Top Surf Spots via the Trail
The trail runs parallel to the train tracks, and you must use designated underground tunnels or overpasses to reach the sand. [1]
- T-Street: The most popular stop, featuring consistent reef and beach breaks. Use the pedestrian overpass to reach the water.
- The Pier: Offers peaks on both the north and south sides. Note that the area directly under and around the pier is often crowded with swimmers.
- Calafia/State Beach: Located at the southern terminus. It’s a reliable spot for all skill levels and tends to be slightly less hectic than the Pier area.
- Trestles and San Onofre is a premier surf-commute, spanning about 3–8 miles one-way depending on the starting point. Fat tire e-bikes are ideal for navigating the sandy, dirt paths. The ride offers scenic views along the tracks, leading from San Clemente through the Trestles Wetlands to the San Onofre bluffs. T Street Surf Shop Surf Bike Rentals San Clemente, California
Biking Rules & Regulations
- Manual Bicycles: Allowed on the San Clemente Beach Trail, but you must yield to pedestrians and maintain a speed under 10 mph. Expect “Walk Bike Zones,” particularly near the San Clemente Pier during summer.
- E-Bikes: Prohibited on the San Clemente Beach Trail and beaches at all times, even with the power off. However, e-bikes are allowed once you exit the city limits and reach the Trestles/San Onofre area.
- Surfing Gear: Carrying surfboards on bikes is permitted, and local shops like 369 Surf Shop offer rentals equipped with surf racks.
Biking from the San Clemente Beach Trail to Trestles and San Onofre is a popular way to access world-class surf breaks while avoiding parking headaches. However, strictly following the San Clemente Beach Trail itself is only possible for manual (pedal) bikes, as the city has a strict ban on all e-bikes for that specific path.
Recommended Route to Trestles & San Onofre
Since e-bikes are banned on the coastal trail, most surfers use the Pacific Coast Bike Route (parallel to El Camino Real) to head south.
- To Trestles: Ride south through town or via the Trestles Beach Trailhead. You’ll eventually reach a nature trail that passes under the Trestles Bridge. E-bikes are extremely common here for navigating the long walk to the water.
- To San Onofre: Continue south from Trestles along the old Highway 1 bike path. This route takes you past the inactive nuclear plant and into the San Onofre State Beach area.
- San Onofre Surf Beach: If you are heading to the main “Old Man’s” surf beach, you can bike through the pay kiosk and down the hill.