San Clemente, California Attractions
Surf the waves. Take a leisurely stroll downtown, or go for the ride or your life in San Clemente, California. A charming seaside resort town, San Clemente is the perfect place to unwind - plus, stay close to all the action of Sea World and San Diego attractions just an hour's drive away. Whether you're looking for events, nightlife or family activities, you'll find the Holiday Inn Express San Clemente is the ideal spot to see and do it all. Keep reading to check out some of the San Clemente attractions you can look forward to seeing on your trip.
Fun Things to Do in Southern California
Trestles Beach.
Trestles Beach is a world-famous surfing spot that includes lower, upper and middle Trestle beaches. A ruggedly beautiful surfer destination, Trestles Beach can only be reached by hiking a beautiful 1.5 mile nature trail that is connected to the San Mateo Campground of San Onofre State Beach. For more information about surfing and things to do on Trestles Beach, visit www.daytrippen.com/trestles-beach.html.
San Clemente Pier.
San Clemente Pier is an historic wood pier that stretches for 1,296 feet and offers some of the most stunning views of the Pacific Ocean to be seen in Southern California. One of San Clemente's most popular attractions, the pier features free fishing and restaurants. To learn more about fun activities for the whole family at the San Clemente Pier, visit www.beachcalifornia.com/san-clemente-pier.html.
Downtown San Clemente.
Downtown San Clemente is known as the "Spanish Village by the Sea" for its historic Spanish architecture and splendid seaside location. San Clemente's well-known downtown district offers a charming collection of restaurants, boutiques and antique shops that overlook some of Southern California's most beautiful beaches. A center for activities and events, learn more about nightlife, concerts and fun things to do in Downtown San Clemente at www.downtownsanclemente.com.
San Onofre State Beach.
San Onofre State Beach is located is located in San Diego County and includes San Onofre Surf Beach, San Onofre Bluffs and the San Mateo Campground. Sprawling for 3,000 breathtaking miles, San Onofre State Beach is a recreational paradise that is one of the most popular in California. To learn more about exciting activities and things to do at San Onofre State Beach, visit www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=647.
Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano.
The Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano offers one of the most spectacular historic sites in Southern California. Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano was founded in 1776 by Catholic Spanish missionaries working to convert the local population to Catholicism. The chapel or "Serra's Chapel" at San Juan Capistrano mission is the oldest California building still in use, which it has been since 1782. For more information about the best things to see and do at San Clemente's Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano, visit www.missionparish.org.
Dana Point Harbor.
Dana Point Harbor is located in Orange County, California and is a designated California Historical Landmark. Home to a replica of the Pilgrim, the historic ship that explored the area in the 1800s, stop by Dana Point Harbor for an evening concert series or look around the lovely harbor. From May to October, Dana Point Harbor is home to a whale watching fleet. For more information about visiting Dana Point Harbor and things to do, go to www.danapointharbor.com.
Disneyland.
Disneyland is the legend, the original theme park that has captured the hearts of generations since opening in 1955. Located in Anaheim, California, Disneyland has the distinction of being personally conceived by Walt Disney himself. Today, Disneyland is home to hundreds of rides, shows, attractions and kids activities. To learn more about the many not-to-be-missed attractions and adventures at Southern California's most famous amusement park, visit disneyland.disney.go.com.
Camp Pendleton.
Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton is located in on the coast of San Diego County and borders San Clemente to the north and Oceanside to the south. Founded in 1942, Camp Pendleton is the primary amphibious training base for the Marine Corp and one of the major military bases in the United States. To learn more about the history and proud American Armed forces serving at Camp Pendleton, visit www.pendleton.usmc.m.
Sea World San Diego.
Sea World San Diego became one of the world's first marine parks when it was established in 1964. Quickly becoming one of the most popular attractions in the world after its grand opening, today Sea World covers 22 acres that border San Diego's Mission Bay coastline and is home to fascinating sea creatures plus thrilling rides and entertainment. For more information about the fun family activities and great things to do with kids while visiting Sea World, go to www.seaworld.com/sandiego/default.aspx.
San Diego Zoo.
The San Diego Zoo is located in San Diego's historic Balboa Park and is one of the most famous zoological parks in the world. At the San Diego Zoo, you can see more 800 species of 4,000 animals, including a rare giant panda. To learn more about the many fascinating activities, animal exhibits and totally fun things to do with kids at the San Diego Zoo, visit www.sandiegozoo.org.
