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Visiting the Newport Beach California Temple grounds
The Newport Beach California Temple is the temple nearest San Clemente. Its grounds are a quiet place to walk and reflect, and visitors are generally welcome to enjoy them. The temple building itself is used for sacred ceremonies and is entered only by members who hold a current temple recommend.
Visiting the grounds
Latter-day Saints build temples as houses of the Lord, and they keep the grounds peaceful. Many people come to see the landscaping, take a few photographs and sit quietly. It is a good place to slow down. Keep voices low, keep children close and treat the grounds with respect.
Hours and any restrictions can change. Before you go, check the Newport Beach California Temple page on the Church's website for current details. Our own temple page has more about the temple and how local members prepare to attend.
Why the building is reserved
A temple is different from a regular meetinghouse. In a meetinghouse, anyone can attend Sunday services. In a temple, members make sacred promises and take part in ordinances such as marriage, which Latter-day Saints believe can last beyond this life. Because of that purpose, entry is limited to members who are living the standards of the Church and have received a temple recommend.
When a new temple is finished, the Church holds a public open house before it is dedicated, and anyone may tour the inside for a limited time. After the dedication, the building is closed to the public.
Members who want to attend
Members can schedule a temple appointment with their Church account. If you are not a member and want to understand what happens inside, you are welcome to ask on our contact page and a member of the ward will gladly explain, in general terms, what temples are for.
From San Clemente, the temple is a drive north along the coast. Plan to arrive during daylight hours and check for any events first.
Questions
Which temple is nearest to San Clemente?
The Newport Beach California Temple.
Can I walk the grounds?
Visitors are generally welcome on the grounds. Check the temple page for current details.
Can I go inside?
Only members with a current temple recommend, except during a public open house.
Is there a cost?
No.