Adam Ponce has been appointed as General Manager at Kona Kai San Diego Resort

A California native with deep roots in the region, he brings extensive luxury hospitality expertise and a proven track record of operational excellence to Kona Kai. Prior to joining the team, he served as Director of Operations at Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa, where he supported a significant capital asset renovation, as well as acting General Manager at L’Auberge Del Mar, further strengthening his leadership within the Noble House Hotels & Resorts portfolio.

Ponce’s hospitality journey began in 2009 at Omni La Costa Resort & Spa, where he developed a strong foundation in luxury resort operations. Throughout his career, he has held leadership roles with some of California’s most respected hospitality brands and properties, including supporting the stabilization and reopening of three luxury hotels during the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic: The West Hollywood EDITION, W Hollywood, and The Palace Hotel in San Francisco.

His leadership excellence has been recognized throughout his career, including being named Noble House Hotels & Resorts’ 2023 Hotel Director of Operations of the Year (also recognized within the portfolio as the “Wingman of the Year” Award). Earlier in his career, the hospitality leader was nominated for Four Seasons Leader of the Year in 2013 and was named Leader of the Quarter that same year.

Raised in San Diego’s North County, Ponce has long been inspired by the region’s coastal lifestyle and vibrant hospitality landscape. Today, he resides in downtown San Diego, remaining closely connected to the community he is proud to serve.

For more information about Kona Kai San Diego, please visit https://www.resortkonakai.com/.