Things To Do
San Clemente Pier
The San Clemente Pier is an ideal location for a beach day. There's a small cluster of restaurants and shops nearby. One of our favorite things to do is to walk along the beach at sunset.
Avenida Del Mar
Avenida Del Mar is the main street in downtown San Clemente, where you'll find a mix of local shops, restaurants, and bars. It's one of our favorite areas to hang out and grab a bite to eat. Some of our go-to spots are The Cellar, Cafe Mimosa, South of Nick's, SeaSurf, Taqueria Luna, South Swell, Active Culture, and Coastal Cowboy.
North Beach
Our favorite beach by far, and just a five-minute walk from where we currently live. This is a fantastic spot to soak in those PTRs (prime time rays). We recommend stopping by High Tide Coffee for an iced latte or Moulin for French pastries and sandwiches before heading down, or grabbing food at Los Molinos Beer after the beach.
Sea Summit Trail
An easy trail with gorgeous ocean views. There are several smaller offshoots, allowing you to make the hike as quick or as long as you want.
San Juan Capistrano
Just a short drive from San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano offers a charming blend of history, culture, and local flavor. Be sure to visit Mission San Juan Capistrano, one of California’s most iconic landmarks, known for its beautiful gardens, Spanish architecture, and rich history dating back to the 1700s. Nearby, River Street Ranch provides a relaxed, open-air setting with local shops, casual dining, and live music. The Los Rios Historic District, the oldest continuously occupied neighborhood in California, is perfect for a leisurely stroll among historic adobe homes, boutique shops, and cozy cafés, including the Montañez Adobe, a preserved 18th-century home that offers a glimpse into early California life.
Dana Point
Just north of San Clemente, Dana Point is known for its coastal views, surf culture, and harbor-front charm. Doheny State Beach and Salt Creek Beach are local favorites. The Bluff Top Trail offers a scenic coastal walk with panoramic views of the Pacific, perfect for a morning stroll or sunset. The Lantern District offers a mix of restaurants, bars, and shops, while Dana Point Harbor is ideal for walking, dining, and watching the boats. Some of our favorite places to eat are Young's Beach Shack and Kawamata Seafood.