San Onofre State Beach
State Park · San Clemente, California
San Onofre State Beach lies in northern San Diego County at the Orange County line, near San Clemente, on a coast of bluffs, cobble and sand. It is among the best-known surf areas in California, and Trestles at the north end is often described as one of the best-known surf breaks in the country - confirm. Trestles is reached on foot by a trail from the parking area - confirm the route. The beach also has a bluff-top campground, picnic areas and long sandy stretches. The decommissioned San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station sits next door, its domes a landmark from the beach, and the Marine Corps base Camp Pendleton adjoins the area. Trains run along the shore, fog and cold water are common, rip currents are real, and parking fees apply - confirm. It suits surfers, campers and families who read the conditions and arrive early, and it is a poor choice for a quiet beach day on a July weekend when lots fill and the water is cold.
5200 S Pacific Coast Hwy, San Clemente, California, 92672, United States
California State Parks has generally run San Onofre State Beach from early morning until late evening, with the campground following its own check-in times and some day-use areas on shorter hours - confirm the current times for each area, because the park has several separate entrances and parking lots that do not all open together. The clock that matters most is the tide and the swell: surf and beach width change through the day, and high surf can cover narrow beaches. Summer weekends fill the lots early, and gates may close when they are full. Bluff erosion, storm damage or military activity at the adjoining base can close trails and beaches at short notice. Check the State Parks page and local surf and tide sources before you go - confirm.
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