In a historic move for Southern California’s cannabis scene, Sessions by the Bay has officially opened its doors in National City, marking the first licensed cannabis consumption lounge in San Diego County. The grand opening coincided with the 4/20 weekend, offering a new, immersive experience for cannabis enthusiasts in the region.
A Landmark Venue: Sessions by the Bay
Located at 700 Bay Marina Drive, Sessions by the Bay is a three-story, 16,000-square-foot establishment that seamlessly blends a dispensary, restaurant, and consumption lounge. The venue boasts a downstairs retail space, a second-floor lounge featuring food, drinks, and entertainment, and a rooftop area designed for relaxation and socializing. This innovative concept allows patrons to purchase cannabis products and consume them on-site, paired with curated dining options and live performance.
The lounge is a collaborative venture between local entrepreneurs Alex and Pearl Ayon and the Sycuan Tribal Development Corporation (STDC), an entity of the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation. The STDC owns the property and has been instrumental in bringing this unique concept to fruition.
Grand Opening Highlights
The opening festivities included a VIP ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by a weekend filled with live music and special events. Reservations were required for the inaugural weekend, reflecting the high demand and excitement surrounding the lounge’s debut.
Cannabis Consumption Lounges Across the U.S.
Sessions by the Bay joins a growing list of cannabis consumption lounges emerging across the United State. As of 2025, twelve states, along with the District of Columbia and the U.S. Virgin Islands, have legalized some form of on-site cannabis consumpton. These states include:
- Alaska
- California
- Colorado
- Illinois
- Maryland
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- Nevada
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
Each state has its own regulations governing these establishments, often requiring local municipalities to opt-in for such venues to operate.
A Time To Remember
The opening of Sessions by the Bay represents a significant milestone in San Diego County’s cannabis industry, offering a new model for consumption that combines retail, dining, and entertainment. As more states and cities explore the potential of cannabis lounges, establishments like this set the standard for responsible and innovative cannabis consumption experiences.
Sources: https://www.nbcsandiegocom/news/local/sycuan-backed-sessions-by-the-bay-cannabis-cafe-opens-for-4-20-weekend/3805606/
https://cannabusinessplans.com/cannabis-consumption-lounges/