T Street Beach and San Clemente Beach Trail parking is metered by the city. However, there is a permit available for use at any metered parking space in the city. Meters usually cost $1/hour. Annual permits cost $50 for San Clemente residents and $65 for non-residents. Purchase at San Clemente City Hall. The city website instructs you to bring your vehicle registration and proof of residency for residents. Click here for Frequently Asked Questions about beach parking.
San Clemente Coastal Trail
Runs from North Beach near the Ole Hansen Pool and Metrolink Station (exit I-5 at Avenida Pico and head toward the beach) where there is a swing set on the beach. The trail goes all the way south to Calafia State Beach with the pier at about the halfway point. Here’s a link to a little pocket guide about the beach trail.
T Street Beach
One of the most popular south county beaches. I know a lot families who stake out spots at this beach all summer long. Parking is where Esplanade dead ends into Paseo de Cristobal (forming a T) or even by the pier with a short walk to T Street. If you park up above the beach at the meters, you walk across a pedestrian bridge over the railroad tracks and down steps to the beach.
There’s no better playground than the beach — and San Clemente has some of the best.