BEST OF San Juan Capistrano

Over 500,000 visitors a year experience the beauty of this world famous Mission. Father Junipero Serra founded Mission San Juan Capistrano in 1776, which is known as the Jewel of the Missions. It is renowned for its beautiful courtyard gardens and legendary "Return of the Swallows" on March 19 of each year. The Swallows Day Parade is held in March. The Fiesta de las Golondrinas celebrates the legend of  the return of the swallows to the San Juan Capistrano Mission on St. Joseph's, March 19th. This event is the reason behind all the festivities. 

The Parade takes place in down-town San Juan Capistrano. This is the nation's largest non-motorized parade. It is totally organized and presented by the San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association. Traditionally, it is a fun, family event that celebrates the return of the swallows. The historic downtown area features the Mission, the historic Capistrano Depot railroad station and the beautiful Los Rios Historic District.

Everything is within walking distance of the Mission. Shopping, dining and entertainment opportunities abound throughout the downtown area. Try a self-guided walking tour brochure and learn about the many historic buildings that are explained in the brochure. Complete information is available by clicking onto the San Juan Capistrano Chamber logo at the bottom of this page. Their friendly staff will assist you with answers to your questions about this beautiful and historic city.

The City is predominantly residential, with a mix of commercial, industrial, agricultural and tourist oriented uses. San Juan Capistrano is blessed with pleasant summers and moderate winters with offshore prevailing breezes.

Whether you are coming to shop, dine, play or just relax, San Juan Capistrano offers the BEST of everything, including ideal weather conditions. The home of the historic San Juan Capistrano Mission features hundreds of shops and places to eat, drink and relax. The BEST of these establishments are listed on this Web Site with detailed information on their products, services and menus as well as interactive mapping that will direct you to their front door.

For the BEST shopping, services, restaurants, entertainment, lodging accommodations, real estate information and community events, click on to the categories below and start planning your trip to San Juan Capistrano.