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San Clemente

San Clemente History

   The upscale town of San Clemente is home to the red, white and blue: red-tiled roofs, the "Western White House" and crystal blue waters.
   The city's modern history began in 1925, when developer Ole Hanson visited the area and envisioned creating a Spanish village by the sea. The next year, Hanson's vision became reality. He purchased 2,000 acres of then-Rancho Santa Margarita and began constructing his dream community. Hanson built white stucco homes with red-tiled roofs, then a swimming club and downtown shopping area to match
   Tourists came to the newly named San Clemente to visit the area's pristine beaches, but they soon became entranced by the Spanish-style architecture. New residents flocked to the area, and the community grew, bolstered by scores of military personnel serving at nearby Camp Pendleton and San Diego.
    Despite its growing popularity, San Clemente remained a hidden jewel until 1969, when President Nixon bought Casa Pacifica, one of the city's well-known Spanish mansions. The home became known as the "Western White House," and the city gained national attention. The president was a popular fixture at local restaurants until 1980, when he sold the home and moved to the East Coast due to failing health. Although Nixon left office amid scandal in 1974, many San Clemente residents continue to think highly of the former president.

Activities

   Many of developer Ole Hanson's 1920s-era buildings still stand in San Clemente. The most renowned of these Spanish-style structures is Hanson's former home, Casa Romantica. The mansion, which overlooks the Pacific, is open to the public and is the site of the Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens.
   San Clemente offers a variety of shopping and dining opportunities. Find a bargain in the city's abundant antique shops, or window shop along Avenida Del Mar, an upscale shopping showcase.
    Head down to one of the city's beaches to swim, snorkel, surf or stroll. Walk over to the San Clemente Municipal Pier to fish, or catch a bite to eat at nearby Fishermans Wharf.
   Annual events include the Fall Carnival; the Chowder Cookoff; the Spirit of Christmas; and the popular Ocean Festival, which is held each July.

San Clemente Fast Facts

   Location: San Clemente is located six miles south of Dana Point, about 59 miles north of San Diego
  *Total area: 18.36 square miles (17.62 square miles land area; 0.74 square miles water area)
  *Population: 49,936
  *Housing units: 20,653
   Average annual rainfall: 13.56 inches
   Average temperatures: 69ºF in summer, 55ºF in winter
*Information provided by 2000 Census

Schools

   There are 10 public schools in San Clemente: seven elementary schools, two middle schools and one high school.

Beaches

Maps of San Clemente

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