Places to Visit and Things to Do Near San Clemente, CA

San Clemente (Local)

• Stroll along the San Clemente Pier and enjoy ocean views.

• Explore the Casa Romantica Cultural Center & Gardens.

• Relax at T-Street Beach or San Onofre State Beach.

• Shop and dine along Avenida Del Mar.

Dana Point (15 min drive)

• Go whale watching from Dana Wharf or Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari.

• Visit the scenic Dana Point Harbor for dining, shopping, and water activities.

• Take a coastal hike at Hilltop Conservation Park.

• Relax at Salt Creek Beach.

Laguna Beach (30 min drive)

• Explore Crystal Cove State Park for hiking and stunning beaches.

• Visit the Pageant of the Masters (seasonal) or Laguna Art Museum.

• Snorkel or tidepool at Shaw’s Cove or Thousand Steps Beach.

• Enjoy oceanfront dining at Las Brisas.

Newport Beach (45 min drive)

• Rent a Duffy boat and cruise around Newport Harbor.

• Take the ferry to Balboa Island and try a frozen banana.

• Visit Fashion Island or South Coast Plaza for upscale shopping and dining.

• Enjoy the sunset at Corona del Mar State Beach.

Temecula (1 hr drive)

• Go wine tasting at Wilson Creek Winery, Ponte Winery, or South Coast Winery.

• Stroll through Old Town Temecula for unique shops and restaurants.

• Take a sunrise hot air balloon ride over Temecula Valley.

• Try your luck at Pechanga Resort Casino.

San Diego (1-2 hr drive, depending on location)

• Visit La Jolla Cove for sea lions and kayaking.

• Explore the world-famous San Diego Zoo or Balboa Park.

• Tour the USS Midway Museum, a historic aircraft carrier featuring exhibits and restored aircraft.

• Relax at Coronado Beach and visit the historic Hotel del Coronado.

• Enjoy nightlife and dining in the Gaslamp Quarter.

Los Angeles (1.5-2 hr drive, depending on traffic)

• Walk along the Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach Boardwalk.

• Visit The Getty Center for art and breathtaking city views.

• Explore Griffith Observatory and hike to the Hollywood Sign.

• Experience the magic of Disneyland or California Adventure in Anaheim (1 hr drive).