Bay Shores Peninsula Hotel, debuting November 1 as Newport Beach’s newest boutique hotel, has appointed seasoned hospitality executive Didi Shields as General Manager. With 30 years of industry experience, Shields brings a proven track record in launching independent hotels, building high-performing teams, and creating thoughtful guest experiences rooted in place.

As General Manager of Bay Shores Peninsula Hotel, Shields will oversee all facets of hotel operations, working closely with Pacifica Hotels to bring to life a distinctly Newport experience, blending the nostalgic spirit of SoCal surf culture with an elevated, modern point of view. Originally built in the 1960s and thoughtfully reimagined by CPD Studio, the 25-room retreat hotel nods to the retro charm of surf motels while offering today’s traveler a refined, design-forward stay

Shields has held leadership roles with leading hotel groups and management companies, including Evolution Hospitality, Tharaldson Hospitality, Lodging Dynamics, Ayres Hotel Group, and Sofitel, where she built a reputation for operational excellence, financial leadership, and fostering teams that consistently deliver memorable, design-forward guest experiences.

Most recently, Shields served as the Opening General Manager of El Caminante Bar & Bungalows, a luxury boutique property in Dana Point, where she directed all aspects of development and launch—from construction and permitting to pre-opening strategy, staffing, and branding. She also led hotel operations and introduced culture-focused initiatives to shape a cohesive, high-performing team.

Bay Shores Peninsula Hotel is now accepting reservations for stays beginning November 1, 2025. For more information, visit www.bayshoreshotel.com or follow along on Instagram at @bayshoresnewport.