Several years ago my daughter, Jennifer, relocated to San Clemente and I became reacquainted with this charming and quaint town. The property also has a studio apartment in which Jennifer lives and is as helpful as you want her to be during your stay.
San Clemente is in the perfect spot to explore the beach towns of Orange County as well as San Diego. A few possibilities are:
DANA POINT HARBOR
Visit the Ocean Institute (marine exhibits, tall ship The Spirit of Dana Point) or get up close and personal with dolphins with Captain Dave. SANTA CATALINA ISLAND by ferry makes for a unique summer's day trip. Check for times and dates for all of these.
LEGO LAND in Carlsbad
Fun for the younger ones.
OCEANSIDE HARBOR
A real fishing harbor. Nice stop for a quick meal of fresh-off-the-boat Fish & Chips.
SAN DIEGO
Sea World, Balboa Park with Zoo and Old Globe Theater, Historic Old Town, USS Midway Museum are just a few worthwhile stops.
LAGUNA AND NEWPORT BEACHES
Artist delights
DEL MAR RACETRACK
Seasonal races closeby
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO
Mission San Juan Capistrano founded in 1776. See if the swallows have returned!
DISNEYLAND
THE original with lots of updates. About 45 minutes away.