10 Things to Do in San Clemente, California

San Clemente, also known as the Spanish village by the sea, is a coastal city in Orange County between San Diego and Los Angeles. It’s famous for stunning beaches, beautiful weather, surf culture, Spanishcolonial architecture, and a variety of attractions. From enjoying the ocean views at the pier, hiking the scenic coastal trail, playing golf at Talega Golf Club, to exploring local shops and dining downtown, San Clemente offers a mix of adventure, entertainment, and relaxation.

Here’s a list of the 10 best things to do in San Clemente to make your visit unforgettable.

The pier, built in 1928 as part of the city’s seaside development, is one of San Clemente’s most iconic landmarks. Located near downtown, it offers Pacific Ocean views, sandy beaches, and classic pier activities like walking, fishing, and relaxing by the waves. Historically, there has been a restaurant (Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar) and nearby shops, making it a scenic and lively destination for visitors.

Built in 1927–28 as the personal estate of the city’s founder, Casa Romantica now serves as a cultural center with historic tours, gardens, and community events. Note: a 2023 landslide damaged parts of the bluff, so some ocean-view terraces and gardens remain closed. The interior rooms and exhibitions are open, but check their website before visiting. Even partially open, it provides a historic glimpse into San Clemente’s past and Spanish-colonial architecture.

The 2.3-mile Beach Trail runs along the coast, connecting many beaches from near the pier down to Calafia State Beach. It’s popular for walking, jogging, and pedal biking (no e-bikes or motorized vehicles). The trail offers panoramic ocean views and easy access to several beaches, making it a peaceful way to explore the coastline without a car.

T-Street Beach, just south of the pier, is a favorite spot for surfers of all levels. Accessible via a pedestrian overpass, it has a wide sandy beach and basic amenities such as restrooms and showers. Whether you want to surf, sunbathe, or soak up the surf-town vibe, T-Street offers a laid-back, classic Southern California experience.

Downtown San Clemente’s Avenida Del Mar is lined with boutiques, surf shops, art galleries, cafés, and small restaurants. Visitors can enjoy shopping for beachwear or local crafts, and dine at casual spots offering international cuisine or local favorites. This area is perfect for a mix of shopping, dining, and soaking in the town’s Spanish-style charm.

San Clemente State Beach is a coastal park south of the pier with sandy beaches, bluff-top trails, and camping options (tent and RV). Visitors can swim, surf, paddleboard, hike, or picnic. The park also has restrooms and showers, and connects to the Beach Trail. It’s ideal for spending the day outdoors, enjoying ocean views, and camping under the stars.

Nestled in the hills of San Clemente, Talega Golf Club is an 18-hole, par-72 public course offering broad fairways, elevation changes, and water hazards. The clubhouse includes dining options like the Signature Grille and Bar. The course combines challenging holes for golfers with beautiful views of the Pacific, making it a must for golf enthusiasts visiting the city.

San Clemente’s Surfing Heritage and Culture Center celebrates surfing history through exhibits, memorabilia, and educational programs. While it’s no longer claimed to have the “largest surfboard collection in the world,” it remains an important cultural spot for anyone interested in the evolution and cultural impact of surfing. The center hosts exhibits and events year-round for enthusiasts of all ages.

Just a short drive (about 6 miles) south of San Clemente, Dana Point is a popular whale-watching destination. Visitors can see gray whales, blue whales, dolphins, and other marine life on boat tours. Gray whales migrate from Alaska to Baja from November through May, while blue whales are typically visible from May through November. Whale watching here offers a memorable wildlife experience for nature lovers.

San Clemente has a growing craft beer scene. Popular spots include Lost Winds Brewery, specializing in Belgian-style beers; Artifex, offering a tasting room and food truck; Los Molinos, near North Beach, serving both beer and casual food; and Left Coast, with a wide selection of beers in a relaxed atmosphere. Visiting these breweries gives a taste of local flavor and laid-back beach-town vibes.

Planning your trip to San Clemente? Book your stay at Laguna Inn & Suites in San Juan Capistrano for a comfortable, convenient home base just minutes from top attractions!