City: Oceanside, CA

Category: Tours & Attractions

Telephone: (760) 757-3651

Address: 4050 Mission Avenue at Rancho del Oro Dr

Description: Of the 21 California missions, this is probably the least known and one of the prettiest. It was founded in 1798 as the eighteenth in the string of missions that dot the state.Strolling through the grounds, church, garden, and museum, you’ll be treated to early artwork, historical artifacts, and Native American historical displays. Be sure to visit California’s first pepper tree and the lavanderia, or laundry area, used by the mission Indians and settlers. It’s across the road from the main site. You can also visit the mission cemetery, which dates from 1798 and is still being used by members of all faiths.Admission to the museum is $5.00 for adults, $3.00 for students and children; families pay a maximum of $20.00. Hours are 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily. The gift shop/bookstore is worth a visit. Worship services are held at the old mission Saturday at 5:30 p.m. (7:00 p.m. in Spanish) and in the newer parish chapel Sunday at 8:00 and 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. (noon in Spanish).One Wednesday a month, join the friars for dinner and an inspirational talk. There are also weekend retreats specifically for married couples, seniors, families, and women, as well as those for individuals.