Best Things to do in San Clemente, California
Top Things to do in San Clemente
San Clemente is a hidden gem on the coast of Southern California. It’s a small town with a very chill beach town atmosphere. If you’re looking for how to spend a day in San Clemente, I’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking for something free to do outdoors, something artsy to tap into your creative expression or if you’re just wondering if San Clemente is worth visiting, I hope this blog can offer you some guidance.
1. Visit the Outlets
The Outlets in San Clemente are filled with a ton of spots to shop at and a lot of restaurants to choose from. One of my favorite things to do is go grab some freeze from Pressed Juicery (it’s a non-dairy, healthier ice cream option) and go down to the Sea Summit trail at sunset and enjoy it there.
2. Take a Trip to Catalina Island
Catalina Island is such a fun day trip. You can take the ferry there from the port in Dana Point. It feels like you’re in another country and is a great way to spend the day. You can explore, hike and grab something to eat. This is a really fun family activity and it’s absolutely gorgeous.
3. Go on a Beach Walk by the Pier
San Clemente is one of the most beautiful and peaceful places I have ever lived. Something that will never get old is going on a beach walk down on the trail. If you’re looking for a free activity to do outdoors, the beach trail by the pier is a great option. There are restaurants on and around the pier as well if you’re wanting to grab a bite after. West Toast Cafe is a great healthy spot right on the trail.
4. Bike Ride down the PCH
You can rent bikes in San Clemente, right on the Pacific Coast Highway. It’s a beautiful bike ride right along the coast. You can go north towards Dana Point or south right into San Clemente. They have both regular cruisers and electric bike rental options. It’s walking distance near Moulin (a great French cafe) and High Tide Coffee if you’re wanting to grab a coffee beforehand.
5. Do a Pottery Class at Olas Ceramics
One of my absolute favorite places in San Clemente is Olas Ceramics. It’s a super cute pottery studio located downtown off of El Camino Real. You can take an Intro to Ceramics Class, an Intro the Wheel class or even do a Date Night Workshop. If you’re looking to express a bit of your creativity while you’re in San Clemente, Olas is the perfect spot.
6. Walk and Shop Del Mar
Del Mar is the Main Street in downtown San Clemente where there are countless small businesses and local restaurants. If you’re looking for some great boutiques to shop for clothes, gifts or even thrifted items, there are both small boutique stores as well as antique and thrift shops to check out.
7. Sunset Hike at the Summit Trail
One of my favorite spots is to go to the Sea Summit Trail at sunset. It’s located right near the San Clemente Outlets and has the most beautiful panoramic view of the sunset. You can get a great hike in any time during the day, but sunset is one of my favorite times to go. They also have picnic tables if you want to grab lunch or dinner to go from somewhere and do a cute outdoor picnic. 🙂
8. Visit Casa Romantica
Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens is a beautiful place to visit and is so rich in history and culture. They have different events happening throughout the month that you can check out on their website. It’s a great outdoor activity and they also have a weekly story time which is great for kids. The butterfly garden is my absolute favorite.
9. Farmers Market on Sunday’s
San Clemente has a farmers market every Sunday from 9am-1pm on Avenida Del Mar. They have vendors with fresh fruits and vegetables, breads, plants and flowers, seafood and handmade goods. It’s a great spot to support your local business and a great activity for enjoying your Sunday.
10. Visit a Brewery
If you’re wondering how to spend a day in San Clemente, there are countless breweries that you could visit. From Los Molinos to Artifex, San Clemente has multiple breweries with local craft beers that you could pop around to and enjoy.
11. Enjoy the Restaurants & Coffee Shops in San Clemente
San Clemente has an amazing coffee culture. There are countless local coffee shops to pop around to if you’re looking for a fun thing to do in the morning. The restaurants here are also incredible. There are a variety of spots where you’re destined to find something you’ll enjoy.
12. Make a Candle at Twin Flames
Twin Flames Candle Bar is a great activity if you’re looking for something artsy and fun to do in San Clemente. It’s right at the top of Del Mar street. You choose your own vessel to build your candle in, pick your own fragrances and they have a ton of fun options for decorating. It’s a fun thing to do with a group of friends or even for a birthday or event.
When to Visit San Clemente
There really is no bad time to visit San Clemente. It’s more so a preference of what type of activities you are looking to do and how busy you want it to be. Anytime in July and August are amazing for sunny and outdoor activities, however the summers do get a bit busy. September and October are still warm for the most part, but are not as busy as the summer time. May and June can be a bit gloomy with our ‘June Gloom’ season.
Where to Stay in San Clemente
San Clemente has a few boutique hotels that you could stay at, like The Beachcomber Inn or Casa Tropicana for an ocean view. You could also camp at San Clemente State Beach or up at Doheny (which is technically in Dana Point, but really close). Airbnb is also an option.
How to Get Around San Clemente
San Clemente is a very walkable city, but if you’re looking to get around the trolley is a great option. The trolley runs daily between May and September and then on the weekends during the rest of the year. You can check out the San Clemente Trolley Map and times here. Another option is the Metro Link. The Metro can take you to different locations up and down the coast and is location right by the pier in downtown San Clemente.
How Long to Stay in San Clemente
A week in San Clemente would be more than enough to hit all of the best spots, get some relaxation time in at the beach or even go surfing (unless of course you fall in love with it here and then you may never want to leave). 🙂
Wrap Up: Best Things to Do in San Clemente, California
San Clemente is a beautiful beach town to visit if you’re looking for a chill and relaxing place to go to. It’s very family friendly and there are countless activities to do whether they are outdoor actives, things to find indoors or just a place to visit solely to coffee shop hop, eat and walk around (if you’re anything like me). I hope you visit and love it as much as I do! Enjoy. xx
