turns out the Surfbreak's got a sister spot tucked away at 2001 South El Camino Real, right on the quieter stretch of the old mission road, just a quick hop from the pier and T-Street but with that vintage SoCal motel soul. I crashed here for three nights in October during a south swell chase, and while it's no glossy Avenida Del Mar reboot, it's got heart, history, and enough beach access to keep the stoke alive. (Pro tip: This one's the OG Trade Winds rebrand â same bones from '55, fresh surf twists.)
Location
Smack in the middle of San Clemente's easygoing south end, 0.5 miles from the pier's taco trucks and bonfire vibes, and a 10-minute bike to Trestles if you're packing your own rig. I-5's Exit 74 dumps you right there â no traffic wars like up in Dana Point. Walkable to Lost Winds for a post-surf stout or Guicho's for Italian subs, but it's got that "hidden gem" feel away from the Del Mar crowds. Ocean glimpses? Subtle, but the breeze hits hard.
Rooms
Snagged a Queen Standard on the ground floor â clean but classic motel layout: tile floors (easy rinse after sandy feet), mini-fridge , and a flatscreen with HBO (waves on mute while you crash). Bed's firm with crisp white linens, AC blasts cold, and the bathroom's got hot water on demand plus a walk-in shower big enough for two (or one with a board bag). Wi-Fi's solid at 50 Mbps
