Taylor Van Dijk | Editor-in-Chief
November 20, 2024
With a full view of the ocean horizon as the sun sets and the twinkle of thousands of lights as nightfall approaches, San Clemente’s lookout destination off Salvador Street makes the anyone feel like they are on the “top of the world.” Coined just that by locals, Top of the World was voted the most iconic lookout in San Clemente, known for its wide-ranging view stretching from Camp Pendleton to Dana Point.
Part of what makes this location so special is its relatively hidden location. Most people outside of San Clemente do not know it exists, much less how to get there. You can reach the Top of the World by driving up the hill on Avenida Presidio, the street directly adjacent to San Clemente High School’s side parking lot. Once you have reached the top of the hill, make a right on Avenida Salvador to reach the famous lookout.
The best time to visit this iconic location is directly at sunset. Then, there is a 180-degree stretching view of the ocean and the skyline as the sun sets. Not only this, but you can see many iconic San Clemente landmarks from this viewpoint such as the Outlets, the Denny’s sign, Catalina, and the pier.
Senior Emily Ohman enjoys “visiting Top of the World since [she] learned about it from her friends. ” She recounted, “It is a really special place because you can see all of San Clemente, and the sunset is always super vibrant over the ocean.” Ohman loves taking pictures, spending time with friends, and watching the sunset at Top of the World, and she will definitely be back in the near future.
Another senior, Payton Blake, was unaware of the location of the Top of the World. “I wasn’t raised in San Clemente, so I didn’t know that it existed until recently,” Blake said. “After visiting there for the first time, I thought it was so amazing, and I am sad I hadn’t been there before!” This location is mostly reserved for locals, which adds to the magic of the spot!
If you are looking for a place to watch the upcoming winter sunsets, make sure to head to the Top of the World.
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