Photographs of San Clemente, California - Photography from Southern Orange County 2011

I love San Clemente, California. My boyfriend and I moved here last April. We have been traveling together for well over a year and a half and San Clemente is the longest we have lived anywhere. This charming beach village is located at the most southern end of Orange County. The weather is damn close to perfect. The skies are sunny, the temperatures are mild and often there is a lovely layer of light fog that rolls in from the Pacific covering the town. It is dreamy here, but perhaps a little boring.

There isn't too much to do in town but I've already discovered a handful of worthy local spots in San Clemente. Despite these gems, we often find ourselves having to make the hour and fifteen minute drive (without traffic) to Los Angeles anytime we want to see a concert or visit friends. I usually spend most of my time in San Clemente either photography the beautiful scenery or cooking everything from scratch in my tiny kitchen. Here is a very limited photo tour of what I have discovered so far while living in San Clemente, California.

A few shots of sunsets and alleyways in San Clemente.

Wandering through the neighborhoods in the hills of San Clemente offers enchanting views of the Pacific Ocean beneath. I love exploring the different areas of town and taking the time to photograph the unique details it has to offer. Sunlight peaking through the foggy, marine layer creates a dazed and dreamy atmosphere that I love walking through.

We found these words of warning one Sunday while driving in the southern part of town. The southern most area of San Clemente borders a marine base. These signs were placed alongside of the roads somewhere around that area. I love the message and hope others understand the very simple warning.

We usually end up coming here during the early morning; just as the sun is rising. The place is deserted and all to us. I've heard that starfish can be found under the pier; I haven't actually seen any yet. It is probably best to check during low tide. I never managed to make it there then. I'm usually off chasing bigger and better things; like the tidepools in Little Corona Del Mar.

I have seen the most fascinating plants growing in the San Clemente area. There are tons of unusual succulents that cover yards and parks. The mild weather allows for a very long growing season and lots of different species do great here. Since I have been here, the lovely weather has allowed me to spend a great deal time growing container gardens from my own sunny windows and balconies.

Every evening I get to experience a new combination of jewel toned colors dancing through the clouds over the Pacific. There is always a different display of reds, pinks, oranges and purples. I can see this perfectly through the window just behind my desk. It is a magical place and time to be and to write.

San Clemente has sweater and shorts weather forever. I adore this tiny town but will not be here for much longer. You can find more photographs and information about or art and travels at Find Better Ways.

Here are a few hubs that highlight some other places we have lived:

1. Photographs of Seattle
2. Best of Orlando - Just nominated for a HubNugget award - VOTE HERE!
3. Cheap-o San Francisco

QUESTION! If you could pick up and move anywhere, where would you go and why?