Incorporated in 1928, the City of San Clemente was the vision of Ole Hanson, a former Seattle mayor. Ole Hanson was drawn to the area because of its excellent climate and magnificent beaches.

He believed that others would be attracted to the area for the same reasons. He named the town after San Clemente Island, and his vision for San Clemente was a Spanish village by the sea. All of the buildings and homes built during this time had to be reviewed to ensure the architecture of the structure fit the Spanish village vision. Ole Hanson was dedicated to promoting San Clement property, and he was quite successful. Many individuals purchased San Clemente real estate and enjoyed public amenities such as the Beach Club, the pier, and San Clemente Plaza.

This area of California real estate has interesting political ties. San Clemente was once home to President Richard Nixon's “Western White House.” While Nixon termed his Spanish mansion “La Casa Pacifica,” others referred to his San Clemente property as the Western White House. Other world leaders visited San Clemente while Nixon was president. Prior to Nixon, another president was also a frequent guest of Ole Hanson's in San Clemente. President Franklin D. Roosevelt would often visit the home of Ole Hanson, which overlooked the Pacific Ocean. 

With average temperatures in the 70's, spectacular ocean views, and beautiful architecture, it is little wonder why notable figures make San Clemente their home. Some of San Clemente's well-known residents include Jorge Garcia, Colin McPhillips, and Karch Kiraly. Along with Richard and Pat Nixon, Lon Chaney, Jr. and Carl Karcher once made San Clemente their home as well. In addition to political figures and celebrities, San Clemente is known as a premier surfing destination. Not only are there a great number of surfboard manufacturers in the city, but San Clemente is also home to Surfing Magazine, Longboard Magazine, and the Surfer's Journal.

The average listing price of San Clemente homes for sale is just under $945,000. The prices of San Clemente real estate have been on an upswing recently, and the median prices of San Clemente homes for sale has increased to $610,000. This area of California real estate is in high demand, and those interested in purchasing San Clemente real estate would be making a wise investment. San Clemente is an excellent choice for a number of reasons, and it is an idyllic coastal California setting to call home.