THINGS TO DO
Discover San Clemente
From surf breaks to scenic trails, explore the best things to do during your stay at San Clemente Cove.
Our front desk team is happy to share the best spots to eat, explore, and enjoy in San Clemente.
Daily Activities
Want the inside scoop on today’s happenings? Text us at (949) 337-1331 and our front desk team will fill you in!
Monday
9:00am – Coffee & Muffins
10:15am – Guided Beach Walk
1:00pm – Sand Dollar Painting *
Tuesday
1:00pm – Soap Making Class *
Wednesday
3:00pm – Margarita Happy Hour (21+) Enjoy a Complimentary Margarita
Thursday
2:00pm – Cookies and Hot Chocolate
Friday
1:00pm – Greeting Card Making Class *
Saturday
9:00am-1:00pm – Dana Point Farmer’s Market (Intersection of PCH and Golden Lantern at La Plaza Park in Dana Point)
Sunday
9:00am – 1:00pmSan Clemente’s Farmer’s Market (On Del Mar)
Offered All Week
Fun DIY Beach Crafts Seaglass Wind Chimes & Shell Decorating (Pick up at front desk) *
Free DVD with a complimentary popcorn and hot cocoa pack(Pick up at front desk) *
Beaches, Bites & Beyond
Make the most of your San Clemente getaway with our hand-picked highlights—whether you’re here to shop seaside boutiques, savor fresh coastal cuisine, soak up iconic sights, or dive into unforgettable activities. Here’s where to start your adventure.
Eat & Drink
Nick’s San Clemente
A local favorite for a reason. Nick’s serves up refined comfort food with a coastal twist—think prime rib dip sandwiches, buttermilk fried chicken, and seasonal craft cocktails. The cozy atmosphere and consistently polished service make it a top pick for lunch or date night.
The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar
Located right on the San Clemente Pier, this landmark eatery offers oceanfront seafood, casual breakfast, and epic sunset views. Grab a table on the patio, order the clam chowder or fish tacos, and watch surfers ride the waves just a few feet away.
Pizza Port San Clemente
Come for the pizza, stay for the house-brewed beers and surfer vibes. This family-friendly spot is a go-to for hand-tossed pies, arcade games, and a rotating tap list that spotlights local brews. It’s lively, laid-back, and loved by locals.
Stacks Pancake House
The breakfast legend you’ll wish you found sooner. Known for Hawaiian-inspired twists (hello, macadamia nut pancakes!), Stacks is the place for hearty morning meals and specialty coffees before a day of exploring.
See & Snap
San Clemente Pier
Stretching out into the Pacific, the pier is a picture-perfect place to watch surfers, catch a golden sunset, or snap a postcard-worthy view of the coastline. It’s a must-visit any time of day, but especially magical at dusk.
Casa Romantica Cultural Center
Once the home of San Clemente’s founder, this bluff-top estate now offers panoramic ocean views, lush gardens, and Spanish architecture—perfect for a quiet moment or a stunning selfie.
Sea Summit Trail
Wind through native coastal bluffs on this elevated trail with sweeping views of the ocean. With multiple trailheads and overlooks, it’s a photographer’s dream and an easy walk for all skill levels.
Top of the World Park
(Laguna Beach, 20 min) A bit of a drive, but the 360-degree views from this hilltop park are worth every mile. On a clear day, you can see from Catalina Island to Saddleback Mountain—pack your camera and your sense of wonder.
Shop & Stroll
Avenida Del Mar
The heart of San Clemente’s downtown shopping scene. This walkable street is lined with independent boutiques, art galleries, vintage shops, and cafés. Guests can browse beachwear, handmade jewelry, local artwork, and unique home décor—all with ocean breezes and Spanish-style architecture.
Dana Point Harbor Shops
(10-minute drive) For a harbor-side shopping day, this coastal village offers ocean-themed shops, coastal décor, and small art galleries, all set against a backdrop of sailboats and seaside cafés.
The Cellar & Del Mar District
A charming corner of Avenida Del Mar that blends artisan food, wine, and curated retail. Stop in for a wine tasting, grab a gift from a local maker, or discover a rotating lineup of seasonal pop-ups.
Seaside Threads or Muse Boutique
(local favorites) These are great examples of stylish, well-curated clothing boutiques found right in town. If you're looking for something chic but low-key, these spots hit the mark for a casual splurge.
Play & Explore
Beach Trail Biking & Walking
Cruise the scenic 2.3-mile San Clemente Beach Trail, perfect for walkers, joggers, and bikers. Ocean views the entire way.
Whale Watching, Dana Point Harbor
Just 10 minutes away, Dana Point is known as the “Whale Capital of the World.” Catch gray whales, blue whales, and dolphins year-round.
Surfing at Trestles
Ride one of the most iconic breaks in the world. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or ready for a lesson, Trestles delivers the waves and the vibe.
Los Rios Street Historic District
Located in nearby San Juan Capistrano, this is California’s oldest neighborhood, with adobe homes, artisan shops, a petting zoo, and charming cafés. A peaceful stroll through living history—only 20 minutes away and well worth the visit.
Farmers Market
Sundays 9:00 to 1:00
Fresh Finds Every Sunday at the San Clemente Farmers Market
From vibrant produce to handmade treats, discover the best of our local growers and artisans—just minutes from San Clemente Cove. Join us in supporting our community—click here for hours and directions and plan your visit this Sunday!
Events
September 12-14
The Ocean Institute’s 41st Annual Celebration of Tall Ships featuring local vendors, food trucks, beer gardens, kids’ activities, sailor reenactors, local marine life, tall ships, and more
October 13
The Dana Point ArtFest is an outdoor, top-quality juried art and music event that brings artists and the community together. Enjoy 80 local artists, live music, wine and beer gardens, and more. Free for the public.
October 26
Lace up your running shoes and don your most creative costumes for the 3rd Annual Monster Dash 5K and Creepy Crawl Fun Run. This year’s event features a new race route, a delicious pancake breakfast, and live music from the local favorite band, Wigs and Ties.
November 27
Held at the Dana Point Harbor, this USA Track & Field-certified event offers a 5K, 10K, Combo 15K, and Kids’ 1-Mile Gobble Wobble. Enjoy a festive atmosphere with a costume contest, expo, and more. Best of all, your participation supports local charities.
Trivia
Spanish Village by the Sea
San Clemente earned this nickname in the 1920s when founder Ole Hanson envisioned a coastal town with red-tile roofs, white stucco walls, and charming courtyards inspired by Spanish Colonial Revival architecture.
Historic Pier
The San Clemente Pier, built in 1928, was originally a wooden structure intended as a public gathering spot and remains one of the city’s most iconic photo ops.
World-Class Surfing
Home to legendary surf spots like Trestles and San Onofre, San Clemente is often called the “Surfboard Capital of the World” thanks to its thriving surf culture and numerous board shapers.
Spanish Street Names
Many streets, like Avenida Del Mar and Avenida Pico, honor Spanish influences and add to the town’s Mediterranean charm.
Come Back to the Cove
A Note from Our General Manager
At San Clemente Cove, we love seeing familiar faces return to soak up the sun, stroll the pier, and discover something new each visit. Whether you’re coming back for another family vacation, a romantic escape, or just a quiet weekend by the sea, we’d be honored to welcome you home again.
While you’re here, take a moment to browse the carousel below, featuring our sister resorts. We think you’ll enjoy discovering these unique destinations just as much as you love staying at San Clemente Cove.
Reach out anytime—our team is here to make your next stay even more memorable.
Located halfway between San Diego and Los Angeles along the Pacific Coast, Capistrano is your idyllic seaside escape.
Let your worries melt away with a soak in our rooftop hot tub with mesmerizing ocean views, enjoy exclusive discounts at select shops on Orange Avenue, or meet fellow guests at our welcome breakfast on Mondays.
Spend your days exploring scenic trails, teeing off on the championship golf courses, or enjoying family-friendly fun at the activity center. At Canyon Rim at Eagle Crest, adventure and relaxation go hand in hand.
Experience a comfortable and convenient stay just one block from the beach at Channel Island Shores, offering Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, beach gear, hot tubs in select suites, and more for your perfect seaside getaway.
Let your worries melt away with a soak in our hot tub with mesmerizing ocean views, enjoy a walk down to the beach, or meet fellow guests at our Koi Fish Feedings in the main lobby.
Relax in Indio Escape to the heart of the desert at Indian Palms Vacation Club, where your getaway begins the moment you arrive.
Kick back in cozy, condo-style accommodations located within walking distance to Palisades Tahoe and world-class skiing, hiking, and dining.
Feel your worries melt away with a soak in the hot tub, a walk along the Napa River, or while meeting fellow guests at our wine reception on Wednesdays.
Discover the best of Olympic Valley with its unparalleled beauty, breathtaking mountain views, and a wealth of outdoor adventures at your doorstep.
Located on a beautiful tropical hillside alongside the championship Makai Golf Course in Princeville, Makai Club Resort has everything you need to make it your home away from home on Kauai.
From boating and fishing on the sparkling blue waters of Lake Tahoe, to skiing and snowboarding down the mountain slopes, you get to choose your own year-round adventure in Tahoe Vista.
This Palm Springs desert oasis is surrounded by lush gardens and stunning mountain views and features an array of exceptional amenities, including a tennis court, putting green, fitness center, and two sparkling pools for your total relaxation.
Come experience the tranquility and exclusive ambiance of this beloved Del Mar resort neighboring the village. The property is just a block from the beach, offering breathtaking views of the sun setting over the ocean each night.
Kick back in our ocean-view hot tub, grab some free beach gear for sandy adventures just steps away, or cruise through Oceanside with our complimentary bike rentals.
Let your worries melt away as you take a refreshing dip in our pool or unwind in the soothing waters of our jacuzzi, all while basking in the California sun.