Digital buyer journeys
What digital buyer journeys means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Event overview
Overview
The YATA Conference 2026 is set to take place from October 21 to 23 at the Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa in San Diego, CA. This annual event brings together professionals involved in young adult transitional services, offering a platform for collaboration, education, and advocacy.
Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with industry leaders, participate in workshops, and network with peers. YATA Conference takes place in San Diego, USA.
Venue: Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa.
TL;DR
- 1Dates: October 2026 - travel captures point to 21-23 October; confirm exact days on yata.net.
- 2Venue: Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa, Mission Bay, San Diego, California.
- 3Focus: Annual YATA conference on young adult transition programs, education, and advocacy.
- 4Who Attends: Professionals from young adult programs, educators, advocates, and program administrators.
- 5Registration: Required via yata.net; YATA members should confirm member rates and early enrollment.
Why visit
Attendees will gain insights from leading experts in young adult transitional services, participate in valuable workshops, and network with peers in the field. This annual conference focuses on young adult transitional services, featuring industry experts and networking opportunities. The YATA Conference 2026 is set to take place from October 21 to 23 at the Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa in San Diego, CA. This annual event brings together professionals involved in young.
Why exhibit
Exhibitors will have the chance to showcase their services to a targeted audience of professionals in the young adult sector, gain visibility, and connect with potential clients and partners. This is an excellent opportunity to enhance brand recognition and engage with key stakeholders.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Who this event is for
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Professionals from young adult transitional programs
Educators and trainers in the field of young adult services
Advocates for young adult issues
Mental health professionals focused on young adult care
Policy makers and regulators in education and health sectors
Families seeking information on transitional services for young adults
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Providers of young adult transitional programs
Educational institutions offering training and resources
Mental health service providers
Technology solutions for young adult services
Consultants specializing in transitional care
Advocacy organizations focused on young adult issues
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Transitional living programs for young adults
Educational resources and training materials
Mental health services and support
Technology solutions for program management
Consulting services for program development
Advocacy tools and resources
Location & Facilities
Venue
Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa
San Diego, USA
Facilities
Parking
Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa in San Diego typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Food options
On-site catering
On-site diningParking: Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa in San Diego typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Gate: Follow organiser signage to the main visitor entrance at Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa for badge collection; allow extra time for security screening during peak morning arrival.
Attend
Entry & tickets
Ticket info
Ticket notes
Please visit the registration page for detailed pricing information.
Who runs the show
Organisers
YATA
Intelligence
Market context
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
San Diego, USA
Why it matters
Attendees will gain insights from leading experts in young adult transitional services, participate in valuable workshops, and network with peers in the field. This annual conference focuses on young adult transitional services, featuring industry experts and networking opportunities.
Industry trends
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
Sustainability in procurement
What sustainability in procurement means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Automation and labour efficiency
What automation and labour efficiency means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Regional supply-chain resilience
What regional supply-chain resilience means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Hybrid engagement models
What hybrid engagement models means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Plan your trip
Travel & logistics
Local currency · USD
Arrival airports
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
San Diego International
to venue
by car
Hotel tiers
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
Best Western San Diego Pacific Beach/Mission Bay
3-star
Pacific Beach / Mission Bay, near the venueApprox. nightly range for conference dates; free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, free parking and outdoor pool. Google Hotels showed a 23% below-usual deal for the conference dates; confirm current rate and room type.
Wyndham Garden San Diego near SeaWorld
3-star
Near SeaWorld, approx. 5.3 km from Catamaran Resort Hotel and SpaApprox. nightly range for conference dates; free Wi-Fi, paid parking, outdoor pool, hot tub, air conditioning, fitness center, breakfast and accessible rooms. Budget a rideshare or bus transfer to the venue.
Local transport
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
rideshare / taxi
Estimated costApprox. USD 25-40 one way
Best forSan Diego International (SAN) to Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa
Uber and Lyft operate at SAN from designated rideshare pickup zones. Fares vary with traffic and demand; confirm the live price in the app before requesting.
bus
Estimated costApprox. USD 2.50 one-way; USD 5-6 day pass
Best forCatamaran Resort area to downtown San Diego (Gaslamp Quarter)
San Diego MTS buses connect Mission Beach and Pacific Beach to downtown with transfers. Use a PRONTO card or contactless payment and check live timetables before travel.
private car / shuttle
Estimated costApprox. USD 60-90 one way (private car quote)
Best forSan Diego International (SAN) to Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa
The hotel guest FAQ recommends booking a private VIP car service such as Unique Transportation for airport and local transfers. Request a written quote and confirm meeting point.
parking
Estimated costApprox. USD 20-35 per night
Best forCatamaran Resort Hotel and Spa guest parking
On-site parking is available at the resort; rates are set by the hotel and may change. Confirm current parking fees and whether day parking is available for non-guests.
Plan your trip
Visa & entry documents
Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.
Visa not required
ATA Carnet: check with organiser
Weather
October is one of San Diego's driest and mildest months. Expect daytime highs around 21-24°C (70-75°F), evening lows around 14-17°C (57-63°F), and low rainfall. Coastal morning marine layer can bring cloud cover before afternoon sun. Check the forecast closer to travel.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
US mobile networks including AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon serve the Mission Bay area. International delegates should confirm roaming with their home carrier or buy a US prepaid SIM or eSIM on arrival at SAN. Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa provides guest Wi-Fi; confirm access details at check-in.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Cultural notes
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Conference dress
Business casual is typical for YATA sessions. San Diego's coastal setting means light layers and comfortable shoes work well for both meeting rooms and evening walks.
Session etiquette
Sessions focus on young adult transition practice, education and advocacy. Arrive on time, silence phones, and use question breaks for programme-specific discussion.
Networking style
Introductions are informal and collegial. Exchange cards or LinkedIn details after sessions and name your programme type so peers can make useful connections.
Local setting
Mission Bay and Pacific Beach are casual beach communities. Tipping is standard for table service and rideshare drivers; confirm local norms if you are visiting from outside the US.
Practical guides
Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Flights
Destination: SAN
Book into San Diego International (SAN) for the shortest transfer to Mission Bay. If SAN fares are high, Los Angeles (LAX) and John Wayne (SNA) are alternative gateways but add several hours of road or rail transfer; price the full journey before choosing. International delegates should allow time for US customs at their first port of entry and confirm baggage and change rules.
Visa
YATA Conference attendees travelling to San Diego from outside the United States generally need a US visitor visa: B-1 for business activities, B-2 for tourism, or a combined B-1/B-2 visa. Check your nationality for visa waiver or ESTA eligibility before booking.
Processing: Varies by nationality; apply several weeks before travel.
The US Department of State visitor visa page lists permitted activities for B-1 business visitors and B-2 tourists. Visa Waiver Program eligibility depends on nationality; carry proof of conference registration and accommodation for the interview and port of entry.
OfficialTransport
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: Primary gateways: San Diego International (SAN). Allow road or rail time to Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa; on-site parking is usually available at major exhibition venues.
Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa: Pacific Beach / Mission Bay, near the venue: Best Western San Diego Pacific Beach/Mission Bay; Near SeaWorld, approx. 5.3 km from Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa: Wyndham Garden San Diego near SeaWorld.
Ride-hail: Uber and Lyft operate throughout San Diego, including SAN airport and Mission Bay. Follow airport signs to the designated rideshare pickup zone. Approx. USD 25-40 one way from SAN to Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa; confirm the live in-app price before requesting a ride.
Public transit: San Diego MTS buses serve Mission Beach and Pacific Beach with connections to downtown and Old Town. Pay with a PRONTO card or contactless fare; approx. USD 2.50 one-way and around USD 5-6 for a day pass. The venue is not directly on the trolley line, so bus plus rideshare is common. Check the MTS trip planner for live routes and timetables.
Parking: On-site parking is available at Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa; confirm the current daily or overnight rate at check-in. Approx. USD 20-35 per night for hotel guests. Street parking in Mission Beach is limited and time-restricted, so plan to use the resort lot during conference days.
Weather
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: October 2026
Temperature: Daytime highs approx. 21-24°C (70-75°F); evening lows approx. 14-17°C (57-63°F).
Seasonality: October is typically dry in San Diego with low rainfall and occasional morning marine layer. Check the forecast closer to travel and pack a light layer for coastal evenings.
Packing: Pack layers: light jacket or sweater for evenings, comfortable walking shoes, business casual clothing for sessions, sunglasses and sunscreen for beach walks. Bring a reusable water bottle and a compact umbrella only if the forecast calls for rain.
Plan your trip
Planning
Best day to visit: Day 2 (mid-show)
Mid-show days at YATA Conference usually combine full exhibitor attendance with scheduled B2B meetings, before early pack-down on the final day.
Day 14
Confirm YATA membership status to unlock the member registration discount and early enrollment window.
Day 12
Register via the YATA 2026 Conference Registration page and note whether any sessions require separate sign-up.
Day 10
Book a hotel within walking distance of the Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa in Mission Beach or Mission Bay, or in nearby Pacific Beach.
Day 7
Book flights into San Diego International (SAN) and arrange a rideshare, taxi, or private car service for the airport transfer.
Day 5
Check US visa or ESTA eligibility; carry registration confirmation and hotel booking for the port of entry.
Day 2
Download the Whova conference app linked from yata.net and review the schedule, session updates, and any networking sign-ups.
Day 1
Collect your badge at the Registration / Hospitality Desk in Ramona Court on the opening morning and confirm session room locations.
Sample visitor itinerary
Route-optimised day
Day 1 · morning
Registration and hall orientation at Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa
Day 2 · core sessions
Supplier meetings and product demos
Day 3 · wrap-up
Final negotiations and follow-up
Networking spots
2YATA Conference registration concourse
Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa
Central meeting point before and between hall appointments during show days.
Organiser B2B lounge (if offered)
Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa
Hosted matchmaking and buyer programmes when published by the organiser.
Budget
Costs & budget
Build your working budget
Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
Estimated budget
Live estimate
- Hotel × 2 nights$230.00
- Per diem × 2$150.00
Estimated total$380.00
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Decision
Visit, exhibit, or skip?
Should you go?
Use this quick check to decide whether YATA Conference fits your visit, exhibit or skip plan.
QUESTION 1 OF 6
For YATA Conference, what is your primary role on the show floor?
Decision matrix
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
Your category focus and target suppliers align with the official exhibitor profile.
Best for
Buyers, engineers, and delegates sourcing Transitional living programs for young adults and Educational resources and trai solutions and benchmarking suppliers at YATA Conference in San Diego.
Min. budget
$500.00
Timeline
4-8 weeks before opening day for registration, hotels, and travel.
Risks
Session times and ticket tiers may change - confirm the official agenda before booking.
exhibit
You have a defined lead-generation or distributor recruitment goal for this market.
Best for
Brands and manufacturers launching Transitional living programs for young adults and Educational resources and trai products who need qualified meetings with the event's trade audience.
Min. budget
$2,250.00
Timeline
3-6 months for stand booking, freight, staffing, and pre-show marketing.
Risks
Booth pricing and corner premiums vary by hall - confirm with the organiser sales team.
skip
Audience, geography, or commercial goals do not justify travel and stand costs this cycle.
Best for
Teams with weak category fit, budget constraints, or overlapping commitments during the San Diego show week.
Timeline
N/A
Risks
Skipping may mean missing buyer meetings if competitors exhibit or attend the same week.
Gallery
Photos
FAQs & glossary
Answers
Frequently asked
Glossary
- Young adult transition
- The period and process in which young adults with disabilities or learning differences move from school into post-secondary education, employment, independent living, and community life.
- Transition program
- A structured programme that combines life skills, executive functioning coaching, vocational exploration, and family support to help young adults build independence.
- Executive functioning coaching
- Support focused on planning, organization, time management, task initiation, and self-regulation for young adults preparing for college, work, or independent living.
- Vocational assessment
- A process that identifies a young adult's work-related strengths, interests, and support needs to guide job training or employment placement.
- Life skills curriculum
- Planned instruction in daily living tasks such as cooking, budgeting, transportation, health management, and self-advocacy.
- Post-secondary support
- Services that help young adults succeed in college, trade school, or certificate programs, including accommodations, coaching, and study skills.
- Family engagement
- The practice of involving parents and caregivers in transition planning while encouraging the young adult's increasing autonomy.
- Individualized transition plan
- A personalized plan that sets goals and services for a young adult's move from school to adult life, often developed with educators, families, and providers.
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Also known as
Alternate names and search phrases for this event.
- YATA Conference 2026
- YATA Conference San Diego 2026
- YATA 2026
- YATA San Diego 2026
- San Diego USA
- Conference Conference San Diego
- Transitional living programs for young adults
- Educational resources and training materials
- Mental health services and support
- Technology solutions for program management
2 more alternate names hidden
Digital business cards for the show floor
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