Best Spots in San Clemente

Updated October 2026 · Rudy Flores

Here is a short tour of the places that make San Clemente feel like San Clemente, from the sand to the village.

Beaches and trails

• San Clemente Pier — The classic center of the beach area. Beaches and trails Map
• The Coastal Trail — Shoreline walking and biking, ending at Calafia Beach Park. Map
• San Clemente State Beach — Coastline and camping south of town. Map
• Sea Summit Trail — Stairs and sunset views near Pico Park. Map
• Trestles — A world-famous surf break just south of town. Map

Downtown

• Avenida Del Mar — Downtown boutiques and cafes. Shopping and errands Map
• The Sunday farmers market — Downtown produce and flowers.
• Casa Romantica — Concerts and exhibits in a Spanish Colonial landmark above the sea. The local calendar Map

This season

Looking for something to do this fall and holiday season? See San Clemente Events: Downtown, City and Nearby, a guide to dated, sourced events.

See Rudy on video

Rudy posts neighborhood and listing videos all the time. Watch the latest on the Media page.

Found a spot you love?

Prefer to start with a few questions? The four-question Home Strategy Quiz takes about a minute, and Rudy will follow up personally. Or book a 15-minute call at a time that suits you.

Keep exploring

• Beaches and Trails — The pier, the coastal trail and state beach that shape the town's lifestyle.
• The Local Calendar — The weekly market, summer beach season and community events that fill the year.
• San Clemente Market Watch: How to Read the Numbers Area by Area — Six parts of the San Clemente market, and what to keep in mind when you read a report about each one.
• San Clemente Printable Checklists: Buy, Sell and Move — Three printable San Clemente checklists (PDF): buying a home, selling a home and moving, in the order you do the steps.

Hours, prices and seasonal dates change, so check each place's own website before you go. Places are listed for local interest and are not endorsements or paid placements.