Surf: Hollow beachbreak peaks at the foot of Avenue Calafia; rock and sand bottom. Sectiony, mostly lefts. Good during the summer. Environment: Campground on the bluffs. Access is via the pay lot at the foot of Avenue Calafia. Surf: General: A release valve for the crazy crowds and competitive vibes down at Lowers, San Clemente State Beach is a fun (but not epic) beach break half a mile up the coast from the Trestles area. The lineup stays relatively empty, despite easy access and consistently surfable waves. Tides: All tides. Size: Head-high. Wind: NE, E Swell: S-SW and short/mid period W-WNW swells Bottom: Sand. Paddling: Easy paddle out until the swell gets well overhead. Spot Rating: Not the best wave in San Clemente, but a fun beach break when the sand is good. Access: Parking lot with bathrooms and direct access, or walk/paddle up from Trestles. Crowds: Crowd Factor: Nowhere near as crowded as Trestles. Local Vibe: Stays pretty mellow, as all the hype and aggression is down at Lowers. Environment: Bearing in mind that this is Southern California, the water is actually relatively clean. Hazards: Groms, mid-morning onshores. Season: Summer and autumn bring south swells and good conditions.