WOW! "Come for the view, stay for the experience" is one of the mottos for this GORGEOUS retreat…read more 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"