San Clemente is another coastal town south of Laguna Beach. It’s just as beautiful. Like many coastal towns in California, there’s always a parking issue. You will find yourself aimlessly looking for parking and pay for only up to three hour max. It’s frustrating to keep track of time just to realize it’s time to add more coins in the parking meter. It sure takes the fun away!
Hey, but you can still enjoy a beautiful day in San Clemente without the hassle of driving and looking for parking. That’s right! Just hop on the OC Metrolink from any of the train stations in Orange County or from the LA Union Station. Weekend fare is only $10 roundtrip. It sure is a great way to commute without having to worry about SoCal traffic!
So, if heading to the pier, make sure to get off on San Clemente Pier. Once there, you will have access to the beach. There are also several dining options. So what are you waiting for? Get out and take the train.
Things to do in San Clemente
OC METROLINK Whether you are a local living in Orange or LA County, taking the metrolink is the best way to go. From North Orange County, the Fullerton Train Station is a nice place to hang out just before heading southbound. From there, it stops at many of the main cities such as Anaheim, Tustin, Laguna Niguel, San Juan Capistrano just to name a few. It’s a total of nine stops to San Clemente Pier. On weekends, a roundtrip fare is only $10 (Saturday or Sunday). That’s a deal! Definitely beats SoCal traffic!
San Clemente is the first stop before the pier. Don’t make the mistake of getting off here if your plan is to go to the pier (next stop). If you plan to rent a bike, then this is where you would get off.
Bicycles San Clemente is located at the corner of El Camino Real. You won’t miss it! It’s just a few yards from the train station. A perfect rental place to cruise along the coastal path of San Clemente. E-bikes are also available. Open for business from 9AM – 500PM / Close on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Phone (949) 492-5737. Bike rental cost varies: cruisers $9/1hr E-bike $20/1hr – There are other bikes available as well. Prices do include include helmets, locks, bells, bottle cages, baskets; tire kits, pumps, when appropriate.
San Clemente Trolley is available during the summer months. The trolley service runs between the pier and Outlets at San Clemente with several stops connecting to top attractions in San Clemente along Avenida Del Mar and El Camino Real. It stops every 15 minutes. Bicycles and strollers are allowed on the trolley. To avoid paying and looking for parking, park at the outlet store and catch the trolley from there. It’s convenient!
Outlets at San Clemente If shopping is what tickles your fancy, then this is the place. There’s a store for everyone – Nike, Eddie Bauer, Columbia, Le Creuset, Nautica, IZOD Golf just to name a few as well as many dining options.
Avenida Del Mar Downtown A great place to explore for some unique shopping and dining experiences. Stroll Avenida Del Mar and discover boutique shops.
San Clemente Pier Every pier is unique. Some have more to offer than others. The first San Clemente Pier built in 1928 was 1,200 feet long. It was a wooden municipal fishing & pleasure pierconstructed at no cost to local citizens. In 1939, and again in 1983, strong storms damaged the pierrequiring it to be rebuilt.
The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar Located on the pier, you can dine at the restaurant or at simply enjoy a drink or two at their bar. Either side of the restaurant will give you a view of the ocean and surfers enjoying the California sunshine.
Pierside Kitchen & Bar is located just across from the pier. The patio seating still gives you an ocean view. It’s a perfect place to hang out while waiting for the train.
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