What You Can Expect to Find in San Clemente:
Nestled between Camp Pendleton and Dana Point, San Clemente is the quintessential surf town. It’s known for its mediterranean style, small-town feel, gorgeous scenery, and waves firin’ all year round. White-stuccoed buildings, quaint streets, and tons of palm trees overlook its exceptional beaches.
Some of the popular beaches in this area are T Street, the San Clemente Pier, Trestles, Churches, and Calafia. Since San Clemente’s shores are receptive to both northwest and southern swells, the waves are extremely consistent. This makes it the perfect destination for surf competitions!
Rip Curl holds both the men’s and women’s World Surf League (WSL) Finals for the World Title at Lower Trestles annually. (It’s an insane experience to see in person; definitely add it to your bucket list!!) Trestles is one of the best breaks in the region and is often crowded and competitive, even when there isn’t a competition going on. If you’re comfortable enough in the line up to hold your own in a setting like this, you’ll probably catch some epic waves! If not, just go and watch the action or head to a better beach for beginners nearby!
San Clemente is known for its mediterranean style, small-town feel, gorgeous scenery, and firin’ waves all year round.
What Makes San Clemente Great for Beginners?
The San Clemente Pier is located in the center of town and has an awesome expanse of wide, flat sand that is great for beginners and families with young children. This beach has a large parking lot in addition to street parking, bathrooms, and a sprawling grass area overlooking the water. This area is a favorite with visitors because of the easy parking and the charming downtown area that surrounds the Pier with cute shops, fun restaurants, and interesting bars.
Waves are smoother at this beach than at some of the other beaches in San Clemente and the crowd is generally more friendly. Many beginners learn by the Pier because this beachbreak has lots of whitewater waves. The sandy shore makes it more enjoyable for those learning – wipeouts in shallow water and walking out are not as treacherous.
When is the Best Time to Go?
The Pier is one of the more steady breaks in San Clemente. There is usually something for beginners to ride despite the season or the height of the tide. However mid-tide and summer will always be best. In the summer you will find more novice surfers in the water.
There is usually something for beginners to ride despite the season or the height of the tide at the Pier.
Who Surfs in San Clemente:
Expect to find mostly San Clemente locals out in the water. However, surrounding the dates of big competitions, perhaps you’ll see pros like Gabriel Medina out in the water! Depending on the break, there is usually there is a fun mix of short and long boards out there. Short boards will often be in the majority, however, especially at places like Trestles.
Ready to Hang Ten?!
Let’s get out there! 😎 Book a lesson in San Clemente or at any of our other awesome beach locations. One of our fantastic instructors will meet you at the beach with all the gear necessary. They’ll have you catching waves in no time! See you soon!