San Onofre Coastal Resilience
About this Event
SOPF 2026 Summer Speaker Series
Wednesday, September 9
Historic Cottage at San Clemente State Beach
Riley Pratt, PhD and Cryssie Moreno of California State Parks
Hosted Reception & Gallery Exhibit Viewing 5:30 - 7:00 pm
Presentation begins at 7:00 pm
Title: San Onofre Coastal Resilience
Learning from the Past and Preparing for the Future
California's coast is inherently dynamic, but accelerating sea-level rise and decades of shoreline modification are creating new challenges for coastal park management. This presentation begins with Cryssie providing an overview of local coastal processes, including sediment supply, transport, and the factors that shape beach and bluff systems over time. Historical changes along our coastline will be examined alongside the effects of watershed development, sediment impoundment behind infrastructure, and projected sea-level rise to provide context for understanding future coastal change.
Building on this foundation, Riley will discuss how coastal processes, projected climate impacts, and evolving state coastal policy and guidance are informing management decisions within the Orange Coast District. Using examples from Calafia State Beach, Trestles, and Surf Beach at San Onofre State Beach, the presentation will explore the practical challenges of balancing public access, recreation, infrastructure protection, and natural resource stewardship in an increasingly dynamic coastal environment. Case studies will highlight both immediate management actions and long-term adaptation planning strategies currently being implemented by State Parks to improve resilience while maintaining the public benefits these iconic beaches provide.
Reception music by local favorites, Hans and Janine.
Reception Sponsors: Artifex Brewing Company and Terlato Wines
San Clemente Times – Official Media Partner
Tickets: $20 in advance, $25 at the door
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 23.18









