My Unexpected Encounter with "Little Kamakura" in Southern California

🏖 Late Summer Breezes Lead to the Coast · Late summer evening winds, a railroad crossing, and just beyond—the ocean at your fingertips! 🌊 · San Clemente is Southern California’s hidden gem often called "Little Kamakura." The trains rushing by truly give off that nostalgic, anime-like vibe. 🚞✨ 📍 Calafia Beach Cafe 250 Avenida Calafia, San Clemente, CA 92672 This stretch of long railroad tracks leads straight to the beach—perfect for a scenic stroll or capturing that dreamy shot right at the railroad crossing. 🚦 The distant foggy horizon adds a magical touch, especially at golden hour. Sunset visits? Highly recommended. 📸 Things to Explore Nearby: 🦐 Local Eats & Treats From creamy ice cream to fresh oysters and seafood, the nearby shops are a foodie’s delight! 🍦🍤 🏖️ San Clemente State Beach Peaceful, misty, and far quieter than LA’s bustling shores. The cliffside paths offer endless photo ops—every turn is a postcard. 🌅 ⛵️ San Clemente Pier A charming wooden pier with a timeless, romantic feel. Walk to the end and let the ocean breeze sweep you away. 💙 🕶️ My Favorite Hidden Spot: Avenida Del Mar Lined with vintage boutiques and cozy cafés, it’s the perfect place to hunt for unique treasures or take a coffee break. ☕️ 🌸 Casa Romantica Gardens A serene oasis with ocean views, blooming flowers, and a direct sightline to the pier. Pure bliss for a slow afternoon. 🌿 🚗 How to Get There: From San Diego: ~50 min drive From LA: ~1.5 hours From Irvine: Just 30 min! By Train: Hop on the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner (yes, the one in the pics!) and get off at San Clemente Station. 🚆 Have you ever stumbled upon a place that instantly transported you somewhere else? ✨ Maybe a hidden beach, a nostalgic train track, or a quiet pier? Share your favorite escapes below—we’d love to hear! 💬👇 #MyPhotographyDiary #ScenicMoments #CaptureTheNow #SanDiego #Irvine #LosAngeles #SoCal #LittleKamakura #SeasideVibes #CaliforniaCoast #HiddenGems #TravelDiaries #SummerByTheOcean