WOW! "Come for the view, stay for the experience" is one of the mottos for this GORGEOUS retreat. Another, more simple motto for this property: "BREATHE". Established in 1953, the Beachcomber in is quintessential California bungalow motor hotel. It's unique placement on a San Clemente bluff, with panoramic views of the pier and coast are nothing short of stunning. The rooms have full kitchens, king beds, sofa beds and patios with Adirondack chairs, in case being inside, staring through an enormous picture window just doesn't cut it. The staff obviously knows what a special property this is and there is great pride in the presentation and up keep of the grounds. Friendly, welcoming faces morning, noon and night. Because this is a vintage property, maintaining its original build and charm, it does not conform to modern accessibility requirements. Some may find the rooms small compared to modern, chain hotels, but I found everything cozy, comfortable and - dare I say - sumptuous! Given the hospitality of the staff, I'm sure they would do all they could to accommodate any guest. In addition to the amazing evening sunset views of the Pacific, a plus for me, was the Amtrak Surfliner passing through, down below the bluff. Paul Simon may sing, 'Everybody loves the sound of a train in the distance', but I love the sound of a train close by! I find it very soothing and romantic. After the sun has set, it's time to gather around the large fire pit for easy conversations with fellow guests, maybe while you wait for your steaks to grill on one of their guest use BBQs. A lovely, relaxing way to ease into the night. We forced ourselves to leave the property and stretch our legs, walk the pier and roam the shops of nearby Avenida Victoria. But for REAL shopping in San Clemente, we took advantage of the free hop on/hop off trolley that runs seasonally and weekends(see separate review) that picks up just below the Beachcomber, at the San Clemente train stop. Weleft our car parked in our allotted parking space (1 parking space for those staying in Villas #1-12). Really, Beachcomber had everything we needed to settle in for a few nights and, yes, just "BREATHE". Cheers! "CC" read more

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I have not had the opportunity to stay here yet but know enough from my experience with Tina that when I do, it will be nothing short of amazing. I tried booking this place 2 weeks ago for a short staycation with the bf and called the office based on Yelp reviews. Tina told me they were booked but recommended another inn across the street to try. She also told me to stop by so she could show me the property when I was in town for a future visit with them. I thanked her and under normal circumstances that would've been it, but her personality over the phone was just so pleasant that even though the place she recommended was booked before I ultimately found a place to stay in San Clemente, my mind was already made up that I wanted to see the place when we got to San Clemente. So glad we did. We had drinks at Fisherman's by the beach before walking up to meet Tina. She showed us one of the vacant rooms and I'm in love. Planning a future visit to stay at Beachcomber Inn the next chance I can. The room she showed us was sanitized, and you could smell the citrus in the room. The gorgeous window view from the was like a painting. And the convenience of being steps of the beach speaks for itself. Looking forward to making our way back here again, hopefully soon read more

Beachcomber Inn - Amazing view from the room - Hotels Near Me - San Clemente, California

The rooms are clean, spacious and really cute. It's also in the perfect location to be able to walk to all the restaurants and shops. My husband and I were there for our anniversary, and Johnny was so sweet, thanks Johnny for the anniversary gift! Would definitely stay here again. One thing to note is there is no AC, but being so close to the beach it wasn't bad at all. Overall we loved it! read more

This spot is absolute perfection and if I could stay here 365 days a year I absolutely would. If you have an opportunity to stay here do yourself a favor and you will have no regrets. The view from the room makes you question if it's real or a simulation. Staff & cleaning crew are all so nice and accommodating, I can't wait for my next stay. read more

Beachcomber Inn - Bedroom view, absolute perfection. - Hotels Near Me - San Clemente, California

It's a beautiful place, but it's 88 degrees here in March and it's absolutely disgustingly hot in the rooms. There are no air conditioners. They give a sub par fan and there's no cross breeze through the room with the bathroom and kitchen windows open. The big picture window doesn't open. Also there are only three palapas on the premises. Not even enough for all the guests. The private porch ( and I say that loosely) isn't shaded. You would think for $870 for 2 nights they would have better accommodations. If you are considering San Clemente it's beautiful, but better to stay at the sea horse Inn, it's cheaper they have beach chairs, beach towels etc. Though it is a "rare" heat wave for this time I couldn't even imagine staying here in the summer. Just way too uncomfortable if you don't like the heat in the room. All the staff are super friendly it's beautiful and very clean. There are cute shops and the view is amazing. Maybe bring your own air conditioner. read more

The location and scenery of the accommodation are so beautiful. It is a fantastic atmosphere. I couldn't stay there, but I will definitely do it next time. I recommend it. read more

Id give them 10 stars if I could. Phenomenal customer service and the view is just breathtaking regardless of what time of day. All rooms have their own porch and kitchen. Cleanliness is good and you do feel and smell like it's clean. Beds are firm and comfortable. They have a fire pit and ample amount of seating. We definitely found our forever vacation spot! read more

Beachcomber Inn - Hotels Near Me - San Clemente, California

A unique stay where wild swimming dolphins are your companions--creating a moment where heaven and earth become one. An exclusive place where hospitality and service blend in perfect harmony. It is to share this very special moment with our children next. read more

We have been staying at the Beachcomber inn for over 6 years. Every year we enjoy it, in till our stay these last couple days. We booked 2 rooms a year in advance. 6 days ago my sister that was going to come from Utah tested positive for Covid-19. We called to cancel one room. The gentleman said that we would be charged half the stay because we did not cancel 14 days in advance. When we booked the room the rules were 72 hours in advance. In May they sent us a email confirming our reservation and in the fine print changed the cancellation policy to 14 days in advance for any reservation after January 2021. We did not know this because no where did it say updated cancellation policy. The gentleman told us if the room (#4) booked we would be giving our money back. We checked the website before we went and was happy to see the room booked. When we went to check in, the same gentleman told us we would not be refunded because they still had the Casita room that was available. You would think that since someone had Covid there would be some type of exception. Also not lie to us, telling us if the room booked we would be refunded. This is still a Beautiful property, but the gentleman at the front desk was very rude and un empathetic and has no idea how to provide great customer service. read more

This place is more like a 4.5, but I'll round up due to the great service. I was searching for places that would be in between Anaheim and Carlsbad and stumbled upon this place in San Clemente. I was drawn to the fact that every room has an ocean view, so I booked it immediately. On the day of my arrival, I got a call from Joey at the front desk stating that my room was ready. That was so nice of him, and I believe this is the only hotel that's ever done this for me! I was already impressed! Upon getting to my room, I was really mesmerized by the great view. There is even a porch with chairs and a table at every room, so you can spend quite a bit of time outside. The room was very comfortable, too. The bed was huge, there is a tv, an adequate bathroom, and even a kitchen! There was even an oven! You can literally spend all your time at this hotel and never leave. The only thing I didn't like about this hotel is the shower head is not adjustable, but that is a minor complaint. I would definitely recommend staying here!! read more

Amazing experience!!! Beautiful views, beach decorated rooms and awesome staff. I stumbled on this place by chance and we loved every second of it. Bookings are hard to come by and a bit steep in pricing, but you'll understand why once you stay. They have BBQ and a Fit pit for guest. All rooms have their own kitchen and restroom. And a big window to watch the sunrise and sunset. read more

Tina went above and beyond to make sure all of my needs were met! She pays attention to all of the details and I'm so grateful for all of the time and energy she put into making my family feel special. Thank you so much Tina!! You're the best! read more

Love this place, it's so quaint, has the BEST views, the rooms have been "revitalized", and are really nice, love that they have old charm and have a little kitchen, the beds are comfortable and the new pillows are awesome! I was even given the name of the company they purchased them from so I can purchase my own... the staff is SUPER helpful and very friendly.... And it's a short walk to the restaurants in town! It's reasonable, We'll ALWAYS come back here! read more

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Location Location Location! I can't even begin to say how much I loved my short stay at the beachcomber; the views were stunning and as much as that's a big deal it's not just the views that make this place 100%. It's the fact that you feel like you are transformed back to a slower pace, simpler times. You can sit back, enjoy life and everything around you. As I sat down, watched the waves roll in and people enjoy the beach I was taken back to a place that I longed to be, somewhere I hadn't been in quite some time; I was at rest. The atmosphere, environment and exclusivity make this place special. I will go back and I pray it never changes. I hope you get an opportunity to stay, it's very popular and you'll need to make your reservations in advance but it's well worth it. I could go on forever but will stop here. read more

Beachcomber Inn - My room view - Hotels Near Me - San Clemente, California

This was our first visit and we had the BEST stay! The staff was super friendly and helpful. All rooms have a huge plate glass window with spectacular views of the San Clemente pier and the ocean, and the beach. There are 2 chairs and a table on each unit's porch in addition to lounge chairs out on the grass. This charming property is older, but amazingly clean and well-kept. The restroom and shower are a little on the small side, but the shower had plenty of water pressure and everything was clean and sanitized. We had a cute kitchenette with a sink, a full-size stove, and a refrigerator, and was fully equipped with everything you need to cook a meal. There also was a Cuisinart (Keurig-style) coffee maker with coffee pods supplied. There are 2 large BBQs for guests to use, and each evening they turn on the fire pit before sunset, with plenty of seating for guests to enjoy. There are several restaurants and cafes, within a 3 or 4-minute walk, as well as the pier and beach access. All-in-all it was a great trip and we plan to make it a yearly event. read more

So we just got back from our trip to the Beachcomber. Two glorious nights in a great place. Again the place is very clean and well kept. The rooms all have fully equipped kitchens - so we go and bring all of our food to prepare and stay "Quarantined" here. We never got within 10 feet of anyone and had a great time. The rooms are very nice. The view is incredible. This is actually the first time that I rated it less than a five. Everything was really good - but two things tipped the scale this time: 1) POOR COVID PROCEDURES - When we got there and I walked up to the window, the man at the desk was not wearing a mask. My wife said that he needed to have a mass on and he replied that he got vaccinated and he didn't need to wear one. She disagreed and he put one on. Then one of the room cleaners was standing next to the walk-way talking to guests and her mask was under her nose. Then her partner who was cleaning our room had her mask under her chin. So the two people cleaning our room were nothing safe. We felt the need to wipe down the essential items with our sanitizing wipes. 2) We were delayed getting in to our room by at least 20 minutes. Which is really not such a big deal (first time in like 15 years). So while we were waiting to get in our room, I unloaded the car and brought the stuff out to the grass in front of the room. As I walked back and forth retrieving stuff I passed the woman (above = next to the walk way). She stood there for at least 15 minutes talking - with her mask under her chin, while her partner was in the room working with her mask off. The place is still great. read more

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The beds are super comfortable. The room is really small and shower was so small it made it difficult to take a shower. The view is beautiful but wish you were able to open front window as it felt kind of stuffy in the room. There was construction happening on the beach which kinda ruined the experience. No one pays $400 a night on a room at the beach so they can listen to construction trucks beeping all day starting at 7am read more

OMG!!! I just stayed here celebrating my 51st birthday and I'll probably be back for all future birthday. The view is unbelievable!!! Walking distance to everything! Comfortable and lovely rooms with all amenities! And the staff is outstanding...Sophia and Joey were nothing but pleasant, accommodating and super! GREAT! Great! Great! read more

This was my favorite vacation to date. Not a top 3. Not a "nearly best." My favorite vacation in life. Of course it had every single thing to do with the company, but the motel and the surrounding area was certainly a boon. We planned a get away, and opted to go late in the season hoping that the trip would mean there would be fewer people around. Nope -- Beachcomber is pretty much busy year round. We even saw the "no vacancy" sign up during the days of our stay. But the price was perfect -- something like more than 50 percent off when compared to times during the peak season. What made it perfect? So many things. Beachcomber is located on a bluff just above the beach. We saw the many photos online but this place looks far more superior in person. And all night, you can hear the waves crashing down. Amazing! You can also hear the train, but neither of us are too sensitive to noise, so it didn't prove to be problematic. It was actually quiet relaxing to hear the train speed past. We were in Room 2, which came with a full kitchen, a king sized bed, a ceiling fan and a comfy sofa. The space is small. Like, you-have-to-turn-sideways-to-get-into-the-shower small. I couldn't imagine having a third adult in that room! Even with the sofa, or a pull out bed. We loved this: The room is stocked with a full kitchen -- plates, glasses (even red wine glasses). There is also a full sized fridge and also a microwave. You can make a full breakfast, lunch or dinner with absolutely no problem. And the beach is located within driving distance of major grocery stories, although there is a pretty sweet neighborhood market just across the way. Anyway, yes, the beach is right there! While you cannot walk straight out of your room and onto the beach, as it appears in some photos, the beach is less than a 10 minute walk away -- a tad bit longer if you are using a wheelchair or walker. But know that the motel is set in the middle of a hill, and it's an sturdy incline coming back. Also of note: Every single room faces the ocean. How sweet is that?! There are areas to sit in the grass all over the place. So plan to have a picnic or dinner while watching the sunset from the patio at your bungalow. Beachcomber provides gas grills on site for sharing, so bring your steaks and shrimp kabobs. Check out the community fire pit, or walk down to the beach after hours and set a fire in one of the pits located there. Gorg! read more

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We love The Beachcomber Inn, we go every year and as many times as we can get in each year. Each unit is decorated different and very clean. But the best part is the full ocean view from every unit. read more

This is my 10th year of going to this lovely heaven on earth. Staff is kind, considerate and professional. Dont need to go out of the country when we have the Amalfi Coast,of sorts, right out our back door read more

My family has been going to the Beachcomber Inn for ~20 years. We go back to the John and Karen days. Every summer for 3 to 7 nights depending on the year. We've never missed a year. We've spent several Christmases there as well as some additional, off-summer nights there. But summer has been the anchor. Periodically, I've written positive reviews on our experience on both Yelp and TA. The past couple of years, though, things have changed. I agree with those posting on the deterioration in attitude, customer service, and poor covid policies. Ownership doesn't respond to many of the negative reviews. I'd be fine with that as long as change was happening. I'm hoping to see an improvement this summer. read more

One of the best experiences I've ever had. The price was definitely worth it quiet very clean with the most breathtaking views even standing inside your room. read more

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The hotel was nice (hence the second star) but their staff member was horrible. I would like to write about the beautiful view and location but our experience with the receptionist ruined the whole trip. Her name starts w a M. Power tripped and millennial condensation. I feel bad for the owner as I have employees... did not represent well. read more

I love this place so much. A very unassuming motel with just incredible views. Open your windows and listen to the beach all night. I could live here. read more

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Pros: great location Cons: the worst staff ever. Especially Joey who was so rude and awful!! He was so rude and inconsiderate. I'll never ever come back. If you're looking for hospitable and kind staff, DO NOT STAY HERE read more

I was a bridesmaid last September. Oddly enough, that was why I started Yelping. I needed someone to tailor a bridesmaid dress for me, and I used the power of Yelp to help me find one. It worked. But that is totally besides the point. The point of this review is to tell you about one of the most beautifully located motels I'd ever been to. I didn't stay here. I got to stay at the less attractive street-bound motel down the way. But I did get to wake up early the Saturday of the wedding and headed down the the Beachcomber to help the bride look amazing. It helped that it was a typical Southern California 85 degree day with a perfect view of the ocean and San Clemente pier. It helped that the bride was beautiful, and the bridesmaids were my good friends. It helped that our makeup and hair all got done on the front porch of the room, so that we could admire the view the whole time. The rooms aren't huge. They are close together, and there isn't a ton of parking. There are however huge windows, and you are a stones throw from the beach, and with the exception of the "times for lovin'", how much time do you actually spend in the room anyway? The hotel is an "old fashioned" motel, but the only place to listen to the waves all night. Naomi spent the night before the wedding alone here, and the first night of her new married life here too....and all she could do was rave about it. From the lovin' to the waves crashing at night to the view...it was a great way to start her new life. read more

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If you want to get away and relax then this is the place for you! Every room has a gorgeous view of the ocean and pier. If you stay here, give yourself some time to enjoy the accommodations. Here are some recommendations: Open the blinds covering your huge window to take in the ocean view from bed or go outside and cuddle up on your small personal patio or community firepit to catch the panoramic sunset view. Bring some marshmallows and use the firepit to roast them or even make s'mores. Bring a bag of groceries and cook dinner up at the outdoor BBQ or in-room stove and dine at one of the picnic tables. Bring a bottle of wine and enjoy it relaxing on the grassy knoll on one of the reclining lounge chairs. This is one of my favorite hotels - enjoy! read more

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This place is soooo awesome! Fyi their booking site is way more user friendly recently, if your date is booked it shows you what other days may be available. The VIEW and the sounds of the ocean compensate for anything this place might be lacking. Travelled with the wife and two kids (3&5) just to get away for a couple days and this place was perfect, there is a huge yard area for the kids to run, yes there are some areas you want to make sure the kids stay away from for fear of them falling (this was my biggest concern traveling w kids). Once we were there and the kids ran around for a bit I felt pretty comfortable (beer may have factored in the ease of mind). San Clemente is the definition of a sleepy town, a few places to eat, coffee shop and liquor store 2 minutes away.... beware of walking anywhere else... there be steep, STEEP inclines!!! My calves still burn! (We pushed a double stroller uphill.56 miles as people laughed at our peril). There is an amazing trail that runs both south and North from the pier... we thought the north route was more scenic but both were awesome... days were pretty cloudy so we didn't really go in the water, beach is kinda rocky so bring water shoes, a ton of people surfing. Room has a small kitchen but it's fully stocked. We brought some food and ate out for lunch only, 2 days and 12 miles of walking later we left our temporary paradise... everyone there was super friendly and the small porches are just the best! What an awesome time! *(beer was a factor in this comment) read more

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This morning even with a rainstorm approaching the coast of San Clemente (see the photos), the Beachcomber is a restful place to be. Here the roar of the ocean, nature's sound bath, does dissolve the inner clutter we bring with us. Come here to shake up the chakras, then to feel refreshed. Room #3 has a well-equipped kitchen, a table by the picture window, a sofa--a small, adequate apartment. The Beachcomber has windows that can be opened. All the rooms have a covered porch. It's that viewscape of the ocean to be enjoyed while drinking morning coffee in bed that solidifes the experience for me. I like being warm in bed while being mesmerized by the wave action, and knowing how cold the water and outside air must be. At night there's a firepit available for anyone willing to start the fire. It's enjoyable to observe the spitting flames from a distance. Looking out to the pier, knowing that night fishermen are enjoying themselves does make me smile. Meanwhile Venus was low in the sky, dangling above the ocean. Note to self for the next stay: remember to pack insulated pants to facilitate sitting outside in the cold. read more

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For me, it doesn't really get much better than this. You can have your W hotels (and I've stayed at plenty of those too), this place will always seem like a little piece of heaven to my wife and I. Stayed here last summer, quite by accident after ending our stay at Disneyland and finding our next location (with a friend in LA) cancelled due to illness. Thus we treked down the coast just seeing what we could find and came across this place. AMAZING views of the beach and ocean, friendly owners and a very well maintained and clean, classic-looking motel from decades past. Full kitchen, comfortable beds and a community BBQ grill that was first-come first served. Thus I hit the Trader Joes nearby for our dinner fixings and grilled some steaks while the kids played and watched the sunset on the Pacific. I will come here anytime I visit Southern California, and you should too! read more

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I have been going to Beachcomber several times a year for the past 20 years! I have always loved this place and has been the place I go for a quick get away from home in San Diego. The service is always great! Joey and his staff there have always taken such good care of me every time I stay. The recent renovations and decor make it even more beautiful. I wouldn't change a thing about Beachcomber!!!! read more

Beachcomber Inn - Hotels Near Me - San Clemente, California

It seems in my wanderings across the world, I either end up staying at awesome, plush, 5-Star (usually timeshare presentation) places or some skanky motel just because it's cheap. The Beachcomber Motel is neither one of these. But it is 5 Stars in my eyes and a motel too! Long ago, when my son was a train-obsessed kid, we would ride Amtrack to all the places it would go because he loved being on trains so much. One time coming back from Santa Barbara, the train slowed down enough that we caught a glimpse of a cute little place up on the hill above the San Clemente Pier and I wrote down the name. Next time I got wanderlust, I grabbed the kids and we came up to stay in these cute, little rooms where the view is out-of-this-world GREAT! Yes-the place is a throwback to the 50's and 60's! But it is very well-maintained. Some parking in a parking lot but probably will need to park on the street. The private Beachcomber yard is very pretty, with lots of flowers and walkways. I like to find the cactus garden and sit there on the bench taking in the surroundings. I just visited and loved how easy it is to get around the little village area there where there are liquor stores, tourist shops, breakfast restaurants, and of course the San Clemente Pier. My son complained about sleeping on the cot-he said it wasn't comfortable, but if mom is paying-then she gets the semi-plush bed! I love the white-washed walls with red trim! I love how the Beachcomber is just like San Clemente's nickname-"Spanish-village-by-the-Sea." It is just like a little Spanish village! I just adore it's "quaintness" and the rumbles of the trains and Metro Links that pass continuously is entrancing! I love how the hillside is planted with flowers and the smell of the ocean is ever-present! Just for privacy's sake and because I'm "discreet," I will usually request a room at the end so I only am sharing ONE wall with someone else, but the end units are much larger and expensive. In fact in the summer the place is taken over by families that can live quite comfortably with the kitchenette facilities available. I hope that the Beachcomber is NEVER taken away and that beautiful bluff side location NEVER turned into yet another nondescript, boring condo complex or fancy boutique hotel! Okay-if you haven't already figured it out- I will confess: I LOVE THE BEACHCOMBER MOTEL! read more

I've been coming here for years! I live 20 minutes away and when I need a break this is where I come. any hotel on the beach in this area will run you $600 night with a minimum two night stay! the outdoor grills, outdoor fire pit with complimentary marshmallows are priceless. the rooms were recently renovated and are super clean and very pretty. yes there's a train that goes by once in awhile but big deal. I love love love this place read more

Beachcomber Inn - The view from the bluff of the hotel - Hotels Near Me - San Clemente, California

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We stayed in the deluxe villa, which has lots of privacy and two separate entrances at the far end of the property (closest to the pier). It has a second room with bunk beds for the kids (bottom is a full-size, top is twin) with a TV. The main room has a king bed, kitchen and bathroom. The lady at check-in was so personable, accommodating and sweet. The fire pit and all the lounge chairs peppered over the property were fabulous! Outdoor shower has hot water...Amazing! Walking distance to everything! Views speak for themselves! read more

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My new favorite place for a quick get away. It was for my boyfriend's birthday and we stayed here for a couple days and since he's in love with the ocean and surfing this place was perfect. It has a full kitchen so you could make a quick meal then later run down to surf. This place is pretty quiet which we love. We couldn't hear anyone but the ocean wave at night which made sleeping peaceful but at time you could hear the train but it didn't bother us. The bathroom were clean and bedding as well which is a 2 thumbs up from me. read more

Beachcomber Inn - Hotels Near Me - San Clemente, California

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We had such a beautiful week at the Beachcomber Inn! We fell in love with San Clemente a few years ago and this was our first time not choosing an AirBnb. The Inn is so charming, the units have everything you would need and the grounds and views cannot be beat! It feels very private and the staff make you feel welcome and comfortable. It's a sleepy little Inn and the clientele were mature but I imagine that's due to the winter season. We loved the quiet and walked everywhere. There are plenty of nice restaurants within a mile radius and the full kitchen makes it great to just cook in and cozy up for the evening. We can't wait to return next year! Exceptional is every way. I'll be dreaming of those sunsets for a long time...all from the comfort of your front porch. read more

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This spot is incredible. On the beach, private boutique villas. Very well maintained, everything is clean and updated. The rooms all face ocean with individual patios. They have a big private grassy area which includes dining tables, loungers, and large fire pit for gathering at night. My 6 year old enjoyed the ocean front access. We spent time swimming in the ocean with quick access back and forth to our villa. The San Clemente pier with dining of sorts is easy walking distance. Restaurant, pizzeria, coffee, gelato, and free trolley are all right there in vicinity. The trolley goes all over San Clemente. Basically did not have to move our car from the beachcomber parking area from time checked in to checkout. There is a Colombian restaurant near a trolley stop, food there was outstanding. Check in and checkout was easy and personable. We will definitely go back next summer. read more

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I am a longtime fan and customer of The Beachcomber Inn and have stayed here for many years prior to the big renovations when the rooms were very rustic, and after the renovations. My love of San Clemente goes back decades. Well, a couple of days ago, 10/5/21, I was on the phone with a woman (was on duty at 12:15 on 10/5/21) in the front office at The Beachcomber. I was calling to see if the tragic oil spill in Huntington Beach that occurred 10/1/21 had reached San Clemente yet. Nearby Dana Point Harbor had closed earlier in the day on 10/5/21. I have reservations for 3 rooms that start this Sunday 10/10/21, which I made a year in advance in October of 2020. I am a loyal customer and have sang The Beachcomber's praises to friends that have become regular customers. I honestly feel protective of this place, and that's why I'm writing this review. Something needs to be done. I called to discuss the potential to cancel the reservation should the beach be closed due to toxicity and health concerns for the public. My confirmation email from Beachcomber dated October 11, 2020 (last year) indicates there is a 72 hour cancellation requirement for stays of 1-3 days. So, I say in passing to the woman, "Well, I hope the beach isn't forced to be closed. I'll make sure to call by 10/7/21 to meet the 72 hour requirement early." Her reply was, "We have a new cancellation police that went into effect Jan 1, 2021 so reservations must be cancelled within 2 weeks prior to your stay." My reply to her was, "I have my copy of a written agreement entered in to by myself and Beachcomber that allows a 72 hour cancellation. I'm sure the courts would say the written agreement is valid and binding should it come to that. The fact that you say you changed your policy wouldn't stand up when this agreement was entered into by both parties. You can't change what was already agreed to, especially with no communication. Do you have proof that you advised me of this?" It got worse from there. She decided to use the often-used, but irrelevant tactic of simply repeating that they changed the policy over and over, "even on our website." And she also used the insulting customer service tactic of asking me a question then talking over what I was saying. I called her on all of this a number of times, but she kept doing it. Then I said, "You're probably going to start apologizing for my feelings any second now." I didn't have to wait too long. Within 30 seconds she said, "I'm sorry you feel that way," which is not an apology but rather, an insult. This made me laugh out loud at her response and I said, "Oh my gosh. I just predicted and said you would apologize for my feelings and you just did that. Another really bad customer service tactic." After all this, it looks like the beach is going to remain open so we'll go on Sunday. I didn't even have to cancel and look what happened. I felt like I needed to complete this review because I see that another customer in June 2021 got treated the same after she made a reservation a year in advance (prior to the 1/1/21 policy change) and needed to cancel because her sister had Covid. This time, they took her money and refuse to refund it. She had to cancel for a legitimate reason and they treated her like that. Another long-term customer being horribly treated. I told the woman on the phone that the phone call was horrendous and I'd never been talked to like that by anyone at a hotel where I was going to stay, AND have already made reservations for NEXT year. Here's the thing: The Beachcomber's 13 cottages pull in anywhere from $215 to $500 per night. Each room generates between $1505 - $3500 for 7 days x 13 cottages = $19,565 - $45,500 PER WEEK. This comes out to $1,020,175 to $2,372,500 per year. AND if it's true that the property has been owned by a family since 1947 you can bet the property is paid off and this is all profit after paying overhead. My point: Whether they care about the customer is absolutely suspect. I can tell you from first-hand knowledge that they don't care as much as they used to. Everyone that tries knows how hard it is to get a reservation. There will be plenty of unsuspecting customers waiting in line to snatch up a room. Perhaps they've chosen money over the customer. Sadly, it looks like their response to the pandemic we've all suffered through is to take out their "we need more money" vengeance in the worst possible way: on loyal customers. Shame on them. I wonder if the owner of the property knows they refused to refund that customer's money. Whoever the owner of the property is, or the property management company's legal counsel is needs to be made aware of this incident and the ongoing treatment being unleashed by the office staff. This is absolutely ridiculous for anyone to be subjected to these kinds of interactions. I'm considering cancelling my reservation for next year. They undoubtedly won't care. read more

Perfect Beach Getaway! My husband and I were thrilled we found the best kept secret in San Clemente- The BeachComber Inn! It is the perfect getaway, a place to relax, unwind, and rejuvenate! This Beautiful Oceanfront Inn has Breathtaking views and is just steps away from the San Clemente Pier and Beach, and tasty Restaurants. We fell in love with the Gorgeous, Clean, Updated, and Tastefully decorated rooms. We stayed in a villa #3 that had a super comfortable king size bed, sofa (w/pull out bed), table and chairs, big screen tv, bath, and a full kitchen (gas stove,full size fridge, sink, hand made tile counters, pots, pans, plates, bowls, cups and silverware). Everything we needed and more! My husband is training for a new job and we are so grateful we stumbled upon the Beachcomber inn. I didn't think we could afford oceanfront, but were surprised to find out how reasonable the prices were! We stayed all week! The weather was perfect! We loved falling asleep to the sound of the waves crashing, sitting on the porch and watching the sunset, relaxing by the firepit in the evening and talking the other guests. We met guests who lived only a few blocks away, but often come down for an overnight getaway! We met guests who have been coming for years, other guess who like us had just found the place and had already booked a return visit for the summer. In the parking lot we saw cars from Washington, Arizona, California, Oregon, and we are from Houston, Texas! All of the other guests we talked to were just in love with the Beachcomber as we were. The Innkeepers and staff are friendly and go out of there way to make you feel right at home. I am so glad we we found this perfect beach getaway- the Beachcomber Inn! We have already shared the best kept secret with our friends and family! This won't be the best kept secret in San Clemente for long! Can't wait to return to the Beachcomber Inn! read more

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