Capistrano Lights: Mission in Lights

All Aboard for Capistrano Lights!

 

Celebrate the holidays with a festive rail journey aboard the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner from San Diego to the charming town of San Juan Capistrano. Upon arrival, experience the magic of Capistrano Lights: Mission in Lights, Orange County's only Mission holiday celebration.

 

As evening falls, Mission San Juan Capistrano is transformed into a dazzling holiday wonderland. Stroll through beautifully illuminated courtyards featuring the glowing Halo Grove, fragrant Citrus Grove, a life-size Nativity, and spectacular seasonal light displays that bring the historic Mission to life. Delight in the timeless sounds of Dickens-era carolers, admire the heartwarming Community Christmas Trees and Family Wreaths, and listen to the enchanting melodies of a live harpist performing in the historic Serra Chapel.

 

Your visit also includes admission to the Mission and the festive Capistrano Lights Audio Tour, where you'll hear the Christmas story from the Gospel, a reading of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas, and fascinating stories behind the Mission's cherished holiday traditions.

 

During your evening, you'll also have free time for dinner on your own in the charming Los Rios Historic District or nearby downtown San Juan Capistrano. Choose from a variety of inviting restaurants, cozy cafés, and festive eateries before continuing your holiday adventure.

 

Before departing, browse the quaint downtown shops for unique gifts or pick up a seasonal treat, then relax aboard your deluxe motorcoach for a comfortable ride home. This unforgettable holiday getaway beautifully combines the romance of rail travel, festive dining, and one of Southern California's most beloved Christmas traditions.

 

Capistrano Lights 2025

 

Capistrano Lights: Mission in Lights

 

 

Capistrano Lights Flyer

 

Pacific Surfliner Train

 

Tour Manager:*

• Christina Koohmarey

*Tour Manager is subject to change without notice.

 

Activity Level: Moderate

This tour involves walking at your own pace in San Juan Capistrano where some areas may be uneven or unpaved. Walking and standing is involved when following the audio tour at the Mission, although the length and distance will be at your discretion.

 

What's Included in the Tour Fare

• Round-trip luxury motor coach transportation from pickup locations throughout San Diego County

• Professional Tour Manager throughout the trip

• Complimentary bottled water and snacks on the coach

• Business Class train ride from San Diego to San Juan Capistrano

• Free time in historic San Juan Capistrano for dinner and exploring

• Orientation walking tour

• Admission to Capistrano Lights and audio tour

 

What's Not Included in the Tour Fare

• Meals

• Cancellation Protection

• Gratuities for the Tour Manager and driver

 

How to Make a Reservation

Making your reservation is easy. Simply click the Book Now button above to select your date and confirm your space online, 24/7. You can also call the DayTripper Tours reservations department at (619) 334-3394 during business hours M-F, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

 

Know Before You Go:

The use of flash photography and/or tripods is prohibited at all times. Food and drinks are not permitted in exhibit areas. Chewing gum is not allowed.

 

Smartphones

Although not necessary to fully enjoy your trip, a personal smartphone can greatly enhance your tour experience. Take high-quality photos, share your experience on social media in real time, search for nearby restaurants and topics of interest, set reminders, and more.

 

14-Day Cancellation Deadline

• If you purchased the optional Cancellation Protection Plan (CPP) prior to the deadline, you can cancel your booking for any reason up until 1 hour prior to tour departure and you'll receive a full refund of the tour fare, less the cost of the CPP.

• If you declined the CPP, you may cancel your reservation fourteen (14) or more days prior to the departure date to receive a refund less a $15 per person cancellation fee. Alternatively, when you cancel your booking fourteen (14) or more days prior to the departure date, you can avoid the cancellation fee by transferring the funds to another tour or a non-refundable voucher, which can be applied to any future excursion booked within one year of the original tour date. Bookings canceled within 14 days of the departure date are nonrefundable and nontransferable for any reason. Name changes on daytrips are permitted at no additional cost if they do not require pre-clearance, such as with tours visiting government facilities.

Mission San Juan Capistrano Capistrano Lights: Mission in Ligths