North Beach(San Clemente City Beach)

Located in the northern part of the City of San Clemente, North Beach is a wide beach area stretching from San Clemente Metrolink Railway Stationto Dije Court Beach. The beach has light brown sand and some portions of the beach area also contain gravel and pebbles. The beach is situated beside bluffs running along Avenida Estacion. The bluff side areas of the beach have been fixed with artificial boulder embankments to prevent erosion. The beach is situated directly to the south of Ole Hanson Beach Club and is adjacent to San Clemente Metrolink train station. The area around the Metrolink station is dotted with coffee shops and other stores used by railway commuters.

North Beach offers a number of activities to visitors including swimming, surfing, bodysurfing, kitesurfing, paddleboarding, fishing, snorkeling, biking, kayaking, canoeing, wildlife watching, beachcombing, beach-walking, and sunbathing. The beach is perfect for water sports as it offers strong waves which are ideal not only for surfers but also body boarders and kite surfers. However, be sure to watch out for rip currents in the water. At low tide, you can comb the beach for shells. If you want to have a relaxing bonfire, it’s best to arrive early as the fire rings can get occupied.

If you want to venture out, you can use the San Clemente Pedestrian Beach Trail for biking and exploring other beaches in San Clemente, including the San Clemente Pier, Calafia Beach, and San Clemente State Beach. The North Beach Historic District after renovation will soon feature iconic landmarks present at the time of San Clemente’s initial years in the 1920s including the Miramar Theatre and Bowling Alley. However, there are a number of other attractions near the beach which visitors can enjoy. Many spots around the North El Camino Real road feature interesting hiking trails into the woodlands, forests, and coastal scrubs near San Clemente and offer a unique insight into Central California’s geography and ecology. Another attraction near the beach area is the San Clemente Municipal Golf Course where you can enjoy an engaging game of golf.

Part of the city of San Clemente near North Beach has recently been included in the National Register of Historic Places as the "North Beach Historic District" and is currently undergoing major renovations and redevelopment. The beach area is also the northern starting point of San Clemente Pedestrian Beach Trail (also known as the San Clemente Coastal Trail), which can be used for biking and exploring the entire San Clemente Waterfront until you reach Calafia Beach. North Beach has many amenities including lifeguards, restrooms, concession stands, fire pits, a grassy park, and a play area with rides for children while also offering access to people with disabilities. The beach is easy to access - the beach entrance is located near the intersection of Avenida Estacion and North El Camino Real. You can park at the free parking lot at Avenida Estacion, although we recommend arriving early as the parking space is often filled up by railway commuters. You can access the beach from a railway crossing nearby but be sure to watch out for trains as the railroad is live and active.

If you're looking for a restaurant, Village Mediterranean Rim is a Mediterranean fine dining restaurant offering a seasonal menu that features a variety of delicious dishes including tagines, pasta, and fantastic beef cheeks. A more family-friendly option is Pho Thanh Binhwhich offers delicious Vietnamese food including fantastic spring rolls and wonton soups which are served in generous portions. A modestly priced dining option is The Grillwhich offers great burritos, fries, and sandwiches.

If you are looking for a hotel near North Beach, there are many great options. The 5-Star The Ranch at Laguna Beach is 18 minutes away that is set along the Orange County coastline beside the Woods Canyon and offers a variety of amenities including a pool, spa, fitness center, in-house restaurant, and golf course. A more affordable option is the 3-Star La Casa Del Camino which is 22 minutes away and offers well-furnished rooms with Spanish and surf-themed architecture, a rooftop lounge, and a fitness center. The modestly priced 2-Star Americas Best Value Inn San Clemente Beach is another good option.