San Clemente: California's Coastal Gem
Explore the charm of San Clemente, California's coastal paradise, with stunning beaches, rich culture, and delightful dining experiences.
San Clemente, located in sunny California, is a charming coastal town that offers stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for tourists looking to unwind and explore. Known for its picturesque ocean views and Spanish colonial architecture, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, local art, and delightful dining options, making it a must-visit destination on the California coast.
A brief summary to San Clemente
- San Clemente, California, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit the San Clemente Pier early in the morning for a serene sunrise experience.
- Don’t miss the local farmers' market held every Sunday for fresh produce and artisan goods.
- Explore the vibrant Avenida Del Mar for unique shops and local eateries.
- Take advantage of the numerous hiking trails in the nearby San Onofre State Beach for stunning coastal views.
Getting There
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Bus
To reach San Clemente from Costa Mesa using public transportation, head to the nearest bus stop on 19th Street and Newport Boulevard. You will take the OCTA Bus route 1 towards San Clemente. The bus will make several stops along the way, including major areas like South Coast Plaza and Newport Beach. Stay on the bus for approximately 45 minutes. Once you arrive at the San Clemente bus station, you can walk to various attractions in the area or enjoy a meal at a local restaurant.
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Train
To get to San Clemente by train, walk to the nearest Amtrak station in Costa Mesa, which is located at 1550 S. Coast Highway. From there, take the Metrolink train on the Orange County Line towards San Juan Capistrano. The ride will take about 30 minutes. Once you arrive at the San Juan Capistrano station, transfer to the Metrolink service towards Oceanside and get off at the San Clemente station. The San Clemente station is a short walk from the beach and downtown area.
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Bicycle
If you're feeling adventurous, you can rent a bicycle from one of the local rental shops in Costa Mesa. From there, head south on 19th Street, which will take you to the Santa Ana River Trail. Follow the trail south until you reach the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). Continue along the PCH heading towards San Clemente, which is about 15 miles away. The ride will take you through scenic coastal views, and once you arrive in San Clemente, you can explore the beaches and shops along the coast.
Discover more about San Clemente
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Landmarks on Del Mar
0.1 km
Discover the historical charm of Del Mar in San Clemente, where stunning architecture meets captivating coastal views in a vibrant atmosphere.
PCH Monument
7.8 km
Explore the PCH Monument in Dana Point, a captivating historical landmark showcasing California's coastal heritage and stunning ocean views.
Dana Point Arches
9.2 km
Discover the Dana Point Arches, a stunning coastal landmark that blends breathtaking views with rich historical significance in California.
Mission San Juan Capistrano, Landmark, Chapel, Museum and Gardens
9.5 km
Experience the rich history and serene beauty of Mission San Juan Capistrano, a cherished landmark showcasing California's heritage and stunning architecture.
Dana Point Lantern District Sign
9.6 km
Discover the Dana Point Lantern District Sign, a historic landmark that captures the essence of coastal California's charm and maritime heritage.
Los Rios Street Historic District
9.6 km
Discover the historic Los Rios Street District in San Juan Capistrano, featuring charming architecture, local shops, and rich cultural heritage.
Laguna Beach Cliff Hike
14.9 km
Discover breathtaking ocean views and scenic trails at Laguna Beach Cliff Hike, a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Treasure Island Park
16.4 km
Experience the beauty of Treasure Island Park, a hidden gem in Laguna Beach, where stunning ocean views and lush gardens await.
Montage Laguna Beach
16.6 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and breathtaking ocean views at Montage Laguna Beach, your ultimate coastal getaway in California.
Treasure Island Beach
16.7 km
Experience the tranquility and beauty of Treasure Island Beach in Laguna Beach, California, a perfect getaway for relaxation and stunning ocean views.
Victoria Beach
17.0 km
Discover the enchanting shores of Victoria Beach in Laguna Beach, California, where natural beauty meets coastal adventure.
Mermaid Beach
17.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Mermaid Beach, a hidden gem in Laguna Beach, California, where stunning views and tranquility await.
Pirate Tower
17.5 km
Discover the enchanting Pirate Tower in Laguna Beach, a historical landmark offering stunning ocean views and a glimpse into California's coastal heritage.
Bluebird Park
18.8 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Bluebird Park in Laguna Beach, where nature meets recreation in a perfect escape.
Hoffy Tours
18.9 km
Experience the beauty and culture of Laguna Beach with personalized tours by Hoffy Tours, your gateway to unforgettable California adventures.
Unmissable attractions to see
Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens
0.9 km
Immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of San Clemente at Casa Romantica, featuring stunning gardens and captivating art experiences.
San Clemente Pier
1.3 km
Experience the allure of San Clemente Pier, where stunning ocean views, fishing, and vibrant beach life await in California's coastal paradise.
Artifex Brewing Company
2.5 km
Discover the craft of brewing at Artifex Brewing Company in San Clemente, where local flavors meet vibrant community spirit in a relaxing beer garden.
Lost Winds Brewing Company
2.8 km
Experience the best of craft beer at Lost Winds Brewing Company in San Clemente, California, where quality brews meet a vibrant community atmosphere.
San Mateo Campground
3.6 km
Experience the tranquility of nature at San Mateo Campground, a perfect escape with stunning views and outdoor adventures in San Clemente.
Left Coast Brewing Co.
4.0 km
Experience the best of craft brewing at Left Coast Brewing Co. in San Clemente, California, where flavor meets creativity in every glass.
San Onofre State Beach
7.0 km
Discover the coastal beauty of San Onofre State Beach, a perfect blend of surf, sun, and scenic trails in Southern California.
Doheny State Beach
7.8 km
Experience the serene beauty of Doheny State Beach, a coastal paradise offering sun, surf, and endless outdoor adventures in Dana Point, California.
Catalina Express
8.2 km
Discover Catalina Island with Catalina Express, offering scenic ferry rides from Dana Point to a world of adventure in California's coastal paradise.
Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching Dana Point
8.2 km
Explore the majestic marine life of California with whale watching and fishing adventures at Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching in Dana Point.
Dana Point Harbor
8.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and vibrant activities of Dana Point Harbor, a coastal paradise in Southern California perfect for every traveler.
Dana Point
9.1 km
Discover Dana Point, California: A coastal escape with stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant marine life, perfect for your next adventure.
Capt. Dave's Dana Point Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari
9.3 km
Capt. Dave's Dana Point Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari offers exhilarating tours to see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat along California's stunning coast.
Historic Town Center Park
9.3 km
Discover the enchanting Historic Town Center Park in San Juan Capistrano, a perfect blend of nature and local history for a memorable visit.
Essential places to dine
Coyote Grill - Laguna Beach
14.9 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Coyote Grill in Laguna Beach—where ocean views meet culinary delight.
NEApolitan Pizzeria & Birreria
15.0 km
Discover authentic Neapolitan pizza and craft brews at NEApolitan Pizzeria & Birreria in beautiful Laguna Beach.
Lost Pier Cafe
15.8 km
Experience coastal dining at Lost Pier Cafe with fresh seafood delights and stunning ocean views in beautiful Laguna Beach.
Harvest
15.8 km
Experience culinary excellence at Harvest in Laguna Beach – where American flavors meet breathtaking views.
Starfish Laguna Beach
16.6 km
Experience exquisite Asian Fusion cuisine at Starfish Laguna Beach amidst stunning coastal views and exceptional service.
The Loft
16.6 km
Experience fine American dining with breathtaking ocean views at The Loft in Laguna Beach - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Mosaic Bar & Grille
16.6 km
Experience exceptional dining at Mosaic Bar & Grille in Laguna Beach – where gourmet cuisine meets breathtaking ocean views.
The Drake in Laguna Beach
17.3 km
Discover culinary excellence at The Drake in Laguna Beach—where American cuisine meets captivating live music in an upscale setting.
Dizz's As Is
17.4 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Dizz's As Is in Laguna Beach – where every meal is a celebration of flavor and coastal charm.
Maro Wood Grill
18.4 km
Experience authentic Argentinian cuisine at Maro Wood Grill in Laguna Beach—where organic meets exquisite flavors in every dish.
Rumari
18.5 km
Discover Rumari: A Culinary Haven in Laguna Beach Offering Authentic Italian Dishes and Fresh Seafood with Stunning Coastal Views.
Mozambique
18.6 km
Explore Mozambique in Laguna Beach: A vibrant dining destination offering steak, seafood, and live music for an unforgettable culinary adventure.
Selanne Steak Tavern
18.9 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine at Selanne Steak Tavern in Laguna Beach, where every meal becomes a cherished memory.
Avila's El Ranchito - Laguna Beach
19.1 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Avila's El Ranchito in Laguna Beach - where vibrant flavors meet stunning coastal views.
Rooftop Lounge
19.1 km
Discover breathtaking ocean views and exquisite dining at Rooftop Lounge in Laguna Beach - your perfect coastal escape.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cactus Jane Emporium
18.8 km
Explore the vibrant Cactus Jane Emporium in Laguna Beach for unique gifts and local artistry that celebrate California's coastal beauty.
Ocean Laguna
19.1 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local art at Ocean Laguna, the charming gift shop in Laguna Beach that captures the essence of coastal California.
The Garage Collective
19.2 km
Explore The Garage Collective, a charming boutique in Laguna Beach with local art, vintage finds, and handcrafted treasures.
Ligne Blanche
19.3 km
Discover unique gifts and artisanal treasures at Ligne Blanche, a charming gift shop in Laguna Beach, California, perfect for souvenirs and special finds.
Village Faire Shoppes
19.3 km
Discover unique boutiques and local artistry at Village Faire Shoppes in Laguna Beach, a delightful shopping destination with a coastal charm.
Lala
19.3 km
Discover unique fashion and decor at Lala, a charming boutique in Laguna Beach that captures the essence of California’s coastal lifestyle.
The Shop. laguna beach
19.4 km
Explore a stylish collection of women’s clothing, accessories, and jewelry at The Shop Laguna Beach, where fashion meets coastal charm.
Twig
19.4 km
Explore Twig, the enchanting gift shop in Laguna Beach, offering unique treasures, local artistry, and a perfect blend of seaside charm.
Soulshine Laguna - By Confetti Gift Company
19.5 km
Explore Soulshine Laguna, a unique gift shop in Laguna Beach offering handcrafted treasures and local artisan goods for the perfect souvenir.
Mimi & Rae
19.8 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish women's clothing at Mimi & Rae in Laguna Beach, the perfect stop for tourists seeking local treasures.
Sun and Sand Boutique
19.9 km
Discover unique coastal fashion at Sun and Sand Boutique in Laguna Beach, where style meets the spirit of California living, perfect for every traveler.
Cherry Moon Shoppe
19.9 km
Explore Cherry Moon Shoppe in Laguna Beach for a delightful selection of vintage clothes, quirky home decor, and unique thrift store treasures.
Laguna Village Shops
20.0 km
Explore Laguna Village Shops: A treasure trove of unique gifts and local artistry in the heart of Laguna Beach.
Russian Traditions
20.0 km
Explore the essence of Russian culture through unique souvenirs and collectibles at Russian Traditions in Laguna Beach.
Luna
20.2 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Luna, a charming boutique in Laguna Beach, California, where style meets coastal elegance.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Helen’s Cocktails
14.7 km
Discover Helen's Cocktails in Laguna Beach, California - where vibrant mixology meets stunning ocean views for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Lobby Lounge at Montage Laguna Beach
16.6 km
Experience luxury and tranquility at the Lobby Lounge at Montage Laguna Beach, where exquisite dining meets breathtaking ocean views.
Wine Gallery
18.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of American cuisine and fine wines at Wine Gallery in Laguna Beach, where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
The Sandpiper Lounge
19.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Sandpiper Lounge, a coastal bar in Laguna Beach offering stunning views, craft cocktails, and a lively social scene.
Saloon
20.2 km
Discover Saloon, an iconic cocktail bar in Laguna Beach, offering innovative drinks, a welcoming atmosphere, and stunning coastal views.
Hennessey's Tavern
20.4 km
Discover Hennessey's Tavern in Laguna Beach - an inviting Irish pub offering delicious fare, live music, and stunning ocean views.
Breeze & Brew
20.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Breeze & Brew, a premier bar and restaurant in Laguna Beach, offering stunning ocean views, delicious food, and refreshing drinks.
Marine Room Tavern
20.4 km
Discover the lively Marine Room Tavern in Laguna Beach, a perfect blend of live music, cocktails, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
The IRV Bar
27.2 km
Discover unique craft beers and exquisite wines at The IRV Bar, a lively destination inside Whole Foods in Irvine, California.
Dave & Buster's Irvine
27.7 km
Experience the ultimate blend of gaming and dining at Dave & Buster's Irvine, where fun meets flavor in an electrifying atmosphere.
Hive and Honey Rooftop Bar
28.5 km
Discover Hive and Honey Rooftop Bar in Irvine for stunning views, delicious tapas, and creative cocktails, perfect for a memorable night out.
Bacchus Bar and Bistro
29.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Bacchus Bar and Bistro in Irvine, a perfect blend of fine dining and a cozy bar atmosphere.
Tony's Sports Bar and Grill
32.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious flavors at Tony's Sports Bar and Grill in Oceanside, California, a perfect spot for food lovers and sports fans.
Anthill Pub & Grille
32.6 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and delicious cuisine at Anthill Pub & Grille, the perfect spot for tourists in Irvine, California.
Frankie's
33.5 km
Discover Frankie's in Oceanside, a vibrant bar with stunning ocean views and creative cocktails, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
