PierPride Foundation

PierPride is a non-profit organization dedicated to working in partnership with the city and community stakeholders to fill the gaps between city funds and the Pier’s needs in order to restore the Pier to the best version of its historic self. PierPride is dedicated to help preserve San Clemente pier, the heart of the city since 1928.

The City of San Clemente has a long history of maintaining and protecting the pier—which is a big job for a small city. Prior to 2012, the pier was a beneficiary of California Redevelopment funds; however, this funding evaporated when the state dissolved Redevelopment Agencies. Now unaided by the state, the City of San Clemente spends an average of $425,000 a year to structurally maintain the San Clemente Pier. Despite the city’s strong commitment to the pier, there is a large gap between the city’s budget and what it takes to provide the care that citizens of San Clemente would like this iconic destination to receive.
Working in partnership with the City and key community stakeholders, PierPride strives to fill the gaps between City funds and the Pier’s needs in order to restore the Pier to the best version of its historic self. PierPride will identify and fund projects that impact the quality of the experience that San Clemente residents have when visiting the Pier. Our long term goal is to raise sufficient funds for an endowment to ensure preservation of the Pier long into the future.

Over 2 million people visit San Clemente Municipal Pier each year. Since inception, PierPride Foundation has successfully partnered with the City to complete a capital project each year. These projects range from new restrooms to public art to bird-deterrent netting under the Pier to protect the oceans. You can see our list of projects at pierpride.org. Research shows that 85% of people believe the Pier is in better condition now than it was five years ago, thanks in large part to PierPride.

Ocean stewardship is a daunting task. San Clemente, with a population of just 65,000 is tasked with care of five miles of coastline and the San Clemente Pier. Climate change most recently has strained the City via beach erosion and subidence. Our organization takes some of the burden off the City as it relates to iconic San Clemente Pier. Our efforts help ensure that the Pier is well preserved. in 2024, PierPride was chosen by the Orange Country chapter American Planning Association to receive an award for our hard work protecting the Pier, testament to the need we address.

Orange County CA is the primary geography. Research shows that during summer months, close to 50% of visitors come from other areas, mainly by train or automobile. San Clemente Pier is a favorite destination for Camp Pendleton Marines.

PierPride has its eyes on the 100th birthday in 2028. Our Board President also serves as Director. Please see her statement below

Imagine the look of wonder on a child's face the first time they walk on a Pier on the Pacific Ocean. PierPride hears countless stories from adults of their early encounters with the Pier: walking the plank pretending to be pirates, counting starfish on the pilings, chasing sea gulls along the railing, spotting a dolphin, catching a fish. Yes, San Clemente Pier is quite the emotional destination. Since inception, we have proudly delivered a new project to the Pier, thanks to committed donors, sponsors and grantors. Our eyes are on the Pier's 100th birthday in 2028. We are asking those who love the Pier to step up and help us achieve a project that renovates the Pier entrance, recreating the sense of invitation envisioned 100 years ago. Because we are volunteers, 100% of funds donated directly and positively impact San Clemente Pier.