Everything you need to know to plan a visit to San Juan Capistrano, California. Start with these Quicklinks to zero in on a neighborhood or popular attraction. Learn more from our introductory article and links to the local history timeline. Explore recommendations for sights, activities, food, lodging, entertainment, and festivals and events. No time to do all this right now? Bookmark this San Juan Capistrano travel guide or have Amazon deliver one to you door.
San Juan Capistrano Quick Links
Top Attractions
Mission San Juan Capistrano Capistrano Depot
Los Rios Historic District
Discover San Juan Capistrano
San Juan Capistrano is the oldest community in Orange County, having grown up around the Spanish Mission San Juan Capistrano, from which it takes its name. It is home to many historical buildings, including the adobe homes of the Los Rios Historic District. The Serra Chapel at Mission San Juan Capistrano is the oldest still used building in the state. Mission San Juan Capistrano was the site of California’s first vineyard and its first winery. Remains of wine pressing vats can be found in the mission museum complex.
Much of the architecture around town echoes the mission style. The downtown area is filled with shops, restaurants and cafes. Many are historic locations marked by plaques for curious visitors to discover and enjoy.
San Juan Capistrano has an active community and cultural calendar offering events and activities throughout the year.
These are our top recommendations for visitors to San Juan Capistrano. Why the Faber dozen?
Mission San Juan Capistrano Founded in 1776, the old Spanish mission is a place of religious observance, personal reflection, historic preservation and community life. Audio tours, guided tours, gift shop. +1 (949) 234-1300.
Mission San Juan Capistrano Historic Bell Ringing Done several times a year for special events and church holidays. Worth attending if in the area at the right time.
Mission San Juan Capistrano Clubhouse Fun and educational space for kids within the mission complex. Crafts, learning, hands-on activities. Great for families. Open daily 09:00-17:00.
O’Neill Museum Located in the 19th century Garcia/Pryor House. Home of the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society.31831 Los Rios Street, +1 (949) 493-8444.
El Adobe de Capistrano Well known local restaurant worth a visit for its Mexican fare. A favorite of President Richard Nixon, who lived nearby. 31891 Camino Capistrano, +1 (949) 493-1163.
Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano Modern church inspired by the old stone church of Mission San Juan Capistrano, destroyed by earthquake in 1812. The wood carved, gold leaf covered Grand retablo is a significant work of art and well worth a visit. 31520 Camino Capistrano, +1 (949) 234-1360.
San Juan Capistrano Regional Library Distinctive and controversial public library building designed by the architect Michael Graves, completed in 1983. Guaranteed to generate strong opinions. 31495 El Camino Real, +1 (949) 493-1752.
Los Rios Historic District The oldest neighborhood in California. Restored adobe homes. Shops, restaurants, cafes. Step into history!
Montanez Adobe and Walking Tours Nice history museum showing how life was for local residents a couple of centuries ago.31745 Los Rios Street,+1 (949) 240-3119.
Camino Real Playhouse Enjoy a performance at this community theatre offering spirited productions for over 25 years. Year round entertainment. 31776 El Camino Real, +1 (949) 489-8082.
1000 Step Beach Public beach popular for surfing, sunbathing and volleyball. The long staircase down tothe beach makes for a fun family outing. 31972 Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, +1 (949) 497-3311.
Doheny State Beach State Park protected beach located in Dana Point. One of the surfing spots listed in the Beach Boys’ 1963 hit song Surfin’ USA. Surfing, camping, picnics. Del Obispo/Dana Harbor Drive, Dana Point, +1 (949) 496-6171.
San Juan Hills Golf Course One of the best golf courses in Orange County. Nestled among the hills in San Juan Capistrano. 32120 San Juan Creek Road, +1 (949) 565-4855.
San Clemente Pier Scenic neighborhood pier. Fishermen, people watching, wildlife. Restaurant on the pier. Just minutes south of San Juan Capistrano on Del Mar Street in San Clemente.
ZOOMARS Petting Zoo A must for families with small children, who delight in the company of animals. Be sure to pick up a basket of food for the guinea pigs. 31791 Los Rios Street, +1 (949) 831-6550.
Hungry? We can help you with food and drink recommendations for San Juan Capistrano, California. Choose from traditional Korean food, international and other ethnic cuisines, or our atmosphere recommendations to find that perfect place for your next meal. If all you want is a place for drinks, check out our recommended watering holes.
Local Landmarks
Watering Holes
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Practical Matters
By Car
San Juan Capistrano is located in Orange County, California, directly on Interstate 5. It takes about one hour to drive there south from downtown Los Angeles. From San Diego, the car trip is about one hour and fifteen minutes, also on Interstate 5.
From points inland, the most direct route takes about 1 hour or a little bit longer via Route 74 from the Lake Elsinore exit on Interstate 15.
By Bus
San Juan Capistrano is served by the Orange County Transit Authority (OCTA).
By Train
San Juan Capistrano is served by Metrolink from its local station at 26701 Verdugo Street, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675.
By Plane
The nearest commercial air service is available at John Wayne Airport (SNA), the only commercial airport in Orange County, located 30 minutes north of San Juan Capistrano by car. Flights are readily available either direct or with connections to major cities across the USA and around the world. Southwest Airlines, American Airlines and United Airlines are the leading airlines operating at John Wayne Airport.
San Juan Capistrano is a compact community with ample public parking around the Mission complex. The best way to get around the center is to park your car and walk to all of the local attractions. There are lots of opportunities to window shop or snacxk along the way!
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San Juan Capistrano Travel Resources
City of San Juan Capistrano
Self Guided Walking Tour, including the following historic buildings and sites:
Mission San Juan Capistrano: Ortega Highway at Camino Capistrano, Spanish Era
Capistrano Depot: end of Verdugo Street, Statehood Era
Los Rios Historic District: Los Rios Street at Depot crossing, Spanish Era
Rios Adobe: 31781 Los Rios Street (private residence — view from street only), Spanish Era
Garcia/Pryor House-O’Neill Museum: 31831 Los Rios Street (hours posted at front door), Statehood Era
Silvas Adobe: 31861 Los Rios Street (private residence — view from street only), Spanish Era
Avila Adobe: 31831 Camino Capistrano, Mexican/Rancho Era
Garcia Adobe: 31861 Camino Capistrano, Mexican/Rancho Era
Yorba Adobes: 31871 & 31891 Camino Capistrano (now El adobe Restaurant), Mexican/Rancho Era
Egan House: 31892 Camino Capistrano, Statehood Era
Esslinger Building: 31866 Camino Capistrano, 20th Century
Historic Town Center Archaeological Park Site: El Camino Real at Yorba Street, Spanish Era
Blas Aguilar Adobe: 31806 El Camino Real, Spanish Era
Ferris Kelly Buildings: 31754 Camino Capistrano, 20th Century
Stroschein House: El Camino Real at Spring Street, 20th Century
New Parish Church: Camino Capistrano at Acjachema Street, 20th Century
San Juan Capistrano Regional Library: 31495 El Camino Real
Eyraud/Chabre/Lohrbach House: 31382 El Camino Real, (private residence — view from street only), 20th Century
Stone Field: Camino Capistrano at La Zanja Street, Spanish Era and 20th Century WPA
Old Capistrano Union High School: 31422 Camino Capistrano, 20th Century
Ice House: 31531 Camino Capistrano, 20th Century
Yorba/Decorative Arts Villa: 31431 Camino Capistrano, 20th Century
San Juan Capistrano Travel Guidebooks:
San Juan Capistrano History:
San Juan Capistrano City Hall
32400 Paseo Adelanto
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
phone: +1 (949) 493-1171
fax: +1 (949) 493-1053
City Hall is located in the west side of the City, down the street from the San Juan Post Office.
From I-5 North (coming from San Diego):
Take the Ortega Hwy exit
Turn LEFT on Ortega Highway
Turn LEFT onto Del Obispo Street
Turn LEFT onto Paseo Adelanto
From I-5 South (coming from Los Angeles):
Take the Ortega Hwy exit
Turn RIGHT on Ortega Highway
Turn LEFT onto Del Obispo Street
Turn LEFT onto Paseo Adelanto
Self Guided Historical Walking Tour brochure with map and sight descriptions available at city hall and other locations around town.
