What are some kid-friendly things to do in San Clemente? Well, here are some ideas for ways to play in San Clemente for families.
This was part of my 2021 Summer Play Trips BINGO game that I ran on my @ocplayparks Instagram and also through my weekly email list.
Each week, I covered a variety of options from beaches to parks to walks to restaurants or picnic spots. All are designed to be very simple and hopefully easy to access without a lot of trouble. When something costs $, I’ve tried to add an alternative that is free.
There are two restaurant options to pair with these San Clemente experiences, although there are countless more restaurants in San Clemente. Del Mar is the main street running through town and that’s where you will find the majority of eating establishments. Here are the restaurants I picked for this week:
- Even though parking can be impacted, it’s pretty easy to find a spot at the Outlets at San Clemente and run in to grab an Auntie Anne’s soft pretzel for a snack. There’s also a Ruby’s Diner, Bowlology, Blaze Pizza, u-swirl frozen yogurt, among others.
- Moulin is perfect for a picnic! It’s right near North Beach and Pico Park. Grab a sandwich or breakfast to go.
The last square on the BINGO card that isn’t covered by its own post is “Find a Sunset View.” There are a lot of potential sunset views in the posts from the list below.
12 Ways to Play All Day Near San Clemente
San Clemente was my choice for a themed week of Summer Play Trips during Summer 2021. This is the southern-most city in Orange County so why don't we start here?
You can see this sample printable version of these BINGO cards which went out with my weekly email.
It started as just the parks on the BINGO card, but I've added all the play opportunities on my blog so that you can pick and choose to make your own play day.
San Clemente Beach Trail and North Beach Playground
Unfortunately, there has been land movement along this trail in 2023 and 2024, especially in the North Beach area so portions of the trail are closed for repairs. I have a link in the post with updated info.
Linda Lane Park in San Clemente is Ocean Blue with Views
You can reach Linda Lane Park along the San Clemente Beach Trail. It's just a short walk up the hill with a view of the ocean.
San Clemente Pier for a Family Stroll
San Clemente Pier is at the center of the beach park here and it's a pleasure to stroll along in the sea breeze (sometimes wind - so bring a jacket) and see San Diego to the south and Dana Point to the north.
Calafia Beach
North Beach is at one end of the trail. Calafia Beach is at the south end of the trail for a perfect summer beach day. Parking is easy for families and the walk to the sand is super short.
Pico Park
Pico Park gets nice ocean breezes and views. It's also a great starting point to reach Sea Summit Trail off the back of the playground.
Sea Summit Trail
Sea Summit Trail is a good place for stairs and sunset views. It's also an excellent way to reach the next playgrounds on foot.
Canyon View Park at Sea Summit
Okay, this one is not officially on the Summer Play Trips BINGO card, but it fits right in with the last two posts on the list so I thought I'd include it as an alternative!
Courtney's SandCastle Universal Playground & Sensory Garden
This park is very popular so go early! So many opportunities for pretend play. It's right next to the San Clemente Aquatics Center.
Marblehead Park in San Clemente
Marblehead Park in San Clemente is a fun one for summer because the neighboring school is not in session.
San Clemente Pirate Park (Forster Ranch Community Park)
This "pirate park" is one of those play all day kinds of parks! You can easily see the kids and there is so much pretend play going on.
Pines Park
Picnic tables spread throughout the park with barbecues for the perfect sunset spot. This particular spot is in Dana Point/Capo Beach, but it's only a few minutes from many parts of San Clemente.
Lantern Bay Park
Again, this one is in Dana Point - above Dana Point Harbor. If you are ended your day with a barbecue or park picnic, then this is a great spot to see the sunset. It also has a recently updated playground -- so even if you've been before then maybe the playground will be new to you?
San Clemente Fast Facts for Families
Is San Clemente family-friendly? San Clemente is full of outdoor spaces to enjoy together as a family. It’s also fun to stroll along Del Mar, visit the Friends of the Library bookstore, walk the pier, and spend days at the beach.
How far is San Clemente from Los Angeles? San Clemente is about an hour from LA.
How far is San Clemente from San Diego? San Clemente is also about an hour from San Diego. Closer for North County residents.
Hope you enjoy discovering all these kid friendly things to do in San Clemente!
Originally published in 2021.
