The Importance of San Clemente’s Beaches
Photo: Shawn Parkin
San Clemente without its beaches is not San Clemente.
Our beaches are economic engines that attract millions of visitors and generate millions of dollars in tourism.
We host numerous surf contests, from WCT finals to dozens of amature surf contests, the Ocean Fest, surf camps, volleyball camps, and millions of visitors who come for sand and sun.
Our beaches are forces of social equity. They’re a big draw for inland residents who can’t afford to live on the coast.
23.4% live in the City, another 25.2% live outside the City but within 20 miles, and another 24.5% live within 60 miles. 16.3% live in California more than 60 miles away. 8.9% of visitors are US residents from out of state; 1.8% are foreign visitors.
Source: King, Philip G. Economic analysis of beach spending and the recreational benefits of beaches in the city of San Clemente. San Francisco State University, 2002.
Our beaches provide recreation we all crave, inspiration we all strive for, and communion with nature we all need.
Photo: Jeremiah Klein