Spring is a wonderful time in San Diego – but it’s also a great occasion to explore some of the many destinations we’re lucky to live so close to. However, we know the struggle of escaping the city…especially on weekends. You wanna do it, but the thought of battling the brake lights on the I-5 North is enough to make you stay on the couch.
However, what if you could trade highway gridlock for beautiful ocean views, a comfortable seat, and a glass of wine – all while being whisked away to one of California’s most charming historic towns?
San Juan Capistrano, one of California’s jewels
Enter San Juan Capistrano. Located just over an hour away, it’s the ultimate, minimum-planning-required day trip, and getting there is half the fun. Step 1: forget the car. The absolute best way to reach San Juan Capistrano from San Diego is by hopping on the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner. With 13 departures running every day from downtown, Old Town, Solana Beach, and Oceanside, you don’t need to plan your itinerary down to the minute.
The train ride itself is spectacular. As you cruise up the coastline, enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean that you can’t get from the freeway. You’ll glide past the cliffs of Del Mar, the surf breaks of San Clemente, and miles of pristine beaches. By the time the train pulls into the station, you’re already relaxed and in vacation mode.
Off the train and back in time
The moment you step off the Amtrak platform, you’re immediately immersed in the Los Rios Historic District. Just steps away from the tracks, you’ll actually find California’s oldest residential street (Los Rios Street)!
Take a stroll down this incredibly quaint road. The Los Rios district feels like a hidden oasis, lined with ancient eucalyptus trees, blooming bougainvillea, and homes that have been occupied for over a century. Here, you’ll find gorgeous 19th-century adobe structures that have been transformed into charming cafes and boutiques. It’s the perfect spot to grab a cup of locally roasted coffee or enjoy a farm-to-table brunch. If you’re with the little ones, a stop at Zoomars Petting Zoo must be on the list.
Don’t skip Mission San Juan Capistrano
Just a short walk from the Los Rios District is the town’s gem: Mission San Juan Capistrano. Founded in 1776, this famous 250-year-old landmark is foundational to California’s history. Known for the legendary “Return of the Swallows,” the Mission is now a peaceful sanctuary. You can spend hours wandering through its gardens, listening to the fountains, and marveling at the preserved ruins. The space also offers a fascinating glimpse into the area’s Native American, Spanish, and Mexican heritage.
Heading home
After a day of exploring this wonderful historic town, you can grab dinner at the iconic ‘Trevor’s at the Tracks’ before simply hopping back on the Amtrak. If you time it right, you can even catch the sunset over the ocean as you head to San Diego. No traffic, no stress – just a beautiful escape to a historic gem right in our own backyard.
