Explore San Clemente: A Southern California Coastal Escape

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Top Shopping Spots in San Clemente

Shopping along charming Avenida Del Mar

In the heart of town you’ll find a vibrant mix of boutiques, galleries, cafés and beachfront eateries — perfect for a relaxed afternoon of browsing, lunch and people-watching. 

Outlets at San Clemente

This is a big coastal outlet mall with over 60 brands, offering discounts (some up to 70 % off). 
You’ll find stores like Nike, H&M, Adidas, and more. 

Old Town San Clemente

Great for strolling and boutique shopping — cute local shops, cafés, gifts, and surf shops all along Avenida Del Mar.

Talega Village Center

A neighborhood center closer to the residential side — good for more everyday shopping.

Ocean View Plaza

A more retail-oriented plaza with anchor tenants like Stater Bros. and Trader Joe’s nearby. 

Pico Plaza

Another local shopping plaza in San Clemente with stores and services.

Suggestions & Tips

• Walk Avenida Del Mar for a relaxed beachside shopping day. Combine your shopping trip with dining or a beach stroll — some of these shopping areas are right by the coast. The Outlets at San Clemente can get busy, especially on weekends — try to go early or in the afternoon.

• If you’re after unique goods or antiques, check out the smaller shops in Old Town.

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Top 20 Restaurants in San Clemente, California

Fine Dining & Coastal Cuisine

1. Vine Restaurant & Bar — Upscale American dining with seasonal ingredients.

2. South of Nick’s Mexican Kitchen + Bar — Elevated Mexican fare with seafood specialties.
   
   

3. Nick’s San Clemente — Modern American comfort with a lively bar scene.
   
   

4. Brussels Bistro — European charm serving Belgian classics and fine wines.
   
   

5. Rancho Capistrano Winery — Coastal winery serving fresh seafood and small plates.
   
   

Modern American & Contemporary Spots

6. Parlor Woodfire Kitchen & Cocktails — Stylish setting with wood-fired entrees and craft cocktails.
   
   

7. Fig @ 313 — Contemporary American with creative dishes and an elegant vibe.
   
   

8. BeachFire Bar & Grill — Coastal favorite blending surf culture with upscale dining.
   
   

9. The Cellar — Wine bar and bistro known for ambiance and charcuterie.
   
   

10. Drift Distillery & Smokehouse — Local distillery with smoked meats and craft spirits.
    
    

International & Casual Dining

11. Buona Forchetta — Authentic Italian cuisine with house-made pasta and wood-fired pizza.
    
    

12. Hot N Chili Indian Restaurant — Traditional Indian dishes in an elegant setting.
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13. Asada Cantina + Kitchen — Modern Mexican with creative cocktails.
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14. Hapa J’s — Hawaiian fusion with island-inspired cocktails and live music.
    
    

15. Pierside Kitchen + Bar — Beachfront views and fresh seafood.
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Breakfast, Brunch & Café Favorites

16. Café Mimosa — Locals’ favorite brunch spot with French flair.
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17. The Bagel Shack — Classic breakfast stop known for fresh-baked bagels.
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18. Sunrise Café — Cozy breakfast café serving comfort classics.
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19. Zebra House Coffee & Eatery — Trendy café with light bites and locally roasted coffee.
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20. Board & Brew — Fresh sandwiches and casual seaside vibe.
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Best Bars in San Clemente

Here are five great bars in San Clemente — each with its own vibe so you can choose what fits your night best!

1. Goody’s Tavern

This classic spot on South El Camino Real has been around since 1929 and is known for its sports-bar vibe and late-night energy. It’s perfect if you want a big, fun night with a crowd.

2. Red Fox Lounge

A more relaxed downtown option — cozy, with some bite to drink and an inviting patio where locals hang out. Great for a chill night or when you want to skip the big party.

3. Mulligan’s Sports Bar 21+

Located near the North Beach area, this is your go-to for a laid-back sports bar that also serves good food, has pool tables, and a fun atmosphere. 

4. The Lost Inferno

This one's for the cocktail lovers — creative drinks, unique vibe, and a slightly more upscale and adventurous scene. If you’re after something beyond the usual bar, this could be it.

5. Blooms Irish Pub

A bit off the beaten path but loved for its welcoming vibe, live music, and good drink selection. Great if you want something local and comfy.

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Top Attractions in San Clemente

Coastal Landmarks

1. San Clemente Pier
The heart of the city — enjoy ocean views, fishing, dining, and sunset strolls. Locals love grabbing a bite at the pier café after a walk along the beach trail.
Location: Avenida Del Mar & Calle Sevilla

2. San Clemente State Beach
Famous for its dramatic coastal bluffs and excellent surf. Ideal for beach days, camping, and evening bonfires.
Location: 225 Avenida Calafia

3. T-Street Beach
A favorite among surfers and families alike. This sandy beach offers great waves, a snack bar, and lifeguard services.
Location: W Avenida Barcelona & Avenida Medina

History & Culture

4. Casa Romantica Cultural Center & Gardens
A historic Spanish-Colonial estate with ocean-view gardens, art exhibits, and live performances — a true local gem.
Location: 415 Avenida Granada

5. Los Rios Historic District (Nearby in San Juan Capistrano)
California’s oldest neighborhood — charming adobe homes, local shops, and cozy cafés within minutes of San Clemente.
Location: Los Rios Street, San Juan Capistrano

Outdoor Adventures

6. San Clemente Beach Trail
A scenic 2.5-mile oceanfront path perfect for walking, jogging, or biking from the pier to Calafia Beach.
Location: Trailhead near North Beach Station

7. San Clemente Coastal Trail & Ridge Trail
Panoramic ridge hikes showcasing mountain-to-sea views and natural beauty. Great for sunrise or sunset hikes.

Shopping & Entertainment

8. Outlets at San Clemente
Luxury shopping with ocean views — featuring designer brands, restaurants, and live entertainment.
Location: 101 W Avenida Vista Hermosa

9. Del Mar Street & Downtown San Clemente
Lined with local boutiques, surf shops, cafés, and art galleries — a perfect stroll after the beach.
Location: Avenida Del Mar

10. San Clemente Golf Club
A public course with scenic ocean views, lush greens, and a laid-back SoCal vibe.
Location: 150 E Avenida Magdalena

Top Beaches in San Clemente

San Clemente State Beach

• Long stretch of coastline with great surfing, swimming, and camping opportunities. California's Best Beaches+2Wikipedia+2

• Accessed by bluff-top parking and stair/trail access down to the sand — includes amenities like restrooms and picnic areas. California's Best Beaches+1

• Known for scenic views, with bluffs and beach backed by the railroad line typical of much of San Clemente’s coastline. California's Best Beaches

T‑Street Beach

• One of the most popular local beaches — easy access via pedestrian bridge over the railroad, ideal for surfers and beachgoers alike. Wikipedia+2Enjoy OC+2

• Great for surfing, bodyboarding, or a casual beach day; close to downtown amenities and convenient parking/entrances. Wikipedia+1

Calafia Beach Park (often just “Calafia Beach”)

• Family-friendly beach park with amenities: parking, restrooms, bluff-top views, and access paths down to the sand. Enjoy OC+2California's Best Beaches+2

• Often a bit quieter than the pier area, and a good starting/ending point for coastal walks or beach trail hikes. California's Best Beaches+1

North Beach

• Convenient for visitors arriving by rail — the train stops right by the beach, making this one of the easiest beaches to access without a car. San Clemente+1

• Provides good amenities including parking, restrooms, and easy access paths — a reliable “go-to” beach for many locals and visitors. San Clemente+1

Poche Beach & Riviera Beach (and several smaller access-point beaches)

• Poche Beach offers a peaceful beach experience, with less crowding than the “main” beaches — good for a relaxed day by the ocean. Enjoy OC+1

• Riviera Beach and similar access-point beaches along the coast provide variety — from calmer spots to scenic bluff-top views and surf access. California's Best Beaches+1

Surf Spot: Trestles Beach (just south of San Clemente / near San Onofre)

• One of the world-famous surf breaks, with consistent waves — especially at “Lowers.” Surfers from around the globe come here. Located just south of town, it offers a natural, rugged beach experience — great for experienced surfers or those looking for a surf-centric beach day.

Top Surf Spots in San Clemente

1. Trestles (Upper, Lower, Middles)

The crown jewel of San Clemente surfing.

• Best for: Intermediate to advanced surfers

• Wave type: Long, peeling, high-performance waves

• Why it's famous: Trestles hosts major surf competitions and is considered one of the best waves in the U.S.

• Notes: Long walk from parking. Crowded but worth it.

Lowers = most famous, high-performance skate-park-like wave
Uppers = more spread out, a bit more forgiving
Middles = playful and great when conditions align

2. T-Street (Trafalgar Street Beach)

• Best for: All levels (beginners on small days, intermediates most days)

• Wave type: Fun beach break with lefts and rights

• Close to town, consistent and social

• Easy access bridge over the train tracks

Great vibe for younger surfers and after-school sessions.

3. San Clemente Pier & Pier Bowl

• Best for: Intermediate surfers

• Wave type: Punchy peaks with shifting sandbars

• Inside the heart of town with awesome scenery

• Pier influences the shape of the wave — works best on combo swells

Good option if T-Street is too crowded.

🏄‍♂️ 4. North Beach

• Best for: Intermediates

• Wave type: Exposed beach break, conditions vary

• Less consistent but fun when the sand lines up

5. Calafia / San Clemente State Beach

• Best for: Intermediate and advanced

• Wave type: Stronger waves with long walls when the swell is right

• Scenic cliffs, longer paddle

More powerful and less forgiving than T-Street.

6. Riviera (“Rivi”)

• Best for: Intermediate to advanced

• Wave type: Reef and cobblestone mix with long, fun rights

• Less crowded but very tide-dependent

Hidden gem when it’s working.

When to Surf in San Clemente

Best Seasons:

• Fall (Sept–Nov): Best overall — combo swells + offshore mornings

• Summer (June–Aug): South swells light up Trestles

• Winter (Dec–Feb): NW swells energize State Beach, Rivi, Pier Bowl

Wind:

• Mornings are usually best (light offshore or calm)

• Afternoon onshores common

Skill Level Guide

Beginner: T-Street (small days), Pier (small days), some summer soft waves
Intermediate: T-Street, Pier Bowl, North Beach
Advanced: Trestles, Riviera, State Beach

Surf Culture Notes

• San Clemente is a true surf town — home to pro surfers, board shapers, and major surf companies.

• Expect crowds, especially at Trestles.

• Respect the locals, follow lineup etiquette, and you’ll fit right in.

Great Trails in San Clemente

San Clemente Beach Coastal Trail

• ~ 2.3 miles long. California Beaches+1

• Follows the coastline — great for walking, jogging, biking, or a casual stroll. California Beaches+1

• Easy access from beach parking lots (like North Beach or Calafia), pier area, or bluff-top neighborhoods. California Beaches+1

• Fantastic scenic views of the coast, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Rancho San Clemente Ridgeline Trail

• ~ 9.2 km (≈ 5.7 mi), out-and-back. San Clemente+1

• Mostly gentle terrain — good for all ages including kids and easy hikes. San Clemente

• Offers natural open-space scenery, wildflowers, and hillside views. San Clemente+1

Forster Ranch Ridgeline Trail

• Suitable for hiking, trail-running, or biking. San Clemente+1

• Moderate difficulty — some hills, nice ridgeline views of coastal hillsides. San Clemente+1

• Dogs on leash allowed; good for a nature-filled outing not far from town. San Clemente+1

Talega Loop Trail (north-west San Clemente)

• One of the longer local trails — great for a full hike, trail-run, or extended outdoor outing. AllTrails.com+1

• Offers varying terrain, nice elevation, and panoramic views of hills and nearby communities. AllTrails.com+1

• Good choice if you want more of a workout, mixed scenery, and a bit of solitude.

What You Need to Know

• The city maintains five major trail networks running from beaches to ridgelines and canyons. San Clemente+1

• Most trails allow walking, biking, and dogs on leash. San Clemente+1

• Some trails (ridgeline, canyon) may have wildlife — deer, coyotes, bobcats — be aware and keep pets on leash. San Clemente+1

• Beach-adjacent trails may have stairs or bluff access — good for walking, jogging, or relaxed coastal strolls. California Beaches+1

How to Pick a Trail

• For easy, scenic seaside strolls: San Clemente Beach Coastal Trail

• For quick nature walks close to town: Rancho San Clemente Ridgeline or Forster Ranch Ridgeline

• For a longer hike or workout: Talega Loop, Forster Ranch, or a combination ridgeline + coastal trail

• For dog-friendly outing: Ridgeline or beach-trail paths (leash required)

Here’s a curated list of some of the best parks in San Clemente — whether you’re looking for a beach-side stroll, a playground for the kids, sports fields, or a relaxing picnic spot. 

Notable Parks in San Clemente

Forster Ranch Community Park

• Address: 3207 Camino Vera Cruz, San Clemente, CA 92673. 

• Features: sports fields (baseball/softball, soccer), playground, picnic areas, restrooms — ideal for families, sports, or group gatherings.

Vista Del Sol Park

• Address: 111 Avenida Costa Azul, San Clemente, CA 92672.

• Highlights: ocean-view picnic areas, open green space, relaxing atmosphere — a lovely place for sunset walks or a laid-back afternoon outdoors. 

Linda Lane Park

• Address: 400 Linda Lane, San Clemente, CA 92672.

• Great for families: playground, green space, easy beach-proximity access, ideal for kids or quick park visits.

Max Berg Plaza Park

• Address: 1100 Calle Puente, San Clemente, CA 92672. Cybo+1

• Known for: community-friendly open areas, amphitheater/space for events, picnic benches — nice for social gatherings or small community events. Cybo+1

San Gorgonio Park

• Address: 2916 Via San Gorgonio, San Clemente, CA 92672. 

• Amenities: sports fields, courts, playgrounds, restrooms, picnic tables — a solid pick for sports, kids, and active families.

🏖️ Beach-Adjacent / Scenic Parks & Trails

San Clemente State Beach

• A scenic coastal park and stretch of beach. Offers beach access, ocean views — great for walks, sunsets, beach days, and easy ocean access. 

✅ What the City Offers

• The city manages 23 parks, about 324 acres of parkland, ~25.9 miles of hiking/walking trails, 2 miles of public beaches, and the San Clemente Municipal Golf Course. 

• Regular park hours: generally 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM, unless otherwise posted or a permit is required. 

• Many parks are suited for a variety of activities: sports, picnics, kids’ play, relaxing strolls, beach access, and community events.