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About CHLA

Recognized as one of the most influential state lodging associations throughout the country, the California Hotel & Lodging Association’s mission is to protect the rights and interests of owners and operators and be their indispensable business resource.

Established over 130 years ago to represent a burgeoning industry, CHLA has built upon the goals and objectives first established in 1893. CHLA continues to serve the unique interests of each segment of California’s diverse lodging industry.


Our Mission

The California Hotel & Lodging Association’s mission is to protect the rights and interests of the lodging industry.


Association History

The first organized statewide association of California innkeepers occurred on Nov. 15, 1893, when 36 men and women formed the Southern California Hotel Association, a fraternal body of lodging owners and operators to share ideas and socialize. It established the basic framework for adequately representing the interests and goals of California’s multifaceted lodging industry.

The California State Hotel & Motel Association, which included the Northern California Hotel Association, was formed in 1912. For many years, California innkeepers were represented by these two trade groups.

As the industry changed with increased legislative activity, overall industry and membership growth and the corresponding increase in members’ needs, it became apparent that one unified association could best serve the goals of the industry in California. On May 1, 1970, the Southern California Hotel Association and the California State Hotel & Motel Association joined forces to create the California Hotel & Motel Association, with a total of 445 property members.

In 2001, there was yet another name change at the state and national level with the formation of the California Hotel & Lodging Association and the American Hotel & Lodging Association.

The focus of CHLA now is on governmental advocacy, professional education and industry communication programs on behalf of its membership. Along with the 2007 merger with the California Association of Boutique & Breakfast Inns (CABBI), CHLA continues to represent all facets of today’s lodging industry as the largest and most influential state lodging industry association in the country.

By building on the goals and objectives established in 1893 and cultivated since its inception, CHLA is realizing its mission to protect the rights and interests of the California lodging industry.

View CHLA Past Presidents & Chairs

View CHLA Advisor’s Emeritus

View CHLA Diversity Statement