Poche Beach

Located on the border of the cities of San Clemente and Dana Point, Poche Beach lies near the intersection of North El Camino Real and Camino Capistrano. Adjacent to the Shorecliffs Beach Club and running close to active train tracks, this beach is mostly rocky with some stretches of light brown sand. The Poche Creek meets the ocean near the beach, often flooding the area during rains and storms. There are oceanfront residential areas both to the north and south of the beach area. Poche Beach has no lifeguards or any other facilities.

The beach offers a number of activities including surfing, swimming, sunbathing, wildlife watching, paddle boarding, canoeing, kayaking, boating, surf skimming, boogie boarding, bodyboarding, and beachcombing. When swimming or engaging in watersports, be mindful of the strong rip currents, which can be dangerous. The waters near Poche Beach are home to seals, sea lions, and migrating whales. Notably, Poche Beach has often been featured in Heal The Bay’s annual "Beach Bummer List" for poor water quality, so it’s essential to check the latest water reports before visiting. Due to the nearby creek and potential microbial contamination, swimming near Poche Beach is not recommended following recent rains.

Poche Beach is easy to access - the entrance to the beach area is located near 2771 North El Camino Real, from where you can access a point marked with "Coastal Access" signs leading through a pedestrian underpass to the beach. There is metered street parking near the beach. The Shorecliffs Beach Club nearby also offers a local landmark to orient visitors.

The beach is surrounded by numerous attractions. The Ocean Institute, located near Dana Point Harbor, provides fascinating insights into marine science and maritime history through various tours, exhibitions, galleries, and seminars. Close to Dana Point is Art Sea, featuring exquisite artworks from around the globe. Additionally, the Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center offers captivating exhibits that showcase the natural and cultural history of the Dana Point Headlands.

If you're looking for a restaurant, there are many great nearby options. Cafe Mimosa is s 21 minutes away by car and features amazing French and New American dishes. Fratello’s Italian Restaurant offers great pasta, Italian seafood dishes, and tiramisu. Another option is the modestly priced Zebra House Coffee which features sandwiches, salads, and baked desserts.

If you are looking for a hotel near Poche Beach, there are many great options. The 5-Star Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel offers a number of amenities including restaurants, a bar, a spa, tennis courts, children’s playgrounds, a fitness center, and an eco-adventure center. A more affordable option is the 3-Star Always Inn San Clemente which offers many amenities including complimentary breakfast and a lounge. Another good and affordable option is the modestly priced 2-Star Quality Inn & Suites Irvine Spectrum which offers a pool, a hot tub, a fitness center, and a restaurant.