expected 5,000–10,000 attendees from industry, academia, and government worldwide.
5Networking receptions (Smoothie Social, Sails Social) and plenary sessions with leading experts.
Why visit
Visiting the free three-day exhibition allows attendees to meet face-to-face with top optics and photonics suppliers, discuss product needs, and discover solutions for cutting costs and increasing capabilities. The exhibition showcases the newest products and latest technologies in optical components, materials, devices, and systems. Attendees can also participate in technical conferences, plenary talks, professional development courses, and networking receptions, all while connecting with over 10,000 professionals from around the world.
Why exhibit
Exhibiting at SPIE Optics + Photonics provides direct access to a highly qualified audience of research scientists, lead engineers, R&D managers, university professors, and business development executives from industry and academia. The exhibition floor is a unique marketplace where researchers and engineers connect with leading companies, discuss product needs, and explore solutions to cut costs and increase capabilities. Exhibitors gain visibility among decision-makers seeking the latest optical components, photonic devices, imaging systems, and sensing technologies. The event offers turnkey kiosk and mini-booth options for a streamlined exhibit experience.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Who this event is for
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Research scientists and lead engineers from industry and academia
R&D managers and technical directors seeking new technologies and solutions
University professors and graduate students in optics, photonics, and related fields
Business development executives and entrepreneurs exploring commercial opportunities
Government and military personnel involved in optical and photonic systems
Procurement and supply chain professionals looking for new suppliers and products
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Manufacturers and suppliers of optical components (lenses, mirrors, filters, gratings)
Providers of photonic devices (lasers, LEDs, detectors, modulators)
Developers of imaging and sensing systems (cameras, spectrometers, LIDAR)
Software and analysis tool vendors (optical design, simulation, testing)
Materials and nanotechnology companies (advanced materials, nanofabrication)
Research institutions and government labs showcasing photonics innovations
Underground garage with 1,950 spaces and 31 ADA-compliant stalls. Rates vary based on event activity; no in-and-out privileges. Additional 2,000-space structure across the street. Metered street parking also available.
1,950 spaces ·
Accessibility
ADA-compliant with braille signage, automatic doors, elevators, accessible restrooms, designated parking, and elevator access from garage. Wheelchair lifts for stages available with advanced request. Mobility scooters not provided onsite but can be rented from local companies.
Prayer rooms
Prayer room located in Room 12 on the Mezzanine Level. Quiet room in Room 13 on the Mezzanine Level.
Charging points
23 charging stations located throughout the lower-level lobbies.
On-site shuttle
No dedicated onsite shuttle service; however, the San Diego Trolley has two stops directly in front of the building, and the San Diego Flyer offers free shuttle between the airport and Old Town Transit Center for Trolley connections.
Parking: On-site: 1,950-vehicle underground parking garage located directly beneath the building. Payment is due upon entry, no in-and-out privileges, and overnight/RV parking is strictly prohibited. Off-site: 2,000-space parking structure located across the street at the corner of Harbor Drive and 8th Ave.
Gate: Vehicles: The main entrance to the on-site underground parking garage is accessed directly from Harbor Drive. Transit: San Diego Trolley access stops at Harbor Drive/First Avenue and Harbor Drive/Fifth Avenue.
Attend
Entry & tickets
Free registration
Event days & opening times
DayOpening hours
Conferences: 2327 August 2026 | Exhibition: 25 – 27 August 2026 | Courses: 23 – 26 August 2026
Exhibition Only
Free registration for the three-day exhibition.
Technical Attendee (Member)
Fee for speakers, authors, program committee, session chairs, and technical attendees who are SPIE members.
$940.00
Technical Attendee (Non-member)
Fee for speakers, authors, program committee, session chairs, and technical attendees who are not SPIE members.
Badges must be worn at all times within the conference venue. Badges can be obtained onsite at the SPIE registration desk. Individuals are not allowed to pick up badges for other attendees. SPIE reserves the right to deny a press badge to any person who does not regularly provide visible news coverage of science or technology.
Ticket notes
Exhibition registration is free. Paid registration options are available for conference attendees, authors, and students.
Awarded to Maryellen Giger for pioneering work in computer-aided diagnosis and image analysis/AI, significant impact on clinical translation, and supporting the next generation of researchers.
Awarded to James Sydor for visionary leadership, philanthropy, and service to SPIE and the precision optics community through advancements in optical fabrication, support of optics education, and numerous contributions to the Society.
Awarded to Xiao-Cong (Larry) Yuan and Anatoly Zayats for exceptional leadership in founding the high-impact journal Advanced Photonics as co-editors-in-chief.
Awarded to Hui Cao for pioneering work in novel light sources, and demonstrating a wide range of applications in imaging, sensing, and random number generation.
The 2025 edition of SPIE Optics + Photonics featured over 2,600 presentations across 52 conferences, with 30 professional development courses and a dozen plenary speakers. A major highlight was the introduction of the Astronomical Applications symposium. The 2024 edition gathered approximately 3,500 attendees and over 150 exhibitors, featuring poster presentations ranging from breast cancer detection to astronomical telescope mirrors, as well as dedicated sessions on science communication and the clinical use of AI.
New this edition
1
Astronomical Applications Symposium (2025)
Introduction of a fourth symposium covering space and ground telescopes, UV/X-ray/gamma-ray astronomy, and exoplanet detection.
SPIE Optics + Photonics 2026 returns to the San Diego Convention Center for a 5-day conference (August 23-27) paired with a 3-day free exhibition (August 25-27), continuing the event's focus on optical engineering, nanotechnology, quantum science, and organic photonics.
Conference and exhibition dates shift later in August compared to the 2025 edition (early August) Exhibition window narrows slightly to Aug 25-27, 2026 versus Aug 5-7, 2025
Impact
A bigger and stronger platform
SPIE Optics + Photonics 2025 drew an anticipated 3,500 attendees to the San Diego Convention Center, combining a 5-day technical conference with a 3-day free exhibition. The event featured more than 2,600 technical presentations across 52 conferences and symposia covering nanophotonics, quantum science, imaging, optical engineering, and astronomical instrumentation, alongside 150+ exhibiting companies showcasing lasers, sensors, imaging systems, coatings, and optical components.
Audience quality
High-value decision-makers
Attendees in 2025 typically included academic and industrial researchers, optical engineers, and graduate students presenting technical papers and posters, alongside product developers and business leaders seeking networking and collaboration opportunities.
Exhibitor outcomes
Real business growth
Official recap materials describe exhibitor access to engineers, product developers, and business leaders eager to explore new technologies and establish collaborations, though specific quantified ROI metrics (such as leads generated or sales figures) were not published in available sources.
Intelligence
Exhibitors
886
Exhibitors
16
Categories
50
Countries
15
Pavilions
Top exhibitor countries
Top 10 by exhibitor count — estimates based on published directory.
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Global, with strong representation from North America (United States, Canada), Europe (Germany, United Kingdom, France, Switzerland), and Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Taiwan, Republic of Korea, Singapore). The event draws a significant international audience, with the United States accounting for approximately 53% of exhibitors, followed by China (14%), Germany (6%), and Switzerland (3%).
Why it matters
SPIE Optics + Photonics 2026 is the premier annual gathering for the global optics and photonics community, serving as the definitive barometer for the industry's health and direction. With the photonics components market reaching $381 billion in 2024 and the broader photonics-enabled products market exceeding $2.7 trillion, the event provides an unparalleled platform for networking, deal-making, and technology scouting. The conference brings together over 2,000 technical presentations across 45 conferences, covering the full spectrum from fundamental research to commercial applications. For exhibitors, it offers direct access to R&D managers, lead engineers, and procurement professionals from industry, academia, and government. For attendees, it delivers insights into the latest breakthroughs in AI-enabled photonics, quantum technologies, optical materials, and imaging systems. The event's location in San Diego—a hub for biotech, defense, and telecommunications—further amplifies its strategic importance. As the industry evolves at twice the rate of global GDP, SPIE Optics + Photonics remains the essential touchpoint for staying competitive in this rapidly growing field.
Industry trends
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
01
AI Everywhere – Artificial Intelligence Driving Photonics Innovation
Artificial intelligence was the dominant trend at SPIE Photonics West 2026, inspiring dozens of presentations and product innovations. AI is redefining the optical transceiver market, with datacom applications projected to grow from $23.4 billion in 2025 to $112.3 billion in 2031 (30% CAGR), fueled by AI training and inference infrastructure. The SPIE Optics + Photonics 2026 program explicitly features plenary presentations on AI and Machine Learning.
Co-Packaged Optics and Silicon Photonics Maturation
Co-packaged optics is no longer framed as a future bandwidth solution, but as a near-term systems engineering challenge demanding maturity across simulation, materials, and manufacturing. Silicon photonics is transitioning from academic research to a commercial technology for the AI era, driven by the massive demand for data bandwidth from AI applications. The integrated photonics market is growing rapidly, from $10.26 billion in 2025 to an estimated $11.39 billion in 2026 (11% CAGR).
Quantum Technologies: From Lab to Industrial Application
Quantum science is a core pillar of SPIE Optics + Photonics, alongside optical engineering, nanotechnology, and organic photonics. Photonics West 2026 featured Quantum West with six tracks covering quantum information systems, communications, computing, sensing, imaging, biology, and enabling materials. The Optica Quantum 2.0 Conference and Exhibition (15–18 June 2026) further underscores the growing commercial focus on quantum photonics.
Sustainability is a featured plenary topic at SPIE Optics + Photonics 2026, with dedicated presenters addressing the intersection of photonics and environmental responsibility. The broader photonics-enabled products market is projected to exceed $2.7 trillion in 2025, reflecting the industry's growing economic and environmental footprint.
According to SPIE's 2026 Global Industry Report, revenues from optics and photonics core components reached $381 billion in 2024, growing 10% from 2023. The global photonics market is projected to grow from $1.46 trillion in 2026 to $1.79 trillion by 2031 (4.16% CAGR). Innovation in photonics is growing at more than twice the rate of global GDP.
Space Technologies and Advanced Optical Applications
The market for space-related technologies shows strong and sustained growth, as highlighted at Photonics West 2026. Emerging applications include positioning, navigation, timing, and advanced imaging systems. Optical engineering and applications remain a core focus, with plenary presentations addressing cutting-edge developments in optical design and manufacturing.
Photonics Market Projected to Reach $1.79 Trillion by 2031
The global photonics market reached $1.46 trillion in 2026 and is projected to climb to $1.79 trillion by 2031, at a 4.16% CAGR, driven by AI, quantum, and optical communications.
AI-Driven Optical Transceiver Market Set for 30% CAGR Through 2031
The optical transceiver market for datacom applications is projected to grow from $23.4 billion in 2025 to $112.3 billion in 2031, with AI infrastructure accounting for over 90% of market revenue.
SPIE Reports Photonics Components Industry Reached $381 Billion in 2024
SPIE's 2026 Global Industry Report shows optics and photonics core components revenue reached $381 billion in 2024, growing 10% from 2023, with innovation outpacing global GDP growth.
Global Photonics and Optics Event Circuit 2026–2027
August 2026 – August 2027
The optics and photonics event calendar is anchored by SPIE's flagship conferences, with major gatherings across North America, Europe, and Asia. The circuit spans from the winter Photonics West in San Francisco to the summer Optics + Photonics in San Diego, with regional events in Europe (Photonics Europe), Asia (Laser World of Photonics China, CIOE), and specialized conferences like CLEO and OFC filling the calendar. This dense schedule reflects the industry's global nature and rapid innovation cycle.
15–19 Mar 2026
OFC 2026 (Optical Fiber Communication Conference)
Los Angeles, United States
Premier conference for optical communications and networking. Exhibition: 17–19 March. Draws 16,700 attendees from 91 countries.
Premier multidisciplinary conference and exhibition for optical science and technology. Free exhibition (25–27 August). Over 2,000 technical presentations.
Photonics West 2026 (January)OFC 2026 (March)Laser World of Photonics China 2026 (March)Photonics Europe 2026 (April)Defense + Commercial Sensing 2026 (April)
The first half of the year is dominated by Photonics West in San Francisco, followed by OFC in Los Angeles and regional events in Asia and Europe.
Summer – Fall 2026
CLEO 2026 (May)Optica Quantum 2.0 (June)SPIE Optics + Photonics 2026 (August)CIOE 2026 (September)Laser World of Photonics India 2026 (September)
Summer brings CLEO and Optics + Photonics as the two major North American conferences, with Asian events in the fall.
Winter 2027
SPIE Photonics West 2027 (January–February)
The circuit resets with Photonics West 2027, typically the largest and most attended photonics event of the year.
Event dates and locations compiled from official SPIE, Optica, and conference websites as of July 2026.
Plan your trip
Travel & logistics
Local currency · USD
Arrival airports
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
SAN
San Diego International Airport
The primary and most convenient airport. Served by the MTS line 992 bus (15 min, ~$2.50), taxi/rideshare (~$26), and hotel shuttles.
4.3 km (2.7 miles)
to venue
10–15 minutes
by car
TIJ
Tijuana International Airport
Cross-border option via CBX (Cross Border Xpress) pedestrian bridge to San Diego; allow extra time for border formalities.
25 km (15.5 miles)
to venue
~35–45 minutes (with border crossing)
by car
SNA
John Wayne Airport (Santa Ana)
Secondary option for attendees coming from Orange County or Los Angeles area; requires ground transport.
126 km (78 miles)
to venue
~1.5 hours
by car
ONT
Ontario International Airport
Alternative for those flying into the Inland Empire; connections via shuttle or rental car.
156 km (97 miles)
to venue
~2 hours
by car
Hotel tiers
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
budget
Downtown / Gaslamp Quarter
USD 150–220 / night
Budget-friendly options like Comfort Inn Gaslamp and The Bristol Hotel. Typically 1-2 star properties within 10-15 minutes walk of the Convention Center. Limited amenities but excellent location.
mid range
Gaslamp Quarter / Downtown
USD 220–300 / night
Mid-range hotels including Courtyard by Marriott Gaslamp/Convention Center, Hotel Indigo, and Residence Inn by Marriott Downtown. 3-star properties with good amenities, within 5-10 minutes walk of the venue.
premium
Marina / Waterfront
USD 300–400 / night
Premium options like Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina (headquarters hotel), Hilton San Diego Bayfront, Omni, Westin Gaslamp, Embassy Suites, and Hilton Gaslamp. 4-5 star properties with waterfront or bay views, adjacent or very close to the Convention Center.
Local transport
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
MTS Trolley (Green Line)
Estimated cost$6 for Day Tripper Pass (unlimited rides) or $2.50 per single ride
Best forConvention Center Station (Harbor Drive/First Avenue) and Gaslamp Station (Harbor Drive/Fifth Avenue) – connects to Mission Valley, SDSU, Old Town, Santa Fe Depot
The Green Line stops directly in front of the Convention Center at two locations. Service runs every 15 minutes from ~5 AM to 11:30 PM daily. PRONTO card/app accepted.
MTS Bus (Route 992)
Estimated cost$2.50
Best forSan Diego International Airport (SAN) to Downtown / Convention Center
Bus 992 runs from the airport to downtown, connecting to the America Plaza Trolley Station for onward travel to the Convention Center. Day passes can be purchased online before arrival for unlimited rides.
Taxi / Rideshare
Estimated cost$20–30
Best forAirport to Convention Center / Downtown Hotels
Taxis from SAN to downtown hotels are approximately $20-25; Uber/Lyft are $20-30. Widely available and convenient for door-to-door service.
Shuttle / Private Transfer
Estimated costVaries
Best forAirport to Convention Center / Hotels
Hotel shuttles and private transfer services are available from SAN to downtown properties. Check with individual hotels for availability.
Car Rental
Estimated costVaries by vehicle and duration
Best forAirport to Convention Center / Regional
Hertz offers 20% off the retail rate with CDP 2188961. Parking at the Convention Center and hotels is available but can be expensive.
San Diego Flyer (Free Shuttle)
Estimated costFree
Best forSAN Airport Terminals to Old Town Transit Center
Free electric shuttle connecting the airport to Old Town Transit Center, where attendees can board the Green or Blue Trolley lines.
Plan your trip
Visa & entry documents
Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.
Visa required
ATA Carnet: accepted
Type
Who needs it
Fee
Processing
ESTA (Visa Waiver Program)
Citizens of ~42 Visa Waiver Program (VWP) participating countries.
$40.00
Usually within 72 hours
B-1 Business Visitor Visa
Citizens of non-VWP countries traveling for business, meetings, or conferences.
$185.00
Varies significantly by US embassy/consulate (weeks to months depending on interview wait times)
Citizens of Canada and Bermuda are generally exempt from both visa and ESTA requirements for short-term business visits. All other nationalities require either a visa or an ESTA.
The United States accepts ATA Carnets for the temporary, duty-free import of commercial samples, professional equipment, and exhibition materials. A global transition to digital eATA Carnets is ongoing throughout 2026, meaning both paper and digital formats may be used.
August in San Diego is warm and pleasant with average highs of 77–82°F (25–28°C) and lows around 65–68°F (18–20°C). Humidity is moderate (~76%) and rainfall is minimal (less than 1 mm). Evenings can be cool near the bay, so a light jacket is recommended. Pack light, breathable layers, comfortable walking shoes, and sun protection.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
The San Diego Convention Center is exceptionally well-connected. It is located 3 miles (4.3 km) from San Diego International Airport (SAN) and less than 1 mile from the Amtrak Santa Fe Depot train station. The San Diego Trolley (MTS) has two stops directly in front of the building at Harbor Drive/First Avenue and Harbor Drive/Fifth Avenue. The Green Line trolley connects the Convention Center to Mission Valley, Old Town, SDSU, and the Gaslamp Quarter. The San Diego Flyer is a free electric shuttle between SAN and Old Town Transit Center, where attendees can connect to the Trolley. The venue is also within walking distance of over 14,000 hotel rooms in downtown San Diego and adjacent to the Gaslamp Quarter, Seaport Village, and PETCO Park.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Cultural notes
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Tipping Culture
Tipping is customary in the US. Standard gratuities: 15–20% at restaurants, $1–2 per bag for hotel porters, and $2–5 per day for housekeeping. Rideshare and taxi drivers typically expect 10–15%.
Cashless Payments
While credit/debit cards and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are widely accepted, it's advisable to carry some cash (USD) for small vendors, tips, or places that may not accept cards. Venue food outlets are 100% cashless.
Currency & Exchange
The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Mexican pesos are not accepted in most establishments despite proximity to the border. When using ATMs or card terminals, always choose to be charged in USD to avoid unfavorable dynamic currency conversion rates.
Language
English is the primary language. Spanish is also widely spoken, especially in the downtown and border areas.
Punctuality & Business Etiquette
Americans value punctuality for meetings and sessions. Business attire is generally smart casual; however, conference attendees often wear business casual or casual comfortable clothing. Networking is direct and friendly.
Safety & Emergency
San Diego is generally safe, but exercise standard urban precautions: keep valuables secure, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and be aware of your surroundings. In case of emergency, dial 911.
Practical guides
Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Flights
Destination: San Diego International Airport (SAN)
Book early for best rates, especially for August travel. SAN is served by most major US and international carriers. Consider flying into LAX or SNA as alternatives if direct flights to SAN are limited.
Visa
Most international attendees must obtain either an ESTA (for VWP countries) or a B-1 business visa prior to traveling to the United States.
Estimated cost: Not yet confirmed
Processing: 72 hours for ESTA; weeks to months for B-1 visa interviews
SPIE strongly recommends requesting an event invitation letter and beginning the visa application process as early as possible due to long interview wait times in some countries.
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: San Diego International Airport (SAN) is 3 miles from the Convention Center. Options: Taxi ($20-25), rideshare ($20-30), MTS Bus 992 ($2.50) to downtown, or free San Diego Flyer shuttle to Old Town Transit Center for Trolley connection.
Hotel → venue: Most official hotels are within walking distance (5-15 minutes) of the Convention Center. The MTS Trolley Green Line stops directly in front of the venue at Harbor Drive/First Avenue and Harbor Drive/Fifth Avenue.
Ride-hail: Uber and Lyft are widely available throughout San Diego. Estimated fare from airport to downtown is $20-30. Rideshare pick-up zones are designated at the airport and Convention Center.
Public transit: MTS Trolley (Green Line) and buses serve the Convention Center. Day passes start at $6 for unlimited rides. PRONTO card/app accepted for contactless payment. The Green Line runs every 15 minutes from ~5 AM to 11:30 PM daily.
Parking: The Convention Center has an underground garage with 1,950 spaces and 31 ADA-compliant stalls. Rates vary by event; no in-and-out privileges. Additional off-site lots and garages are available via SpotHero. Hotel parking is typically valet-only with daily rates ranging from $30-60.
Seasonality: Minimal rainfall (<1 mm); dry and sunny
Packing: Lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime; light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings and air-conditioned indoor spaces. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are recommended for outdoor activities.
Plan your trip
Planning
Best day to visit: 2026-08-26
August 26 falls in the middle of the three-day free exhibition window (Aug 25-27), when exhibitor booths are fully staffed and set up, technical conference sessions are still running in parallel, and attendee traffic is typically highest before the wind-down on the final day.
T-60
Register for conference or free exhibition-only pass and save badge confirmation — Exhibition-only access is free; conference access requires paid registration.
T-45
Book flights into San Diego International Airport (SAN) and hotel near the Gaslamp Quarter/Convention Center — Hotels near the venue average $253-292/night; book early as August is a higher-demand month.
T-30
Confirm visa or ESTA eligibility for U.S. entry if traveling internationally
T-21
Browse the technical program and shortlist target conferences, sessions, and exhibitors — Program covers over 2,000 technical presentations across optical engineering, nanotechnology, quantum science, and organic photonics.
T-14
Shortlist target exhibitor booths from the exhibitor list and plan a floor walk route
T-10
Prepare meeting requests and a follow-up email template for exhibitor and speaker contacts
T-7
Download the event app or program PDF and confirm session room assignments
T-3
Print or save digital badge confirmation and check parking/transit options near the venue — On-site underground parking (1,950 vehicles) is available beneath the convention center; payment due on entry, no in-and-out privileges.
Sample visitor itinerary
Route-optimised day
Day 1 Morning
Arrive in San Diego, check into hotel near the Gaslamp Quarter
San Diego Convention Center area
Day 1 Afternoon
Badge pickup and orientation walk of the venue
San Diego Convention Center
Day 1 Evening
Recommendation: dinner and networking in the Gaslamp Quarter
Gaslamp Quarter
Day 2 (Aug 23) Morning
Attend opening technical conference sessions
San Diego Convention Center
Day 2 Afternoon
Attend targeted symposium talks (optical engineering, nanoscience, or quantum photonics)
Attend product demonstrations and technical poster sessions
San Diego Convention Center exhibit hall
Day 5 (Aug 26) Full Day
Peak exhibition day - meetings with suppliers, networking events
San Diego Convention Center exhibit hall
Day 6 (Aug 27) Morning
Final exhibition day - wrap up meetings and collect materials
San Diego Convention Center exhibit hall
Day 6 Afternoon
Recommendation: side trip to Balboa Park or USS Midway Museum before departure
Balboa Park or Embarcadero
Side trips
6
Gaslamp Quarter
Entertainment District
Recommendation: walkable historic district with dining, nightlife, and Victorian architecture right next to the venue.
adjacent to the convention center
USS Midway Museum
Museum
Recommendation: explore a decommissioned aircraft carrier turned museum, a top San Diego waterfront attraction.
approx. 1 mile
Seaport Village
Shopping and Waterfront
Recommendation: waterfront shops, dining, and bay views within walking distance of the convention center.
approx. 0.5 mile
Petco Park
Sports Venue
Recommendation: catch a San Diego Padres game if the schedule aligns with your visit dates.
approx. 0.5 mile
Balboa Park
Park and Museums
Recommendation: home to the San Diego Zoo and multiple museums, ideal for a half-day excursion.
approx. 2-3 miles
Little Italy
Dining and Neighborhood
Recommendation: popular neighborhood for Italian dining and a Saturday farmers market.
approx. 1 mile
Networking spots
4
Gaslamp Quarter restaurants and bars
Informal Networking
Recommendation: popular post-conference gathering spot for attendees given its walking distance from the venue, not an official event program.
San Diego Convention Center exhibit hall aisles
On-Site Networking
Recommendation: informal networking naturally occurs around exhibitor booths during exhibition hours.
Seaport Village waterfront
Casual Meetup
Recommendation: relaxed waterfront setting for informal meetings near the venue.
Petco Park area bars
Informal Networking
Recommendation: near the convention center, popular for evening gatherings, especially on game nights.
Budget
Costs & budget
Shell scheme
USD 514–605 / m²
Raw space
USD 462–544 / m²
Standard booth
9.29 m²
10x10 booth corner premium is $1,045 per corner. Islands are sold in 100 sq. ft. increments with a 400 sq. ft. minimum. Turnkey kiosks and mini booths are all-inclusive of labor and furnishings.
Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
Estimated budget
Live estimate
Booth 9 m² × $559.50/m²$5,035.50
Hotel × 4 nights$764.00
Per diem × 4$400.00
Estimated total$6,199.50
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Cost reference
Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.
booth_10x10_nonmember
exhibitor · standard
USD 5620 / booth
officialAs of 2026-07-27
booth_10x10_corp_member
exhibitor · member
USD 4777 / booth
officialAs of 2026-07-27
mini_booth_nonmember
exhibitor · standard
USD 5995 / booth
officialAs of 2026-07-27
kiosk_nonmember
exhibitor · standard
USD 3595 / kiosk
officialAs of 2026-07-27
island_space_nonmember
exhibitor · standard
USD 50.5 / sq ft
officialAs of 2026-07-27
shell_scheme_rate
exhibitor · range
USD 514–605 / sqm
estimateAs of 2026-07-27
raw_space_rate
exhibitor · range
USD 462–544 / sqm
estimateAs of 2026-07-27
hotel_weeknight_average
both · mid
USD 253 / night
estimateAs of 2026-07-27
hotel_weekend_average
both · mid
USD 292 / night
estimateAs of 2026-07-27
hotel_budget_low
both · budget
USD 191–218 / night
estimateAs of 2026-07-27
hotel_premium
both · premium
USD 410–510 / night
estimateAs of 2026-07-27
Item
For
Tier
Estimated range
Status
As of
booth_10x10_nonmember
exhibitor
standard
USD 5620 / booth
official
2026-07-27
booth_10x10_corp_member
exhibitor
member
USD 4777 / booth
official
2026-07-27
mini_booth_nonmember
exhibitor
standard
USD 5995 / booth
official
2026-07-27
kiosk_nonmember
exhibitor
standard
USD 3595 / kiosk
official
2026-07-27
island_space_nonmember
exhibitor
standard
USD 50.5 / sq ft
official
2026-07-27
shell_scheme_rate
exhibitor
range
USD 514–605 / sqm
estimate
2026-07-27
raw_space_rate
exhibitor
range
USD 462–544 / sqm
estimate
2026-07-27
hotel_weeknight_average
both
mid
USD 253 / night
estimate
2026-07-27
hotel_weekend_average
both
mid
USD 292 / night
estimate
2026-07-27
hotel_budget_low
both
budget
USD 191–218 / night
estimate
2026-07-27
hotel_premium
both
premium
USD 410–510 / night
estimate
2026-07-27
Decision
Visit, exhibit, or skip?
Should you go?
Answer each question about your fit with SPIE Optics + Photonics 2026 for a live visit/exhibit/skip recommendation.
QUESTION 1 OF 8
Does your business serve the optics, photonics, or quantum/nanotechnology sector?
Decision matrix
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
You need to evaluate multiple optics/photonics suppliers, attend technical talks, or build industry contacts without a large budget
Best for
Researchers, procurement professionals, and technical buyers wanting to evaluate suppliers, attend technical sessions, and network at low cost
Min. budget
$1,500.00
Timeline
2-4 weeks
Risks
Conference-only sessions require paid registration in addition to the free exhibition pass
August San Diego hotel rates run higher than off-peak months
exhibit
Your target buyers are R&D managers, professors, or procurement teams in optics/photonics and you have a ready booth, staff, and follow-up plan
Best for
Manufacturers and suppliers of optical components, photonic devices, imaging/sensing systems, and related software targeting research scientists, engineers, and procurement buyers
Min. budget
$15,000.00
Timeline
60-90 days
Risks
Booth costs range from $3,595 (kiosk) to $5,620+ (10x10 booth) plus travel, staffing, and freight
Requires early contract signing and coordination with official contractors to avoid vendor scams
skip
Your product/service has no relevance to optics, photonics, or the event's core research and engineering audience
Best for
Businesses with no direct connection to optics, photonics, quantum science, or nanotechnology sectors
Min. budget
Not yet confirmed
Timeline
N/A
Risks
Wasted travel and registration costs if audience fit is poor
Opportunity cost of budget better spent at a more relevant event
Book with
Partners
Venue
Venue
San Diego Convention Center, 111 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101.
Official SPIE housing partner for Optics + Photonics 2026. Book through this portal to secure contracted rates and avoid third-party scams. Headquarters hotel is Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina with a rate of $304/night (single/double). Cut-off dates vary by hotel; book by July-August 2026 for best rates.
FAQs & glossary
Answers
Frequently asked
Glossary
1
Optical Engineering
The design and application of optical systems, components, and instruments, including lenses, mirrors, lasers, and imaging systems.
2
Nanotechnology
The manipulation of matter on an atomic, molecular, and supramolecular scale, enabling novel photonic devices and materials.
3
Quantum Science
The study of quantum phenomena, including quantum optics, quantum computing, and quantum communication, with applications in photonics.
4
Organic Photonics
The use of organic materials (polymers, small molecules) for photonic applications, such as OLEDs, organic photovoltaics, and flexible displays.
5
SPIE
The international society for optics and photonics, organizing this event and publishing proceedings in the SPIE Digital Library.
