El Portal Beach

This beach goes by two names, El Portal Beach and Buena Vista Beach. That’s because the public access entrance is at the intersection of Buena Vista and El Portal streets.

El Portal Beach, as it is best known, is a San Clemente City Beach with a long set of stairs leading down to the train tracks and the beach. It’s a narrow beach that is better suited for surfing than sunbathing or beach sports as the beach is mostly wet at higher tides. That said, when the tide is out locals will be enjoying this hidden gem.

The famous “204” surf spot is between the Portal access and the one just north at Dije Court. Back in the 1950’s local surfers named this place after a number sign on the railroad tracks.

The San Clemente Coastal Trail passes by this spot with access to North Beach and San Clemente Pier.

For parking try to find a parking spot near the Portal access, but be careful not to block any driveways.

Address

1100 Buena Vista
San Clemente, CA 92672

Other Names

Buena Vista Beach, 204

Owner

City Beach

Pet Details

No dogs allowed on the beach

Fees

Free street parking

Activities

Surfing, Walking, Running, Sunbathing

Amenities

Bike Path, Trail, No Facilities

Links

Water Quality
Water Temps
Tide Chart
Surf Report