Mission San Juan Capistrano Tours and Activities

Mission San Juan Capistrano featuring heritage architecture and a ruin
Mission San Juan Capistrano featuring landscape views, wild flowers and a garden
Mission San Juan Capistrano showing heritage architecture and landscape views
Mission San Juan Capistrano
Mission San Juan Capistrano featuring flowers and a garden


This former religious and agricultural community is today one of Orange County’s most thriving cultural attractions.

As one of 21 missions established across California, this historic landmark is considered by many as the birthplace of modern day Orange County. Constructed over 200 years ago, the Mission’s purpose was to create a self-sufficient community that focused on agriculture, education and religion.

Mission San Juan Capistrano was founded in 1776 with the dual aims of expanding the borders of Spain into the Americas and spreading Christianity to local Native Americans. Nowadays, the mission is a living testament to the multicultural history of California, educating thousands visitors each year.

At the turn of the 19th century, the mission began to expand. The Great Stone Church at the centre of the Mission was the heart of the thousand-strong community at this time, and remains an architectural wonder, adored by visitors and locals alike.

The stunning gardens, fountains and impeccably preserved architecture will astound visitors as they stroll though this beautiful scenery. Perfect for families and visitors of all ages, the museum exhibits and various activities will suit the young and the young at heart. From Koi Fish Feeding to panning for gold and Native American Basket Weaving, visitors are bound to find a slice of authentic entertainment at the Mission.

In March, time your visit for the stunning Return of the Swallows on St Joseph’s Day (19th March). Thousands of swallows flock to the mission and begin their annual nesting among the ruins of the church. During this time, visitors can enjoy a number of festivities hosted by the mission, including live performances of mariachi music.

Open daily (excluding some public holidays), visitors should leave a full day to properly visit the grounds and take part in the numerous activities on offer. If you’re on a tight schedule, a one-hour guided tour is available at weekends. Or pick up a free audio tour and explore at your own pace.

The Mission San Juan Capistrano is approximate 25 minutes’ drive from downtown Santa Ana or the South Coast Plaza. There is plenty of free public parking available and public transport networks run in the area.

Tours & day trips

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Private & custom tours

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Water activities

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Adventure & outdoor

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History & culture

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Popular places to visit


Top Mission San Juan Capistrano Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, Autograph Collection by Marriott
Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, Autograph Collection by Marriott
4 out of 5
31692 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, CA
Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, Autograph Collection by Marriott
Best Western Capistrano Inn
Best Western Capistrano Inn
2.5 out of 5
27174 Ortega Hwy, San Juan Capistrano, CA
Best Western Capistrano Inn
Casa Romanitca 2 guests Pet Friendly only 3 mil from the Beach
Casa Romanitca 2 guests Pet Friendly only 3 mil from the Beach
San Juan Capistrano
Casa Romanitca 2 guests Pet Friendly only 3 mil from the Beach
Family-friendly 2bd Condo in Historic San Juan + Patio!
Family-friendly 2bd Condo in Historic San Juan + Patio!
San Juan Capistrano
Family-friendly 2bd Condo in Historic San Juan + Patio!
Ocean View 4 Bedroom Home with Private, Heated Pool & Jacuzzi with Firepit & BBQ
Ocean View 4 Bedroom Home with Private, Heated Pool & Jacuzzi with Firepit & BBQ
san juan capistrano
Ocean View 4 Bedroom Home with Private, Heated Pool & Jacuzzi with Firepit & BBQ
Beachfront Inn and Suites at Dana Point
Beachfront Inn and Suites at Dana Point
2.5 out of 5
34734 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point, CA
Beachfront Inn and Suites at Dana Point
Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club
Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club
5 out of 5
1 Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point, CA
Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club
Best Western Plus Marina Shores Hotel
Best Western Plus Marina Shores Hotel
2.5 out of 5
34280 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point, CA
Best Western Plus Marina Shores Hotel
Charming 1-bedroom house in fabulous San Juan Capistrano with fitness room, WiFi
Charming 1-bedroom house in fabulous San Juan Capistrano with fitness room, WiFi
San Juan Capistrano
Charming 1-bedroom house in fabulous San Juan Capistrano with fitness room, WiFi
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.