San Juan Capistrano is one of the few Southern California destinations genuinely better reached by train than car. The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner and Metrolink both stop at San Juan Capistrano station, which is a two-minute walk from the mission entrance on Los Rios Street. Journey time from Los Angeles Union Station is about 90 minutes; from San Diego about 75 minutes. Trains run several times daily in both directions.
By car from Los Angeles, take the I-5 South about 60 miles to exit 82 (Ortega Highway). From San Diego, take the I-5 North about 50 miles to the same exit. Parking is available near the mission but can fill up on weekends.