Best Family-Friendly Beaches in San Clemente
San Clemente is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Southern California, making it a perfect destination for families looking to enjoy sun, sand, and surf. Whether you’re looking for calm waters, picnic areas, or easy access to amenities, here are some of the best family-friendly beaches in San Clemente.
1. San Clemente Pier Beach
This iconic beach offers something for everyone. Families can enjoy a stroll along the pier, grab an ice cream at the nearby cafés, and let the kids play in the soft sand. The gentle waves make it a great spot for beginner boogie boarders, and lifeguards are on duty for extra peace of mind.
Why Families Love It:
Restrooms and showers nearby
Plenty of dining options along the pier
Great for watching surfers and sunsets
2. T-Street Beach
Just south of the pier, T-Street Beach is a local favorite. This beach has lifeguard towers, picnic tables, and a pedestrian overpass for easy access. While the waves can be a bit bigger here, younger kids will still enjoy playing in the sand and tide pools during low tide. It’s important to note that accessing T-Street requires descending a large staircase.
Why Families Love It:
Lifeguard supervision
Great tide pools at low tide
Less crowded than the pier
3. Calafia Beach
Located at the southern end of San Clemente, Calafia Beach is a quiet, family-friendly spot with picnic tables, restrooms, and a grassy park area perfect for kids to run around. The gentle waves and soft sand make it ideal for young children to splash and play.
Why Families Love It:
Easy parking and beach access
Restrooms and picnic tables available
Mellow waves for young swimmers
4. Linda Lane Beach
Linda Lane is a great spot for families. Located just south of the pier, Linda Lane has a large parking lot and a park for littles if you want to stay out of the sand!
Why Families Love It:
Playground within walking distance
Lifeguard supervision
Waves suitable for swimming, surf (south of the tunnel) , and boogie boarding
5. Baby Beach (Dana Point)
Baby Beach is great for young families. Dana Point Harbor and the jetty protect baby beach from large waves and currents, making it perfect spot for little ones. A bonus it the water is typically warmer at baby beach when compared to other nearby beaches. Its calm water also makes it a great spot for paddle boarding and kayaking!
There’s also an awesome, educational interactive marine life exhibit at the Ocean Institute nearby. Check their schedule on their website here.
Why Families Love It:
Restrooms, showers, drinking fountains
Lifeguard supervision
There’s a grassy area behind baby beach available for picnics on a first come, first serve basis
6. Doheny State Beach (Dana Point)
Just a short drive north of San Clemente, Doheny State Beach in Dana Point is another excellent choice for families. With calm waters, picnic areas, and a nature center, it’s a great place for kids to explore and play.
Why Families Love It:
Super calm waves, perfect for beginner surfing
Large picnic areas with BBQs
Interactive visitor center with marine life exhibits
Final Tips for a Stress-Free Beach Day
Arrive early to find the best parking and set up your spot.
Bring shade, like an umbrella or pop-up tent, especially on hot days.
Pack snacks & drinks to keep everyone happy and hydrated.
Check tide schedules if you want to explore tide pools.
Rent your gear from Happy Beach Day and have everything delivered right to your hotel or vacation rental!
San Clemente’s beaches offer endless fun for families looking to soak up the sun and enjoy the ocean. Whether you’re building sandcastles, exploring tide pools, or just relaxing by the waves, these family-friendly spots make for a perfect beach day.
Looking for beach gear rentals? Happy Beach Day delivers chairs, umbrellas, coolers, and more—so you can enjoy your trip hassle-free!
