SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO MISSION

Located 8 km from Dana Point, this mission, built in 1775, makes for an interesting visit. Don't miss the Serra Chapel, named after Junípero Serra, the Spanish priest who founded this and 8 other of the 21 missions in California. As well as reading the explanations in the small museum, you'll enjoy strolling through the beautiful flower gardens and contemplating the ruins of Great Stone Church - 1806 - whose contrast with the surrounding palm trees is most pleasing.