City Pulls Out All the Seasonal Stops

San Clemente may be a beach town, but it’s also a winter wonderland at this time of year.

The city’s Chamber of Commerce sponsors a Winter Wonderland contest for residents to show off their holiday spirit and for visitors to tour the festive offerings.

Houses that participated in the event include those found on Via Viejo, Via Hombre, Sombreado, Avenida Salvador, Calle Roca Vista, Avenida Ramona and Las Flores.

Businesses entered in the contest include those on South Ola Vista, Avenida del Mar, East Avenida del Mar and Las Flores.

For parents and children interested in an outdoor winter adventure, there are self-guided nature trails at the San Onofre and San Clemente state parks at the south end of town.

The treks, complete with identification markers that describe the wildlife along the trail and explore the animals and plants found native to the California coast.

An added bonus to the nature walks is the beautiful ocean views and scenic spots that are found all along the trails.

The tours are free, with a one-day parking fee of $6.

The state parks are open throughout the holiday season.

The San Clemente Library will also be open Monday through Saturday, except on New Year’s Day.

Library hours are from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday; from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday; and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

The library will close at 5 p.m. on New Year’s Eve. The library is at 242 Avenida del Mar. Information: (714) 492-3493.