San Clemente Pier, California

Whether you’re into spending the day fishing off the pier, grabbing chili fries at the hot dog stand, or relaxing over a cocktail followed by lunch or dinner at Fisherman’s Restaurant, San Clemente Pier has an ambiance you’ll want to share with everyone.

Need accommodation? The Beachcomber Motel boasts unobstructed ocean views from every room: beachcombermotel.com. Forgot your fishing gear? You can rent a pole. I did a little fishing, then had dinner at the restaurant while watching the sunset and listening to the waves crashing underneath the pier. Their sourdough bread, clam chowder and seafood specialties are worth the trip!

Visit any day or wait for one of their special events, like the Thursday Beach Concerts or Sunday Street Markets. Don’t miss the 2nd Annual Surf Contest, Sunday, September 20th, and the famous Seafest on Sunday, October 11th, featuring a Chowder Cook-off, Arts and Crafts, Surf Contest and Kiddie Rides, all at the pier. For event information, go to scchamber.com.

Take Highway 5 all the way, or catch the Amtrak. Trains stop at San Clemente Pier daily: amtrak.com.