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Peregrine Hospitality Announces New Leadership for its Central Coast Collection
Peregrine Hospitality has announced two key leadership appointments within its Central Coast Boutique and Lifestyle Collection: David Morneau as Area General Manager, overseeing Paso Robles Inn, Avila Lighthouse Suites and Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach; and Luis Mendoza as General Manager of Vespera Resort. These appointments reflect Peregrine Hospitality's ongoing commitment to cultivating exceptional leadership and elevating hospitality experiences that celebrate the authentic culture of California's Central Coast.
DAVID MORNEAU, AREA GENERAL MANAGER, PEREGRINE HOSPITALITY CENTRAL COAST BOUTIQUE AND LIFESTYLE COLLECTION
With more than two decades of leadership experience at luxury Four- and Five-Diamond properties, including the Fairmont Orchid in Hawaii, Fairmont Pacific Rim, and Ojai Valley Inn, David Morneau brings a proven record of operational innovation, mentorship and service excellence to his new role. A Peregrine Hospitality veteran, Morneau previously served as General Manager of Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach, where he guided the property through a period of remarkable growth and brand recognition. In his new role, he will oversee a portfolio that includes four of the region's most iconic coastal properties including the recently renovated, historic landmark property, Paso Robles Inn; its boutique sister hotel, The Piccolo at Paso Robles Inn; Avila Beach's beloved Avila Lighthouse Suites; and Pismo's top oceanfront hotel to eat, sleep and play, Vespera Resort.
"David embodies the leadership philosophy that defines Peregrine Hospitality - visionary, collaborative, and grounded in care for both team and guest," said Paul McCormick, Senior Vice President, Asset Management." His ability to align multiple properties under a shared vision will continue to strengthen our Central Coast portfolio and the guest experience across our collection."
A graduate of Johnson & Wales University, Morneau is deeply involved in the community, serving on the Board of Directors for the South County Chambers of Commerce and as Vice Chair of the Pismo Beach CVB Advisory Board.
LUIS MENDOZA, GENERAL MANAGER, VESPERA RESORT ON PISMO BEACH
Luis Mendoza brings over a decade of hospitality leadership spanning both branded (Marriott, IHG) and boutique coastal properties. Known for his entrepreneurial spirit, hands-on leadership style and dedication to team culture, Mendoza is poised to lead Vespera Resort, an Autograph Collection Hotel, into its next chapter of growth.
Located directly on the Pismo Beach boardwalk, Vespera on Pismo Beach embodies modern coastal luxury through a California-beach house aesthetic, 124 elegant guestrooms (many with ocean-view balconies), a heated oceanfront pool and the signature Pequin Coastal Kitchen, a restaurant that celebrates the flavors and farmers of the Central Coast and the only beachfront restaurant in the city.
Mendoza previously served as General Manager at Avila Lighthouse Suites, also part of Peregrine Hospitality's Central Coast Collection, where his leadership earned the hotel the "Best Place to Work" award at the annual Peregrine Hospitality Leadership Conference.
"Luis is an inspiring example of leadership in action - thoughtful, strategic and deeply committed to his team and guests alike," said Paul McCormick, Senior Vice President, Asset Management. "His ability to elevate operations while nurturing culture makes him the perfect fit to guide Vespera Resort into its next era of growth and distinction."
A TRANSFORMATIVE MOMENT FOR THE CENTRAL COAST
Under Morneau's leadership, the region's most notable hospitality projects continue taking shape:
- Paso Robles Inn and The Piccolo: In partnership with the Charlie Palmer Collective, Peregrine Hospitality will be reimagining three new culinary concepts across both properties, debuting in 2026: The Pass, Cattlemen's Bar, and Salina Rooftop - poised to cement Paso Robles as a national culinary destination.
- Avila Lighthouse Suites: This beloved beachfront resort is undergoing a complete refresh and rebrand in 2026, which will reflect the relaxed sophistication of Avila Beach. The all-suite property will feature a new modern coastal design, ocean-view balconies, a heated pool and new experiences for families and leisure travelers alike.
- Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach: As the first branded luxury property in Pismo Beach offering the only beachfront dining experience in the city, Vespera continues to set the standard for coastal hospitality through its connection to community, culinary craftsmanship and contemporary oceanfront design.