Recommend! This was my first time staying at a hostel and it was a great experience. Everyone was so friendly and eager to ensure their guests have a good stay. Such a relaxed but fun location. We will be back:)

I decided to leave town for Labor Day weekend so I chose House of Trestles because it was far enough but not too far. I also wanted to relive the pre-real world “good old days” when surfing was a lifestyle not a “hobby.” My experience at House of Trestles was SPOT ON. The front exterior of the building along El Camino Real is as professional as it gets. You definitely get the sense that this is a business from the ground up instead of an extra space that’s being rented out. You enter the glass doors and then you’re in front of a mural and a hang out spot with pillows and cushions on the floor. That shifts the vibe into a more laid back one. Check-in process was relaxed and thorough. They have printed material with all the necessary info so you don’t need to remember everything right away. The rooms were nice and cozy to say the least. I’m a bit reserved about hostels that have open bunk beds because I don’t want to see what people do when they’re in a semi-private place when they do nasty stuff in public. You get your own space at House of Trestles and it was definitely more than what I needed. The common areas were a very nice touch because it made the experience more like being in a space shared with roommates instead of being a guest in someone’s house. The restrooms were clean and very well laid-out. The shower stalls were big enough that you’re not hitting the walls while getting out of the college era wetsuit that you’re still wearing despite the dad bod. The kitchen was a godsend. I thought the term “chef’s kitchen” was just a marketing term but it was for real. I could have cooked whatever I wanted to cook there. Josh and Addison were always available but never had that “owner of the house” vibe. The location was perfect since it was a short walk to the beach and a moderate walk to a world class break. The other guests were chill and respectful and the overall experience was seriously like being part of a surf club and renting a purpose-built surfer lodging facility. I definitely enjoyed reliving the good old says when it’s surfing in the morning, post-surf breakfast (except I didn’t bring spam and eggs), post-surf nap, then hang out with your surf buddies the rest of the day. Nothing but good things to say about this place. When is the next holiday?

I have never stayed in a hostel before and what a great first experience! All staff was amazing and the atmosphere at HoT was super fun and fit the San Clemente vibe perfectly. Definitely recommend it!

Immerse yourself in Surfing and Surf Culture at House Of Trestles. Surf one of many premier surf breaks nearby in the country ! Excellent staff and modern hostel accommodations set this place apart ! Premium coffee / Chef worthy professional kitchen / memory foam beds / with touch lights and several USB ports and a fan ! Most rooms with AC too ! Weather your surfing on the daily or running the coastal trail you’ll have an experience of a lifetime in beautiful San Clemente !

As a solo traveler on a road trip, the House of Trestles was everything I could have asked for. It embraces art, it’s laid back, clean & has welcoming staff. Good vibes all around. I really enjoyed yoga in the morning (first drop in is free) and the surfing lessons they offer, which are affordable & helpful since I am a beginner at surfing. I recommend bringing your own lock to lock your belongings in your assigned locker space in your room. But if you don’t have one don’t worry you can buy one there. If you decide to have surfing lessons you can rent your equipment when you schedule your lesson. The House of Trestles has a community bathroom and a large private bathroom that is accommodated for the handicap (anyone can use it). This place is affordable artistic and unique. I highly recommend staying here.