mission basilica

ameliah536

It was pretty, but not that great. Went here because we didn't have anything else to do, I expected there to be more of a garden area based on others reviews, but it was quite small and nothing more glamorous than yards seen on the way to it. The building was cool but only the one building was worth noting.

MarthaP205

Beautiful mission tucked in the Carmel by the Sea area. Enjoyed walking through the gardens and the grounds.

agstanley

This is a beautiful and peaceful piece of history. The grounds are gorgeous and the inside of the mission is filled with amazing paintings and wooden chandeliers.

ladydi50CA

This site really is tranquil, peaceful and full of history. It's easily seen in an hour. There is a beautiful shrine for the burial site of Junipero Serra. Even the cemetery is unique with abalone shell markers. There are restrooms available. (Note that they still hold mass there on Sundays, so that's not the best time to visit)

Boulwarechoir

Will enhance your faith or help you find some for sure! Jaw dropping views and historical artifacts like a museum!

ExecGirl

I loved this Mission, for all its tranquility and peace. It is one of those places which just feels "right". Even walking through the gift shop to get to the rest of the Mission, was NOT off-putting like it is in some places. I definitely found myself enjoying it mainly because there were so very few people about. I loved the exhibits, showing the items from day-to-day living when it also hosted guests. The statues were lovely and the property is very well-maintained and loved. The gift shop had some very beautiful items, including a prayer shawl honoring the Virgin of Guadalupe, which I bought in the hopes of some much needed healing.

630scottyb

Great mission with lots of history. Highly recommended, you can see the whole thing in an hour or two.

jeralynp2014

I love everything about it. It just gives me peace when I am inevery part of the property.They have done some retrofit recently. You can see the partof history in the walls and gardens. There is burial site of the Indians that worked with Father Juniper Serra. A must see.

stoptoenjoy

This was Father Serra's favorite mission and where he lived and died, and is buried. Beautiful location and great history.

sfsande

Even if you're not into California history, visit this mission. You will feel the peace and get a sense of the faith required to stick out the hardships of colonial living.

432rub_np

Pay the small fee to take the tour and you will be amazed at the size of the property and the amount of things to see. Everything is very well maintained and there is a genuine sense of calm throughout the property. We will visit again for sure.

Alanmin

Founded over 240 years ago, the mission San Carlos Borromeodel Rio Carmelo is ancient history by California standards, and it's pretty. Watch out for their web site though; it says they close at 7pm. Actually, they close at 5pm, and they start chasing you out at 4:45.

02Sue02

The history alone of the Franciscans and the missions was enlightening. The restoration is beautiful. The staff at the museum store was very knowledgeable.

jaxt2015

I have this strange thing, when I'm traveling I love visiting Catholic Churches, I'm not even Catholic. It's set in a beautiful area. Check out the gardens off to the side. There are some burial that might surprise you. No spoiler here.

AAHolt

Beautifully preserved, interesting architecture. Easy access to parking. Take some time to soak in the atmosphere which is very peaceful throughout. There is a large courtyard with a fountain where you can toss a penny in the water and say a prayer or make a wish. Nice, beautiful, interesting, peaceful.