Hotels in San Clemente

San Clemente: Where Coastal Serenity Meets Floral Splendor

San Clemente, California, is a sun-kissed coastal gem that enchants visitors with its stunning beaches, vibrant floral landscapes, and laid-back charm. Renowned for the picturesque San Clemente State Beach, where golden sands meet the sparkling Pacific, and the iconic San Clemente Pier, this destination is perfect for both relaxation and adventure. Stroll through the charming streets lined with surf shops and cafés, or explore the scenic trails that offer breathtaking ocean views. Whether you’re seeking romance, outdoor fun, or a peaceful escape, San Clemente promises an unforgettable seaside experience. For great hotel rates in San Clemente, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in San Clemente

Some of the best places to stay in San Clemente are Newport Coast, Capistrano Beach and Monarch Beach. Newport Coast, Capistrano Beach, and Monarch Beach offer stunning coastal views, pristine beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for travellers. Newport Coast features luxurious accommodations with ocean views, while Capistrano Beach offers charming boutique hotels and easy beach access. Monarch Beach is known for its upscale resorts and family-friendly options. For first-time visitors, Newport Coast is ideal, blending vibrant nightlife with serene beaches. Each area provides diverse hotel options, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveller. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in San Clemente:

1. Newport CoastOpens in a new window: Newport Coast is a beautiful coastal area known for its stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. With attractions like the University of California, Irvine and Crystal Cove State Park, it’s perfect for those who love nature and exploration. Consider staying at Balboa Bay ResortOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star resort that offers adventure sports and business amenities. For a luxurious experience, check out Lido HouseOpens in a new window, which features a full spa service. If you're after a beachfront stay, The Resort at Pelican HillOpens in a new window provides direct access to the beach and numerous adventure activities.
2. Capistrano BeachOpens in a new window: Capistrano Beach is an idyllic spot with scenic views and rich culture, featuring attractions such as Dana Point Harbor and Doheny State Beach. For a charming stay, Always Inn San Clemente Bed & BreakfastOpens in a new window is a 4-star bed and breakfast that welcomes pets and offers various adventure sports nearby. Alternatively, Hilton Garden Inn Dana Point Doheny BeachOpens in a new window has direct beach access, making it great for beach lovers, while Inn at the Mission San Juan CapistranoOpens in a new window caters to business travellers with its full spa and meeting facilities.
3. Monarch BeachOpens in a new window: Monarch Beach is renowned for its stunning coastline and vibrant beach culture. It’s close to attractions like Dana Point Harbor and Doheny State Beach, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. For a budget-friendly option, Hampton Inn & Suites Mission ViejoOpens in a new window is a 2.5-star hotel that welcomes pets and offers business amenities. For a more upscale experience, The Ritz-CarltonOpens in a new window features direct beach access and various adventure activities, while Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & ClubOpens in a new window is another luxury choice with extensive business facilities and a focus on adventure sports.

Things to do in San Clemente for first times

San Clemente is an idyllic coastal getaway perfect for a three-day escape. Enjoy sun-soaked beaches, stunning sunsets, and vibrant floral landscapes. Engage in activities like surfing, hiking in nearby hills, or camping by the sea, making it an unforgettable destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to San Clemente:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the iconic San Clemente Pier, where you can enjoy stunning ocean views and watch surfers catch waves. After soaking in the sights, take a leisurely stroll along Avenida del Mar, a charming street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants—perfect for grabbing a bite to eat or a refreshing drink. Conclude your day at San Clemente City Beach, where you can unwind on the sandy shores, take a dip in the ocean, or simply watch the sunset paint the sky in vibrant hues.
• Day 2: Kick off your day at Dana Point Harbor, an idyllic spot for boating and whale watching, where you can also explore local shops and eateries. Next, head over to Crystal Cove Dog Park for some relaxation with your furry friend, or just enjoy the scenic surroundings. Wrap up your day at Doheny State Beach, a great location for swimming, sunbathing, or picnicking while listening to the soothing sounds of the waves lapping at the shore.
• Day 3: Start your morning at San Clemente State Beach, where the expansive shoreline invites you to take a refreshing walk or enjoy some beach activities. Afterward, visit Casa Romantica, a cultural center set in a historic home boasting beautiful gardens and breathtaking ocean views. Finally, immerse yourself in history at Mission San Juan Capistrano, where you can explore the beautiful grounds and learn about the rich heritage of California's missions.

4 tips to find a great San Clemente hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit San Clemente is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices are significantly lower. International travellers should aim to book their flights at least three months in advance to secure better deals, while domestic travellers should book at least two months ahead for the best prices. A stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully enjoy the local attractions, such as the stunning beaches and vibrant floral scenery. San Clemente offers great value for money for those on a budget, making it an ideal getaway.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to San Clemente, Hotels.com is a great resource. You could find discounted rates on hotels by checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections. To enhance your chances of snagging a bargain, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, so you're informed about flash sales and special promotions. This way, you’re more likely to discover opportunities to save on your accommodation.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Consequently, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in San Clemente.
4. Consider your location: When booking your holiday accommodations on Hotels.com, take your location into account. Staying nearer to major attractions or downtown areas may offer convenience but usually tends to come at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and the convenience of accessing the sites you wish to explore.

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 mostly sunny conditions.