San Clemente - “Spanish Village by the Sea”. Founded in the 1920s as the “Spanish Village by the Sea,” it still radiates that old-world elegance with its red-tile rooftops, white-washed walls, and sweeping ocean views. Once envisioned as a Mediterranean-style retreat, it has evolved into a vibrant community defined by its surf culture, laid-back spirit, and small-town warmth. From sunrise sessions at Trestles to sunset strolls along the pier and Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente invites you to slow down, soak in the sea air, and savor life by the coast.