Top 4 Things to Do in San Clemente, CA: The Ultimate Guide (2024)
San Clemente At-A-Glance
| Population | 63,896 |
|---|---|
| Area | 19.1 mi² |
| Best known for | 1,200-foot long wooden pier extending out into the Pacific Ocean |
| Character | Low-key but upscale beach town |
San Clemente is the southernmost city in Orange County, CA. It’s the last stop in OC before you enter San Diego County.
One of the first things you’ll notice when visiting San Clemente is the color of the ocean—it’s a striking blue and teal color.
Top Things to Do in San Clemente
1. San Clemente Pier
The most popular activity in San Clemente is to walk the 1,200+ foot wooden pier and watch surfers catch waves.
Parking is available in lots near the beach or on the street and costs $1.50 per hour.
San Clemente Pier
Avenida Victoria
Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar
If this is your first time visiting San Clemente, we recommend Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar. It’s located right at the entrance of the pier, and most tables give you a beautiful view of the water. Some favorites on the menu here are oysters, shrimp, and fish and chips.
2. Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens
Built by Ole Hanson, the founder of San Clemente.
3. Downtown San Clemente
There are plenty of shops and restaurants to explore in downtown San Clemente.
4. Outlets at San Clemente
The buildings that make up the Outlets at San Clemente are constructed in the Spanish Colonial style, like many of the buildings in the city.
This is an outdoor mall that features popular brands at discounted prices.
Check out our guide: Outlets at San Clemente: What to Expect (2024)
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is San Clemente from Disneyland?
San Clemente is 29 miles from Disneyland and it takes 31 minutes to get there by car.
What is the best way to get to San Clemente?
You can take the Amtrak from Anaheim to San Clemente for $17+ each way.
Is San Clemente worth a visit?
You can’t go wrong visiting San Clemente—that said, if it’s your first visit to Orange County and you’re limited on time, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach and Huntington Beach are the most popular OC beaches for tourists. They are also more centrally located.
