Photo Essay: An Unplanned Stop Lead Us To San Clemente

Last Updated on September 11, 2016

Driving back to LA from San Diego, Madison needed a potty break, and fast, so we got off the highway at the next exit we could. Driving around for somewhere to get a quick snack and use the washroom, we found that we had wandered into the beautiful beach town of San Clemente.

San Clemente is located on the California Coast, midway between Los Angeles and San Diego at the southern tip of the county. The city is known for its ocean, hill, and mountain views, and its beautiful Spanish Colonial style architecture. San Clemente’s city slogan is “Spanish Village by the Sea”.

We love when we find more than we expected; the unplanned stops are always the most beautiful and magical. Thanks to Madison now being potty trained, we found this gorgeous piece of California beauty.

Take a look:

sanclementecali10 — The street is lined with cute restaurants, bungalow hotels and shops

sanclementecali8 — Enjoying some play time under the pier

sanclementecali1 — Doesn’t this make you want to take a stroll along the beach?

sanclementecali2 — Stunning. Stunning. Stunning.

sanclementecali5 — I love feeling the sand between my toes. It’s so relaxing and just heavenly.

sanclementecali6 — Surf Report & Restaurant at the start of the pier

sanclementecali7 — Loved the spanish vibe

sanclementecali9 — This beach is definitely worth a stop

We loved the laid back and slow pace feel of San Clemente. We felt that we could really unwind and relax and it was nice to find that the beaches are wide-open and free of the vast network of volleyball nets we found at all other beaches. The train does run just behind the beach, but it wasn’t a problem hearing the train whistle, and that was also a highlight for the kids.

Where did you find an unplanned gem during your travels?