ensenada cruise map

Ensenada cruise port

Hawaii - mexico - panama canal.

• Coordinates 31.849, -116.619
• LOCODE MXESE
• Local Time 2024-04-11 15:41

Ensenada cruise ship schedule

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17 Best Things to Do in Ensenada on a Cruise [Port Guide]

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If you’re visiting Ensenada Mexico on a cruise, you’re in luck. Ensenada, known for its delectable cuisine, warm climate, and friendly locals, is a popular cruise stop for both Mexican Riviera cruises as well as Hawaiian cruise itineraries.

This coastal city is located about 80 miles from San Diego in the northern part of the Mexican state of Baja California. It is Baja California’s only deep water port.

In this post, I’ll share the best things to do in Ensenada on a cruise, including shore excursions and inexpensive or free activities. You’ll also learn everything you need to know about visiting the Ensenada cruise port for the day and get answers to commonly asked questions.

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Ensenada Cruise Port  

Cruise ships dock at the Naval Cruise Terminal in Ensenada’s industrial area. The pier is located near the Malecon boardwalk avenue, putting you within a quick walk to the heart of the city.

Cruisers docking in Ensenada have the benefit of a massive 300-foot flagpole with a Mexican flag to give you bearings for navigating the town. You can’t miss it!

After you get off the ship, look for the flagpole. Take a right at the flagpole and then a left at the second intersection you come to, and you’ll be downtown on Avenida Lopez Mateos.

What Cruise Passengers Need to Know About Ensenada Cruise Port

Ensenada is located in Mexico, where the currency is the Mexican peso.

However, because it is a tourist destination, many vendors and small businesses will accept the United States dollar in small bills and debit or credit cards. There may be international transaction charge fees associated with debit or credit cards.

If you use USD instead of pesos, you might pay more overall because vendors have to exchange your dollars.

The official language spoken in Ensenada, Mexico is Spanish. However, many locals also speak English (at least enough to communicate with tourists).

Baja California, Mexico (including Ensenada) is in the Pacific Time Zone. The Eastern Time Zone is 3 hours ahead of Pacific Time Zone.

Ensenada weather is almost always delightful! During the hottest months (July and August), the average high is 84-85 degrees F, with lows in the upper 60s.

The rest of the year, high temperatures in Ensenada range from 68-69 degrees F (December through March) and the low to mid-70s (April-June, October-November). Lows can be as cool as the 50s in the wintertime but are comfortably in the 60s in the summer.

Many Ensenada attractions including excellent souvenir shopping, food and museums are within comfortable walking distance of the cruise ship terminal.

Taxis and Uber will be your best bet for getting around beyond Ensenada downtown. If you want to head to farther away excursions like La Bufadora, wineries and Las Canadas adventure park you can easily grab a taxi or Uber.

Pro Tip: Taxis are supposed to be metered, but it is smart to negotiate your fare before you start your ride.

Best Ensenada Shore Excursions

There are many shore excursions available in Ensenada. From wildlife viewing, to nature and history excursions, to food and drink stops, you’ll wish you had more time at this cruise port.

Here are some of the best Ensenada shore excursions .

1. History Museum of Ensenada

If you want to learn about the town’s rich history from prehistoric times, during U.S. prohibition and to current days, this a great place to visit. The museum is housed in the old Rivera Del Pacifico building, which is an architectural monument in itself. 

Spend time touring the building, museum and the gardens and imagine the ghosts of yesteryear who came here when it was a casino. It was reportedly associated with Al Capone, Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz. 

2. Mexican Wine Tasting

The first vineyards in Ensenada were planted in 1703. The wine industry has continued to grow since then. The city of Valle De Guadalupe, a little over 12 miles from downtown, now boasts over 75 wineries. 

The best way to experience wine country is to take a full-day wine tour. Most excursions include a tour of several vineyards, snacks and a visit to the wine museum. You can learn about the evolution of Mexican wine country and taste the often riper and darker fruit flavor of Mexican wine. 

3. Whale Watching Tour

Between the months of December and April, gray whales migrate from the cold waters of Alaska to the warm waters of Baja California to give birth to their calves. This makes for excellent whale watching experience for visitors to Ensenada. 

Whale watching excursions depart from Mercado Negro and travel around Isla Todos Santos. Along the way you might see dolphins, sea lions and other whales including humpbacks, sperm whales, finbacks, pilot whales and occasionally orcas. 

4. Adventure at Las Canadas Campamento

If you’re up for an active excursion, you’ll find plenty of adventure about 30 minutes south of downtown Ensenada. Las Canadas Campamento is a popular destination with a zipline canopy tour with five ziplines, multiple suspension bridges, and other activities, including swimming, biking, paddleboats, horseback riding, and ATV rentals.

You’ll need to book an excursion with transportation or take a taxi to get to Las Canadas. The canopy tour is an outstanding choice.

Related: What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise

5. Pai Pai Ecotourism Park

This excursion offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to touch and feed wild animals like big cats. Pai Pai offers 40 activities built around ecological and sustainable tourism. The biggest attractions here are wild animal feeding and interactions, but you can also participate in zip lining, tequila tasting, off-road Rzr driving, and Go-Kart Racing.

There are several different packages for animal experiences, so be sure you purchase the correct ticket for the animal experience you want to have. You can book a package from Pai Pai that includes transportation from the cruise terminal, but be prepared that it takes 35-40 minutes to get here.

6. Try Famous Local Dishes at La Guerrerense

Ensenada is known as the birthplace of fish tacos, so you won’t want to miss the chance to sample the famous local fare. There are food stands throughout Ensenada, but this street food stand, in particular, has the Anthony Bourdain seal of approval.

Try the sea urchin tostada, ceviche, and fish tacos for an unforgettable Ensenada experience.

7. Drink It Up at Hussong’s Cantina 

Hang out with locals and drink at Hussong’s, the oldest cantina in Baja, California. Open since 1882, this busy cantina is an affordable Ensenada favorite.

The bar serves large bags of peanuts to patrons, resulting in a unique peanut shell floor. Enjoy their famous margarita, listen to a Mexican band, or watch your favorite sporting event on the cantina’s big screens.

8. See the Power of Nature at La Bufadora 

One unique natural wonder in Ensenada is the world’s largest underwater blowhole.  La Bufadora is located on the Punta Banda Peninsula and spits water 100 feet in the air. 

There are excursions that include kayaking to La Bufadora or you can take a 45 minute bus or taxi ride from the cruise port. Be aware that you will have to pay to park or use the bathrooms here, but on the plus side there is a flea market onsite with food and souvenirs. 

9. Relax or Learn to Surf on Playa Hermosa

If the beach is on your priority list, one of the closest options to port is Malecon de Playa Hermosa. A short 9 minute taxi ride away, you’ll have a great time here snorkeling, learning how to surf, or just relaxing in the sun.

Food vendors walk the beach here and there are public bathrooms available as well as chairs and umbrellas for rent.

Related: 12 Tourist Scams that Cruisers Need to Know

10. Sample Superfood at Maya Cacao

If you love chocolate, come learn about the superfood for the ancient Mayans at the “Bean to Belly” workshop. For $35 for adults and $17.50 for children under 12 years, during this delicious excursion you can learn the history and origins of chocolate from cacao trees to beans to tasty treat. You’ll also get to make your own healthy dark chocolate drink. 

11. Horseback riding at Rancho Los Bandidos 

Experience a taste of what it is like to be a Mexican cowboy at Rancho Los Bandidos. This excursion has amazing reviews and is located a short 20 minute ride from the cruise port.

Your 1.5 hour long horseback ride will give you lovely views of the ocean and the rugged beauty of Baja, California. The guides are kind and informative, the horses are well cared for and helmets are included. Plus, this shorter excursion means you’ll have time to shop or sightsee before or after your horseback ride. 

12. Fish Tacos at Mercado de Mariscos/Mercado Negro 

Cruisers will not want to miss Ensenada’s fresh and tasty seafood at budget prices. Mercado de Mariscos (also called Ensenada Mercado Negro) is located next door to the large seafood market on the waterfront.

The market has multiple restaurants and street vendors serving up delicious mariscos including shrimp and fish tacos, ceviche, tostadas, whole fried fish and shrimp or mixed seafood cocktails. 

One fun element of this street market are the variety of tasty sauces, salsas and condiments on each table. If you love seafood you should definitely add this location to your Ensenada plan. 

Mercado Negro is about a 20 minute walk through downtown. If you are in a hurry grab a taxi or Uber, which will get you there in about 8 minutes. 

13. Golf by the ocean in Bajamar

Golfers will love the chance to play 9 or 18 holes at this gorgeous oceanside golf course dubbed “The Pebble Beach of Mexico.” Just a 40-minute taxi or Uber ride north of the cruise port, Bajamar is an inspiring place to spend a port day and get in a round of golf. 

14. Caracol Museum

Science lovers will enjoy visiting this unique natural history museum in the shape of a ship located at the harbor. The Caracol features exhibitions on earth, sea and art. Most of the exhibits are in Spanish but tour guides are great at offering English explanations and hands-on learning opportunities. Entrance fees to Caracol are inexpensive (less than $5 per person, around 60 pesos). 

Free Excursions in Ensenada

15. El Parque de la Bandera

As we mentioned earlier in this post, you can’t miss the giant Mexican Flag in Ensenada. The “Banderas Monumentales Project” flag pole is over 300 feet tall and the flag measures 50 meters (164 feet)  long by 28 meters (92 feet) wide.

The park surrounding the flag is a wonderful place to visit. It hosts a playground, a band shell with live music events and a giant fountain. After 8 p.m. the fountain dances to music (think a smaller version of the Bellagio show in Las Vegas). 

16. Downtown Ensenada

Enjoying the streets of downtown Ensenada is a great way to spend time in this port. You can enjoy the atmosphere and spend as many (or few!) pesos as you’d like. 

First Street Market: One block inland from the huge Mexican flag you’ll find First Street, a main shopping street in Ensenada. An outdoor market with street vendors selling Mexican cuisine and colorful souvenirs, the First Street Market is open every day from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

17. Plaza Civica Cultural Center

In Hispanic cultures, city plazas or town squares are a culturally significant place to gather. In the central area of Ensenada, the Plaza Civica Cultural Center has gorgeous ocean vistas and is a lovely place to people watch. 

A guided trip is a great option, where you can learn more about Mexico’s history as well as more information about three important figures honored in the plaza with golden busts: Benito Juarez, Miguel Hidalgo, and Venustiano Carranza. 

Ensenada Cruise Port Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit ensenada .

Weather wise the best time of year to visit Ensenada is Late May to mid-October. This will give you the most pleasant temperatures for outdoor excursions. 

How far is downtown Ensenada from the cruise port? 

The main downtown area of Ensenada is an easy 15 minute walk from the cruise port. There are many taxis near the port area if you want to catch a ride and save your legs for walking downtown. 

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Final Thoughts On Things to do in Ensenada Cruise Port

Ensenada is one of the best places to get a glimpse of the beautiful Mexican culture as well as eat tasty seafood tacos, drink refreshing margaritas and experience exciting excursions.

Have you been to Ensenada, Mexico? If so what do you enjoy most? Please let me know in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

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Cruise ships dock in an industrial harbor, right by the world's largest Mexican flag, hoisted on an enormous flagpole on Ensenada's Malecon.

Ensenada's cruise dock features a market with numerous vendors. In addition to souvenirs, there's a pharmacy and liquor store.

The cruise ship pier is within easy walking distance of Avenida Lopez Mateos, the main tourist zone for shopping and dining. Alternatively, taxis and shuttles (3$ per person round trip) are available at the dock to take passengers on the short ride downtown.

Printable map to take along on your cruise.

Cruise calendar for this port.

Watch a destination video .

Live Nautical Chart with Wikipedia Markers

Port Location on Google Maps

Monthly Climate Averages for Ensenada Mexico

Sightseeing:

Ensenada, one of Mexico's most successful cities, has grown from a sleepy fishing village to become a popular beach resort. This oft-visited Baja destination is a multi-faceted jewel. Among its most popular locations are the waterfront promenade, the fashionable shops of Avenida Primera, and the winery of Bodega Santo Tomas, founded by the Dominicans in 1888. La Bufadora, a natural sea geyser located nearby, puts on a highly dramatic show.

Ensenada, the third largest city in Baja California, boasts a protected harbor and modern port facilities, making it Baja California's leading seaport. In 1602, Sebastián Vizcaíno sailed into the bay and was so taken by its beauty that he named it Ensenada de Todos Los Santos (inlet of all the saints). The scenic setting, beautiful beaches, numerous boutiques and restaurants, vast accommodations and excellent fishing make Ensenada one of the leading resort and commercial centers on the Baja peninsula.

Tours Excursions Transportation:

If you want to go to some wineries, consider a ship tour because Guadalupe Valley is about 1/2 hour away.

It pays to compare your cruise line tours here .

Nearby Places:

La Bufadora is the largest blowhole in the world, often shooting upwards more than 100 feet above sea level. $15 per person tour to La Bufadora - you can buy this excursion at the bus station in town)

Shopping and Food

The currency of Mexico is the peso (MXN). The symbol for pesos is the same as for US dollars, which can be slightly confusing. Prices in dollars (in tourist areas) are labeled "US$" or sport an S with a double stroke. There is about 17 peso to 1US$.

US dollars are widely accepted in the far north and in tourist locales elsewhere.

Credit cards are not as widely accepted as in Europe or the USA. Some companies make an extra charge of around 5% on such transactions.

Currency Converter

Communication:

Spanish is the main language. English is largely spoken in border cities with the United States as well as tourist destinations.

Cafes which offer free WiFi for customers in Ensenada are generally pretty cheap, running from $10 to $50 pesos per hour

Opening Hours and Holidays:

Mon-Sun 1000/1100-2000/2200 (big towns and cities); Mon-Fri 0900-1400/1600 (rest of the country).

Holidays in Mexico

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Thank you for printing this article! Please don’t forget to come back to whatsinport.com for new and updated port guides.

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Ensenada, Mexico

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Thanks to its stunning coastline, Ensenada will give you plenty of postcard-worthy moments…, and it couldn’t be easier to get there. Escape to Mexico’s original seaside getaway with Carnival cruises to Ensenada. Once a favorite hideaway for high-rolling Hollywood stars, Ensenada is now one of Mexico’s most popular ports of call. You can sightsee, shop or kayak at Punta Banda… but the true pleasures of this festive city are culinary. That’s why a cruise to Ensenada, Mexico should top every foodie’s wish list. Have your fill of fresh oysters and sip a rich Baja merlot. Soak up the richness of the local culture as you enjoy the journey.

• Try unique Baja cuisine in Ensenada, the region's seafood and culinary capital.
• Shop for silver jewelry and handmade pottery on Avenida López Mateos.
• Watch the sea spout at La Bufadora burst from the rocks on Punta Banda.

Things to do in Ensenada

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Cruise to Baja: What To Do Near the Ensenada Cruise Port

A couple of weeks ago, we took a short weekend cruise to Baja California from Long Beach. There was only one port of call: Ensenada.

It was a total last minute purchase. We wanted some family bonding time before the school year started, and when my husband turned to me one night and said, “I wish we were back on a cruise ship,” I replied, “We can be.”

An hour later, we’d booked a three-night trip to Ensenada on Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas .

Before this, the only thing I knew about Ensenada was that I could drive there in two hours. It’s so close to where we live (in San Diego) that I wasn’t even sure I wanted to get off the ship when it docked there. Instead of disembarking in Ensenada, I figured I’d stay onboard to lay by the pool, take advantage of the shorter lines for the water slides, and enjoy some port-day discounts .

But when we arrived that morning, my husband suggested we take a walk around the town.

“Do you know what to do in Ensenada?” I asked.

“We’ll figure it out,” he said.

So here are some things we did with absolutely zero prior research or preparation.

Navigating the Ensenada Cruise Port

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Downtown Ensenada isn’t very far from the cruise port. However, I found it to be a bit trickier to navigate than some other cruise ports I’ve been to. There’s not a lot of clear signage, so we wound up meandering into the boarding area for the Carnival cruise ship that was docked beside us.

Once we whipped out Google Maps on our phones, though, we quickly found the exit gate. And from there, it was a pretty straight shot to downtown.

Here’s a little Ensenada cruise port map so you can get an idea of how close it is to the action:

There were a bunch of buses waiting at the port to drop people off downtown, but we avoided them because we wanted to explore (or rather, get lost) on our own. Plus, after all that soft-serve we ate on the pool deck, we decided we needed some exercise.

The easiest way to navigate Ensenada is to orient yourself to the giant flag of Mexico that’s fluttering over the city. And I mean giant . I have never seen a flag this big.

I later learned that it’s one of several banderas monumentales that are located in various spots around Mexico. They’re meant to inspire a sense of patriotism. It worked; I felt inspired and I’m not even a Mexican citizen.

So after you leave the cruise port, keep walking toward the flag. Turn right on Alvarado, and you’ll quickly arrive in the heart of downtown Ensenada.

I’ll be honest: it’s a bit of a tourist trap. Endless storefronts sell the same exact souvenirs. T-shirts and magnets and tchotchkes abound. If you’ve spent your whole life searching for a coffee mug printed with Spanish obscenities, no doubt you’ll find it here.

Then there were the pharmacies.

It’s no secret that you can get prescription drugs easily in Mexico, and Ensenada is cashing in on the “pharma-tourist” phenomenon. There was at least one pharmacy on every street, some of which appealed to children with statues of smiling superheroes.

This particular statue sparked a lengthy discussion with my nine-year-old son about erectile dysfunction. Always a fun topic of conversation when you’re on a cruise vacation. Family bonding time, you know?

There were a bunch of restaurants downtown, many of which looked excellent, but I was too busy hustling us past the aggressive pill pushers to stop and read any menus. I wish I had, though. Next time we go to Ensenada (and there will be a next time), I’m headed to La Guerrerense , a taco stand that came highly recommended by Anthony Bourdain.

So I know I’m not selling downtown Ensenada as family-friendly, but there were some highlights. Like Cleopatro Dog’s Store.

As you might guess, they sell stuff for dogs. Mostly, adorable outfits. Including serapes, which are the ultimate in adorable.

Now, I’m a dog-lover, so I definitely love me some cute doggy outfits. But this particular store was amazing because they used their proceeds to help rescue dogs. That’s what the sign in the window says, and the lovely woman behind the counter who helped us with our purchase explained it, too. (In Spanish. My husband translated.)

And I have a special affection for rescue dogs from Ensenada, since one of my pups was found on the street there. So of course I had to support this business, and bought my little chihuahua mixes some serapes.

Don’t they look cute?

After snagging our serapes, we headed back in the direction of the Mexican flag, toward the malecón. ( Malecón means boardwalk in Spanish.) On our way there, we passed by the Mercado de Mariscos, which is Baja California’s largest fish market.

Apparently, you can buy fresh fish here and they’ll cook it up for you at one of the nearby restaurants.

We didn’t do that, though. Instead, we walked down to the waterfront for a couple of cold Micheladas. I’m not entirely sure what was in this one, but most Micheladas are some combination of beer, Clamato, lime juice, and hot sauce.

That flaky stuff on the rim is tajin , a spicy Mexican seasoning flavored of chili and lime.

We also snacked on some sweet gorditas de nata that we bought at Serranos Panaderia, a bakery on the boardwalk. You could get your choice of filling; I got cream cheese, my husband got dulce de leche. Both were equally delicious.

As we strolled along, people-watching and enjoying the energy of the malecón, we kept walking in the direction of the giant flag. Eventually, we reached a park at the base of it, aptly named El Parque de la Bandera (translation: Flag Park).

There were some fountains here that children were splashing in. We also happened upon the Expo Nativa , a festival celebrating the native cultures of Baja California. Indigenous artisans were selling their wares, so I bought a gorgeous handmade necklace from Skoalap Cucapah .

My one regret is we never visited the Ensenada History Museum . Though it wasn’t for lack of trying.

It’s supposedly located in the Centro Social Civico y Cultural, which is right by the entrance to the cruise port. We ventured inside the open gates and walked around the grounds for a bit, taking in the sights.

Then we happened upon the entrance to the Ensenada History Museum. But we could never find the actual museum. Instead, we wandered around inside the cultural center like clueless tourists for about twenty minutes before giving up and heading back to the ship.

Maybe that Michelada was a little too strong. The inside was pretty, at least.

After a couple of hours of exploring the city, we were ready to get back on board, lay by the pool, and order a Goombay Smash . But if you’re looking for more interesting stuff to do in Ensenada, there are some options for cool family-friendly cruise excursions that we’re considering the next time we go to Baja (and there absolutely will be a next time).

• La Bufadora . This is an underwater cave on the beach that regularly sucks in sea water and shoots it back up, sort of like a geyser. If you stand too close to the edge, you apparently get soaked. It seems like the kind of thing I should see once, just to say I saw it.
• Rosarito Beach . I know a lot of people who are always driving down to Rosarito from San Diego for the long weekend. I’m never going to do that, but I hear the beach is beautiful, and I’d like to know what all the fuss is about. Also: fresh lobster.
• Valle de Guadelupe . Wine country in Baja is supposed to be fantastic, and they offer guided tours and wine tastings here. Yeah, I know it’s not family-friendly, but perhaps my husband and I will do this after my son is off to college. A mom can dream!

Yes, Ensenada is absolutely worth visiting. But it’s also worth doing a little research beforehand so you can make the most of your time there.

For my next trip to Ensenada, I plan to:

• Figure out how to get into this museum. The photos I’ve seen online look really cool, and I’d love to learn a little more about the history of the city.
• Eat some fish tacos. I regret not stopping at that Bourdain-approved taco stand.
• Stay away from the farmacias . Since I came home, Super Viagra has been haunting my dreams.

Have you been on a cruise with a port of call in Ensenada? If so, how did you spend your time in Baja?

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Things to Do in Ensenada While on Cruise (One Day in Ensenada, Mexico)

• By [email protected] in Food , Travel Tips

So you’re on a cruise on Princess or Celebrity from California to Hawaii and back, or one of Carnival’s short little 3 or 4 day jaunts from Los Angeles to Catalina Island.   But there’s this pesky law called the Jones Act.  The Jones Act requires cruise ships that travel within the USA, including Hawaii, must make a stop at a foreign port.  So, for cruises originating in California, there’s a need to make a stop in northern Mexico.  Since Tijuana isn’t a nice destination, the ships stop in the lovely Ensenada, Mexico.  These are the best things to do in Ensenada while on cruise – the best things to do with one day in Ensenada. 

Ensenada Self Walking Tour

It’s possible to do your own walking tour, the total walking time is about 1 hour which leaves plenty of time to make stops along the way.  This post details the best things to do in Ensenada, which are all along the path marked in this Ensenada walking tour map, and these items are in order if you do a counterclockwise trip along this path. 

Take Your Photo at the Ensenada Sign

As you walk towards town, the first notable sight is the Ensenada Sign.  If you leave the ship early, you should be able to get some pictures without loads of people in them. 

Visit the Hotel Riviera del Pacifico

From the sign, you will walk over to the Hotel Riviera del Pacifico.  This hotel was all the rage during the US prohibition.  Americans would come down to Ensenada to imbibe in tequila and other drinks.  This hotel was a hangout for movie stars and mobsters.  If there’s no event going on, you can wander the halls of this place that’s now an event center.  There are some interesting murals and chandaliers.  The hotel is supposedly haunted so watch out for the ghost!  There are several souvenier shops in the courtyard and the Bar Andaluz that is one of the two places in town that claim to be birthplace of the Margarita, the limey, tequila drink. 

Go Shopping

From the hotel, you’re going to head towards Hussong’s Cantina via Primera Street, the main shopping street in Ensenada.  There are loads of shops along this street with everything from Mexican goods to knock-off NFL stuff. 

One of the recommended shops is Bazar Casa Ramirez, a 2-story shop with some unique Mexican crafts.  Check out the snack and drink selection at 7-11.  They have loads of products that aren’t available in the USA.  Pop into a drugstore where you can buy many drugs without prescriptions, at a fraction of the prices of the USA.  Hey, you might even pay for your cruise by the savings!

When you’re done shopping, head up to Ruiz Avenue.  It’s time for an alcoholic refreshment.  If you want to visit a historic cantina, head over to Hussong’s Cantina.  Hussong’s also claims to be the birthplace of the Margarita.   If you want loud music and something more modern, head over to Papa’s & Beer, just next door.   There’s also a gift shop in the vicinity if you want to bring home some Hussong’s or Papa’s gear.

Go Look at the Seafood at the Fish Market

From the bar you will head towards the pier.  At the pier, look for the big white arches which are the entry into the Ensenada fish market.  The market is in a big blue building, with the names “Mercado Negro” and “Mercado de Mariscos” painted on the side.  You will see the catch of the day including fish from small to large and all kinds of weird seafood.  While you probably shouldn’t buy fish to bring back to the US, you likely could purchase something to have cooked at one of the restaurants flanking the fish market.

Eat Fish Tacos

If you want some authentic food, stop at one of the restaurants next to the fish market.  I walked around and selected one that had more locals eating.  Despite the cruise ship in town, I didn’t see any of my fellow cruise mates dining at the fish market.  Prices are moderate, I paid about $4.50 for a beer and two fish tacos with a wide selection of salsas and other condiments. 

Go for a Harbor Cruise With Locals

From the fish market you will go back out to the waterfront.  Walk about a block towards the cruiseship and look for a sign on a wooden building with a sign that says “Juanitos”.  If you walk around here, you will likely have a guy come up to you and offer you a private harbor cruise (i.e. you pay for the whole boat), but if you look around and see a bunch of Mexican people getting on a boat, this is likely a boat taking tourists.  Go down the ramp and ask the boat captain “Puedo?” which is “may I?”   If he says “Si” then grab a seat on the boat and put on a life jacket (required in the port).  They will come around and collect the fare for the 45-60 minute ride, which is 50 pesos, or about $2.50 USD.  I paid my money and sailed away, the only non-Mexican passenger.

As we pulled away from port, they cranked up the volume on lively Spanish music and I danced in my seat.  The boat pretty much drove under the bow of the cruise ship.  It’s amazing how small I felt under the bow.  The tour boat honked at the ship and I waived at the cruise ship passengers as we sailed by.   From there, we went out further and cruised by some buoys and platforms that had California seals.  I wasn’t very animal-friendly, but the boat bumped into one of the platforms gently, so the seals jumped in the water.  This is the most fun you can have for about $2.50 in Ensenada! 

Hit the Park and More Shops Before You Head Back to The Ship

There is a park and a few more shops to check out are you near the ship.  Into perfumes?  The best perfume shop is near the port… a big white building called French Parfum Perfumería. 

Watch the Seals

Seals seem to love the rocks near where the cruise ship docks.  You can either watch them from the shore or spy on them from the ship.  It’s so fun to watch them play in the waves and watch them warm themselves in the sun.

Want to Travel Further?

Lots of people like to visit the wineries or Walmart.  There are tours, shuttles, and taxis available at the port or thru the cruise line.  If you want to get out of town, you can get a tour to La Bufadora, a blow hole that blows up to 100 feet in the air!

Can You Use US Dollars in Ensenada?

Every time I spent money in Ensenada, I was able to spend USD.  You may get change in either Pesos or USD.  You might get a slightly better rate if you pay in pesos, but it’s not worth an ATM fee if you’re only going to be spending a few dollars (I spent less than $10 on my Ensenada walking tour). 

Is Ensenada Safe?

I felt very safe walking around Ensenada using the route mapped above.  The least comfortable thing about walking around is the aggressive salespeople on the shopping street, but it’s fine if you have a sense of humor about it. 

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Not visiting on a cruise and have more than one day in Ensenada?  Check out Rates and Availability for Hotels in Ensenada

Check out other things to do in Mexico .

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• Cruise Ports , Cruise Tips , Cruising , Mexico

• Candy on April 27, 2019 at 7:31 pm

I’ve taken many cruises, but haven’t made it to the Pacific Coast of Mexico yet. Pinning this for when I finally make it there!

• Tori on January 9, 2020 at 3:35 pm

Great blog. Thanks for sharing. Yes … the seafood photo doesn’t look very good)

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Ensenada, Mexico

Nicknamed the Pearl of the Pacific, with the Pacific Ocean to the west and a mountain range to the east, Ensenada is Baja California's third-largest city and one of its commercial and cultural hubs. The weather here is pleasant year round, evoking comparisons to Mediterranean climates. But the hot days and cool nights aren't the only reasons Ensenada and surrounding towns are compared to the Mediterranean; similar crops are grown here, including asparagus, olives and grapes. It's this last crop that makes Ensenada the gateway to Baja's wine route (Ruta del Vino), where labels little known outside of Mexico are produced, often in small batches. Winery tours and tastings are a quintessential Ensenada experience. It all makes for a pleasant visit, especially for foodies and oenophiles, who will appreciate the area's farm-to-table ethic and its many alfresco restaurants. Active travelers will love the region too, their greatest challenge being how to choose among the many adventures—zip lining and horseback riding are two highlights—that await in Ensenada and its outskirts.  

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Ensenada, Mexico

Port schedule.

Ensenada, Mexico cruise ship port calendar shows all scheduled arrival and departure dates in a timetable format. The cruise calendar displays the ship’s estimated time of arrival including related information such as how crowded is the port, as well as the ship’s next port-of-call.

The following timetable provides valuable information and keeps track of the future cruise ship arrivals from all major cruise lines. In order to find out more about the cruise ship itineraries such as ports, dates, and arrival/departure times just follow the ship’s link.

Ensenada - Baja Cruise Port Guide

Ensenada is a coastal city in Mexico and a third-largest on the Baja Peninsula, California distanced 125 km south of San Diego, California.

• Carnival Panorama 4.716 passengers 12 Apr 2024 - 08:00
• Disney Wonder 2.456 passengers 13 Apr 2024 - 08:30
• Carnival Radiance 4.375 passengers 14 Apr 2024 - 08:00
• Disney Wonder 2.456 passengers 16 Apr 2024 - 08:30
• Carnival Radiance 4.375 passengers 17 Apr 2024 - 08:00
• Crown Princess 3.674 passengers 18 Apr 2024 - 08:00
• Disney Wonder 2.456 passengers 20 Apr 2024 - 08:30
• Carnival Miracle 2.549 passengers 20 Apr 2024 - 15:00
• Carnival Radiance 4.375 passengers 21 Apr 2024 - 08:00
• Carnival Radiance 4.375 passengers 24 Apr 2024 - 08:00
• Crown Princess 3.674 passengers 25 Apr 2024 - 08:00
• Discovery Princess 4.402 passengers 26 Apr 2024 - 08:00
• Disney Wonder 2.456 passengers 27 Apr 2024 - 09:30
• Navigator Of The Seas 3.926 passengers 28 Apr 2024 - 08:00
• Carnival Radiance 4.375 passengers 28 Apr 2024 - 08:00
• Disney Wonder 2.456 passengers 30 Apr 2024 - 08:30
• Oceania Regatta 803 passengers 30 Apr 2024 - 11:00
• Carnival Radiance 4.375 passengers 01 May 2024 - 08:00
• Navigator Of The Seas 3.926 passengers 02 May 2024 - 08:00
• Disney Wonder 2.456 passengers 04 May 2024 - 08:30
• Carnival Panorama 4.716 passengers 12 Apr 2024 - 18:00
• Disney Wonder 2.456 passengers 13 Apr 2024 - 16:45
• Carnival Radiance 4.375 passengers 14 Apr 2024 - 18:00
• Disney Wonder 2.456 passengers 16 Apr 2024 - 16:45
• Carnival Radiance 4.375 passengers 17 Apr 2024 - 18:00
• Crown Princess 3.674 passengers 18 Apr 2024 - 17:00
• Disney Wonder 2.456 passengers 20 Apr 2024 - 16:45
• Carnival Miracle 2.549 passengers 20 Apr 2024 - 20:00
• Carnival Radiance 4.375 passengers 21 Apr 2024 - 18:00
• Carnival Radiance 4.375 passengers 24 Apr 2024 - 18:00
• Crown Princess 3.674 passengers 25 Apr 2024 - 17:00
• Discovery Princess 4.402 passengers 26 Apr 2024 - 17:00
• Disney Wonder 2.456 passengers 27 Apr 2024 - 16:45
• Navigator Of The Seas 3.926 passengers 28 Apr 2024 - 18:00
• Carnival Radiance 4.375 passengers 28 Apr 2024 - 18:00
• Disney Wonder 2.456 passengers 30 Apr 2024 - 16:45
• Oceania Regatta 803 passengers 30 Apr 2024 - 20:00
• Carnival Radiance 4.375 passengers 01 May 2024 - 18:00
• Navigator Of The Seas 3.926 passengers 02 May 2024 - 18:00
• Disney Wonder 2.456 passengers 04 May 2024 - 16:45

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7 Night Ensenada, Cabo & Vallarta Cruise

Your ship navigator of the seas.

MORE TO EXPLORE BETWEEN SHORES

Amplified Pool Deck

The blaster ®.

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A getaway with great taste.

El Loco Fresh ®

Hooked Seafood℠

Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver

Johnny Rockets® Express

Sea and be scene.

The Bamboo Room

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The Lime and Coconut ®

Day 1: los angeles, california.

Explore the Outer Beach Towns

Star-Studded Trails

Hit the Hills

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Day 2: Ensenada, Mexico

Hit the Beach

Hike Up to Wine Down

Enjoy Magical Marine Ecotourism

popular Shore Excursions

Amazing experiences coming soon., day 3: cruising.

Rock Climbing Wall

FlowRider ®

Day 4: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

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Submerge in Love

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Day 5: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Laze in the Sun

Afternoon With the Ancients

Romance in the Air

Day 6 - 7: Cruising

Chops Grille℠

Chef's Table

Day 8: los angeles, california.

Decades of first hand Mexico tourism information from me, "Mexico" Mike Nelson.

Decades of first hand mexico tourism information from me, "mexico" mike nelson.​, ensenada map.

Home » Ensenada Map

Called the “Cinderella of the Pacific,” the Mexican city of  Ensenada  is located in the state of Baja California on a gorgeous stretch of the Pacific coast.  When viewed on the Ensenada map, the city is ideally located on the Baja Peninsula and is a popular cruise ship port as well as a renowned vacation destination.  Whether driving or flying into the city, the Ensenada map can help travelers locate accommodations, restaurants, cultural venues, scenic attractions, and even historical sites outside the city.

Tijuana to Ensenada Driving Directions

Many travelers to Mexico head into the nation via Tijuana.  The drive from  Tijuana  to Ensenada is a pleasant one and takes less than an hour and a half.  Once in Tijuana, drivers should take the Playas de Tijuana Road or the Tijuana-Ensenada Toll Road.  The route is known for its majestic Pacific view.  Drivers should be prepared to pay three tolls along the way at $2.10 U.S. each.  The scenic highway is an extraordinary drive; however, drivers will note from the Ensenada map that there is an alternate route without toll roads that may be driven from Tijuana to Ensenada as well.  Keep in mind that the toll road, however, features the Green Angels who patrol the highway to help drivers who may have broken down or need automatic help of some sort.

Download map

Tecate to Ensenada Driving Directions

The drive from the lovely mountain city of Tecate down to Ensenada takes slightly more than an hour and a half.  Drivers should travel west on Carretera Federal 2/Mexico 2/Tecate–Tijuana going toward Libertad.  Merge slightly right onto Corredor Tijuana 2000.  Then, merge onto K1.  Turn left on Ensenada-Tijuana (Libre)/Tijuana-Ensenada/Carr Federal 1/Mexico 1.  Take a slight right on Escenica Tijuana/Ensenada.  Continue driving on Tijuana-Ensenada/Carr Federal 1/Mexico 1.  Make a left on Riveroll and then right on Novena.  Continue on 9.  Make a right on Jose Maria Morelos y Pavon.  Finally, turn left on Coral and head into town.

Traveling around Ensenada

Using the Ensenada map, drivers can see that Ensenada truly has much to offer vacationers.  Various beaches and beautiful scenic attractions in the city give way to regional attractions.  Many visitors to Ensenada like to travel outside the city as well to such areas as  Valle de Guadalupe  to visit the peninsula’s famous vineyards and wineries.  The Baja Peninsula also boasts many extraordinary historic sites from cave paintings to missions.

When vacationing in the city, travelers can use the Ensenada map to explore major thoroughfares and discover some of Ensenada’s best restaurants and shopping venues.  The map can help visitors to Ensenada locate hotels, campgrounds, areas for off-roading, and specific beaches.  Ensenada is a beautiful coastal city that draws traffic from around the globe.  It’s the perfect place to experience all the best of Mexico.

• August 11, 2022
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