Famed for its Spanish Colonial architecture, San Clemente attracts vacationers with its dramatic views and powerful winds. Bounded by a steep bluff, San Clemente State Beach offers an escape for visitors looking to surf, hike or just set up camp. Head to the “Pier Bowl”, with its unique restaurants and shops. San Clemente Pier offers a chance to relax and enjoy your surroundings, with incredible views of the coast.
The San Clemente Pier and beach is the best place to begin exploring. Plan time for sunbathing, reading a book, swimming, swinging the kids on the beach swings, having a picnic overlooking the beach, or dining on the pier. Visit San Clemente today! Visit here for a list of all the great beaches of southern California.
Weather – When to Visit San Clemente
During the spring (March – May) humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel moderate. Highs range between 72.6°F and 60°F with similar temperatures in the later months. Spring (June – August) is the second busiest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for things to do. June – August is the busiest season for tourism in San Clemente, so lodging and other accommodations may cost more than usual. September – November have daily highs between 78.1°F and 66.9°F. Tourism is fairly slow during these months due to the weather, so hotels will be slightly less expensive. During December – February, weather is somewhat cool. The average high during this season is between 68.2°F and 62.7°F.
What Should You Pack?
When figuring out what to pack for the beach, there are two tips to keep in mind. First, forgetting an item isn’t the end of the world. Unless you’re heading for a remote, deserted island, chances are you can find a store where you can pick up the extras. Second, don’t stress out over making a packing list when there’s a stress-free beach travel essentials list for you below:
- Sunglasses and hats offer much-needed sunscreen and flip flops are perfect for navigating hot, sandy beaches. Go pack them now so you’re not kicking yourself later.
- What about those little items that make beach visits so much more enjoyable? For a little extra comfort on your trip, make sure you pack: Lip balm, sunscreen, bug spray.
- Beach toys and goggles are a must for kids. Building sandcastles and viewing the underwater wonders are perennial favorites.
- Take a first-aid kit with you. Hopefully you’ll only have to worry about a few minor scrapes from seashells, but having your own kit handy is a good precaution.
- Beach Bag – Your beach bag will likely contain a few of the items mentioned above. For a well-rounded bag, consider tossing in sunscreen, lip balm, bug spray, first-aid kit and water-proof baggies.
- Beach Gear – No matter who’s supplying the gear, look to have the following items on hand: beach bag, beach chairs, beach towels, beach umbrella or tent, beach cart and a cooler.
- Remember: Don’t wait until you’re parched to drink. When you’re out in the heat and sun, it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking regularly. So take along a water bottle as well.
San Clemente Surf Beaches
San Onofre State Beach
Dubbed “San-O” by the locals, San Onofre State Beach is perhaps the only place in the world where you can drive your car onto the beach and catch waves within sight of a (now closed) nuclear power plant. The beach has cinder block changing rooms and bathrooms. It also has open showers inside bamboo grottos for purging the salt and sand from you and your gear. Keep in mind that this beach has great waves for beginners on long boards, and everyone knows about it, so…it gets crowded! Join the dawn patrol to avoid the snaking line of cars that builds up outside the parking lot every weekend. Go here for a list of the best surfing beaches in California.
Doheny State Beach
Though technically located in Capo Beach beyond the northern-border of San Clemente, this is one of the best beginner surfing beaches around. The small waves and long breaks are ideal for long boards and allow many surfers to catch the same wave (and it’s expected at this beginner spot). As an added bonus, it’s a short walk to the water–You can see the parking lot from where you’re floating. Go here for a list of the best surfing beaches in California.
North Beach
This is a family oriented beach (complete with playground) that caters to bodysurfers and bodyboarders and even has its own restaurant, North Beach Burger, open during the summer. With ample parking and maintained restrooms, this is a good spot to consider whether you are surfing for the first time or just want to hang out. If you head south along the strand, you will come to a break known as 204. This is another popular spot, though its conditions are often in flux due to the changing nature of the sand bars that create the breaks. Go here for a list of the best surfing beaches in California.
Trestles
Trestles is known as a world-class surf spot. It’s not recommended for beginners, but it is recommended as a spot where you can learn a lot about surfing simply by watching. The main spots are Church, Lowers, Middles, Uppers and Cottons. Walk from one end of the beach to the other and observe how each of these spots changes the character of the waves, and where surfers line up at each. There is a lot that you can learn at Trestles with this simple strategy, and you will take home ideas that you can try in your own surfing. Go here for a list of the best surfing beaches in California.
San Clemente Pier North
If you’re looking for a conveniently located break, you’ll find one at the north side of the San Clemente Pier. Park at the lot off of Avenida Del Mar and you have arrived. The swell can get aggressive here, so be sure to pick a day when the waves are manageable for your skill level. Go here for a list of the best surfing beaches in California.
Best San Clemente Restaurants
$-Inexpensive $$-Moderate $$$-Pricey $$$$-Ultra High End
Vine $$$$
VINE is an all-encompassing Wine Country dining experience, a full bar, featuring craft cocktails, Open Kitchen, and a Semi-Private Dining table in their Wine Room. It offers South Orange County residents and visitors a fine dining night out with a complete food and wine experience. Telephone:
949-361-2079 Web: Vine
Nick’s San Clemente $$ – $$
Great food, and warm hospitality. Whether you are looking for a fireside cocktail or a dinner with friends, their carefully chosen menu of sandwiches, steaks, salads, seafood, and handcrafted beverages has a variety of choices to satisfy any appetite. Telephone: 949-481-2200 Web: Nick’s San Clemente
MRK Public $$ – $$$
Founded by three local chefs, MRK Public is everything you want in a local, casual, approachable gastro-pub. This family-friendly restaurant serves up the freshest ingredients, in chef-inspired dishes, with hand-selected craft beer and an excellent wine list. Telephone: 949-441-7621 Web: MRK Public
Fig@313 $$ – $$$
Fig@313 will tempt your taste buds with exquisite New American cuisine. Their Executive Chef has created a fresh and diverse menu unlike any you’ve experienced before, combining classical cuisine with a modern, sophisticated presentation. Seasonal dishes highlight the freshest ingredients of the moment. Telephone: 949-218-4406 Web: Fig@313
Interactive Dinner in a Chef’s Private Kitchen $$$$
You and your guests will be welcomed by Chef Mashav to her kitchen and dining space to enjoy a private dinning experience. Interact and engage in the cooking process, ask questions, look what’s in the pots and pans, all while sipping your drink and enjoying hors d’oeuvres. Then you’ll be seated at the table in the formal dining room to a enjoy a full 4 course dinner of your choice. Read more about the interactive dinner or book now.
Best San Clemente Nightlife
South of Nick’s
Creative Mexican classics, a “kicking” bar scene, an elite list of sipping tequilas all set within a beautiful historic Spanish Colonial abode. Telephone: 949-481-4545 Web: South of Nick’s
Pierside
Pierside Kitchen + Bar is beach bistro located just steps from the water in downtown San Clemente’s “Pier Bowl.” Pierside offers fresh cuisine, an upscale atmosphere with an unbeatable view and great hospitality. Visit our fun, cozy bar and sample our creative craft libations, great wines, and micro brews on tap. Telephone: 949-218-0980 Web: Pierside
Fisherman’s Restaurant
Dine on the pier and watch beach goers, surfing, and the sunset as you enjoy American seafood selections. Sit over the beach, listen to the sea sounds, watch the surfers, and eat great food. Telephone: 949-498-6390 Web: Fisherman’s Restaurant
Goody’s Tavern
Goody’s Tavern is a great place to relax, hang out with your friends and watch your favorite sports games on one of the six 60” TV’s. Challenge your friends to a game of darts, Golden Tee or a game of pool on one of their regulation size pool tables. Drink specials, free raffles and complimentary food a few reason why you don’t want to miss football Sundays at Goody’s. Telephone: 949-492-3400 Web: Goody’s Tavern
Ole’s Tavern
This place is like family. You walk in and know everyone! Strong and cheap drinks you just cant go wrong!! Bartenders are great. Awesome jukebox and on Tuesday they have free tacos with a purchase of a drink. Telephone: 949-498-9400 Web: Ole’s Tavern
Best San Clemente Hotels
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San Clemente always feels like classic Southern California to me, especially with that Spanish Colonial look and the wide-open bluff views over the ocean. I love that you can start at the pier, grab coffee, watch surfers, and just let the day unfold. If you only had one afternoon, would you spend it walking the Pier Bowl or heading straight down to San Clemente State Beach for a longer beach hang?
The Pier Bowl is such a perfect starting point because you get the full San Clemente experience in one sweep: ocean views, the San Clemente Pier, beach swings, and easy access to restaurants like Fisherman’s Restaurant right over the sand. However, if you’re craving more space and a bit of hiking or camping energy, San Clemente State Beach gives you that bluff-top scenery and quieter stretches of shoreline. A lot of visitors actually combine both by starting at the pier in the morning and then heading south for a late-afternoon sunset at the state beach. That mix really captures why San Clemente is one of the best beach towns in Southern California.
I’ve heard so much about Trestles, even from friends who don’t surf. It sounds legendary but also a little intimidating. For someone new to surfing, would you recommend sticking to Doheny or San Onofre instead?
Trestles is absolutely iconic, especially spots like Lowers and Uppers, but it’s better for experienced surfers who are comfortable in competitive lineups and stronger waves. If you’re just starting out, Doheny State Beach and San Onofre are much more beginner-friendly with smaller waves and longer, forgiving breaks that work well for longboards. San Onofre in particular has that mellow “San-O” vibe where beginners and longboarders can share waves more easily. Starting at one of these Southern California beginner surf beaches helps you build confidence before ever thinking about paddling out at Trestles.
The weather breakdown is super helpful, especially since coastal California can surprise you with that June gloom. Would you say September and October are the sweet spot for fewer crowds and warmer water?
September and October are often the hidden gem months in San Clemente because the ocean stays warm from summer, the crowds thin out after peak tourism season, and the skies are usually clearer than early summer. This stretch of fall along the Southern California coast often brings some of the best beach weather of the year. It’s also a fantastic time for coastal walks, pier sunsets, and even surfing since the swells can be more consistent. If you want that balance of sunshine, manageable hotel prices, and comfortable temperatures, early fall is hard to beat in San Clemente.
I love that you included packing tips because even in sunny SoCal, that coastal breeze can sneak up on you. Do you usually bring layers for evenings by the pier?
Definitely bring a light layer, especially if you’re planning to stay for sunset at San Clemente Pier or grab dinner in the Pier Bowl area. Even when daytime highs are in the 70s, the ocean breeze can cool things off quickly once the sun dips. A hoodie or light jacket makes evening beach walks much more comfortable, especially in spring and fall. Packing smart for a Southern California beach trip really means thinking sun protection by day and coastal chill by night.
San Clemente’s restaurant lineup looks surprisingly strong for a beach town. If you were planning one nice dinner and one casual night out, where would you go?
For a special evening, Vine delivers that full wine-country dining experience with elevated dishes and a strong wine list, making it one of the top fine dining spots in San Clemente. For something more casual but still memorable, Nick’s San Clemente is a favorite for great food and a welcoming vibe right near the coast. If you want nightlife energy afterward, South of Nick’s brings that lively bar scene with craft cocktails and tequila selections. That combination gives you both upscale coastal dining and the relaxed Southern California beach town atmosphere in one trip.
This really paints San Clemente as more than just another beach stop, especially with the surf culture woven into the experience. The mention of San Onofre and Doheny gives a nice beginner-friendly angle, while Trestles clearly caters to the serious wave crowd. I also like the reminder about hydration and simple beach gear because those small details often get overlooked until the sun starts working overtime. And the restaurant picks sound like they cover everything from upscale dining to relaxed coastal bites. Do you find fall actually feels like the sweet spot there for fewer crowds and good weather?
Fall is often considered one of the best times to visit San Clemente California because temperatures stay warm, the Pacific Ocean remains comfortable for swimming, and summer crowds begin to thin out. September through November typically bring clear skies, lower hotel rates, and excellent conditions for surfing Southern California beaches. Coastal sunsets also tend to be especially vibrant during this period, which adds to the relaxed beach-town atmosphere. Many travelers see it as the ideal balance between weather, value, and fewer tourists.
San Clemente always strikes me as that perfect coastal crossroads where classic California surf culture meets easygoing vacation charm. The mix of Spanish Colonial architecture, bluff-top views, and that iconic pier scene gives it a personality that feels both nostalgic and lively. I also like how you covered beginner-friendly surf spots alongside world-class breaks like Trestles because that helps travelers match expectations with skill level. And those packing tips are practical without overthinking things, which every beach traveler appreciates. If someone only had one full day there, would you suggest focusing mostly on the pier and downtown vibe or exploring the surf beaches first?
For a one-day San Clemente California visit, many travelers start around San Clemente Pier and the Pier Bowl area because it combines beach access, restaurants, coastal walking paths, and classic Southern California scenery in one spot. It’s an easy base for photos, casual dining, and enjoying the Pacific Ocean views. Surf-focused visitors often add San Onofre State Beach or Doheny State Beach later in the day since both are well-known beginner-friendly California surf beaches. This approach balances sightseeing with authentic Orange County beach culture.
San Clemente sounds like one of those places where you can switch gears easily, surf in the morning, stroll the pier by afternoon, and settle into a sunset dinner without ever feeling rushed. I appreciate how you highlighted both the natural side with bluff hikes and the social side with the Pier Bowl restaurants. The surf breakdown is especially useful since not every beach destination explains skill levels clearly. And honestly, that mix of casual taverns and fine dining makes the nightlife sound approachable instead of overwhelming. For someone new to the area, would you recommend staying right near the beach or slightly inland for better value?
Many visitors find staying near San Clemente beach hotels or the Pier Bowl area offers the most convenient experience, especially for walking access to restaurants, the coastal trail, and ocean views. However, accommodations slightly inland in South Orange County often provide better value while still keeping you close to San Clemente State Beach and downtown attractions. Both options work well, so the decision usually depends on whether oceanfront convenience or budget-friendly California coastal lodging is the priority.
San Clemente always looked beautiful to me, but I didn’t realize how much there is beyond the pier area. The surf beach breakdown is really helpful, especially knowing which spots are beginner friendly. That makes it feel a lot less intimidating to try surfing there.
San Clemente is definitely one of Southern California’s best coastal towns for surfing at all levels. Beaches like San Onofre and Doheny State Beach are great for beginners, while Trestles attracts experienced surfers from around the world. Plus, the San Clemente Pier area makes a perfect starting point because you can combine beach time, restaurants, and coastal walks all in one visit.
The Spanish Colonial architecture and bluff views sound like such a cool mix. I love beach towns that still have character instead of just high-rise hotels. The Pier Bowl area sounds like somewhere you could easily spend an entire day.
That’s exactly what makes San Clemente special. The Spanish Colonial style, oceanfront bluffs, and relaxed coastal vibe give it a very different feel from some other Southern California beach cities. The Pier Bowl area especially is great for exploring shops, grabbing seafood, and enjoying ocean views all in one spot.
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Beach packing definitely makes a difference, especially in sunny Southern California. Sunscreen, water bottles, hats, and lightweight layers help keep your San Clemente beach day comfortable from morning surf sessions to sunset pier walks. Being prepared means you can focus on enjoying the coast instead of running back to shops for essentials.
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Absolutely — San Clemente is a true year-round surfing destination, and that’s one of the reasons it’s so popular with both locals and traveling surfers. The conditions do shift with the seasons, but there’s always somewhere to paddle out. Winter usually brings the strongest swells and cleaner waves, while summer is mellower and great for beginners or longboarders. Breaks like Trestles, San Onofre, and the Pier all stay active throughout the year, so your experience really depends on what type of waves you prefer.
If you’re planning your trip, what level of surf are you hoping for — something beginner-friendly, or more of the advanced reef/point break experience? And are you looking to stay close to the Pier Bowl area or somewhere quieter along the coast?
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You’ll fall in love with San Clemente — it really captures that timeless SoCal charm! If you only have a weekend, definitely spend some time at the Pier Bowl area. You can walk the pier at sunset, grab a drink or dinner at Fisherman’s Restaurant, and watch surfers catching waves right below. It’s the heart of the city and gives you the full San Clemente experience — ocean views, great food, and that relaxed coastal vibe all in one spot!
San Clemente looks like the perfect Southern California beach town! I love how it combines a relaxed coastal vibe with great food, surf spots, and Spanish charm. The Pier Bowl sounds like such a fun area to spend the afternoon — maybe grab dinner at Fisherman’s Restaurant and watch the sunset over the ocean. I’m curious though, with so many beautiful beaches nearby, which one would you say is best for just relaxing and soaking up the California sun rather than surfing?
That’s such a great question! If you’re after a peaceful day of relaxing and sunbathing, I’d recommend San Clemente State Beach — it’s scenic, spacious, and has fewer crowds than some of the busier surf spots. You’ll find soft sand, calm stretches perfect for swimming, and gorgeous views of the bluffs. It’s also ideal for picnics or watching the sunset. If you want to stay closer to town, San Clemente Pier Beach is another great choice — it has that classic SoCal energy but still feels laid-back, with restaurants and shops just steps away.
Thank you for all this information, Fishermans restaurant sounds lovely and is sure a place i would love to visit.
You are so welcome Garry, thanks for stopping by to Visit San Clemente!
San Clemente looks like a really great place to visit, and like San Diego the temperature seems to be comfortable all year long. I would love to visit some time. The information you have here along with the pictures make it inviting and it doesn’t seem to expensive when I look it up. Thanks so much for sharing. I’m going to look into vacationing in the less busier months. The fall seems like a good time to go. Great informational post.
Thank you Jen, glad you enjoyed my post and hopefully you will can visit San Clemente this fall. I know you will love it. Please let me know if you need any further information.
Well now my option for beach traveling has gone up by 1. I have a plan to go next year, probably between US or Europe. If I go to US, probably will visit Los Angeles, New York, or California. Do you know how to access San Clemente from Los Angeles (and how long, since it may affect my planning)? If possible, I would like to just visit it without spending night there. Is it better to visit on morning or evening? Thanks
It under an hour drive to San Clemente, so not far at all. Wow! Sounds like you are going to have quite a vacation! I I can help in any way, please let me know.
Wow what a very informative post, i have not ventured much through the states and being from Australia and now living in Canada it is not that far away. Are you a surfer ? You made my mouth water from your very informative info of great surf spots in the area. the weather is confusing to me coming from a metric system lol, but for the price i would probably end up going in September or October, so there are not as many crowds. I think it would be a great spot to visit as part of a holiday where i visit so other areas close by. Thanks Paul
My son is a surfer 🙂 I have done it, but I am not that great at it. But surfing is a blast, that I can tell you! I hope you can visit San Clemente soon. Thanks for stopping by!
Hi – Thanks for a comprehensive summary. I’ve never been to CA but would like to go visit and from what I see it looks like San Clemente would be beautiful place to visit. The Pier looks amazing! A few questions. Any recommendations for great outdoor music entertainment? Also, I don’t surf but would love to go see a surfing competition, which of these beeches would you recommend for competition viewing?
Hi Jeff! There are a lot of music venues coming up and rather than list them all here, you can go to the San Clemente CA Music Events and find the complete list. Here is a link to theschedule for surfing competitions as well. They are so much fun to watch! You will enjoy!
Hi! Your time and effort to put this review together to share is really appreciated. I love the pictures of San Clemente that you have shared. I have always dream of visiting a beautiful beach like this and have a tour around the gorgeous city as well. I will plan my next vacation to be San Clemente. I really want to have this wonderful experience of a great city. Thanks for sharing this article.
Great! You will love it! Please let me know if you need any assistance with your travel plans 🙂
Wow! It seems like San Clemente really has something for everyone! I unfortunately did not visit this spot the last time I was on vacation in California. It was my first time out there and we went right on down to San Diego, but now I’m wishing we had stopped here! I would have loved to watch the surfers do there thing out there as I have never had the privilege of seeing that live! Thanks so much for the great information! It appears I have another destination on my list of places to visit.
It is so much fun to watch the surfers! Makes you want to get right out there and try it yourself…which I did. Super hard! Yes, you will have to visit if you enjoy California!
Hi Leahrae,
Great information on San Clemente! I have been wanting to visit California, and found your site. What great information on so many different places to visit in California. I am thinking that I will enjoy the San Clemente area the most. I appreciate all your work and look forward to booking my stay for this summer. Thank you!
You are very welcome! Please let me know if you need any additional information. I would be glad to help!
Hi LeahRae!Wow! San Clemente looks like a spectacular place to visit! I’ve never surfed a day in my life, but from your descriptions of the skill levels at the various beaches, I’m tempted to give the beginner waves at San Onofre or Doheny a taste.
I’m guessing South of Nick’s is a hangout for the younger crowd, so I’d probably gravitate more toward Pierside or Goody’s Tavern. 🙂
I’ll definitely keep this site bookmarked for the next time I’m in SoCal!
Thanks!Joe
Glad you enjoyed Joe! You only live once, so yes give surfing a try. My son surfs and he got me to try it. It is hard, but not as hard as I thought it would be!
Hello, Leahrae. San Clemente sounds like a great place to set up camp especially after the cold temperatures we have had in the Northwest over the month of February. the early spring temperatures would really appeal to my wife and me.
We have a travel trailer and finding a place to set up and vedge would be just what the doctor ordered, so to speak.
So many beaches to choose from. I think any one of them would be a great place to relax. We are just starting our retirement and relaxing is going to be near the top of our list.
Plenty of sights to see as well so there shouldn’t be any excuses for boredom. We like to walk so seeing some of the sites would for sure be on the to-do list.
And restaurants. An occasional eat out would be great and it seems that there is something for every budget. I like a great plate of fish and chips so, what would you recommend for the seafood lover?
My wife and I have been to Los Angles and Santiago in the past and this sounds like the perfect place to plan our next trip if we decide to go that far south.
Up until now, we haven’t really had an opportunity to go far with our trailer because of work commitments but with retirement, our options are going be a little more open.
Thanks for adding to our options,
Wayne
Hi Wayne, thanks for taking the time to comment on my visit San Clemente post! The best places for seafood are Nick’s (on my list) and The Fisherman. Both are excellent for seafood. I think you and your wife will have a great time with the travel trailer in San Clemente. Lots of relaxing to do for sure!
I love learning about beautiful places and your site is one that always provides me with them. San O sounds beautiful from your post and an absolutely gorgeous place to visit. It also houses Interesting side attractions apart from the beaches. This makes me more interested in visiting San clemente. Thanks for sharing this beautiful place
Thanks for stopping by and visiting Beach Travel Destinations.
Great visit, wonderful guide. I have been collecting some information on this San Clemente Pier because is a place of my passion to visit after completing my first degree for relaxing and amazing leisure time as I want to add it to my tour taken list sooner. I really love being on tour and I learnt is a great place to experience a beautiful view and a nice meal. There are more traditional restaurant seating on one side of the pier and a more casual side that offers outside deck seating for appetizers and drinks. This is close to the downtown shopping as well as a few small hotels. This guide really serve as an additional helpful information. Thanks admin.
You are very welcome! Glad you enjoyed beach travel destinations.
Hi there, San Clemente must be a very great and nice place reading about it don’t be surprised have not heard of the place before but now I know it as much as if have heard of it a long time ago. Thanks for these great journey. It was really a detailed article with descriptions dates, time, temperatures, weather conditions ad soo on.. I commend your writing a great and fascinating one .. Thanks
Thanks Sanni!
It is interesting to know that California is blessed with such beautiful natural beaches -San Clemente is truly a natural beauty. Probably one of the best places for a family vacation in the States. Given the chance, this would be one of my ‘must-visit’ places in the world.
I enjoyed this article.
Cheers.
California is blessed! You have that right! It is one of those destinations that everyone should experience!
This article on San Clemente certainly entices me to visit San Clemente beach! I will be making plans now to visit here. The information was very helpful for me in deciding what to do and where to go, etc. You have given me everything I need to start planning my vacation. Thank you for the detailed information.
You are very welcome! Please let me know if you need anything else.
Putting an article about a sunny destination like San Clemente in front of a deep-frozen Canadian isn’t considered polite 🙂
Jokes aside, thank you for a thorough article covering what one really needs to know about this destination i.e. the beaches, accommodation, where to eat and drink, and what to do.
After a long winter like the present, I would be ready to leave for San Clemente tomorrow based on your review.
Great Lars 🙂 Thanks for stopping by beach travel destinations.
It’s a beautiful place to visit indeed. I have this in mind, to visit that place one day, bring my laptop with me and shoot videos and pictures to inspire my team and become good at doing online business so they can visit this place too.
By the way, I’ve seen videos in Youtube featuring beaches in California where there’s a presence of attacking sharks. May I know how safe this place is as far as shark attack is concern? Are there any safety systems in place for the swimmers to protect them from sharks?
Millions of people swim and surf each year off the California coast. On average, three are attacked annually by sharks, according to data from the University of Florida covering the past decade. By comparison, California injuries or deaths resulting from drownings occur at a rate 200 times higher than shark attacks. California is also using shark sonar detection and keep a constant lookout for shark. I hope this helps 🙂
Wow, another beautiful place. I think with the stunning nature and the assortment of activities/things to do, San Clemente is the perfect beach vacation for me! It definitely looks like paradise. Their are some many things I can do while in San Clemente beach with the night life , the restaurants and the selected hotels. Thanks so much for the very informative article. Have a great day, and I am looking to vacation to San Clemente!
Thank you for stopping by Adisa and taking the time to leave me some comments. I know you will enjoy this whole area in California. I hope you can visit San Clemente soon! Please let me know if you need any additional information.
Leahrae,
what beautiful San Clemente is! and nice review also. Its very interesting to know that there is an actual beach where you can literally drive your car on to the beach.
Trestles seem surfing to be very interesting in surfing and all the other activities. I have heard that San Clemente is the safest cities in California with a strong sense of community
Regards
You are right and it is a wonderful place! Thanks for stopping by and hopefully you can visit San Clemente soon!
For years I’ve wanted to surf but I’ve always had that moment in Forgetting Sarah Marshall come to mind where Paul Rudd is the most worthless surf instructor around. His recommendation is always ‘Do less’ until the point of ‘Well now you’re just doing nothing!’
That being said I checked out 369 Surf in more detail on their website and on Yelp and it looks like just the right place to get started given I’m a total newbie and they provide everything you need!
Given San Clemente is about dead center from LA and San Diego what’s the best method to get there from out of state? Fly into LAX for ease?
Yes, fly into LAX for sure! It will be the easiest and quickest. You will have fun! We are headed there this summer, my son is a surfer….
Hi,
Thanks for all the wonderful and thorough information about San Clemente. I’ve never had the opportunity to visit this beautiful place. If I did go, I would probably visit during our winter season ( I am from Canada ) I understand the prices for hotels may be a little more economical during this time, so that is great news for me. Thanks so much for the very informative article. Have a great day.
Angela
You are so welcome Angela. And yes, being from Canada means their winter will seem warm to you! I grew up in Alaska, and I know that most anything seems warmer to me LOL I hope you can Visit San Clemente soon!
Wow, another beautiful place. I think we should thank God every single day for the stunning nature he has given to us:)
San Clemente looks a trendy place to hang out in the summer. I love surfing and hiking, well I try to surf:)This would be the perfect spot for my next vacation with my kids. Thank you for the restaurant and hotel list, I’ll check these right now, it will help me decide where will be staying and eating. My biggest problem when I travel is knowing what to pack:)What would you suggest to bring with us to San Clement?
Thank you in advance!
It is a beautiful beach destination! I agree, surfing is fun but oh so hard! My son competes and he finally got me to try it. It was easier than I thought it would be, but still difficult LOL. I have put together a list of beach travel essentials here. That will give you a great list of what to take 🙂
Wow! What a beauty !! San Clemente is definitely on my list of future destinations. The beaches are gorgeous and there are so many things to do. By the way, do you happen to know how much the Whale Watching cost? I bet it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience I enjoyed the reading, Leahrae. Thank you!
I have been whale watching and have smelled their breath (not the greatest!) and put my hand on them (very rough feeling) and it is a once in a lifetime thing to experience! Ok the prices for the Whale & Dolphin Watching Tour is Adults: $45 and $29 for children. It is most definitely worth it. I did this in Cabo and the price was triple, so this really is a good deal 🙂