Hotels in San Juan Capistrano

Whispers of History and Blossoms by the Shore: Discover San Juan Capistrano

Nestled in the heart of Southern California, San Juan Capistrano is a charming blend of history and natural beauty. Famous for the stunning Mission San Juan Capistrano, this picturesque town enchants visitors with its Spanish colonial architecture, vibrant gardens, and serene landscapes. Wander through the quaint streets adorned with blooming flowers, explore the historic downtown, and enjoy the delightful local cuisine. Don’t miss the breathtaking beauty of the nearby beaches and the iconic swallows that return each year. With its rich cultural heritage and romantic ambiance, San Juan Capistrano is a must-visit gem on the California coast.

Discover great hotels in San Juan Capistrano

San Juan Capistrano offers a variety of hotel accommodations, from charming budget-friendly options to luxurious resorts. Guests can find comfortable rooms with modern amenities, along with elegant suites in upscale hotels. Whether you're after a cozy inn or a spacious suite, you'll find a range of choices to suit your needs. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in San Juan Capistrano:

1. Hilton Garden Inn Dana Point Doheny BeachOpens in a new window: This vibrant 4.0-star hotel offers an exhilarating beach adventure experience, perfect for leisure travelers seeking sun, surf, and excitement. With direct access to the beach and a variety of adventure sports available, guests can indulge in activities like surfing, biking, hiking, and sailing. The accommodation's emphasis on outdoor recreation ensures a thrilling stay, while its inviting atmosphere fosters relaxation after a day of exploration. Frequent travelers appreciate the seamless blend of adventure and comfort this hotel provides, making it a top choice for those looking to embrace the coastal lifestyle.
2. Best Western Plus Marina Shores HotelOpens in a new window: Best Western Plus Marina Shores Hotel is a cozy 2.5-star hotel tailored for business travelers who value comfort and convenience. This pet-friendly property features a 24-hour business center, meeting rooms, and conference space, ensuring all professional needs are met. With its welcoming atmosphere, the hotel allows guests to unwind without sacrificing essential amenities. The thoughtful design and practical offerings make it an excellent choice for those on work trips, facilitating smooth and efficient stays that cater to the modern professional's lifestyle.
3. Hilton Vacation Club Riviera Beach & ShoresOpens in a new window: Hilton Vacation Club Riviera Beach & Shores is a charming 3.0-star hotel that beckons leisure travelers with its welcoming ambiance and direct beach access. This property stands out for its LGBTQIA-friendly environment, providing a safe and inclusive space for all guests to relax. The inviting design and proximity to the ocean create a tranquil retreat where visitors can unwind and recharge. Travelers appreciate the distinct character and friendly atmosphere, making Hilton Vacation Club Riviera Beach & Shores a delightful choice for those seeking a memorable beachfront escape.

Top locations to stay in San Juan Capistrano

Staying in Laguna Beach, Dana Point, and San Clemente offers diverse experiences near San Juan Capistrano. Laguna Beach is renowned for its stunning coastline and vibrant arts scene. Dana Point boasts beautiful beaches and a charming harbor. San Clemente is perfect for surfing enthusiasts. For first-time visitors, Laguna Beach is the best choice, combining culture and breathtaking views.

1. Laguna BeachOpens in a new window: Laguna Beach is a stunning coastal gem known for its vibrant arts scene and beautiful beaches. This picturesque town offers a range of boutique shops, art galleries, and stunning ocean views that create a perfect backdrop for relaxation. The beaches here are not only perfect for sunbathing but also great for swimming and snorkeling, making it a top choice for beach lovers. From the iconic Thousand Steps Beach to the tide pools at Crystal Cove State Park, there's plenty to explore along the coastline. Don’t miss the chance to catch a sunset at Heisler Park, where you can stroll along the oceanfront paths surrounded by lush gardens.
2. Dana PointOpens in a new window: Dana Point boasts a charming harbor and is a wonderful spot for those looking to experience the California coastline. Known for its scenic beaches and outdoor activities, Dana Point is ideal for whale watching, sailing, and kayaking. The beautiful Dana Point Harbor offers a variety of shops and eateries, providing a lovely atmosphere for a leisurely day out. Explore the nearby beaches, like Salt Creek Beach, which is perfect for sunbathing and surfing. Additionally, the annual Tall Ships Festival and other cultural events add a vibrant touch to this coastal town.
3. San ClementeOpens in a new window: San Clemente is famous for its laid-back vibe and surf culture, making it a fantastic destination for those looking to enjoy the beach lifestyle. The city features picturesque beaches, perfect for surfing, swimming, or simply relaxing in the sun. The San Clemente Pier offers stunning ocean views and is a great spot for fishing or enjoying a leisurely walk. Stroll through the charming downtown area filled with unique shops and open-air markets, and don't forget to visit the historic Casa Romantica Cultural Center for a taste of local history and culture.

Things to do in San Juan Capistrano

San Juan Capistrano offers a charming blend of coastal beauty and historic allure. Travelers can explore sandy beaches, hike through scenic trails, and stroll through vibrant gardens. Enjoy delightful shopping experiences, savor local cuisine, and soak in the area's rich heritage, including its iconic mission that adds a touch of history to your visit.

• San Clemente PierOpens in a new window – Walk out on this iconic jetty to take in stunning ocean views and watch surfers ride the waves below. It's a great spot for fishing or simply soaking up the sun while enjoying the sound of the waves crashing against the shore.
• Dana Point HarborOpens in a new window – Discover a bustling marina filled with boats and vibrant shops. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, or indulge in delicious seafood at one of the many restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to rent a kayak or paddleboard for a fun day on the water!
• Doheny State BeachOpens in a new window – Relax on one of Southern California’s most popular beaches. The gentle surf makes it perfect for swimming and sunbathing, while the picnic areas and grassy spots offer an ideal setting for family gatherings or a beachside barbecue.
• Thousand Steps BeachOpens in a new window – Venture down the staircase to find a hidden gem surrounded by stunning cliffs. The beach is perfect for sunbathing and exploring tide pools, and the dramatic scenery makes for a picturesque backdrop for your beach day.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in San Juan Capistrano

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable months to visit San Juan Capistrano are January, February, and November, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For an enriching experience exploring the area's key historical landmarks and cultural attractions, staying for at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. During your budget-friendly trip, you can visit notable sites like the historic mission, charming cafes, and beautiful flower gardens, as well as enjoy shopping and dining options that offer great value for money. Plus, with prices potentially dropping during these months, you can make the most of your visit without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to San Juan Capistrano, check the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted hotel rates approaching your travel date. By enabling email alerts or push notifications, you're more likely to see flash sales and special promotions, helping you catch great savings. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window feature in the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you stay informed about any price drops or room availability for your favorite hotels. This way, you can easily plan your last-minute getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on your stay at a hotel in San Juan Capistrano. For travelers seeking something special, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized experience and can sometimes offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll suggest more budget-friendly dates that could help you find a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city center usually tend to be more expensive, but with San Juan Capistrano's great public transportation options, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel a little farther out that’s still well-connected. For those interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighborhoods or even lesser-known nearby cities, there’s often good value for your money. Opting for these alternative destinations can provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.
5. Become a Member: Join for free and unlock amazing savings for your next stay in San Juan Capistrano! As a member, you'll gain access to exclusive prices on over 100,000 hotels worldwide. Enjoy the benefits of quickly advancing through membership tiers, which include perks such as complimentary room upgrades (when available) and discounts on food and beverages at select VIP Access properties. Don’t miss out on these fantastic offers—sign up today and start planning your getaway!

Best time to go to San Juan Capistrano

San Juan Capistrano experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 56.1°F (13.4°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 71.6°F (22.0°C). December is usually the wettest month. March, April, and July are the peak travel months in San Juan Capistrano, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny to mostly sunny, accompanied by no rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by no to light rainfall and sunny to mostly sunny conditions.