Explore the Inn at Mission San Juan Capistrano: A Historic Retreat

The luxe Spanish-style property sits on four acres dotted with olive trees.

Overview of Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano

Set in the heart of historic downtown San Juan Capistrano, steps from the ruins of the Mission that was founded in 1776, is the Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, one of Marriott’s Autograph Collection Hotels. The stunning property honors the city’s past with architecture reflecting adobe, Monterey, and Spanish Revival styles.

Accommodations and Amenities

Guests are reminded of the city’s iconic cliff swallows through the artistic check-in area background and the signature logo that’s seen property-wide. Within four acres of lush landscaping, the hotel offers a resort-style pool and spa, an expansive outdoor patio, several dining options, and both indoor and outdoor event space. The Olive Grove, an intimate outdoor area surrounded by lantern-lit olive trees, includes a circular fire pit surrounded by cushioned chairs.

The high-ceilinged lobby opens to an inviting area with a tile-embellished fireplace, sconces, plush furnishings, and warmly lit chandeliers. Glass pendant lights in the shape of mission bells hover over the cocktail bar, where ivory leather seats with brass nailhead accents are set in rows. Unique beer taps are also attention-getters, with one set facing a bar window opening to the outdoor area.

Accommodations include 125 hacienda-inspired guest rooms, with seven luxury suites including three residential-style villas. Spanish tile, high ceilings, mission-inspired furnishings, decorative art, and rich fabrics create an old-world atmosphere amid modern conveniences. The Spa at the Mission features services that use natural oils infused with onsite products such as lemon and basil.

Culinary Experience

The culinary program features classic Spanish favorites with a modern touch. Signature dining spot Ysidora Restaurant and Lounge offers wood-fired meats and vegetables along with craft cocktails. El Café Real offers La Colombe specialty coffees and grab-and-go meals. Guests can dine and sip cocktails al fresco at both Ysidora and El Café Real, enjoy the landscaped sitting areas, and take in views of the Great Stone Church.

Olive Oil Tasting Experience

Olive trees throughout the property provide not only shade and atmosphere, but also Reverence Private Label EVOO, produced in partnership with California-grown Nuvo Oil. An olive oil tasting experience at the restaurant and olive oil body scrub at the spa use the fruits of the picturesque trees, and guests are invited to purchase a bottle to take home.

“There’s something magical about our hotel and the significance of the Mission that will intimately connect guests to the history and culture of their surroundings in San Juan Capistrano,” general manager Pam Ryan told iBestTravel.

Historic Sights Nearby

While a visit to the next-door Mission — with its chapel, museum, and gardens — is a must-do while staying at the Inn at The Mission San Juan Capistrano, other historic sights in the city include the 1894 train depot and the Los Rios District, considered California’s oldest neighborhood.