Just across the freeway is San Clemente State Beach with it's gorgeous rock formations. A small word of advice from a water quality professional: stay 150 feet away from the pier if you plan on going for a swim.
One of our favorite pizza places, and a great place to stop in at when wedding planning! This is just 10 minutes from the venue. Lots of beer and pizza selections.
In addition to the San Juan Capistrano Mission, there are a wide variety of restaurants and bars of all styles and price points to explore.
Really pretty here, always room in the parking lot. Eric and Heather like to sit on the benches behind the institute and just look out onto the water and talk.