DESCRIPTION

Southeast San Clemente isn’t trying to impress you with flash. It doesn’t need to. This neighborhood is all about easygoing coastal living, timeless charm, and a front-row seat to one of SoCal’s most iconic surf cultures. It’s the kind of place where palm trees sway over rooftops and ocean breezes carry the scent of salt, sunscreen, and backyard barbecues.

You won’t find cookie-cutter houses here. Instead, you'll stumble upon a character-rich mix of homes of Spanish revivals with red tile roofs, beach bungalows that have seen generations grow up, mid-century modern remodels tucked into quiet cul-de-sacs, and custom builds perched high with ocean views that’ll stop you in your tracks. Some streets curve up the hills and spill out into views of the San Onofre State Beach and the historic trails of Trestles. Others stay low and cozy, close to town and community parks.

If you know, you know. Trestles is arguably the most legendary surf break in California and is within walking or biking distance from here. For surfers, this is hallowed ground. Even if you’ve never paddled out, you’ll catch the mellow, wave-chasing energy that’s just baked into daily life. Flip-flops are practically formal wear.

But don’t worry, life here isn’t only for surfers. Locals love hiking along the ridgelines, dog walking at San Clemente State Beach, or grabbing coffee after yoga downtown. There’s a slow rhythm to this corner of the city that makes you want to ditch the planner and go with the flow.

This isn’t a gated master-planned community where everything looks the same. Southeast San Clemente is refreshingly human. Families, retirees, creatives, remote-working couples—you’ll find a real mix of people calling this place home. And because of the larger lot sizes in many areas, you’ve got space to breathe. Backyard gardens flourish. Kids ride their bikes in the street. Weekend garage sales and front yard chats? Totally a thing.

Condos and townhomes are sprinkled in too, particularly in communities like Presidential Heights—great if you’re after low maintenance but still want that classic San Clemente feel. These homes often come with ocean peeks, and some even look out over the lush green fairways of the San Clemente Municipal Golf Course.