Just south of San Clemente, off Basilone road, you continue driving south past the powerplant toward San Onofre State Beach, where there is a campground, along with miles of bluffs, and trails.
I would be hiking down the West Ridge, then making a right on Mathis Canyon. I would then make a left down Coyote Run and explore Wood Canyon, before heading up a trail called Rock it. This would be a 6 mile hike and great for conditioning.
Have you wondered about where the best beach hikes are in Orange County? Look no further than Crystal Cove, where you can enjoy beautiful scenic coastal canyons, great beach trails along the bluffs, some peace and tranquility.