The San Clemente State Beach has been the most popular beach in the entire state of California since 1937. With such a wide range of available activities, from surfing to camping to sunning to picnicking, the popularity of this beach is no surprise. Found on the southern end of San Clemente, California halfway between Los Angeles and San Diego the majority of visitors are water sport enthusiasts or those searching for a relaxing escape from the heat and nearby metropolitan areas for the day. Sandy cliffs run the length of the beach giving the perception of seclusion even though civilization is only a quick jaunt away.
Without a doubt, San Clemente State Beach offers one of the best locations to camp along the Southern California coast. The beach offers access to 160 campsites each accompanied with a fire ring, picnic table, and shade ramada, water nearby, and easy access to the beach below via paved path. In addition to the popular campsites, the RV area in the family campground allots 72 recreational vehicles and has electric, sewage hookups, and water access. Group camping is also available with an area that can accommodate fifty people and twenty vehicles, including trailers. All of the camp areas can be found atop the bluff with an abundant amount of hiking trail access, most notably the San Clemente Beach Trail that stretches 3.3 miles from North Beach to Calafia Beach. With popularity booming, it is suggested to make reservations well in advance, particularly for the major summer holiday weekends of Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day. Reservations can be made up to seven months in advance.
San Clemente State Beach is located in Orange County on the south end of San Clemente, California. If traveling south Interstate 5 exit Avenida Calafia, proceed straight onto Avenida Calafia to San Clemente State Beach entrance on your left approximately 1/4 mile. From north Interstate 5 exit Cristianitos Road, make a left and proceed over the freeway and turn right onto Ave. del Presidente, turn left onto Avendia Calafia to San Clemente State Beach. Entrance will be on your left approximately 1/4 mile. Parking is available with an abundance of spaces available. However, note that all parking is metered so come prepared with change to feed the meters for day parking.
