Top 15 Must-Do Activities in San Clemente, CA

San Clemente is a coastal city with a population of approximately 64,000, located in Orange County. Positioned equidistant between the major urban centers of Los Angeles and San Diego, each approximately an hour’s drive away, this city offers convenient access to both cities.

This destination is renowned for its picturesque beaches, favorable climate throughout the year, and breathtaking vistas that encompass both the ocean and mountainous landscapes. Additionally, it boasts a vibrant surf culture and premier surfing spots characterized by exceptional waves.

The presence of numerous Spanish Colonial-style structures has earned San Clemente the moniker “Spanish Village by the Sea.”

In San Clemente, visitors will find an array of parks, cultural venues, dining establishments, and shopping centers, including the Outlets at San Clemente, Ocean View Plaza, and Talega Village Center.

The quaint charm of this beach city is particularly evident in the vibrant downtown area, especially along Avenida Del Mar, which is lined with cozy cafes, antique stores, and art galleries.

Throughout the year, San Clemente hosts a variety of festivals and events, such as the San Clemente Ocean Festival, San Clemente Street Fiesta, Aguas Frescas Festival, Hawaiian Festival, and San Clemente Art Festival.

Below are 15 exceptional activities to enjoy in and around San Clemente, California.

1. Learn about Local History at the Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens

Constructed in 1927 for the city’s founder, Ole Hanson, Casa Romantica serves as a historic residence.

As a public cultural center and gardens, Casa Romantica is perched on a cliff that commands magnificent views of the ocean and the San Clemente Pier.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the past within this exquisite seven-bedroom dwelling, which showcases the history and culture of the region. The interior features stunning architecture, period furnishings, and a variety of historical artefacts.

Surrounded by five acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, the estate includes walking paths and diverse flora, such as cacti and shrubs. Guided tours are available or guests can explore the grounds independently.

The site includes a gift shop, and hosts numerous events throughout the year, encompassing performances, lectures, and workshops.

2. Stroll Along the San Clemente Pier

The San Clemente Pier, located near the downtown area, is a beloved gathering spot, framed by sandy beaches and unobstructed vistas of the Pacific Ocean.

Regardless of whether you visit during the day or evening, the atmosphere is consistently vibrant, offering various activities and opportunities for relaxation. Guests may choose to sit on benches for people-watching or listen to the soothing sounds of the waves.

Fishing is a popular pastime at the San Clemente Pier, and a selection of dining establishments, ranging from casual fast-food venues to upscale restaurants, provides options for meals or leisure with a beverage.

3. Learn to Ride the Waves at San Clemente Surf School

Visitors to San Clemente should immerse themselves in surfing, a vital component of local culture. At the San Clemente Surf School, proficient local surfers offer valuable instruction.

Engaging with knowledgeable instructors, participants will cultivate their skills to master some of the world’s finest waves.

Instruction is available for all skill levels, catering to novices as well as experienced surfers seeking enhancement. Each session commences with an essential safety briefing and an introduction to basic techniques.

Once in the water, students will practice standing and balancing on the board, ultimately riding their first wave. All necessary equipment, including boards and wetsuits, is provided.

4. Spend a Day by the Ocean at San Clemente State Beach

San Clemente State Beach is a favored coastal park in the area, distinguished by its expansive sandy beach, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, diving, fishing, and surfing, all framed by charming hills and mountains.

Additional activities available in proximity include hiking, cycling, birdwatching, and wildlife observation, alongside an Environmental Learning and Visitors Center on-site.

For those wishing to extend their stay, a campground with facilities, including restrooms and showers, is available.

5. Grab a Bite to Eat at Nick’s San Clemente

Since 2008, Nick’s San Clemente has been delighting guests with high-quality meals in a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere. This restaurant specializes in contemporary American cuisine with a touch of innovation.

The menu features a diverse selection, including appetizers, salads, sandwiches, burgers, and signature dishes such as pan-seared Scottish salmon, San Francisco cioppino, buttermilk fried chicken, and baby back pork ribs.

A broad range of beverages is available, featuring Scotch and an assortment of wines, beers, and craft cocktails.

6. Spend a Day on the Greens at Talega Golf Club

Located in the picturesque hills surrounding San Clemente, Talega Golf Club features an 18-hole, par-72 championship course recognized as one of the premier courses in the state.

Set against a backdrop of stunning scenery, the facility includes a driving range for practice.

Additional amenities include a pro shop and a gift shop, while the Signature Grille and Bar serves a delectable selection of breakfast and lunch options, with outdoor patio dining available.

7. Shop and Eat on Del Mar Street

The heart of San Clemente’s activity is found in the downtown district, specifically on Del Mar Street, or Avenida Del Mar, as referred to locally.

This dynamic street comes alive at any hour, lined with boutique and specialty shops, including Killer Dana, Rascal’s, and Angel Wings and Bliss.

Cafes, restaurants, and bars also adorn the street, with options such as Carbonara’s Trattoria, Mexican Siesta, and Del Mar Sushi.

Additionally, Del Mar Street is home to a number of art galleries and stylish wine bars.

8. Walk or Bike the San Clemente Coastal Trail

Among the many locations to appreciate the coastal scenery in San Clemente, the San Clemente Coastal Trail stands out as an exceptional choice.

This 2.3-mile multipurpose trail caters to walkers, runners, and cyclists, and provides remarkable views of the coastline and sandy beaches. Along the route, guests pass by various parks, restaurants, and attractions.

Bicycle rentals can be obtained through Bicycle San Clemente, and public restrooms are conveniently located along the trail.

9. Take the Kids to Courtney’s SandCastle Universal Playground

Courtney’s SandCastle Universal Playground is well-known in San Clemente as the sole playground designed for children with diverse abilities.

Named in honor of Courtney Faye Smith, who used a wheelchair, the playground aims to provide accessible enjoyment for children of all ages and backgrounds.

This thoughtfully designed playground features sandboxes, climbing structures, a ship-themed play area, and swings. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a sensory garden, complete with flowers, a musical path, and interactive water elements.

10. Browse the San Clemente Farmers’ Market

Since 1995, the San Clemente Farmers’ Market has been a weekly event within several blocks of the downtown area.

The primary attraction at the market is the fresh, locally-sourced organic produce that vendors provide each week. As attendees explore the various stalls, they discover a wide array of offerings, including flowers, honey, baked goods, and ready-to-eat dishes.

11. Visit the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center

San Clemente’s surf culture thrives at the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center, which celebrates and preserves the rich history and culture of surfing.

This museum fosters appreciation for the sport through various exhibits illustrating its evolution from inception to modern times. An extensive collection of artefacts, including photographs, documents, videos, and surfboards from different periods, is available for public viewing.

Throughout the year, the center holds diverse events, including educational programs.

12. Sample Local Craft Beer at the Artifex Brewing Company

The Artifex Brewing Company offers a vibrant, relaxed atmosphere ideal for enjoying quality craft beers.

Within the brewery, guests can unwind in an aesthetically pleasing environment featuring impressive design elements. The outdoor patio also provides a serene setting to appreciate the views and fresh ocean air.

A wide selection of beers is available on tap, including afternoon tea brown ale and No Name IPA. On select days, food trucks are stationed outside, providing tasty snacks to complement your beverages.

13. Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at Sugar Blossom

Sugar Blossom, a boutique bakery in San Clemente, offers a delightful range of baked goods within a chic, cafe-inspired atmosphere.

Guests can choose from an extensive selection of pastries, cupcakes, cookies, and more. Every item is crafted on-site daily, utilizing only premium ingredients.

14. Hunt for Bargains at the Outlets at San Clemente

A visit to the Outlets at San Clemente not only presents opportunities for extraordinary deals but also ensures an enriching shopping experience.

This open-air outlet mall boasts breathtaking ocean views, alongside premium outlet stores, dining options, and entertainment.

Shops include well-known brands such as Levis, Calvin Klein, Sunglasses Hut, and Under Armour. Complimentary Wi-Fi service is available throughout the facilities.

15. Spend a Day Outdoors at San Clemente North Beach

San Clemente North Beach stands as another favored beach destination within the city. Visitors can enjoy swimming and various water sports, as well as hiking along the trails and engaging in picnicking. Many choose this locale for evening bonfires.

Facilities include barbecue areas, restrooms, concession stands, and a playground for children.