Part of the San Clemente City Beach system, T-Street is a palm-lined family and surf beach reached by a pedestrian overpass across the rail tracks. The city maintains facilities and provides lifeguards when busy. It sits just south of the pier and is a favored photo spot. Surfing is allowed with zoning rules separating surfers and swimmers.
Practical facts. Metered parking $1.50/hour, 9 a.m.–10 p.m., along the Esplanade/T-Street bluff; additional street parking on Paseo de Cristobal. Restrooms/showers, palapas, picnic tables, fire pits. Beach Trail access. Dogs not permitted on the beach. Beaches open 4 a.m.–10 p.m.
Seasonality and crowds. Family-heavy in summer; morning offshore best for surf.
Know before you go. No dedicated lot — plan for meters/street; lifeguards are seasonal/as-needed; the overpass is the safe rail crossing.