Riviera Beach(Montalvo Beach, San Clemente City Beach)

Located in the southern part of the city of San Clemente, Riviera Beach - also known as Montalvo Beach- is a beach area whose entrance often can be hard to locate. This beach is a bit wider in the area compared to other beaches in San Clemente including Mariposa Beach and the Linda Lane Access Point Beach area. The beach has light brown sand. Two creeks flowing down from nearby canyons drain at the beach area and during heavy rains can pool up and make the beach and the adjacent area waterlogged. Adjacent to the beach is a railroad running parallel along the beach area. The San Clemente Pedestrian Beach Trail (also known as San Clemente Coastal Trail or San Clemente Beach Trail) also runs near the beach area, connecting Riviera Beach to other San Clemente beaches along the coastline.

The beach area does not have any lifeguards or any other amenities except for a few fire rings and a walking trail. However, a wide range of facilities can be found in the adjacent Calafia Beach area.

The beach area offers numerous activities including snorkeling, boogie boarding, beach walking, bodysurfing, surfing, surf-skimming, paddleboarding, biking, kitesurfing, kayaking, canoeing, boating, beachcombing, wildlife watching, and swimming. The waters near the beach have a sandy and clear bottom which is great for snorkelers, swimmers, boogie boarders, and bodysurfers. Although the swells in the water here are not very large, Riviera Beach does provide a good surfing experience all year round if the seasonal conditions are right. However, during times of high visitation, the local authorities often allot separate zones in the water for surfers and swimmers to avoid overcrowding. The water here is home to seals, sea lions, and migrating whales. A rock situated around half a mile offshore is frequented by seals and is known as "Seal Rock" which can be explored if you are on a boat. However, the seals can get aggressive if you poke around their territory too much. At low tide, you can comb the beach area for shells and sand crabs, which are plenty here. As the beach area is much less crowded at Riviera Beach compared to other San Clemente beaches, you can enjoy a quiet evening bonfire on the beach area.

The entrance to the beach area is located near 2300 Plaza A La Playa. There is a cul-de-sac at eastern end of Plaza A La Playa where you can look out for the access route to the beach located between residential houses. The access route will lead you below a hillside elevation via a set of stairs and under the railroad through a tunnel to the beach area. You can avail of free street parking at Avenida La Costa or Plaza A La Playa. However, visit early since these spots often fill up quickly. Moreover, take care not to leave any valuables in the car or block any driveways.

If you’re looking for nearby attractions, other beaches along the San Clemente coastline can be explored through The San Clemente Coastal Trail via walking or biking. If you head north, you can reach T-Street Beach where you can fish or look out into the majestic Pacific Ocean. If you head south on the trail, you’ll arrive at San Clemente State Beach which has camping, fishing, and other hiking trails. Rancho San Clemente Park is also located nearby – it’s popular with children and adults alike due to its numerous rides, barbecue spots, basketball, and volleyball courts. Another attraction is the Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens which was the former home of San Clemente’s Founder Ole Hanson and now offers a number of tours throughout its historic mansion and gardens, while also organizing exhibitions and cultural performances. The cultural center also houses La Cristianita Monument, commemorating the first Christian baptism in southern California in 1769.

If you're looking for a restaurant, Iva Lee’s Restaurant & Lounge is a high-end restaurant and bar featuring an opulent ambiance and live music while offering classic southern US and Louisiana-style dishes including jambalaya and fried chicken along with refreshing cocktails. The modestly priced Guichos Eatery offers great pasta and sandwiches served in generous portions. A family-friendly option is Adele’s Cafe which serves great breakfast dishes.

If you are looking for a hotel near Riviera Beach, there are many great nearby options. The 4-Star Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa features luxurious rooms along with a variety of amenities including a hot tub, a pool, a fitness center, and an in-house restaurant and bar. More affordable accommodation options include the moderately priced 3-Star The Surfbreak Hotel and the modestly priced 2-Star Oceana Boutique Hotel.