20 Amazing Things To Do In San Clemente, California

1. Go For Boogie Boarding

You can go for boogie boarding in San Clemente as it is one of the most popular activities to do in San Clemente. T-Street Beach is popular among all and is known for its friendly waves, this beach is located near the San Clemente Pier. This beach offers a very good experience for both beginners and experienced boogie boarders.

There is also a renting option of boogie boards from local surf shops or you can bring it on your own. You must wear a wetsuit while going for boogie boarding, as the ocean can sometimes be chilly. Also, making sure to check wave conditions and listening to advice before doing anything is important.

2. Explore The Beaches

San Clemente is basically known for its beautiful beaches. If you enjoy beach vibes, you should check out the nearby beaches. T-Street Beach, San Clemente Beach, Trestles, North Beach, San Onofre, and Linda Lane are a few of the greatest and most well-liked San Clemente beaches.

It is suggested for first-time beachgoers to spend some time strolling along the pier before settling down in the sand. The beach is well-liked for strolls and beachside picnics because of its average temperature of 73 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. Visit Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens

The Casa Romantica Cultural Centre and Gardens in San Clemente is a great place to accomplish two goals at once because it has both breathtaking views and a collection of local history. Situated high above San Clemente City Beach and Pier, this historic residence was built in 1927 as a personal property holding project by Ole Hanson, the founder of the town.

It is now a cultural hub with gardens and a gift store attached to an art gallery. In addition to cultural talks, Casa Romantica presents theatre and music performances. This location is ideal for a quick stay lasting one to two hours when visiting San Clemente, and it is open every day except Monday.

4. Experience The Adventure Of Whale Watching

A thrilling adventure is the whale watching at San Clemente most preferably from Dana Point since it hosts over 20,000 gray whales that pass along the Orange County shoreline. This is an enthralling and educative experience that offers the rare chance to observe these magnificent beasts. 

With many options of whale watching cruises to choose from, Dana Point ensures that individuals will have a thrilling experience. The thrill of spotting whales combined with the stunning landscapes of the ocean provides a unique experience that is perfect for families and those who like nature.

5. Attend A Show At The Cabrillo Playhouse

San Clemente also has the Cabrillo Playhouse where you can watch a show while on your trip. Established in the 1950s, this small-scale theatre company presents various plays and performances all year round, both in high-end and low-end stuff.

A show here allows one to revel in an established culture and another opportunity to appreciate a local theater in a warm and friendly environment. If a show is on during the time of day the tourists plan to visit, then a ticket is certainly more than worth it as it brings an extra element of enjoyment to the visit.

6. Watch The Beautiful Sunset

A beautiful view of San Clemente must be seen with own eyes which is why sunset watching is among the primary activities. Despite the grey skies that are characteristic of Lake Tahoe weather even in summer, the evening is usually sunny with stunning sunsets.

The shades of yellow, red, and orange in the mirror of the sea are excellent and splendid to watch at the end of the day. To spice things up, you can make a fire on the beach and cook s’mores while having a good view of the sunset.

It is one of the most effective and uncomplicated ways of enjoying the spectacular sceneries of San Clemente and trip-bonding.

7. Experience The San Clemente Municipal Golf Course

When in San Clemente, it is worth paying a visit to the San Clemente Municipal Golf Course. There is a scenic and well-groomed 18-hole par 71 courses that will surely test the skills of skillful golfers while at the same time being easy for beginners.

The beautiful scenery of the game makes it fun for even the less talented golfers. Even if you are not an enthusiastic golfer but seeking a pastime with scenic ocean views, a round at this course enhances your vacation experience.

8. Bike the San Clemente Beach Trail

Biking the San Clemente Beach Trail is rather entertaining and enjoyable. This is a 2.3-mile trail that is located at the coast side and it provides a very beautiful view of the Pacific waters. It’s specifically suitable for cycling, walking, or jogging with the possibility of reaching several other lovely beaches.

If starting from North Beach, Calafia State Beach, or San Clemente Pier which have provisions for parking, expect an enjoyable tour with beautiful views to behold. Enjoying this trail involves walking through the coastline which makes this particular trail one of the best things to do in San Clemente.

9. Dine In The San Clemente Downtown District

The San Clemente Downtown District is one of the most active areas in the town, and it can be considered as a creative focus of the city. It has several local stores, eating establishments, and tourist attractions. 

To get the flavor of San Clemente culture downtown you can visit Vine Restaurant and also Nick’s San Clemente. They have appetizers, seafood specials, and other made-to-order foods on a long list, and given the numerous dining establishments located in the area,

We guarantee you will find your preferred dining establishment in the San Clemente Downtown District.

10. Take A Road Trip On The Pacific Coast Highway

Taking a road trip on the Pacific Coast Highway while in San Clemente is a must for its breathtaking coastal views and iconic California experience. Starting just five miles north in Dana Point, this scenic route offers stunning stops like Laguna Beach, Huntington Beach, and Long Beach within the first 60 miles.

The journey is filled with picturesque pullovers, allowing you to enjoy the ocean, cliffs, and charming coastal towns. While ambitious drivers can cover this highway in a day, it's best savored over weeks.

This drive enfolds the beauty and allure of California's coastline, making it an unforgettable adventure.

11. Cycle Around San Clemente

Riding a bicycle around San Clemente is a perfect day activity since it is safe and the views are breathtaking. The path is closed to traffic to guarantee a safe ride as well as fun.

It is suggested that you should begin it near North Beach starting with the train station up to the bike shop that leads to the trail. The path passes by amazing coastal views and provides a cool wind coming from the ocean, which makes it an excellent means to have a look at the area, have physical activity, and admire the beauty of Southern California.

12. Visit Surfing Heritage And Culture Center

The non-profit organization based in San Clemente, California called Surfing Heritage and Cultural Center (SHCC) preserves the essence of surfing. Regarding the museum’s goals and objectives, it aims to educate both the young people interested in surfing as well as the general public about the sport and its development.

The core of SHCC’s collection consists of surfboards from across different periods. Most of these are located in the main area of the gallery together with short descriptions of some of the most famous surfers and legends of wave riding. Some of the items exhibited include photos and videos as well as other relics such as clothes and molding made from plastic.

The Culture Center is open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday except for a few holidays.

13. Hike The San Clemente Coastal Trail

The San Clemente Coastal Trail is a short 5-mile path that can be used for hiking, jogging, or walking. Other features include Trestles shore, sandstones and cliffs, and strolls along the shore. This trail is moderately difficult because it offers hikers the opportunity to rock jump and cross water in certain areas, especially during high tide.

Additionally, since it is a round-trip trail, planning ahead is advised because the return trip can be slightly longer than 11 miles. When wildflowers are in bloom in the spring, you can see them as you travel by San Onofre State Beach.

The trail is an enjoyable walk that gives the tourists great chances to take beautiful photos of the ocean.

14. Go For Shopping at Avenida Del Mar

A stroll for shopping on Avenida Del Mar, in San Clemente is very pleasant because it is lined with small boutiques, art galleries, and some wonderfully intimate restaurants. This main street depicts the true representative of a Californian beach town, therefore, one would love to spend some time just taking a leisurely walk.

Guests can also shop for souvenirs, clothes, surf accessories, and local crafts at non-mass market stores appreciate the galleries that feature local art, or eat at friendly cafes and restaurants.

15. Attend A Concert At The Casino San Clemente

A live music concert at the Casino San Clemente is an interesting show at a building that became an iconic spot for locals in 1937. The casino was once a dance hall located near the sea and has been recently renovated to retain its original look while keeping all modern technologies.

It has a beautiful garden and direct sea views, a large dance hall with a capacity of up to 300 people. It hosts various occasions ranging from small-scale to larger-scale occasions and therefore a good venue for live band performances.

16. Experience The Luxury Catamaran Sunset And Wine Cruise

Savor the ocean breeze with a 90-minute sunset and wine trip on a catamaran starting from Dana Point Harbor. This is an ideal evening where you can take sight of the shores of the ocean and its surroundings and feel the cool ocean breezes as well as watch the sun setting.

You’ll have the chance to taste four wines from The Organic Cellar which will include 2 white wines and 2 red wines, together with a cheese platter, crackers, fresh fruits, and nuts. The 63-foot catamaran has a cash bar for other drinks as well available for the guests onboard.

Be it the refreshing warmth of spring/summer, the romantic atmosphere of Christmas lights, or even the attractiveness of the cold winter ambiance complemented by the wines, this cruise is perfect.

17. Stop By The Farmers Market

Taking a stroll at the Farmers Market, in San Clemente is undoubtedly one of the best things you can do since the place has an energetic cultural feel. These markets are held every Sunday morning at Avenida Del Mar and every Wednesday afternoon at North Beach and give the visitors fresh produce and foods, handmade crafts, and an enthusiastic setting.

Fruits, vegetables, flowers, and many more are sold on Sundays near the library, and the Wednesday market also has special and elegant crafts and jewelry. The markets are extremely strategically located near the beach, where one can take a walk or even enjoy a picnic after the shopping spree.

18. Explore Courtney's SandCastle Universal Playground

San Clemente’s Courtney’s SandCastle Universal Playground is a wonderful place for children of any age to come and enjoy the sand. This fenced play area is in Vista Hermosa Park and offers play structures, musical instruments, a water play table, and a sandbox.

It has a slope design with a soft spongy surface to enhance safety and it is friendly for disabled children due to construction. Each age group has its own play area, clean restrooms with change tables, and a sensory play garden nearby.

It is a clean and well-kept park ideal for allowing children to play and have fun in the open space.

19. Visit Clemente Public Library

Every person who has read books or who likes spacious and comfortable decorated rooms with various books would agree that visiting the San Clemente Public Library is a great pleasure.

Located in the downtown village area, the library has a well-stocked bookshop and books for people of all ages. It is a clean bright area with commendable effort looked at by volunteers who aim to help the members of society.

Additionally, there are book sales always in the library and a door neighbor's art gallery always displays their pieces.

20. Take a Private Air Tour Above Orange County Coastline

Lastly, there is no better way to appreciate the beauty of Orange County's coastline than through a private air tour. You will embark on a small aircraft for the spectacular view of the areas such as Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, and Dana Point, as well as the beautiful San Clemente known as the Spanish Village by the Sea.

The flight will take from 45 to 50 minutes and is best for celebrations. This being a fun, and breathtaking flying experience that allows one to marvel at the beauty of the coastline, is among the fun-packed things to do when in San Clemente California.