San Juan Capistrano

San Juan Capistrano is steeped in history and culture.

Welcome to San Juan Capistrano


Well-preserved history and culture in a quiet, seaside community


As the birthplace of Orange County, San Juan Capistrano is steeped in history and culture. It was founded in 1776, the same year the United States declared independence from Great Britain. Nestled inland just south of Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano is a quiet seaside town known for old-world Spanish-inspired architecture, numerous historical landmarks, and an active equestrian community.

The historic downtown San Juan Capistrano district is lined with restaurants and shops, some in historic structures renovated into commercial spaces. Other historic sites have been well-preserved, including Mission San Juan Capistrano, completed in 1806. Many of the surrounding housing is inspired by the traditional Spanish and Mission architecture that has become a signature style here. You'll find everything from modern townhouses and charming hilltop homes to grand seaside villas and ranch estates with horse stables and equestrian trails.

What to Love

 
  • Historic district with well-preserved sites
  • Classic home architecture and large, ranch-style estates
  • Quiet beachside community with charming neighborhoods 
  • An active equestrian community
  • Walkable downtown with plenty of shops and eateries

 

Local Lifestyle


San Juan Capistrano is a quiet, tight-knit community. It's an idyllic seaside town with a historic, old-world appeal. The historical district attracts tourists throughout the year. And even though it's not far from major cities, it retains a small-town atmosphere. Ranch-style homes and an equestrian community make it feel like a world away.  

 

San Juan Capistrano Real Estate Insights


San Juan Capistrano real estate is a scenic beauty. For more information about  San Juan Capistrano real estate and current homes for sale, Realtors from Coastal OC Real Estate Group are favored experts in South Orange County, CA.

 

Dining, Entertainment & Shopping


The culinary scene in San Juan Capistrano is surprisingly diverse and offers an array of high-end dining options. Located downtown,
Mayfield is a restaurant and marketplace. The food is California cuisine inspired by the flavors of the Levant region of the Mediterranean, Middle East, and North Africa.

Right across Mission San Juan Capistrano, Cedar Creek Inn serves American favorites like prime rib, meatloaf, and pot roast. The Crafstman-style setting is warm and woodsy and offers views of the surrounding historical sites.

A local favorite, Heritage Barbecue serves authentic Texas-style barbeque and hearty southern sides. They're famed for delicious brisket, pulled pork, and jalapeno cheddar cornbread. Right down the street, Ciao Pasta Trattoria serves classic Southern Italian dishes in a sleek setting with an outdoor patio.

Set in a historic space dated back to 1797 and designated a California State Historical Landmark, El Adobe de Capistrano serves authentic Mexican cuisine. The elegant setting includes a wine cellar and spacious patio, perfect for private events and weddings.

Another historic landmark, Trevor's at the Tracks, is set in an 1894 railway depot. They pride themselves on working with local vendors and producers to serve elevated global fare, including chimichurri steak fries, Greek leek dip, and ahi poke nachos.

Things to Do 


Known as the "Jewel of the Missions,"
Mission San Juan Capistrano draws over 300,000 tourists a year. Built in 1806, it features a ten-acre garden, museum rooms, and the ruins of the wine vat. It hosts several events, including the Battle of the Mariachis and Capistrano Lights. 

The annual Swallows Day Parade and Mercado Street Fair occur throughout downtown San Juan Capistrano. It's a world-renowned tradition to commemorate the legend of a flock of swallows who took refuge at the Mission when their nests were destroyed. 

Opposite Mission San Juan Capistrano, the Inn at the Mission features an onsite spa, bar, and restaurant. It's within walking distance of all the amenities downtown and offers views of the Santa Ana Mountains. 

The oldest neighborhood in California, Los Rios, features three original adobe homes that housed mission ranch workers at the turn of the 19th century. Many of the remaining 40 homes that were built afterward housed early European immigrants.

For a fun day out, Zoomars at River Street Ranch has a petting zoo, train rides, and other amusements great for families. Another popular event is the horse jumping competitions, which are held numerous times a year at different venues.

Schools


San Juan Capistrano is home to the highly-rated
Capistrano Unified School District and excellent private schools, including:
 

Overview for San Juan Capistrano, CA

35,319 people live in San Juan Capistrano, where the median age is 44.8 and the average individual income is $54,759. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

35,319

Total Population

44.8 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$54,759

Average individual Income

Demographics and Employment Data for San Juan Capistrano, CA

San Juan Capistrano has 12,460 households, with an average household size of 2.82. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in San Juan Capistrano do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 35,319 people call San Juan Capistrano home. The population density is 2,447.54 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

35,319

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

44.8

Median Age

46.85 / 53.15%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
12,460

Total Households

2.82

Average Household Size

$54,759

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in San Juan Capistrano, CA

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Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby San Juan Capistrano. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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Name
Category
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School rating
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