Hotels in San Clemente

San Clemente: A Coastal Symphony of Blooms and Waves

San Clemente, California, is a charming coastal gem known for its stunning beaches and laid-back vibe. With its picturesque shoreline, including the iconic San Clemente Pier, visitors can indulge in sun-soaked days and thrilling surf. The vibrant downtown area, adorned with colourful flowers and inviting cafés, offers a delightful blend of shopping and dining experiences. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or a family adventure, the town's welcoming atmosphere and luxurious accommodations make it an ideal retreat. Embrace the captivating sunsets and unwind in this enchanting seaside haven.

Discover great hotels in San Clemente

San Clemente offers a diverse range of hotel accommodations, from charming boutique inns to family-friendly resorts. Visitors can enjoy beachfront properties with stunning ocean views, as well as budget-friendly options. This coastal town is ideal for those seeking a relaxing getaway near beautiful sandy beaches and vibrant local culture. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our travelers in San Clemente:

1. El Caminante Bar & BungalowsOpens in a new window: This 1.5-star hotel offers a delightful escape for adventure seekers and beach lovers. With direct access to the beach, it creates a perfect setting for those looking to immerse themselves in water sports and outdoor activities. Guests can enjoy onsite hiking and biking, along with nearby options for kayaking, motorboating, swimming, and surf lessons, making it an ideal choice for leisure travellers eager to explore the great outdoors. The relaxed atmosphere and easy access to adventure create a memorable stay.
2. Best Western Plus Dana Point Inn-by-the-seaOpens in a new window: Best Western Plus Dana Point Inn-by-the-sea is a 2.5-star hotel that caters to travellers seeking a vibrant beach experience filled with adventure. The property features direct access to the beach and numerous activities for the adventurous spirit. From hiking and biking nearby to thrilling water sports like waterskiing, parasailing, and snorkelling, this hotel offers a dynamic experience for those in pursuit of excitement. The engaging atmosphere and array of activities ensure a stay that is both invigorating and enjoyable.
3. Beachfront Inn and Suites at Dana PointOpens in a new window: Beachfront Inn and Suites at Dana Point is a charming 2.5-star hotel that epitomises a relaxed beach getaway. With direct access to the sandy shores, it is perfect for travellers looking to unwind and soak in the sun. This hotel is designed for those who crave a beach-centric vacation, offering a serene environment where guests can fully embrace the coastal lifestyle. The hotel’s inviting atmosphere and stunning beach location create a soothing retreat, perfect for relaxation and leisure.

Top locations to stay in San Clemente

In Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, and Laguna Hills, visitors can enjoy unique experiences. Dana Point offers beautiful beaches and scenic coastal views, while San Juan Capistrano is rich in history with its famous mission. Laguna Hills features excellent shopping options. For first-time visitors, Dana Point is best suited, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and coastal charm.

1. Dana PointOpens in a new window: Dana Point is a charming coastal town perfect for beach lovers. With its stunning beaches and picturesque harbour, it's an ideal spot for water activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and whale watching. The scenic Dana Point Headlands offers breathtaking views and lovely walking trails. Whether you’re relaxing on the beach or exploring the vibrant local art scene, Dana Point provides a laid-back atmosphere with a range of boutique shops and inviting cafes to enjoy.
2. San Juan CapistranoOpens in a new window: Known for its historic mission and beautiful gardens, San Juan Capistrano offers a unique blend of culture and charm. The town is home to the iconic Mission San Juan Capistrano, where you can immerse yourself in California's rich history. The quaint downtown area features a variety of shops and art galleries, making it perfect for a leisurely day out. Plus, the surrounding areas have lovely hiking trails that lead to stunning vistas.
3. Laguna HillsOpens in a new window: Laguna Hills is a great choice for shoppers, as it boasts a variety of shopping centres and outlets. It’s a bit inland but offers easy access to nearby coastal attractions. The surrounding parks provide nice spots for picnics and leisurely walks, while the local community often hosts cultural events and markets, showcasing the vibrant local scene. If you're looking for convenience and a welcoming atmosphere, Laguna Hills will suit your needs.

Things to do in San Clemente

San Clemente beckons with its stunning beaches, rolling coastal hills, and vibrant flower-laden parks. Embrace the thrill of surfing the inviting waves, enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the ocean, or set up camp amidst serene landscapes. This charming seaside haven offers a perfect blend of relaxation and outdoor fun, making it a delightful getaway.

• Woods CoveOpens in a new window – Spend a day at Woods Cove, where the serene beach invites you to relax and soak up the sun. The gentle waves and stunning coastal views make it an ideal spot for families and friends looking to unwind. Don't forget to take a stroll along the shoreline, where you'll find vibrant flowers adding a splash of colour to the landscape.
• Orange County Great ParkOpens in a new window – Explore the expansive Orange County Great Park, a beautiful urban park perfect for picnicking or jogging. With its lush greenery and various recreational facilities, it’s a great place to gather with loved ones and enjoy outdoor activities. Keep an eye out for seasonal events that might be happening during your visit!
• Newport DuneOpens in a new window – Head over to Newport Dune, another beautiful beach that offers a fantastic setting for swimming and sunbathing. The calm waters are perfect for families looking to enjoy a day by the sea. Grab a beach chair, relax, and let the gentle ocean breeze carry your worries away.
• The Pier at OceansideOpens in a new window – Take a walk along The Pier at Oceanside, where you can savour stunning views of the ocean while watching surfers catch waves. This lively spot is perfect for people-watching, and there are often local vendors offering delicious treats, making it a great place to grab a bite.
• Oceanside PierOpens in a new window – End your day at Oceanside Pier, where the sunset paints the sky in hues of orange and pink. This iconic jetty is a fantastic spot for fishing, or simply enjoying the vibrant atmosphere filled with locals and visitors alike. Bring your camera to capture the breathtaking views!

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in San Clemente

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit San Clemente is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For those looking to explore the area’s historic landmarks and cultural attractions, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful beaches, stunning sunsets, and family-friendly activities, all while indulging in budget-friendly cafes and the vibrant local flora. This period offers great value for money, making it an ideal choice for travellers on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to San Clemente, consider visiting the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. By enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, you could stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you seize opportunities to save. The Smart Shopping tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, making it easier to find the best options. Should prices drop or rooms become available, you'll be among the first to know, facilitating your last-minute getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate due to various factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay in a San Clemente hotel. For those in search of distinctive accommodation, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised experience and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we will inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher end, we will recommend more economical dates, which may help you secure a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to San Clemente's excellent public transport links, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that remains well connected. For those wishing to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to San Clemente

San Clemente experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 56.3°F (13.5°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 72.1°F (22.3°C). December tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit San Clemente are April, June, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by no rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by no to light rainfall and sunny to mostly sunny conditions.