San Clemente Beach Trail
A scenic 2.6-mile paved coastal path offering stunning ocean views, perfect for walks, runs, and bike rides.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
San Clemente Beach Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic 2.6-mile paved coastal path offering stunning ocean views, perfect for walks, runs, and bike rides.
"A one-of-a-kind gorgeous walking trail that runs parallel in both directions to the beautiful darker turquoise ocean waters."
🚶♀️ Walk, Jog, or Bike
This paved trail is perfect for all levels of activity. Bring your bike or rollerblades for a fun ride!
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
Almost no shade on the trail. Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Oceanfront Stroll
Entire Trail Length
A picturesque 2.6-mile paved path offering constant ocean vistas and sea breezes. Perfect for a leisurely walk or jog.
+1San Clemente Pier
Southern End of Trail
Iconic pier offering great fishing, people-watching, and access to nearby seafood restaurants.
Mariposa Point
Northern Section
Scenic overlook with dramatic cliffside views, though currently undergoing restoration for rail line protection.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Access & Construction
+1Sun Protection is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk, Jog, or Bike
This paved trail is perfect for all levels of activity. Bring your bike or rollerblades for a fun ride!
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
Almost no shade on the trail. Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are a must!
🐶 Dog-Friendly (Leashed)
Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome on the trail. Great for furry friends!
🅿️ Parking Tips
North Beach entrance offers ample parking. Pier area parking can be limited.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk, Jog, or Bike
This paved trail is perfect for all levels of activity. Bring your bike or rollerblades for a fun ride!
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
Almost no shade on the trail. Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are a must!
🐶 Dog-Friendly (Leashed)
Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome on the trail. Great for furry friends!
🅿️ Parking Tips
North Beach entrance offers ample parking. Pier area parking can be limited.
☕ Post-Walk Coffee
Grab a delicious coffee and crepe at J'adore Cafe after your stroll.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the San Clemente Beach Trail's stunning ocean views, well-maintained paved path, and convenient amenities. It's praised as a perfect spot for walks, runs, and bike rides, with the pier and nearby dining adding to its appeal. Some note the lack of shade and potential for crowds on weekends.
"A one-of-a-kind gorgeous walking trail that runs parallel in both directions to the beautiful darker turquoise ocean waters. Truly lovely landscaping, very thoughtful addition of amenities (restrooms, pet stations, restaurants) and many magnificent residential structures aligning the often sheer cliff sides of the trail. Parts of the trail feel a bit more isolated even though you are just feet off the beach shores with lots of people relaxing and frolicking all along the coast. Please be prepared to greet several folks walking, jogging, cycling, and walking their pets along this trail which is 2.3 miles long in each direction. Highly recommended although please don't forget to bring your hats, sunglasses and sunscreen with you as there is almost no shade anywhere along the trail"
Ajay Nilaver
"Nice and quiet on the Thursday that we came on. A very clean beach compared to what I’m used to in OC and LA!"
Randy
"Great place for a run. No dogs, few kids and few bicycles due to the fact that most of it is hard packed sand... In San Clemente, west-to-east you have the ocean, the sandy beach, the Amtrak rail line (not many trains go by but they do have safety gates that go down) and THEN the Beach Trail that I ran on (there is a portion if you head south from the pier where the trail is before the rail bed, but you cross over after about 1/2 mile)"
Eugene Lawrence P
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can access the trail from several points, including North Beach (with large parking), near the San Clemente Pier, and Linda Lane. Look for the paved path adjacent to the train tracks.
Yes, parking is available at North Beach, which is a popular and convenient starting point. Parking near the pier can be more challenging, especially on busy days.
The closest train station is the San Clemente Pier Station, which is right at the southern end of the trail, making it very accessible via the Metrolink or Amtrak.
Many visitors recommend the North Beach entrance for its spacious parking and easy access. The pier area is also a great starting point if you want to be close to amenities.
The paved nature of the trail makes it generally accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, though some sections might have slight inclines.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the San Clemente Beach Trail is a public access path and does not require any tickets or admission fees. Enjoy the scenic walk for free!
The trail is open from dawn until dusk, offering opportunities for early morning walks or beautiful sunset strolls.
Access to the trail itself is free. However, parking fees may apply at certain lots, especially near the pier or state beach areas.
While generally open, there can be temporary closures or detours due to ongoing construction projects, particularly at Mariposa Point. It's advisable to check local advisories before your visit.
Yes, leashed dogs are welcome on the San Clemente Beach Trail, making it a great spot for a walk with your furry companion.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
The San Clemente Beach Trail is approximately 2.6 miles long in one direction, making it a 5.2-mile round trip if you walk the entire length.
The trail is primarily a paved path, making it suitable for walking, running, cycling, and strollers.
Yes, amenities like restrooms and pet stations are thoughtfully provided along the trail for visitor convenience.
Besides walking, you can enjoy the beach, visit the pier, explore nearby shops and restaurants, and watch surfers. +1
Crowds can vary. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. Sunset can also attract more people.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes located near the trail, especially around the pier and North Beach areas, offering seafood and other options.
J'adore Cafe is recommended for crepes and coffee, and there are seafood restaurants near the pier for a post-walk meal.
While there aren't designated picnic areas directly on the paved trail, you can find spots on the adjacent beach or at nearby parks.
You'll find cafes and restaurants near the main access points like the pier and North Beach, but fewer options directly on the trail itself.
Yes, J'adore Cafe is a popular spot for brunch, known for its crepes and coffee, located conveniently near the trail.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire trail offers stunning ocean views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The pier and the cliffside overlooks are also prime photo locations.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, provides the most beautiful light for photography. Midday can be harsh due to direct sun.
Yes, the train tracks run alongside the trail, offering opportunities to capture photos of passing trains with the ocean as a backdrop. Always be mindful of safety.
The San Clemente Pier is a classic landmark. The coastal cliffs and the ocean itself provide endless scenic backdrops.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive ocean views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant surfers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
There are plenty of spots along the adjacent beach for kids to play in the sand and splash in the ocean. Bring along beach toys, snacks, and plenty of water. The restrooms and pet stations are convenient amenities. Consider starting at North Beach, which often has more space and recreational areas. Remember that sun protection is crucial for little ones, so pack hats and high-SPF sunscreen.
🐶 Dog Owners
The paved path is comfortable for paws, and the ocean breeze is always a hit. Remember to bring water for your dog and always clean up after them using the provided pet stations. While dogs are allowed on the trail, they are typically not permitted on the sandy beach areas themselves. Always check local signage for specific regulations. The trail offers a great way for both of you to get exercise and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery together.
🏃♀️ Runners & Cyclists
For runners, the trail offers a good mix of flat sections and gentle inclines. Cyclists will appreciate the smooth path, though it's important to be mindful of pedestrians and other users. The proximity to the train tracks adds a unique element, but always be aware of safety gates.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the San Clemente Beach Trail
+1Access points are plentiful, with the North Beach entrance being a popular choice due to its ample parking. Other access points include near the iconic San Clemente Pier and Linda Lane. Be aware that while the trail is paved, some sections might feel like hard-packed sand, especially closer to the beach itself.
Recent updates indicate ongoing construction at Mariposa Point to protect the rail line. This may lead to temporary trail closures or detours between North Beach and Linda Lane. It's always a good idea to check for the latest information before you go to ensure a smooth experience.
+1Best Times and What to Expect
If you prefer a livelier vibe, weekends are bustling with activity, from families enjoying the beach to cyclists and runners. Sunset hours are particularly magical, painting the sky with vibrant colors and offering a spectacular backdrop for photos. However, expect more people during these popular times.
Regardless of when you visit, remember that the trail offers almost no shade. Therefore, sun protection—hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen—is absolutely essential to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable outing.
Exploring Beyond the Trail
Along the trail, you'll pass by beautiful residential areas and have easy access to the beach itself, where you can relax, swim, or watch surfers catch waves. The North Beach area also offers recreational spaces, including picnic spots and volleyball courts.
For those looking to refuel, consider a stop at J'adore Cafe for delicious crepes and coffee, or explore the various dining options near the pier and North Beach for a taste of local cuisine.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit