Historic Mission San Juan Capistrano is a California icon. Perhaps most famous for visits from its annual guests of honor, the swallows, the Mission means many things to many people. For Californians, it is a powerful symbol of the state's complicated colonial history. For Catholics, it is a profound religious site, indicative of the Church's own complex heritage. History buffs spend hours reveling in the facility's many exhibits and displays, connecting viscerally with the sights, sounds and feelings of generations long past. For visitors of any background, it is an undeniably gorgeous place to spend an afternoon-replete with striking architectural elements and lovingly cared-for gardens.
The perfect thing to do on a bright sunny day is to head to Rancho Los Alamitos. Admire the 19th Century ranch house that houses an interesting museum about local history, then explore the surrounding area. Make sure you stop by the barn and check out the livestock, which is often the highlight for children. You can also stroll through the beautiful garden. The gift shop has interesting things to take back home too. Overall, a historical place with lots of education, along with fun thrown in.
The Ocean Institute is located in beautiful Dana Point Harbor and offers ocean science and maritime history programs perfect for kids and adults alike. See hundreds of marine animals in aquariums, watch animal feedings, experience ocean-themed exhibits, and have fun with hands-on activities. For an extra charge, take a tall ship or a whale watching cruise. The Dana Point Marine Protected Area is steps away from the Institute.
Founders Hall has a copper dome, and it welcomes both students and general public members to the campus. It is located in the front of the Soka campus. This is the first stop for anyone needing any information on the university and the courses offered. Guided tours are held Mondays through Saturdays. All the tours begin on the first floor of the Founders Hall which takes an hour and a half at least.
Capo Beach Calvary is a Christian church which does not belong to any particular denomination. The church focuses on putting people in touch with God through Bible-based sermons, community worship services, local and global outreach projects, and various ministries. Capo Beach Calvary does a lot to accomplish its mission of “Putting People in Touch with God.” They support several orphanages, they provide children's and youth ministries, counseling services, family events, couples enrichment, meals for people during hardships and a prayer ministry. Capo Beach Calvary is open for anyone to join one of the several Bible studies and worship services throughout the week.
St. Cecilia Catholic Church is devoted to fostering a compassionate Catholic Christian community. Among services other than mass—St. Cecilia also bestows the Christians with sacraments such as wedding, funeral, infant baptism, the rite of Christian initiation of adults and anointing of the sick. The church also has various ministries and Parish councils that undertake theological and social activities for the aid of the community.