Archive, Field Notes

San Clemente

🏄‍♂️ Welcome to San Clemente, California 🌞

Discover the charming city of San Clemente, where the sun meets the sea. San Clemente is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking the quintessential Southern California experience. It was developed by Ole Hanson as “The Spanish Village by the Sea.” While in San Clemente, don’t miss the pier the founder’s house.

🏖️ Top Attractions:

  • San Clemente Pier: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along this iconic pier, take in panoramic ocean views, and dine at the waterfront restaurant. It’s the perfect spot for fishing, sunset watching, and capturing beautiful photos.
  • T-Street Beach: Known for its excellent surf breaks and sandy shores, T-Street is a favorite among surfers and beachgoers. Relax, swim, and soak up the sun at this stunning beach.
  • Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens: Explore the historic home of San Clemente’s founder, Ole Hanson. This cultural center offers art exhibits, gardens, and breathtaking ocean views.
  • San Clemente State Beach: Ideal for camping, picnicking, and exploring tide pools. This beach offers a family-friendly environment with scenic hiking trails and lovely picnic areas.
  • Outlets at San Clemente: Shop till you drop at this upscale outlet mall, featuring top brands, dining options, and beautiful Spanish-style architecture.

🍴 Dining and Shopping:

  • Wander through Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente’s charming downtown street, lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and a diverse range of restaurants and cafés.
  • Enjoy dining options off the historic San Clemente Pier at Fisherman’s Restaurant or try the La Galette Crêperie.

🎉 Events and Festivals:

  • Celebrate the spirit of San Clemente at the annual Ocean Festival in July. It is a fun-filled event featuring surf competitions, sandcastle contests, and live music.
  • Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Village Art Faire showcases local artists, crafts, and unique handmade goods. The San Clemente Art Association has a great gallery off of Del Mar with seasonal events.

Accommodations:

  • Stay in comfort and style at our beachfront hotels, charming bed and breakfasts, or cozy vacation rentals, all offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

San Clemente is known for the surf, sunsets, and shopping.

📸 Share your San Clemente adventures with us using #VisitSanClemente

Casa Romantica post by 70 Degrees

History of San Clemente

"The Wedding Planner" 24x24 original acrylic painting by Rick J. Delanty

Casa Romantica has remarkable founder history of Ole Hanson who resided in this Spanish Revival styled house. Ole was once was the once mayor of Seattle. He pioneered in the creation of community. The house is open to the public with docent-led tours available upon request. Learn more at 415 Avenida Granada San Clemente, CA 92672. The public visiting hours are the following: Tuesday: 10 AM – 4 PM; Wednesday: 10 AM – 4 PM; Thursday: 10 AM – 4 PM; Friday: 10 AM – 2 PM; Saturday: 10 AM – 2 PM; and Sunday: 10 AM – 2 PM Call (949) 498-2139 or send an email to info@casaromantica.org with questions.

Don’t forget to start with the welcome film, timeline, and explore the gift shop. As a member, you’ll receive a 10% discount and invitation to private events.

Learn more about the gallery exhibits and experiences at casaromantica.org.

70 Degrees installed Who Was Nellie Gail Moulton? in 2020 with the Moulton family. Read the Orange Coast Magazine article.

The San Clemente Historic Society collaborates with Casa Romantica with docent-led tours and historical preservation for the city. Don’t miss their incredible collection of photographs than can be ordered on-demand.

Learn more about San Clemente’s 203 historic structures with their new interactive map. The list of properties and all the historic city resources can be found online.

North Beach Rehabilitation

Ole Hanson also established a beach club along PCH in North Beach. This facility was remodeled by the city in 2016 and has a public pool with a private event space. The casino, or better-stated meeting place, has been restored for special events.  Moulin, the French pâtisserie, is adjacent to it that is open 8am – 3pm. Explore this cafe virtually.

This entire area is an historic district with a rehabilitated Miramar Theatre coming soon. Take a look at the Design Review Subcommittee (DRSC) Booklet with site plans.

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