You Could Spend Forever Exploring This Southern California Town, But We'll Settle For A Weekend
By Natasha Kayes|Updated on April 25, 2024(Originally published May 24, 2023)
×
Natasha Kayes
Author
I was born and raised in sunny Southern California and will never tire of the West Coast, although I spent several years living in Southeast Asia, about as far from California as you can get. Wherever I am in the world, I love straying from the beaten path, experiencing local life, and discovering hidden gems - camera in hand. The beach is my happy place and when I am not there (or writing), you will usually find me baking, watching movies, and cuddling my pugs. I have traveled around the country and around the world, and it never, ever gets old. Being able to combine my passion for travel and my love of writing is nothing short of a dream.
Lying on the coast midway between Los Angeles and San Diego, San Clemente is a small city that has managed to maintain a true small-town vibe and is often called the “Spanish Village by the Sea.” From its stunning white sand beaches and coastline to its gorgeous architecture and lively downtown district, there is much to explore. A weekend getaway in San Clemente, California, will have you wanting to come back for more.
San Clemente, California, is known for its laid-back vibe and its beautiful Spanish-style architecture. The palm-tree-lined streets and smooth cream-colored stucco buildings with their iconic red tiled roofs make a drive-through town feel like a mini-vacation in itself.
If you are anything like me, a beautiful beach is enough for a great weekend, and San Clemente State Beach is a spectacular place to spend some time. Whether you choose to soak up some sun on one of the pretty stretches of sand, go for a swim or do some surfing, walk out over the water on the wooden pier, or go for a walk or bike ride along the San Clemente Beach Trail, you could easily spend the entire day here.
Serious shoppers will want to explore the Outlets at San Clemente. Shop your heart out while enjoying Pacific views and ocean breezes at SoCal’s only coastal outlet mall and home to over 60 designer brand shops offering significant discounts. You can even catch a movie or an al fresco lunch at the Outlets.
A visit to Casa Romantica Cultural Center is a must. This stunning historic building is as enchanting as the views from its porches, but you will also enjoy the lush gardens outside and the art gallery inside.
You can almost get by all weekend without a car. Whether you arrive by train or simply park and ride, you can take advantage of the free red trolley, during summer months, which runs from the train station at the pier to the Outlets, with several stops in between.
Catch a fresh seafood dinner and an iconic Southern California beach sunset at The Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar, located at the base of the pier. In fact, there is even a special “Sunset Dinner” menu with a selection of dinners that come with delicious sides, a loaf of sourdough bread, and ice cream for dessert.
Constructed in 1947, the vintage Beachcomber Inn is a perfect place to stay the night. Guest rooms - with their individual entrances, picture windows, fully-appointed kitchens, King beds, sofa beds, and private porches - are as adorable and comfortable as can be.
San Clemente, CA, has something for everyone and a weekend getaway is just enough to whet your appetite. What do you think? Have you visited this vibrant town? We would love to hear your thoughts, and your favorite things to do in San Clemente, in the comments. And be sure to check out these unique vacation rentals in San Clemente, CA! There is so much more to do in this town! If you have time and love spending time outdoors, check out San Clemente’s 5-mile Roller Coaster Hiking Trail.
