ensenada tourist guide

27 Best Things to Do in Ensenada: Complete Guide

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Wondering what are the best things to do in Ensenada? Look no further. I just came back from an epic road trip to Ensenada and in this post, I am going to tell you all about this exciting city!

In this article, I’ll cover 27 of the top things to do in Ensenada that you don’t want to miss, ranging from must-see attractions to off-the-beaten-path gems that you won’t find in your typical travel guide.

Ensenada is an underrated city on the Pacific coast of Baja California (Norte) that offers a variety of attractions and activities for travelers of all ages and interests.

Whether you want to explore the stunning scenery, learn about the rich culture, enjoy the lively nightlife, savor the local flavors, or something else, you’ll find no shortage of amazing things to do in Ensenada that will make your trip memorable. 

 What Are The Best Things To Do In Ensenada?

 1. shop for local arts and crafts at avenida lopez mateos.

Avenida Lopez Mateos is the main tourist street in Ensenada that runs parallel to the waterfront. Here you will find many shops that sell souvenirs, clothing, jewelry, leather goods, cigars, and more.

You can also find some of Ensenada’s best restaurants and bars that serve delicious local cuisine and drinks. 

Probably the best shop to discover the local arts and crafts here is Bazar Casa Ramirez, which, as of writing this article, is also the #1 shopping destination in Ensenada on TripAdvisor.

This two-story store offers a stunning collection of festive items that showcase the creativity and diversity of Mexican artisans.

You can find everything from folk art, silver jewelry, crosses, and mirrors to pottery, textiles, masks, and sculptures. Each piece is hand-made and imported from different regions of Mexico.

On these streets, I also loved trying the delicious cafes, bakeries, and restaurants.

2. Discover The Rich History Of Ensenada: Museo De Historia and Regional Historical Museum

Those looking for a cultural and historical experience in Ensenada should not miss the Museo de Historia de Ensenada and the Regional Historical Museum in the city.

These museums will take you on a journey through the past of this beautiful city and its surroundings, from prehistoric times to the modern era.

At the Museo de Historia, visitors can see artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that bring Ensenada’s history to life.

The exhibits cover the history of the area, from its pre-Hispanic origins to its role in the Mexican War of Independence, as well as its development as a center of fishing, agriculture, and tourism.

The Regional Historical Museum is housed in a beautiful neoclassical building that was once the municipal jail. One of the most interesting features of this museum is the old prison cells where paintings by former inmates are preserved on the walls.

The museum also offers an exhibit of “Peoples and Cultures of Mesoamerica” and colonial and indigenous collections related to Ensenada’s past. 

3. Wander Around Plaza Civica For Some Historical Facts, Street Food, And Souvenirs

Plaza Civica is home to three giant bronze heads of Mexican heroes: Benito Juarez, Miguel Hidalgo, and Venustiano Carranza.

You can learn more about their roles in the Mexican Revolution and independence movement from the plaques below each statue.

It is also a great spot to enjoy some local cuisine and shop for handicrafts. There are many vendors selling tacos, ceviche, churros, and other delicious snacks along the sidewalks.

You can also browse through stalls offering pottery, jewelry, clothing, and souvenirs. Don’t forget to haggle for a good price!

4. Ride A Horse At Rancho Los Bandidos

Riding a horse at Rancho Los Bandidos is a fun and relaxing way to explore the scenic beauty of Ensenada.

The ranch offers guided horseback tours through the hills and valleys of Ensenada. You can choose from different trails and durations, depending on your skill level and preference.

This family-owned ranch has been offering horseback riding tours of the area since 1991 and has a variety of horses for all levels of riders.

You can enjoy the scenic views of the mountains, valleys, and the ocean as you ride along well-maintained trails with friendly and experienced guides.

5. Discover The Second-Largest Marine Geyser In The World: La Bufadora

La Bufadora is a blowhole and tourist attraction located on the Punta Banda Peninsula in Baja California, Mexico. It is one of Ensenada’s most impressive tourist attractions, being located about 21.7 miles (35 kilometers) south of the city.

Along the way, you can enjoy the scenic drive along the Pacific coast and stop at various viewpoints to admire the views.

Once you reach La Bufadora, you will find a lively place with souvenir shops, food stalls, and other services. 

If you’re not up for driving there (which I recommend), you can also join a tour that includes transportation and a local guide who will show you around this amazing place. 

6. Hike Through The El Salto Canyon And See The Waterfall

Adventure seekers who are visiting Ensenada should not miss this one. The hike is challenging but rewarding. You will need to use ropes, and boulders, and scramble over rocks to reach the bottom of the canyon. 

The trail is not marked and can be slippery, so make sure you wear good shoes, gloves, sunscreen, and insect repellent. You will also need to pay a small fee to enter the area.

Once you get to the canyon floor, you can enjoy the scenery and relax by the waterfall. You can also camp there if you want to spend more time exploring. The El Salto Canyon and Waterfall is a hidden gem that will make you feel like you are in another world.

Disclaimer. I didn’t have time for this hike, but since I read it was a great hiking experience I still wanted to include it in the post for you to learn about it.

You can contact them and learn more or just drive to the campground where you can also set up your own tent and spend the night.

 7. Visit Rosarito Beach

Rosarito Beach is a popular destination for tourists who want to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf of the Pacific Ocean.

The Beach offers a variety of activities and attractions for all ages and interests. You can relax on the beach, go surfing, kayaking, or fishing, explore the local culture and cuisine, or visit nearby attractions, like the Fox Studios Baja (where the Titanic was filmed).

Rosarito Beach is also known for its nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. You can find various options to suit your mood and taste, from live music and dancing to karaoke and comedy shows.

Whether you want to party with your friends, meet new people, or just relax and have a good time, this will be a spot you’ll surely enjoy.

 8. Stroll Along Ensenada’s Waterfront Marina: El Malecón Ventana Al Mar

A stroll along the Malecón is a must-do activity for visitors to Ensenada. This half-mile boardwalk offers stunning views of the harbor, where you can watch sea lions lounging on the rocks, boats sailing by, and the sun setting over the ocean.

Being a popular tourist attraction, the boardwalk is also lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it the perfect place to grab a bite to eat or a souvenir to take home.

As you walk, you can watch the boats come and go from the marina, and catch a glimpse of local fishermen bringing in their catch of the day. 

In addition to the stunning views and bustling atmosphere, El Malecón Ventana al Mar is also a great place to experience local culture.

You can often find street performers and musicians entertaining crowds, and there are plenty of opportunities to try traditional Mexican snacks and drinks. 

If you are in luck, as I was, you can see the fountains dancing around the huge Mexican Flag towering over the Marina.

PRO TIP – You can ask one of the fishermen by the pier to take you on a brief tour along the bay to admire the coastline and the cute sea lions swimming around. It only costs 500 pesos, for 1 hour and they will do it even for one person.

9. Hike the challenging trail in Cañon de Doña Petra Ecological Park

Cañon de Doña Petra Park is located just 15 minutes away from downtown Ensenada and offers one of the best opportunities for hiking enthusiasts. The challenging trail here is 13.3 miles (21.4 kilometers) long and takes about six hours to complete.

If you’re looking for a challenging hike while you’re in the area, you can’t miss this one. The trail is rated as moderate to hard, with some steep and rocky slopes that require poles.

You will encounter different microclimates along the way, from desert landscapes to oak forests.

The dense vegetation in some areas provides shade and coolness on hot days.

Before embarking on the trail, make sure to bring plenty of water, and sunscreen, and wear sturdy shoes.

It’s also a good idea to bring a snack or two to keep your energy levels up. With the right preparation, hiking this trail will be an unforgettable experience.

If you are traveling solo I would hire a local guide as it’s not very smart to be in the wilderness on your own. Also watch out for rattlesnakes, especially in the summer.

 10. Visit the Caracol Museo de Ciencias (Caracol Science Museum)

The Caracol Science Museum is dedicated to promoting the natural wonders of Baja California and the scientific research that studies this beautiful peninsula.

The museum is divided into three main galleries: Sala del Cielo y Planetario (Sky and Planetarium Room), Sala de la Tierra (Earth Room), and Sala del Mar (Sea Room) where you can learn about astronomy, biodiversity, and oceanography respectively. 

In the planetarium room, visitors can immerse themselves in a 360-degree view of the night sky.

It’s a truly awe-inspiring experience that will leave you feeling connected to the vast expanse of the cosmos. 

11. Taste The Original Margarita at Baja California’s Oldest Cantina: Hussong’s

Hussong’s Cantina is a legendary bar that was established in 1892 by John Hussong, a German immigrant who came to Ensenada during the gold rush.

His bar, as it stands today, is among the top of Ensenada’s tourist attractions.

It is the oldest and most famous bar in all of Baja California. And for good reason, it is reputedly the birthplace of the margarita, the iconic cocktail made with tequila, lime, and orange liqueur. 

According to the story, bartender Don Carlos Orozco named the drink in 1941 after Margarita Henkel, the daughter of a German diplomat who was visiting the bar at the same time as Don Carlos was experimenting with a new drink.

The drink was received very well, and on the same day, it was named after Margarita Henkel.

12. Discover The Art of Chocolate-Making at Maya Cacao

Who doesn’t love chocolate? But not a lot of people know that the Mayans played a significant role in the history of chocolate as we know it today.

They revered chocolate and it was an important part of their culture and belief system.

Maya Cacao is a place where you can experience the ancient art of chocolate-making as practiced by the Maya civilization.

You can taste cacao beans from colorful pods, grind them with stone tools, and enjoy a traditional dark chocolate drink that was reserved for the elite Mayas.

You can also participate in a workshop where you will learn about Mayan culture, and make your own chocolate (following the authentic recipe of the Mayans).

13. Relax in The Uncrowded, Clean Beaches of Playa Hermosa

If you’ve ever been to a beach in a tourist destination that’s known for its beaches, you know a lot of those beaches can get very crowded. 

Playa Hermosa (meaning “Beautiful Beach” in Spanish) is different. It is one of the best-kept secrets in Baja California, offering uncrowded, clean, and serene shores for you to enjoy.

Best of all, it’s easily one of the top free things to do in Ensenada.

Whether you want to sunbathe on the soft sand, swim in the clear water, surf the gentle waves, or explore the pristine beach, you can do all that (and more) in peace.

14. Try Deep-Sea Fishing

Ensenada is renowned for its diverse marine life, including yellowtail, tuna, dorado, and more.

As such, it is also a great place to go deep-sea fishing, suitable for all levels of experience, from beginners to experts.

You can choose from different types of boats and equipment depending on your preferences and budget.

You can also hire a professional guide or captain who will help you find the best spots and techniques for catching fish.

With experienced and knowledgeable local guides, you can explore the deep blue waters of the Pacific Ocean and test your angling skills against some of the most challenging game fish in the world.

You can either keep your catch or release it back into the water.

You can find a lot of fishing boat tours on the Malecon.

15. Take A Boat Trip Around The Bay

One of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of Ensenada is to take a boat trip around the bay.

If you’re not into fishing, you can choose other options, such as a whale-watching tour or a sunset cruise. However keep in mind that for whale watching Ensenada, is not the best destination as you will find closer whale encounters in other spots located in Baja California Sur.

However, taking a boat trip in Ensenada is still a cool thing to do to watch the sea lions and birds, over the Pacific coastline.

16. Try The Food From The Famous La Guerrerense Food Cart

La Guerrerense is a humble street stand that has been serving fresh and delicious ceviche and tostadas for over 40 years and has earned the praise of celebrities like Anthony Bourdain and Mark Wiens.

You can choose from various toppings, such as sea urchin, octopus, clam, scallop, abalone, shrimp, and more, and spice them up with their homemade salsas. 

But it’s not just the food that makes La Guerrerense special; it’s the experience. The food cart is located in a bustling street market, where locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy the lively atmosphere and mouth-watering dishes. 

The service is fast and friendly, and the owner, Sabina Bandera, is always ready to greet you with a smile.

The experience is so good that some reviewers have called this the “best food cart in the world.” Whether that title is true or not you will tell me.

To be honest, I didn’t try that one, but I found another incredible food cart that I recommend. See below.

17. Eat Your Way Around Ensenada

Besides the iconic places that everybody knows, you will find a lot of food carts in Ensenada that offer equally delicious seafood. I have tried a few of them and here below are my favorites:

El Güero is where I had the most delicious seafood tostada in my life! I am serious. The food cart itself is a must-see, so well organized and clean and the guys dressed up in yellow and blue uniforms. Adorable.

The seafood looks extremely fresh and the way they serve it is incredibly professional. It’s more expensive than a regular street food cart but you pay what you are getting.

Also, the amount of seafood that you get is giant. It makes a full meal.

La Floresta Taqueria – Try the delicious shrimp and fish tacos in this historical taqueria downtown.

18. Learn How To Scuba Dive, Snorkel, and Other Water Activities

Ensenada is a water lover’s paradise, with plenty of options to suit your preferences and budget. Whether you want to dive deep or float on top, you will find an adventure that will make your trip unforgettable. 

For those who prefer to stay on the surface, snorkeling is a great way to discover Ensenada’s diverse aquatic world. Snorkeling tours take you to the best spots to view schools of tropical fish, playful sea lions, and other underwater creatures.

If you want more adventurous water activity, try kayaking or paddleboarding along the rugged coastline.

Looking for something a bit more daring? Try scuba diving. You can choose from several dive sites, such as Campo Kennedy, Arbolitos Coves, and more, where you can see colorful sea life, shipwrecks, and even great white sharks.

You can find dive shops in downtown Ensenada. Keep in mind that in winter the water can be very cold. So it’s advisable to wait for the summer for these activities.

19. Ride the Desert Nest Zipline in El Sauzal

If you are looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure, you should try the Desert Nest Zipline. This zipline course is located in El Sauzal, about 15 minutes north of downtown Ensenada.

You will soar over the desert landscape and enjoy panoramic views of the landscape and the mountains.

The zipline course is divided into 5 lines, the longest of which is 5,100 meters! The Desert Nest Zipline is safe, fun, and suitable for all ages.

The staff is friendly, and professional, and will go above and beyond to make sure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience.

20. Enjoy The Nightlife In Various Bars and Clubs

If you love the nightlife you will love Ensenada even more. The city is also known for its live music scene, with many bars and clubs featuring local musicians and DJs.

The city is also known for its live music scene, with many bars and clubs featuring local musicians and DJs. They each have their vibe and atmosphere, so you’ll never be short of things to do in Ensenada at night.

In addition to the venues themselves, the atmosphere in Ensenada’s nightlife is unmatched. The city’s friendly locals and visitors create a welcoming and inclusive vibe that makes it easy to meet new people and make new friends.

Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, you’re sure to have a great time exploring Ensenada’s nightlife scene. Just take precautions and stay safe.

21. Taste The Local Craft Beer

Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or simply looking for a new and delicious drink to try, Ensenada’s craft beer scene is worth exploring. 

Ensenada’s local craft beer is characterized by its use of locally sourced ingredients and innovative brewing techniques. Many of the beers are made with local fruits, herbs, and spices, giving them a distinct and refreshing taste. 

The city’s brewers are also known for experimenting with new brewing styles and flavors, meaning that there is always something new and exciting to try.

Best of all, there are a growing number of microbreweries and taprooms in the city that offer a wide variety of unique and flavorful beers.

22. Rent A Car And Take a Day Trip Through the Valle de Guadalupe Wine Route

Valle de Guadalupe region, located about 40 minutes drive from Ensenada, is home to over 120 wineries that produce some of the best Mexican wines.

It is easily one of the best places to visit in Ensenada. Even if you’re not a fan of wine, you shouldn’t miss out on exploring this region.

You can explore the diverse and beautiful landscapes of the valley, taste different varieties of wines, learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy delicious meals at local restaurants.

There are both small micro wineries and large commercial ones in the area, and you will find something to suit your taste and budget. 

The vineyards are surrounded by rolling hills and scenic vistas, providing a picturesque backdrop for your wine-tasting adventure.

I stayed in the Valle de Guadalupe for two nights in the beautiful B&B Casa Mayoral , and I suggest you do that too, for the best experience.

However, it’s possible to visit in one day as it’s only 30 30-minute drive from Ensenada.

If you don’t feel like driving there are great tours offered from Ensenada where they take you to visit different wineries and lavender fields.

23. Watch The Sunset From The Ensenada Mirador

Right above the main road Calle Primera, at 10 minutes winding road, you will get to the mirador of Ensenada where you can enjoy spectacular views over the city and the port.

The sunset is on the other side but you will still be able to enjoy the city in a spectacular light. Perfect for stunning pictures.

Recommended Guided Tours in Ensenada

24. las cañadas canopy tour in ensenada.

This tour lets you experience the thrill of flying in five zip lines, two of them about 500 meters long and crossing multiple hanging bridges, each with a unique challenge.

You will enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains, forest, and lake as you soar through the air and test your balance and courage.

Don’t worry about the safety aspect, though. The tour is very safe and suitable for all ages. You can take part in the activities here as long as you are at least 50 inches tall and can fit the safety harness.

The grounds also have swimming pools, the biggest children’s water park in the whole state, ATV rentals, paddle boats, camping, and more.

25. La Bufadora Tour in Baja California

As we’ve already covered in #5 on this list, La Bufadora is the largest sea geyser in North America and one of the most spectacular natural attractions in Mexico.

The drive to La Bufadora is quite scenic, where you can enjoy the views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged cliffs.

You might also have a chance to stop at a local market, where you can find a variety of souvenirs, crafts, snacks, and drinks.

But, of course, the main highlight of the tour is witnessing the amazing power of La Bufadora, which shoots water out of a sea cave more than 100 feet into the air with a roar. The water spray creates a rainbow effect that adds to the beauty of the spectacle.

The best time to visit La Bufadora is when the tide is high and the waves are strong, as this makes the geyser even more impressive.

If you don’t feel like driving on your own you are in luck because you can find a lot of affordable tours some of which combine different activities so you can squeeze more attractions in one day.

More Highly Rated Tours To La Bufadora

26. guadalupe valley wine route tour in baja california.

Want to tour the Guadalupe Valley but aren’t up for renting a car and taking the drive? No problem! This tour will take you to the best spots along the wine route in Guadalupe.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, which means you just have to book the tour and hop on the bus; the company will do the rest.

Along the tour, you’ll visit four different wineries, each with its style and personality.

And you will have the opportunity to taste a variety of wines , from reds and whites to roses and sparkling wines. You will also learn about the winemaking process and the characteristics of each wine.

Other Tours To The Valle de Guadalupe

27. horseback riding.

Horseback riding is a great activity for people of all ages and skill levels, and it allows you to explore the scenic coastline and estuary of Ensenada at your own pace (and in a very fun way).

These tours take riders on scenic routes through the countryside, vineyards, and coastal areas, offering stunning views of the landscape.

There are many companies offering horseback riding tours in Ensenada in a variety of different places.

28. ATV Off-Road Adventure in the Valle de Guadalupe

Want to ride on a powerful and easy-to-use ATV through the scenic backcountry of the wine region, passing by vineyards, hills, and valleys? Say no more!

Tons of tours in Ensenada will take you on a wild ride through the region’s most beautiful natural areas, including valleys, hills, and vineyards.

Many tours include stops at local landmarks and points of interest, providing visitors with a unique glimpse into the history and culture of Ensenada.

Food and beverage options are also available (though not always with every tour), with many tours including wine tastings and local cuisine.

29. Lavender Field Tour

At Aires de Lavanda farm in Valle de Guadalupe, you can take a guided tour of the lavender fields and learn about the cultivation, harvesting, and distillation of this fragrant herb. The farm is one of the hidden gems in Ensenada.

You will also get to sample some natural cosmetic products made from lavender, such as soap, lotion, and oil.

You can even make your bouquet or sachet of lavender to take home with you. The tour lasts about an hour and includes a refreshing lemonade drink and a lavender dessert.

When is The Best Month To Go to Ensenada?

The best month to go to Ensenada depends on personal preferences and interests. Generally, the peak season in Ensenada is during the summer months of June through August when the weather is warm and many festivals and events are happening.

However, as you can guess, prices for accommodations and activities will be high during this time.

For those looking to avoid crowds and save money, the shoulder seasons of March through May and September through November offer a good balance between good weather and slightly lower prices.

You’ll still enjoy many of Ensenada’s attractions and festivals during these times, with fewer crowds and more affordable accommodations and activities.

If you want to maximize your savings, visit during the winter months of December through February, when temperatures can be cooler and rain is more common.

However, you’ll find great deals on accommodations and activities during this time.

I was there in February and I loved the cool weather, and most of all I loved that I didn’t see any snakes around.

In the summer it is most likely that you see rattlesnakes around your hotel room, easily. I know I freaked out when I learned about it. Just make sure you close your hotel room door and window and you’ll be fine.

Where to Stay in Ensenada

When I visited Ensenada I stayed in an Airbnb on the main coastal road which was away from the busy downtown and I loved it. But I had a car.

If you don’t have a car I would recommend staying Downtown so that you will be at walking distance of shops and restaurants and the main attractions.

In my Where to Stay in Ensenada post, I will share all the best hotels and home rentals that I have specially selected based on location and guest rating.

Here I am sharing a few options as well.

Hotel Villa Fontana Inn – budget-friendly hotel in downtown Ensenada

Casa Asturias – luxury hotel in downtown Ensenada

City Plus Ensenada – Mid-range hotel on the beach just outside Ensenada

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you spend a day in ensenada.

Ensenada is a beautiful coastal city that offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors. Above, I’ve listed just 27 of them, but that list is far from exhaustive.

There’s an endless array of possibilities on how you can go about spending a day in the city. 

You can try delicious Mexican food in one of the countless restaurants in the city, spend a day learning about the history of the region in the Riviera Cultural Center, take a drive to La Bufadora, try horseback riding, visit Valle de Guadalupe and enjoy world-class wines, enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Ensenada in one of its many bars, casinos, and clubs, and the list goes on and on.

When it comes to having fun in Ensenada, the sky is the limit.

Is Ensenada Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! I had very low expectations and I have to say that I was quite impressed by all the things Ensenada has to offer, especially the food. Soo good!!

is a city that’s packed with fun opportunities for visitors of all ages and backgrounds.

From stunning beaches and vineyards to outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone in Ensenada.

Where is Ensenada Located?

Ensenada is located in the Baja California State of Mexico only 64 miles (107 km) south of Tijuana .

Is Ensenada Walkable?

Generally, yes. But it also depends on what you want to do/see here and where you’re staying.

Ensenada is a walkable city if you are staying near the port or the downtown area, where you can find many things to do and see within walking distance. 

However, if you want to enjoy more of Ensenada’s attractions like Hermosa Beach, or if you want to go all the way to La Bufadora, you need to take a taxi or a bus to get to some of the places that are farther away from the port.

Can You Swim in Ensenada?

Yes, you can swim in Ensenada, but it’s important to be aware of the conditions and take necessary precautions.

Ensenada has several beaches that are safe for swimming, like Playa Hermosa, Playa Estero, and Playa Baja.

However, some beaches may have strong currents or rough surf, so it’s important to pay attention to warning signs and be cautious when entering the water.

With proper precautions and awareness, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable swimming experience.

Are Ensenada Beaches Clean?

Ensenada has several beaches that are clean and well-maintained, offering visitors a safe and enjoyable swimming experience.

Playa Hermosa and Playa Baja are two of the most popular and well-known beaches in Ensenada and are known for their clean and clear waters.

However, generally speaking, the more popular and crowded beaches tend to be less clean than the less frequented ones.

This is because they receive more visitors who may leave behind trash, debris or pollution.

This does not mean that these beaches are unsafe or unhealthy.

They still have their charm and appeal, and many people enjoy them for their convenience and amenities.

Do I Need Pesos in Ensenada?

Yes, I highly recommend that you carry pesos when traveling to Ensenada.

While some businesses may accept US dollars, the exchange rate they’ll provide you is not favorable and you will end up overpaying (by at least 10%). 

Additionally, many businesses, notably the smaller ones, only accept pesos.

Visitors can exchange their currency for pesos at banks or exchange houses in Ensenada, or withdraw pesos from ATMs using a debit card (this approach is not recommended as the ATMs will charge you extra).

Overall, having pesos on hand will make your trip to Ensenada smoother and more enjoyable.

Is Ensenada Safe for Tourists?

Yes, Ensenada is generally a safe destination for tourists. Thousands of tourists visit Ensenada each year without any unpleasant incidents.

However, that doesn’t mean you can throw caution to the wind when you’re here. So be aware of your surroundings.

Like any popular tourist destination, Ensenada has its share of petty crime.

While you’re in the city, please take common sense precautions such as avoiding walking alone at night, not flashing expensive jewelry or electronics, and keeping valuables out of sight.

With just a little bit of caution, you’ll have a very enjoyable trip to Ensenada.

Is Driving to Ensenada from San Diego Safe?

Yes, driving to Ensenada from San Diego is generally safe, but you should do prior research on the driving conditions and take necessary precautions. 

The route from San Diego to Ensenada is heavily traveled.

However, traffic can be heavy during peak tourist season, and you should be prepared for long wait times at the border during this time. 

It’s also important to have proper documentation, including a valid passport and valid driver’s license, when crossing the border.

Additionally, visitors should be aware of local driving laws and customs, such as the use of turn signals and the requirement to have Mexico-specific liability insurance . 

You can also check out Baja Bound Mexican Insurance , one of the most popular car insurance for US travelers to Baja.

How Far is Ensenada From the US Border?

Ensenada is around 70 miles (110 kilometers) from the US border.

What Food is Ensenada Known For?

Ensenada is famous for its seafood and wine, as well as its fusion of Mexican and Asian cuisines.

One of the most iconic foods of Ensenada is the Baja-style taco , which consists of crispy fried fish or shrimp wrapped in a soft corn tortilla and topped with shredded cabbage, salsa, and crema.

You can find these delicious tacos at street stalls, markets, and restaurants all over the city.

Another popular food of Ensenada is ceviche , which is raw fish or shellfish marinated in lime juice, onion, cilantro, and chilies. Ceviche can be served on a tostada, in a cup, or on a plate with crackers or chips.

If you are a fan of spicy food, you should try Aguachile, which is a version of ceviche with a green chili sauce that covers the shrimp or scallop.

Ensenada’s cuisine also has a strong influence on Chinese food, which can be seen in dishes like Camarones enchiladas.

This is a dish of pan-fried shrimp cooked in olive oil with garlic, Pequin pepper, and salt. It is usually eaten with rice or in a taco.

Why Do Cruise Ships Go To Ensenada?

Cruise ships visit Ensenada for several reasons. First, Ensenada is a popular port of call for cruises departing from California, offering a convenient and accessible stop along the coast of Mexico. 

Additionally, Ensenada is known for its scenic coastline, picturesque harbor, and vibrant culture, making it an attractive destination for cruise passengers. 

The city is also home to several popular tourist attractions, including wineries, beaches, and historic sites, providing visitors with a variety of activities and experiences to choose from. 

Finally, Ensenada is a gateway to other popular destinations in Baja California, such as the Valle de Guadalupe wine region and La Bufadora, a natural blowhole attraction.

Overall, Ensenada’s combination of accessibility, natural beauty, and cultural attractions make it an ideal destination for cruise ships.

Things To Do in Ensenada: Final Thoughts

As you may have realized by now, Ensenada is a gem of a destination, offering visitors a wealth of activities, attractions, and experiences to enjoy.

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor adventure, food, and drink, or simply soaking up the sun on a beautiful beach, this city has you covered. There’s no shortage of fun things to do in Ensenada.

From exploring museums and historical sites to hiking through canyons and sampling local wines, the city and its surrounding areas are full of unique and memorable experiences.

You can easily spend a week or more exploring all the attractions and activities that this beautiful city has to offer.

I hope this guide has helped you plan your trip to this pretty city of Baja California.

Isabella is traveler and animal lover, a former tourism professional with an multinational background that lead her to Mexico, that she can proudly call home. After seven years in Cancun where she's still a resident, she took a bold leap, leaving her fancy job to embrace a nomadic lifestyle. She traveled all over Mexico, from Baja California to Ciudad Juarez, Oaxaca, Chiapas Hidalgo exploring and living like a local. Isabella founded Let's Travel to Mexico to help travelers plan their own trip on and off the beaten path in this beautiful land that she loves so dearly.

MexicoDave.com

Ensenada travel guide.

Mexico › Ensenada Updated: March 1, 2022

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Ensenada is one of Mexico’s most atmospheric ports, a laid-back, historic city on the western, Pacific coast, and one of our favorite places to go for superb seafood, wine, and whale-watching.

Sail boats in the marina with a cruise ship in the port of Ensenada, Baja Mexico.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ensenada

Where is ensenada.

Ensenada is a city in Mexico, on the northwestern, Pacific coast of the country in the state of Baja California. Ensenada is just 110 km south of the US border at Tijuana, and 135 km (84 miles) south of central San Diego in California. Ensenada is over 2825 km from Mexico City – at least 36 hours by road. The nearest major airport is at Tijuana (a 1 hour 45 minute drive from Downtown Ensenada).

How big is Ensenada?

Ensenada has a greater metro population of almost 525,000, though it’s central core is relatively compact. Downtown or “Zona Centro” is focused on the busy waterfront and harbor, where the fishing fleet and cruise ships dock, and runs inland for several blocks. Although there are no beaches in the center, a long strip of sand runs along the wide Bahía de Todos Santos (Bay of All Saints) for almost 20km, beginning with Playa Hermosa just to the south.

What is the history of Ensenada?

Ensenada was officially “founded” in 1542, but this really denotes when the area was discovered by the Spanish (Quechan- or Yuman-speaking peoples had lived here for thousands of years). It remained little more than a village until gold was discovered nearby in 1872. Ensenada was then developed as a mining port, and was designated capital of Baja California in 1882 – the modern city was planned and developed by the British-owned Mexican Land & Colonization Co in subsequent decades. Devastated by the Mexican Revolution (1910–1920), Ensenada lost its capital status in 1915 and remained a backwater until tourism took off in the 1950s. The annual Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race began in 1948 (Humphrey Bogart took part in the first race), while the famous Baja 1000 motor race started in Ensenada in 1962 (the Baja 500 followed in 1969).

How do I get to Ensenada?

Ensenada does have a tiny airport, but this only serves a couple of locations in Baja California. The nearest major airport is at Tijuana, which is connected to numerous destinations within Mexico by non-stop flights, though there are at present no international flights. Most European flights to Tijuana will route through Mexico City. Buses run from Tijuana airport direct to Ensenada; taxis can also be taken, but these are expensive (at least US$80), though a lot more convenient.

In practice, most US and Canadian visitors come to Ensenada by cruise ship or by car (see below), though it’s relatively straightforward to visit by bus. These shuttle back and forth between the US border at Tijuana and Ensenada bus station every hour or so and take around 1 hour 30 minutes.

Ensenada is well known for the excellent wineries in the area.

Can I use Uber in Ensenada?

Uber is available and cheap in Tijuana, though not usually for airport pick-ups, where a local taxi monopoly operates – use official airport taxis or buses instead from Tijuana airport. Uber drivers in the US cannot take passengers across the Mexican border – walk across the border and order another Uber on the Mexican side, and vice versa.

Once in Ensenada (assuming phones have the app and has roaming in Mexico), Uber can offer convenience and cheaper rates over traditional taxis. In addition, a service dubbed “uberVALLE” offers day-long, round-trip rides to the Valle de Guadalupe wine region from Ensenada – just select “valleX” in the Uber app (the driver will wait at the various vineyards).

Can I drive to Ensenada?

Driving down to Ensenada from the US border is easy and straightforward – the main four-lane Highway-1D is in good condition all the way (allow 1 hour 30 minutes), though we’d advise leaving Tijuana as quickly as possible if that’s the point of entry. There are three tolls coming south from Tijuana (around US$5 total in peso) on Hwy-1D (“cuota” means toll), but the original two-lane Hwy-1 can also be taken, which is free (allow at least 2 hours on this road). The drive should also take around 1 hour 30 minutes from Tecate, and just over 3 hours from Mexicali.

Another plus: foreign vehicles do not need a Mexican “Temporary Importation of Vehicle Permit”, as long as they stay on the Baja peninsular.

If are renting a vehicle, it’s much easier to do this once across the Mexican border, as taking US rental vehicles into Mexico comes with all sorts of restrictions.

Tourists enjoying the splash of the waterfront geyser.

Do I need a car in Ensenada?

A car isn’t really needed in Ensenda. Most of what there is to see and do lies within Downtown, which is easily explored on foot. Local buses, taxis, and Uber cars can be taken to destinations outside the city relatively cheaply. To do exploring in the surrounding countryside, including the Valle de Guadalupe, having a vehicle can be more convenient. It’s also possible to arrange car rental on arrival in Ensenada; Alamo, Enterprise, and Hertz operate in the city, along with several cheap Mexican rental outfits.

How do I get around Ensenada without a vehicle?

Walking is the best way to see Ensenada, but it’s relatively easy to find taxis (or arrange an Uber) for longer trips to the beaches, or to La Bufadora.

When is the best time to go to Ensenada?

Ensenada has a mild, Mediterranean-like climate – it stays relatively dry year-round (though it’s slighter wetter in the winter than the summer) and experiences surprisingly cool weather December to March. In general, the summer months – June through September – are the best times to visit, as the weather is hot but not unbearable, and the beaches are therefore a lot more appealing. It also doesn’t rain much. However, visiting in October/November or April/May will still mean warm weather without the crowds (and cruise ship visitors). Whale-watching is also best December to April.

Where should I stay in Ensenada?

Most tourists in Ensenada stay in Centro (Downtown), where there’s a wide range of accommodation – the cheapest places lie further inland from the seafront and along Avenida López Mateos. The bigger and posher resorts tend to be located along the coast to the north and south – a pricey taxi ride from Downtown. These are recommended primarily for travelers with their own vehicles.

What are the best beaches in Ensenada?

The best beaches in Ensenada lie beyond Downtown. Our favorite is Estero Beach, a relatively tranquil spot with soft sand some 13 km south of the city. Day passes that provide access to pools, restaurants, and activities are usually available at the posh Estero Beach Hotel here (the hotel takes up much of the seafront but the public section is known as El Faro Beach). Otherwise, Playa Hermosa just south of the port is pretty good, with locals keeping the sand clean and umbrellas available to rent for a few pesos. For experienced surfers, the best spot is Playa San Miguel, 13 km north of Downtown.

Tourists enjoying the beautiful waterfront.

Where to change money in Ensenada?

Though the Mexican peso is the official currency in Ensenada (often prefixed with a “$” sign), many hotels, restaurants, and vendors will accept US or Canadian dollars (especially when cruise ships are in town). However, change will often be given in pesos, and US/Canadian dollar prices invariably work out to be higher than peso prices because of inflated exchange rates.

Try to use ATMs to withdraw peso cash in Ensenada if possible (check with the bank before leaving to confirm it’s possible to use a debit card and how much they will charge – using credit cards can incur interest or foreign transaction fees). Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is needed for buses, most taxis, and small purchases.

What are the best things to do in Ensenada?

In Ensenada itself it’s fun to visit the Riviera del Pacifico , a Spanish Revival-style casino and hotel completed in 1930 and now a cultural center. Inside there’s a small but absorbing history museum and Bar Andaluz, an atmospheric spot for a drink. Across the street, the Caracol Museo de Ciencias is a new-ish science museum that’s primarily aimed at kids. Stroll along the waterfront from here, up to the Mercado de Mariscos, the traditional fish market, which is always crammed with fresh seafood. This is a great place to sample Baja’s legendary fish tacos – said to have been invented in Ensenada. Wine lovers should check out the Bodegas de Santo Tomás , one of Baja California’s largest and oldest wineries – it’s also easy to arrange tours of the nearby Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico’s up-and-coming wine region. And don’t forget Hussong’s Cantina – this spit-and-sawdust bar was established way back in 1892 by German immigrant Johann Hussong and is one of several spots to claim the invention of the margarita. Whale-watching tours (from mid-December to mid-April), to view the grey whale migration, are easily arranged from the harbor – contact Sergio’s Sportfishing Center in advance.

What are the restaurants in Ensenada like?

Restaurants are pretty good, though street food is where Ensenada really excels. This is the home of the fish taco, and numerous places complete for the title of “best in Baja” beginning with venerable stall Tacos Fenix (Espinosa at Juárez). There’s also La Guerrerense , a food stall beloved of the late Anthony Bourdain that serves fresh shellfish tostadas and ceviche. Bronco’s is the place for steak, while Chef Benito Molina’s Manzanilla Restaurante is our favorite place for gourmet Mexican seafood. Cervecería Wendlandt is the best of a growing number of Baja craft breweries.

Souvenirs for sale along the waterfront.

Is Ensenada expensive?

Ensendada is not really expensive. Everything is relative of course, but hotels in Ensenada – especially inland from the seafront – tend to be reasonably priced, and public transport and the city’s famous street food is very cheap – almost everything is priced in pesos, not US dollars, though services targeted specifically at cruise ship passengers always cost more.

Is Ensenada safe?

Yes. Ensenada has generally avoided the drug violence that has affected other parts of Mexico. Take the usual precautions, especially at night, and keep valuables in room safes. Theft of personal items from beaches does happen – never leave anything of value unattended, even on seemingly empty stretches of sand.

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Ensenada Mexico: Your Ultimate Guide to Baja California

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Welcome to Ensenada Mexico , a coastal town ideal for experiencing the best of Baja California!

Known for its stunning beaches, delicious seafood, and vibrant culture, Ensenada is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty and charm of Mexico’s Pacific coast.

In this post, I’ll dive into all that Ensenada offers, from its world-class wineries to its lively nightlife scene.

So sit back, grab a margarita, and join me on a journey through this enchanting city.

Getting to Ensenada, Mexico

Ensenada is a beautiful coastal city located in the northern region of Baja California, just a short drive from the US-Mexico border (about 80 miles) .

There are several ways to get to Ensenada:

By Car : If traveling from the United States, you can enter Mexico through the San Ysidro border crossing in San Diego , California. From there, take the toll road (Mexican Highway 1) south to Ensenada. The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

By Bus : Several bus companies offer service to Ensenada from major regional cities, including Tijuana and Mexicali . The trip takes about 2-3 hours from Tijuana and 5-6 hours from Mexicali.

By Air : The nearest major airport is in Tijuana, about 95 km north of Ensenada. From there, you can take a taxi, bus, or rent a car .

By Cruise : Ensenada is a popular port of call for cruise ships traveling along the west coast of North America. If you’re taking a cruise, you’ll likely dock at the Ensenada Cruise Port in the city’s center.

Top 13 things to do and see in Ensenada Mexico

1. admire la bufadora.

In Punta Banda , this amazing “rock,” 34 km from Ensenada , is mistakenly called a marine geyser.

In reality, it is not a column of hot water coming from the seabed but a natural system of chimneys opened in the cliff, through which the water rises with force in hours of high tide, reaching heights close to 30 meters.

2. Stroll along with Calle Primera and the Civic Plaza

Ensenada beats along Avenida López Mateos, known as Calle Primera (first street) .

It is approximately one km long and is a delight to walk along amidst the pleasant, always spring-like weather of this Baja California city.

The Civic Plaza is a large esplanade with giant sculptures of the heads of Hidalgo, Juárez, and Carranza.

Calle Primera is well endowed with stores where you can buy that piece you forgot to put in your suitcase, cafes, bars, and restaurants where you can stop for a drink or a snack while you absorb the city’s pulse.

3. Sunbathe on Ensenada’s beaches

Ensenada Mexico has charming public and private beaches , where you can spend a relaxing and fun day sunbathing, practicing your favorite activities, and drinking Margaritas and ice-cold beer, accompanied by delicious “Fruits de Mer.”

• Among the private beaches are Mona Lisa and Estero Beach
• For public beaches, there are El Punto and San Miguel

For surf lovers, on the north coast of Ensenada, you have sound waves at California Trailer, San Miguel, Park, 3 M’s, and Stacks .

If you like to spend some time in fresh water after a long day at the beach, Ensenada has several water parks with excellent facilities such as swimming pools, water slides, lagoons for boating, palapas with barbecue grills, restaurants, and other goodies.

One of the most complete water parks is Las Cañadas in Ejido El Zorrillo.

Other options are El Palomar , in the Santo Tomás District; Los Cárdenas , also in El Zorrillo; and Albercas María Teresa , in Valle de Guadalupe.

4. Take the Wine Route

Ensenada is part of Mexico’s most important wine region, the Guadalupe Valley , between Ensenada and Tecate .

There are vineyards and wineries on the Wine Route that runs through the valleys of Guadalupe, Santo Tomas, and San Antonio de las Minas, from the most prestigious to the small and artisanal ones, which surprise with the quality of their lesser-known wines.

There are hotels and restaurants with splendid views of the vineyards and delicious meals to enjoy the regional wines.

The wineries offer tours and tastings that pair their best wines with the area’s exquisite cheeses and artisanal products.

5. Visit the Ensenada Museum of the Vine and Wine

The Ensenada Vine and Wine Museum deserves a separate chapter for the city’s winemaking tradition and the exhibition’s importance and beauty.

This museum has a History Room and an Identity Room , where the history of wine since ancient times is didactically explained with texts and beautiful pieces of viticulture tools.

The museum also has an amphitheater and an exhibition hall.

The Industry Room is dedicated to producing wine on a larger scale, while the Art Room exhibits paintings and art objects related to wine.

6. Take a marine wildlife-watching tour

Life-watching enthusiasts will feel wonderful in Ensenada, as the migration of gray whales and other species can be admired along its coastline.

The gray whale is a cetacean that can weigh 20 tons and is 15 meters long, making a 10,000 km marathon, alone or in groups, from the icy north to the warm waters of the lagoons of Baja California.

Boats leave the Ensenada boardwalk to look at these exciting examples of biodiversity and other species, such as the blue whale, the humpback whale, the pilot whale, and the orca.

7. Visit the Riviera Cultural Center

The most symbolic cultural space in Ensenada is the Riviera Cultural Center.

It is housed in a beautiful white building with red roofs, surrounded by gardens and green areas, built in the 1930s as a casino.

It was a gambling house until 1935, when that activity was prohibited in Mexico and used to receive great national and international celebrities, such as Dolores del Rio , Rita Hayworth , Lucille Ball , and Bing Crosby .

The beautiful building of Moorish architecture hosts events, workshops, and cultural groups in dance, ballet, theater, literature, painting, drawing, and sculpture.

8. Tour the museums and galleries in Ensenada

There are several fascinating museums in Ensenada Mexico.

The Caracol is a science museum and aquarium oriented to scientific and environmental education for children and young people.

It has three permanent halls (Earth, Sky, and Sea) and one for temporary exhibits.

The Regional History Museum offers a free tour of local history in a building from the 1880s, one of the oldest in the city.

The History Museum is located inside the Riviera Cultural Center and was developed by the Archeology Department of the Autonomous University of Baja California.

Another exciting collection is the Russian Community Museum , which shows facets of the life of the small Russian community settled in the area at the beginning of the 20th century.

Although not a big city, Ensenada is distinguished by its cosmopolitanism, evidenced by its museums and cultural institutions, theaters, and art galleries.

The Pérez Meillón Gallery was founded in 1988 by siblings Adalberto and Patricia Pérez Meillón, who began with a store selling high-quality handicrafts (Tarahumara pieces, Pai Pai pottery, and Kumiai basketry), and today it offers wide range of works by local and national artists.

Another gallery of interest in Ensenada Mexico is Los Arcos Art Studio and Gallery , located on Carrera Punta Banda in Ejido Esteban Cantú.

9. Breathe fresh air in Constitución de 1857 National Park

This park is another of the rare wooded areas of the arid Baja California peninsula near Ensenada.

It is part of the Sierra de Juárez and on its highest point is the Hanson Lagoon .

Its main fauna species are the endangered bighorn sheep and mule deer.

The area of more than 5,000 hectares is densely populated with conifers and other trees.

In the park, you can practice outdoor sports, such as walking and hiking, and in the lagoon, you can go canoeing and fishing.

10. Visit Ensenada’s Fish & Seafood Market

One of the most picturesque places worth visiting is the Fish & Seafood Market, located near the north side of the Malecon (boardwalk) .

All the best & freshest fish, shellfish, and mollusks are found in this marketplace, where the voices of the stall keepers praising their merchandise mix noisily with those of the buyers demanding maximum freshness and the best price.

You can taste the famous fish tacos and other preparations in the market’s food sales area.

11. Visit the Todos Santos Islands

The Todos Santos Islands , which are two (North and South) , are located only 20 km from Ensenada, and their only access is by sea, with departures from Ensenada and La Bufadora .

The islands stand out for two reasons: their magnificent waves for surfing and their rich biodiversity.

The Todos Santos Norte Island waves are among the highest on the American continent.

Among the local fauna species, the Rata combalachera de Todos Santos and the Todos Santos Viper stand out for their beauty and rarity.

12. Enjoy Off-Road Races

The Mexican Baja Peninsula is one of Mexico’s sanctuaries for off-road racing. The famous Baja 1000 race traditionally takes place in November, starting in Ensenada and finishing in La Paz .

It is the longest single-stage race in the world, covering 1,050 miles (1,700 km) , hence its name.

Cars, trucks, pickups, motorcycles, and ATVs participate. The rest of the year, there are races in different categories, with the sponsorship of hotels and companies linked to the world of motors.

13. Have a Margarita at Hussong’s Cantina

Although several places in Baja California dispute the creation of the famous Margarita cocktail , the most widely accepted version is that it was the work of Carlos Orozco, bartender at Cantina Hussong’s, located at 113 Ruiz Avenue in Ensenada.

Don Carlos liked to experiment and offered the novel cocktail to Margarita Henkel , daughter of the German ambassador, who lived in the city.

The client liked the invention, and the drink took her name.

It would be unthinkable for you to go to Ensenada and not try this fantastic mix of tequila, triple sec, and lime juice in its place of origin, Cantina Hussong’s , where there is also a great atmosphere, with music and typical shows.

Ensenada has accommodations for all budgets, from beachfront hotels, which charge for their privileged ocean views, to the more modest inland hotels.

You will be excellently served by the friendly locals, paying less.

These are the two most popular hotels in Ensenada:

• Hotel Coral & Marina , at km 103 on the highway to Tijuana , has excellent facilities and a lovely marina
• Estero Beach has a private beach, and its rooms are very spacious and comfortable

There are also nice places at lower rates, such as the Quintas Papagayo , Hotel Sausalito , and Hotel Plaza Fatima .

Ensenada Mexico is the home of Fish Tacos

Ensenada’s most emblematic dish is Tacos de Pescado (fish tacos) , a 1960’s creation of Don Zeferino Mancillas, a fisherman who loved to cook.

Don Zeferino started selling his fish fried whole with garnishes, and for a change, he began to prepare tacos, coating the fish with flour and seasoning it with pico de gallo.

In any beach restaurant or stall in town, you can informally enjoy this culinary symbol of Ensenada and all the delicacies of Baja California’s land and sea.

Ensenada’s nightlife

The weather, the beach atmosphere, the water and land sports, the Margaritas, the excellent Baja wines, beers, and the seafood snacks work together in Ensenada to make you go out for a good night out in the bars and nightclubs.

There are many of them, from the famous Cantina Hussong’s to the most modern and cosmopolitan style.

Aside from Hussong’s, some places with the best nightlife are Papas & Beer Ensenada, Mango Mango, and Bar 646 ¡Salud!

Ensenada, Baja California: Conclusion

There’s a reason why Ensenada, Mexico, is dubbed the crown jewel of Baja California.

Whether you’re exploring the vibrant local markets, indulging in fresh seafood, sampling world-class wines from the Guadalupe Valley, or basking on pristine beaches, Ensenada promises an unforgettable experience.

Ensenada boasts a unique blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and adventure.

Its charming blend of old-world charm and modern attractions caters to every type of traveler.

So pack your bags and set out for Ensenada—where the magic of Baja California awaits.

Happy and safe travels!

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12 Top-Rated Things to Do in Ensenada

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Jan 20, 2023

Author Meagan Drillinger visits Mexico several times a year. She most recently visited Ensenada on an extended trip through Baja in September 2022.

Seventy miles south of the California border sits a quiet fishing-village-turned-cruise-port and surf haven . Ensenada, a small town on the coast of Baja Norte , is one of the most iconic beach towns in Mexico.

The quirky coastal city is a mishmash of day trippers in port on a cruise call, Californians passing through for a weekend of surf, local fishermen and craftsmen, musicians, and domestic visitors from the mainland. As such, it's a fairly international spot for such a small town. You'll find everything from traditional tacos to haute French fare, tacky T-shirts to Indigenous handicrafts.

Among the top things to do in Ensenada are to stroll the streets to soak up the effervescent atmosphere, from live Mariachi music to cacophonous taco stalls, dancing fountains and natural geysers, epic waves, and brightly colored souvenir stands. Don't miss one of the world's largest flags — though at 164 feet by 91 feet, to miss it would be impossible.

A bit outside of Ensenada proper, many locals and visitors love to break a sweat in the extreme sports scenes, from skydiving and ATV rides to surfing and snorkeling.

Ensenada is very much on the tourist trail but still manages to retain its small-town charm. Plan your sightseeing with our list of the top things to do in Ensenada.

1. Stroll Avenida Lopez Mateos

2. discover the museo de historia, 3. catch the water show at parque de la bandera, 4. wander plaza civica, 5. mount a steed at rancho los bandidos, 6. visit la bufadora, 7. hike el salto canyon, 8. pop up to rosarito, 9. dive into extreme sports, 10. browse the malecon, 11. explore cañon de doña petra ecological park, 12. caracol museo de ciencias, map of ensenada - best things to do.

When you first arrive in Ensenada, especially if it's on a cruise ship, the first thing you're going to hear about is Avenida Lopez Mateos. Also known as Calle Primera , the four blocks of this avenue between Calle Castillo and Avenida Riveroll are primetime for shopping and soaking up the tourist vibe.

Flanked on either end with everything from leather and silver shops to restaurants and hotels, this is the heart of the action in Ensenada . Whether you're sipping on a latte and snacking on delicious seafood, or buying a poncho and embroidered textiles, Avenida Lopez Mateos has a shop to please.

Hotels are abundant here, from the Bahia and villa Fontana Inn to Hotel Villa Marina and Hotel Mision Santa Isabel. By afternoon, the air is filled with the sounds of Mariachi music that waft out onto the avenue from the bustling restaurants.

Located in the port area, it's close to the heart of downtown and the perfect jumping-off point from which to dive into the more local sides of Ensenada.

To fully understand the story of Ensenada, it's best to start at the beginning. That's why it's worth a trip to the History Museum of Ensenada. This is the best place for a comprehensive look into the history of the region, from pre-Hispanic times through the Spanish Colonial conquest and up to the present.

Through artifacts like beads and pots to historic photographs and modern-day gardens, the history of Ensenada comes to life. What's even more interesting is that the museum is housed within the Rivera del Pacifico building, which used to be a lavish casino in the early 20th century during Prohibition.

Not only is it an architectural marvel, but its walls tell the stories of visiting celebrities like Lucy and Desi Arnez, as well as seedy characters like Al Capone. Not only are the exhibits of the museum interesting, but the murals, paintings, and stunning ceilings of the building are works of art in themselves.

Address: Blvd. Costero 2, Bahia Ensenada, 22800 Ensenada, B.C., Mexico

Ensenada is home to a small, but vibrant, malecon (sea wall) that runs along the water's edge. While strolling the malecon, be sure to stop by El Parque de la Bandera. Translated as the Park of the Flag, you'll recognize this park by none other than its towering flagpole. Some say the massive Mexican flag that towers over the park is the largest in Mexico, and it will be very easy to see why.

Within the park is a small playground and a bandshell that often hosts live music. But the most exciting part of the park are the dancing fountains . Every evening from 8pm, the fountains spring to life, putting on a live water show synched to music and splashed with festive lighting. If you've ever been to The Bellagio in Las Vegas, you know the hypnotizing power of a dancing water show set to a soundtrack.

It's a wonderful time of night when locals and tourists pause together to watch the energetic musical display.

Address: Prol. Castillo, Zona Centro, 22800 Ensenada, B.C., Mexico

In the heart of Ensenada is Plaza Civica, the town's main square . A stroll through this central plaza will shed light on some of Mexico's important historical events. The park is known locally as "Three Heads Park" because of the three giant golden busts of figures from Mexico's history. Take a look at the busts of some of the country's more notable figures, like Benito Juarez, Miguel Hidalgo, and Venustiano Carranza. To know more about who each one was, take a look at the plaques on each bust.

But more than history, the plaza affords lovely ocean views , which make for great photo ops, as well. Plaza Civica is lined with vendors who are selling everything from street food and crafts to jewelry and books.

One of the most popular things to do in Ensenada is to head over to Rancho Los Bandidos for a trail ride . The ranch is an actual working ranch in the foothills of the Sierra San Pedro Martir mountains. It's a true trip back in time to the Wild West days of Baja California. Riders are paired with horses that match their skills, which makes it safe and a relaxing adventure for the day. After the safety briefing, riders mount their houses and head off into the hills.

The trail winds to the San Miguel Hills, which open to stunning views over Ensenada, including the coastline, Salsipuedes Bay, Ensenada Bay, and the Pacific Ocean. After the trail ride, guests head back to the ranch for chips and salsa, tacos, and snacks.

This activity is popular with cruisers who can arrange for shore excursions, but anyone is welcome to the ranch for a ride. The entire excursion lasts about two hours, and Rancho Los Bandidos is about 20 minutes from the cruise terminal.

Address: Domicilio Conocido, Ensenada, Ensenada Municipality 68430 México

If you didn't get your fix of dancing water from El Parque de la Bandera, perhaps La Bufadora will be fully satisfying. The area of Mexico on which Ensenada sits is known for its geological strata that includes one of the largest blowholes in North America .

La Bufadora is caused from the ocean waves that push air and water through a very narrow passage in the rocks. That said, the legend says that the Bufadora is the result of a whale that was once wedged between the rocks. Over the years the whale turned to stone and has been lodged ever since. Whichever version you choose to believe, the result is one of the largest marine geysers in the world.

A path to La Bufadora takes visitors from the parking lot to the viewpoint. It's a bit of a drive on highway 1, south from Ensenada. On the way, you'll pass flea markets and a few tourist stalls.

Be prepared to get wet. The waves can blast water more than 100 feet into the air, so it's not uncommon for viewers to get drenched in the process.

Address: Calle N, 22819 Ensenada, B.C., Mexico

Lace up your hiking boots and get wild in the raw, unspoiled nature of the Baja peninsula. Hit the trails in El Salto Canyon.

The steep, black-rock canyon slices through the Guadalupe Valley, offering dramatic terrain with steep walls, dark crevices, and snaking trails. The best way to experience the canyon is to hire the expertise of a guide, who can point out the kingbirds and red-tailed hawks that circle the sky.

The El Salto Canyon Trail is a 4.9-mile loop, and is not for the faint of heart. The trail is frequented by rock climbers and experienced hikers. In fact, much of the trail is unmarked, and bouldering is required.

But those with the know-how and stamina are rewarded with absolutely breathtaking views and a waterfall along the way. In the rainy season, the waterfall gushes more than 100 feet. Note that the trail and canyon are also pet-friendly, should you be traveling with your trusty dog sidekick.

While you're in Ensenada, you may want to pop over to one of Mexico's other best-known beach towns, Rosarito . Once upon a time, Rosarito was a getaway for the Hollywood A-listers, who would cross the border to escape Prohibition in the United States.

About an hour up the coast, Rosarito is today known for its explosive sunsets, wildlife, spas, and some of the best beaches on the Baja California Peninsula . In fact, Rosarito Beach has been a surfer's mecca for decades.

Even if you're not a surfer, the beaches are known for their ATV tours, snorkeling, fish tacos , and sun worshippers.

The town is also heralded for its extreme sports , from hiking and dirt biking to motorcycles and jet skiing. Head out to Los Coronados, a string of rocks that have become a habitat for wildlife, and a prime place to visit for snorkelers and scuba divers.

Rosarito is an artisan haven , too, from the Local Artisan Market to Plaza Pabellon's galleries, restaurants, and coffee shops. You may even opt to spend the night at one of the many hotel options that line the beaches in Rosarito.

Baja California's rugged terrain, unspoiled beaches, and pounding surf have made it a paradise for adventure lovers for many years. Ensenada is no different and, in fact, it's one of the best places to visit in Mexico for extreme sports.

S urfing is the main attraction, which is the official/unofficial sport of the Baja peninsula and has been for nearly a century. In fact, the first surf contest in Baja, the Baja Surf Club International, was held here in the 1960s. Today it's one of the most popular surf towns in Mexico , which means it can get a little crowded on weekends and in the summer. Fall is the optimal time for surfing, in terms of weather and crowds.

But visitors to Ensenada can do much more than surf. ATV rentals are popular for cruising around the sandy beaches. You can book an ATV tour or rent by the hour. Visitors also love to skydive, kayak, snorkel , or even charter sport fishing day trips out to sea. Keep your eyes peeled for whales!

Tour operators in Ensenada offer parachuting, tandem jumps, and skydiving courses for the ultimate in free-fall adventures.

Most port cities in Mexico have paved sea paths that hug their coastlines. These sea paths are known colloquially as "malecones," and they are often thriving centers of activity for both locals and visitors. The malecon in Ensenada is no exception.

A stroll along this bustling sea path takes you past vibrant outdoor booths hawking souvenirs , fish markets, taco stands, and live music - all with spectacular views of the wild and rugged Pacific coast. Stroll past Plaza Civica for a look at the historic busts before heading into the open market, where you'll see local fishermen selling their day's catch. The other end of the market has a string of restaurants where the food is about as fresh as it can be.

The best time to stroll the malecon is at sunset , when you'll have uninterrupted views of the magnetic colors. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the massive flagpole that stands more than 300 feet tall.

Sweeping mountain scenery is what brings people to discover the beauty of Cañon de Doña Petra Ecological Park, located in a quiet area near Ensenada. Locals and tourists come for the hiking trails, the ocean views, and the wildlife .

The park can be as high-intensity or as peaceful as you want. Miles of hiking and mountain biking trails weave in and out of the landscape. But the park also has plenty of spots to curl up with a good book or sprawl out on a picnic blanket.

One of the more unique features of the park is a statue of the Buddhist Princess Tara , which was donated by the people of Nepal to the park. It's a bit of cross-culture in a tiny corner of the world, which is a nice thing to witness.

A visit to a beach town may not seem like a top spot for a museum of science , but here is another area where Ensenada shines. The Caracol Museo de Ciencias is a beautiful and modern facility that sits between the harbor and the Riviera Center. It is an institution for science and engineering projects and a great place to learn about Mexico's contributions and endeavors in the field.

It's also a place to learn about scientific history. The museum has three permanent exhibitions , dedicated to marine life, terrestrial life, and space. The museum opened in its current location in 2015, and visitors can participate in workshops and classes, as well.

Address: Club Rotario 3, Zona Federal, 22800 Ensenada, B.C., Mexico

More on Mexico

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Ensenada, 108km south of the border, is hedonistic Tijuana’s cosmopolitan sister. The city has a quirky mix of just-off-the-boat cruise shippers, drive-by tourists from California, visitors from mainland Mexico and seen-it-all locals. In case you’ve forgotten you’re in Mexico (what with all those US dollars and English menus), just look up: a Mexican flag, so large it’s probably visible from space, flutters proudly over the malecón (waterfront promenade). Wander Avenida López Mateos (Calle 1a) and you’ll find almost anything ranging from delicious French food to tasteless T-shirts. Don't miss the dancing musical fountain on the waterfront if you've got kids.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Riviera del Pacífico

Opened in the 1930s as Hotel Playa Ensenada, the extravagant Riviera del Pacífico, a Spanish-style former casino, is rumored to have been a haunt of Al…

Atop the Colinas de Chapultepec, El Mirador offers panoramic views of the city and Bahía de Todos Santos. Climb or drive (note: there’s no off-street…

Museo de Historia de Ensenada

This small yet interesting museum traces northern Baja history from the indigenous Mexicans to the mission period. Replicas of cave art along the…

Museo Historico Regional de Ensenada

Built in 1886 and once the Aduana Marítima de Ensenada, the city's oldest public building now houses this historical and cultural museum. It has a…

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10 Best Things to Do in Ensenada, Mexico

About the author

Brenna Harris is a digital nomad and travel writer with a deep passion for exploring the world, reading, and beach-combing. More info

Are you planning to visit Ensenada, Mexico? A popular stop along cruise ship routes, this Baja Peninsula gem draws over four million tourists to its streets every year for wine tasting, shopping, sightseeing, and nightlife.

Whether you are trying to build an itinerary for an afternoon-long port stop or a whole week of fun in the sun, this list of the top things to do in Ensenada, Mexico, is the only resource you’ll need.

Top 10 Things to Do in Ensenada, Mexico

Now you might be asking yourself, “What is Ensenada known for?” and the truth is, there is no one singular answer. This Port City has everything from craggy sea cliffs and azul waters to historic architecture and cultural experiences. With so many options, it can be hard to narrow it down and create a vacation bucket list, but here are the top 10 things you must do while in the area:

Go Hiking at El Salto Canyon

Up for a bit of a challenge? Lace up those hiking shoes and hit the trails! The El Salto Canyon is a popular choice since it’s relatively accessible, even for true beginners who haven’t spent much time trekking through the desert. The park boasts several miles of trails leading down to the canyon floor, where you’ll find a secret waterfall and several impressive rock formations.

This makes a great base camp for enjoying the great outdoors, so consider bringing a light picnic or a book and stay awhile. To take things to the next level, you can also book a repelling lesson to test your bravery or pitch a tent and stay overnight.

Sip Your Way Through the Valley

Thanks to its proximity to Mexico’s wine country, Ensenada certainly has a reputation for its sprawling vineyards and wine-tasting experiences.  In fact, it might be considered THE best thing to do in Ensenada if you had to choose just one . 

The best way to do so is through a guided wine tour because there are so many-literally hundreds- of amazing wineries to visit. This way, you can enjoy a full pour or tasting flight everywhere you go without worrying about the drive home. You’ll also have an expert on board telling you all about the region, local lore, and the best varietals. 

See also: How To Get To Ensenada: A Quick Guide

Try the O.G. Margarita at Hussong’s Cantina

Did you know that summer’s official patio cocktail, the “Margarita, ” started right here in Ensenada?   This famous tequila and salt-rim concoction was created by Don Carlos Orozco, the Hussong’s Cantina’s bartender in 1941. 

As if that’s not reason enough to pop in for a happy hour treat, it’s also the Baja Peninsula’s oldest Cantina, opening its doors for the first time in 1892. Order a round, listen to the live mariachi music, and get a festive taste of Ensenada’s history.

Experience a Force of Nature at La Bufadora

La Bufadora is the second-largest ocean blowhole in the world, making this a “must-see” even for the most experienced traveler who tends to skip the more popular attractions. This marine geyser promises a salty spray that reaches 100ft in the air, thanks to the force of water hitting a sea cave below. 

Just a word to the wise, be sure to bring a rain poncho or other clothes you don’t mind getting wet because these waves are POWERFUL, and the entire observation deck is considered a part of the “splash zone”. You’ll also want to check the tide schedule and surf forecast before you go, as this natural phenomenon is most impressive at high tide and when the waves are the largest. 

Take the Reins at a Local Ranch

Embrace your inner cowboy and saddle up for a journey across the Baja Desert. Rancho Los Bandidos is Ensenada’s premier location for horseback riding tours that wind through surrounding valleys, suitable for all skill levels. Whether you choose a short scenic route to a mountain overlook or a day-long excursion that loops back toward the ocean, your guide will be happy to show you the ropes and take photos of your travel crew. After all, this is the stuff vacation memories are made of.

After working up an appetite under the Ensenada sun, the group will settle back at the ranch and chatter over plates of homemade chips and salsa. 

See also: Best Ensenada Mexico Beaches

Try Your Hand at Deep Sea Fishing

Take advantage of Ensenada’s Pacific Coast location and get out on the open ocean. Local captains are waiting to set sail with you and school you the best practices of sportfishing. With the pros on your side and deep blue waters teeming with marine life, you’re practically guaranteed to make a big catch! 

Plenty of boats operate on a catch-and-release basis, but you can also keep and preserve your prize fish of the day if you’d like to brag about your expert angling when you arrive home. For more advice on deep sea excursions, be sure to check out our Ensenda Fishing Guide with the inside scoop on our recommended charters.

Get Your Thrills on a Ziplining Tour

Looking for things to do in Ensenada with family? Kids as young as five will love flying through the sky, but don’t let this tour’s family-friendly status fool you. This bucket-list activity is sure to appease even the most intense adrenaline junkie.

When it comes to tour providers, you’ll have a few different options. Desert Nest Zipline offers incredible birds-eye-views of the region’s mountains and deserts. At the same time, check out the Las Canadas Canopy Tour  has a more traditional tree-top setting comprised of 5 zip lines and swinging rope bridges.

Go on an Undersea Adventure

If you’ve ever wanted to learn to scuba dive, this is your chance. You can easily sign up with one of the dive shops scattered throughout the downtown core and take a quick crash course before heading out to sea. 

Not only are you guaranteed to see an abundance of sealife (who knows, you might even make friends with Ensenada’s cheeky sea lions), but you’ll also be able to choose from a huge array of dive sites. Especially if you’re already an experienced diver, the possibilities could range from the swaying kelp forests of Arbolitos Coves Marine Park to specialized “Panga” boat dives.

Find Something Special to Bring Home on First Street

We all want to find that perfect souvenir that will carry the memories of our holiday forever. In Ensenada, First Street is the ideal shopping district for locally-made handicrafts like pottery, jewelry, and hand-embroidered textiles. 

See also: Is Ensenada Safe? – Top Safety Tips

We recommend spending the entire afternoon exploring at your own pace because there’s so much to do here. Once you’ve officially shopped til’ you dropped and supported the local vendors, you can change the pace with a horse-drawn carriage ride, take a selfie with the colorful Ensenada sign, or slip into a bar for some nighttime entertainment. 

Sample Ensenada Street Food

Without a doubt, one of the top things to do in Ensenada Port is chow down. It’s a foodie paradise! The most popular food stall in the entire city is El Guerrerense. Not only is their menu of ceviche and tostadas a celebrity favorite but it’s also earned some serious accolades, such as being named the “Best Food Stall in the World” for several years running. 

Want to taste-test a wider variety of Ensenada’s eats? Stop for tacos at Birrieria Soto and finish off with a sweet treat from Churros El Tio Gelos. 

BONUS!!! Embark on a Road Trip

If you have extra time to play with, why not check out some of the top destinations within the arms reach of Ensenada? Just hire a rental car, fuel up, and head on down the road to one of these Baja Penninsula cities: 

• San Quintin :  A seafood lover’s dream with ocean-to-table restaurants around every corner.
• Ejido Erendira : A sleepy seaside surfer town with beaches and fishing charters galore.
• Valle De Guadalupe :  World-class vineyards and sweeping mountain views? Say no more. 
• San Felipe :  Your official destination for sunbathing and swimming in the famous Sea of Cortez.
• Tijuana :  A buzzing border city filled with nightlife, restaurants, and shopping. Yes, please! 
• Rosarito :  A beach bum’s favorite big city, featured in several Hollywood blockbusters.

FAQs On The Best Things To Do In Ensenada

When is the best time to visit ensenada.

The summer (July through September) is the best time to visit Ensenada, thanks to warm temperatures that hover around the mid-80s and a low chance of rain. However, this is regarded as peak tourist season, so this is when you can expect rates to be the highest and crowds to be the largest.

How do you get to Ensenada? 

Many tourists arrive in Ensenada by boat since it is a popular cruise ship port of call, but you can also get there by car, bus, or plane, depending on your starting point. Read more about how to get to Ensenada .

What is the best way to get around in Ensenada?

Ensenada is considered a highly walkable destination, so the best way to get around is usually on foot. That said, if you want to take a longer trip to the outskirts of town or save yourself some time, rental cars, taxis, and even Uber rides are widely available.

What currency can I use in Ensenada?

While most businesses, especially small local vendors, prefer you to pay with Mexican Pesos, many will allow you to pay with smaller U.S. bills. Anything above a $20 bill, however, might not be possible. There is a Casa de Cambio (currency exchange) right at the cruise port for you to acquire pesos and a few others throughout the downtown core.

Brenna Harris is a digital nomad and travel writer with a deep passion for exploring the world, reading, and beach-combing. Her life as a digital nomad enriches her writing, blending unique global experiences with a love for the great outdoors. When not wandering the globe, she cherishes her time in Canada with her husband and puppy, eager to share her top travel tips and discoveries. Brenna's articles are a treasure trove of insights for fellow travel enthusiasts, born from a life lived on the move.

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Gabrielle Richardson’s Road Trip to Ensenada, Mexico

Crystal-clear tide pools, private beaches, and a cliffside airbnb..

Everyone knows that person who spends weeks sniffing around travel blogs, going deep down into TripAdvisor rabbit holes, collecting Google Docs from friends of friends, and creating  A Beautiful Mind– style spreadsheets to come up with the best vacations/itineraries possible. In this recurring series, we find those people who’ve done all the work for you, and have them walk us through a particularly wonderful, especially well-thought-out vacation they took, that you can actually steal.

In October, model-activist-artist Gabrielle Richardson and eight friends rented a cliffside house outside of Ensenada, Mexico, which sits on the Pacific coast of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, less than a two hour drive from the Tijuana airport. They drove there from Los Angeles. Each day of the trip followed a similar rhythm: hiking the nearby trails, swimming in local tide pools, and relaxing with music by the fire pit. “My body felt great,” Richardson remembers. “The days were very rugged, but I was eating fantastic food in a beautiful space, sleeping fantastically. I miss it so much.”

Noon: Drive from L.A. to San Diego

It was my friend’s birthday, and we wanted to leave America, but we were also very nervous about traveling. We actually drove from Los Angeles so that we could still be quarantined in some sense. There were two cars and nine of us altogether, and we headed out at noon.

3 p.m.: Cross the border

I know you’re not supposed to take food through to other countries, but because we were going for my friend’s birthday I had picked up a jelly cake in L.A. from Eat Nunchi . At the border, I was like, “Hey, am I allowed to take this over?” I showed them my cake, and they were like, “Uh, we don’t care.”

3:30 p.m.: Rent a car in Mexico

When you get across the border, the Tijuana airport is right there. There are rental car places there — we parked our cars and rented two new cars because one of my friends, who is from Mexico, told us that in the countryside it’s better to have a car with Mexican license plates. It cost around $200 bucks per car.

Then we hit a lot of traffic. But we were mostly on these coastal highways, and it was very beautiful, so you just got to look at the ocean. By the time we got there, it was really dark, and I was kind of freaking out because we were on the side of a cliff.

6:30 p.m.: Check into the Airbnb

We stayed at this place called Baja Off the Grid , which I rented through Airbnb. We paid about $300 each for five days. It was extremely beautiful — this big white house right on a cliff with windows facing the ocean.

It was also super clean and neat. The living room is open plan. There’s a huge balcony where you can see both the ocean and La Bufadora, the nearest town. Through the bedroom windows, you can see dolphins in the waves.

11 a.m.: Pick up groceries

We did a huge grocery shop at at a small grocery store on the side of the road in the nearby town, La Bufadora. It was about an hour walk or a ten-minute drive from our house. A lot of us are vegan, so we bought tortillas, tons of veggies, and eggs.

1 p.m.: Hang in the tide pools

If you walk ten minutes down the road from the house, you get to all these trails. Each of them takes you to a different really gorgeous, secluded beach. The trails, I will say, were more on the moderate side. You’re not walking among trees; it’s a lot of cactus, agave bushes, and aloe plants — dry shrubbery. The beaches are rocky with really clear tide pools you can swim in. We’d just play in the tide pools and look at the fish.

There’s a cove right next to the house, about a five-minute walk away that you can swim in. It is really magical. The ocean water would spill in and create this huge, eight-foot-deep pool.

8 p.m.: Have a movie night

There was no TV there, but one of us brought a projector. One night, we were just so tired that we plugged it in and watched Spirited Away against the kitchen wall. Just with a tiny projector and a speaker, we made a movie night out of nothing.

2 p.m.: Spend an afternoon in town

We spent a lot of time at the markets at La Bufadora, it was so much fun. All the shops are connected, it’s like a pathway. The stores don’t really have names, they’ll just say like, “Piña Colada,” and you go in and it’s the best piña colada. The guy who owned it would just come and talk to us. There were a bunch of boardwalk games, all these little shooting games like Skee-Ball, Whac-A-Mole. I bought a dress and a bunch of my friends bought leather espadrilles. There were a bunch of market stalls lined up on both sides of the street, and none of the stuff felt like junk — just little curated shops with T-shirts, shoes, vases, plates, little dolls.

We would also eat ceviche at Los Panchos (Avenida Josefa O. de Domínguez 1050). They have the biggest portions. People would come off the street and sing to us and play the accordion.

2 p.m.: Scale a rock wall

There is this one trail called Campo 9 to Playa Escondido, which was a short drive from the house. We got there and realized it was a straight drop with a rope. You have to climb down this rock wall to get to the beach. But it was worth it — it was a really beautiful private beach that was sandy with a very gentle ocean, as opposed to the wavy rock beach by our house. Now we’re like, “Remember when we had to scale the side of a cliff?” Climbing back up at the end of the day was actually a lot easier than climbing down. Definitely wear some sneakers or hiking boots.

7 p.m.: Eat pumpkin soup by the ocean

We only went into Ensenada once, for my friend’s birthday dinner, which we did at Planta Baja Sky Bar (Carretera Ensenada-Tijuana Km 103 22860, El Sauzal). Thank God they seated us, because there were so many of us and we had no reservation. But they let us in, and we just had this really amazing meal, right on the ocean. There was no one in the restaurant except for us. We were dancing and laughing the whole night. The crema de calabaza, a pumpkin soup, was especially good.

Then we went back to the house and sat around the fire pit. We did this at the end of each day, winding down and looking out at the ocean.

Gabrielle Richardson’s Ensenada Packing List

A projector for movie night.

Richardson recommends bringing a “tiny projector” to watch movies against one of the walls in the house. We found this to be the best-rated mini-projector on Amazon, with reviewers praising its easy setup and performance in all kinds of lighting situations.

A Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Everywhere they traveled, Richardson’s group brought a portable Bluetooth speaker (so much that she forever associates the trip with the song “ Kakashi ” by Yasuaki Shimizu). We previously reported that Amazon reviewers love this affordable speaker for its surprisingly good sound quality, quick pairing ability, and durable build.

An Easy, Breezy Dress (That You Can Actually Move In)

If you’re planning on bringing a dress or two, Richardson strongly recommends choosing “moveable dresses that you can run around in,” given the outdoorsy nature of the trip. “I’ve hiked in dresses, but big flowy ones,” she says. We named this breezy cotton dress one of the best to buy for spring , but there’s no reason not to wear it for your trip this summer.

Sturdy Hiking Boots

“Definitely bring some sneakers or hiking boots,” Richardson says, given that many of the excursions require tricky hikes and (in one case) scaling a cliff. “If someone was wearing flip flops,” she says, “it would be awful.” With the comfort of a sneaker but the support of a hiking boot, we think the endlessly recommended Merrell Moab 2 boot is the perfect thing.

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Ensenada Visitors Guide

Ensenada is a bustling coastal city located in the Baja California Norte region of Mexico. It’s known for its rich culture, delicious food, and stunning natural beauty. If you’re looking for a destination that offers the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and gastronomy, Ensenada is the perfect place to visit. Let’s explore some of the top reasons why you should add Ensenada to your travel list.

Where is Ensenada located? Ensenada is 67 miles, or about a one or two hour drive south of the border -depending on traffic. Scroll down for information on getting to Ensenada and getting around!

Because of the proximity, many people from the USA will drive their own vehicles to Ensenada via Tijuana for a daytrip or weekend getaway. Cruise ships also frequently dock there. Ensenada is a great place to stop if you are planning to travel in your RV or campervan down the peninsula.

What to Eat in Ensenada

Ensenada is a seafood lover’s paradise. One of the best places to sample Ensenada’s famous seafood is at Mercado Negro. This bustling market is home to dozens of vendors selling everything from tacos de pescado (fish tacos) to ceviche. Following are a few local spots to get a delicious snack or meal.

• To satisfy that seafood craving, Tacos Fénix is a famous streetside stand selling fish and shrimp tacos to locals and tourists since 1970! Add your own toppings from the salsa bar to make it just how you like it. Personally I go for lots of cabbage, salsa verde, a squeeze of lime and chipotle crema.
• La Guerrerense is a popular spot for seafood tostadas and ceviche. We recommend hitting up the stand but they also have a restaurant across the way called Sabina.
• A favorite for sit-down dining nearby is Muelle 3 . This small fish restaurant is always packed and reservations are highly recommended. People rave about the fresh seafood, especially the excellent ceviche and the pulpo con huitlacoche. Note that this restaurant is only open from noon to 6:30pm. Enjoy a late lunch!
• Another sit-down place to try is Villa Marina . They have an ocean view and serve a variety of seafood specialties including octopus and oysters. Villa Marina is open from noon to 9pm.
• Want to try a margarita in a place that is famous for (maybe) inventing the delicious drink? Head to Hussong’s Cantina and enjoy the fun historic ambiance while sipping tasty margaritas. Read more about the crazy history of this place here.

If you’d like to learn more about Ensenada’s food scene why not take a culinary tour? Check out the Ensenada Eats tour with Baja Test Kitchen or an Ensenada Taco Tour with Juan More Tacos . You can also take a culinary tour out to Valle de Guadalupe. Read more below!

Wine Tasting Near Ensenada

The Ensenada region is also known for its thriving wine scene. The Valle de Guadalupe, located just a short drive from Ensenada, is home to around 200 wineries. The region is known for its robust red wines, but also produces some excellent whites and sparkling wines. French, Spanish and Italian grape varietals grow well here, like Cabernet Sauvignon, Nebbiolo, Carignan and Tempranillo. Blends are very popular with winemakers in this area.

How far is Valle de Guadalupe from Ensenada? The valley lies just 20km (12 miles) northeast of Ensenada via Highway 3, La Ruta del Vino. Keep in mind that the side roads in the wine region are mostly dirt and can be very rough with ruts and potholes. Take it easy and drive carefully.

One of the best ways to experience the Valle de Guadalupe is on a guided wine tour so that you don’t have to worry about drinking and driving. Most tours include tastings at multiple wineries, as well as a delicious lunch. Check out these tours below. Some leave from Ensenada while others will transport you from San Diego or Tijuana. Winery tours are also offered as shore excursions by the cruise ships that dock in Ensenada, or you can always arrange your own.

• Club Tengo Hambre offers intimate fun tours of Valle de Guadalupe that include food and wine. They pick you up at the border crossing and whisk you on your way in a comfy van.
• Arrange your own Valle de Guadalupe private tour with a group of friends or family. A driver will pick up your group at your lodging in Ensenada and take you on a personalized tour of three wineries and a stop for lunch.
• Take a tour of four wineries and have lunch in Valle de Guadalupe with this private group tour . The tour includes round-trip transportation from your lodgings in Ensenada.

You can also visit Valle de Guadalupe during the harvest festival (Fiestas de la Vendimia) or another special event. For more information on Valle de Guadalupe be sure to check out our guide here!

Ensenada’s Best Beaches

Ensenada is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico. Playa Hermosa is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. The long, wide beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. Playa La Misión is another great option, with its soft sand and clear waters. For those looking for something more secluded, Playa Salsipuedes is a hidden gem. It requires a short hike to reach, but the stunning views and secluded cove make it well worth the effort.

Surfers will love visiting San Miguel Beach, California Trailer Park, Stacks and 3 Ms. Or if you are really serious, grab a boat to Todos Santos Island for some of the best big wave surfing around.

Things To Do in Ensenada

As mentioned above, the Ensenada area is famous for seafood and wine, and has some great beaches for swimming, sunbathing and surfing. But there is a lot more to do! Here are some top tips:

• If you are into off-road racing then you have definitely heard of the Baja 500 and Baja 1000.
• Whale watching is another popular activity in Ensenada from December until May when the gray whales migrate between Alaska and the Sea of Cortez. Amazing!
• Check out the blowhole at La Bufadora.
• Walk along the Malecón and take in the sea air while eating an ice cream or other snack.
• Visit Ensenada for a festival, holiday or event. Check out the Ensenada Beer Fest , Carnaval in February, the Festival de Conchas y El Vino Nuevo in April or Dia de Muertos in November.

Places to Stay in Ensenada

Whether you are looking for Ensenada hotels on the beach, cheap hotels in downtown Ensenada, or the best Airbnbs in Ensenada – we have options for you!

• One of Ensenada’s best resorts is Hotel Coral & Marina. This oceanside hotel has an indoor and outdoor pool and jacuzzi, and has a popular weekend brunch.
• Another oceanfront hotel is La Rosas, which boasts an infinity pool overlooking the rocky coastline and the Pacific.
• If you are searching for Ensenada hotels on the beach consider staying in an Airbnb or VRBO apartment instead. There are many more options with better quality than the dated beach hotels. This two bedroom house is located right on Playa Hermosa. Or take a look at this loft overlooking the beach and right off the Malecón.
• Looking for cheap hotels in Ensenada? Check out Hostal Edka, Costa Mar or Capital O where you can get a small room for one or two people for under $50US.

Getting To Ensenada and Getting Around

Most visitors to Ensenada drive their own vehicle across the border from Los Angeles or San Diego. Ensenada is only 67 miles from the border so this is a quick trip. However if you prefer not to drive and want to take public transportation that is possible too. Check out our visitor guide to Tijuana to read more about this fabulous city and get lots of useful information about crossing the border by car, on foot or with public transport!

There are currently no commercial flights directly to the small Ensenada airport. However, if you are coming from far away you can fly into the Tijuana airport or other airports in Southern California like San Diego, Orange County or LAX.

The ABC Autobus runs trips from Tijuana to Ensenada daily. The trip takes approximately two hours and costs $200MXN. If you are traveling from San Diego to Ensenada you can take the Trolley to the border, walk directly to the Tijuana airport, and catch the ABC bus from the airport to Ensenada.

You can also take a private shuttle, taxi or use a ridesharing app like Uber to get there and get around.

Having your own car allows you to explore the area and take side trips to places like Valle de Guadalupe and Tijuana . But you can also arrange a private tour to the wine tasting region. And you can even take the ABC bus to the Valle or other areas of Baja California like La Paz or Los Cabos.

Ensenada is a destination that has something for everyone. Whether you’re a foodie, a wine lover, or an outdoor enthusiast, this coastal city is sure to impress. From the delicious street food to the stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, Ensenada is a must-visit destination.

• 1.1 Climate
• 2.3 By bike
• 2.4 By boat
• 3 Get around
• 5.1 Beaches and surfing
• 5.2 Hiking, nature and off-road

Ensenada (Spanish: Ensenada De Todos Santos ) is the city seat of the largest municipality in Baja California , Mexico on the Pacific Coast south of Tijuana . It is locally referred to as La Bella Cenicienta del Pacífico (Spanish: The Beautiful Cinderella of the Pacific ). It is a popular weekend destination for people in southern California and is a busy cruise ship port, visited by many of the cruise lines that operate "Mexican Riviera" cruises out of Long Beach (and other ports).

In the Bahía de Todos Santos — an inlet of the Pacific Ocean — Ensenada is an important commercial and fishing port as well as a cruise ship port of call. There is also a navy base, an army base and a military airfield.

The city is backed by small mountain ranges. Due to its location on the Pacific Ocean and Mediterranean latitude, the weather tends to be mild year-round. Although the winter rainy season is short and the area is prone to prolonged droughts, Ensenada sits in the heart of a wine country that is widely regarded as the best in Mexico and the Americas with the Napa Valley in California. It is said that the first vitis vinifera made it to the peninsula (specifically to the San Ignacio Mission) in 1703, when Jesuit Padre Juan de Ugarte planted the first vineyards there.

Ensenada is the only deep-water port in the state of Baja California and is part of standard shipping routes that directly link it with the Mexican cities of La Paz , Manzanillo , Mazatlán , Acapulco and Lázaro Cárdenas, and with the U.S. cities of San Diego , Long Beach and Los Angeles , the Guatemalan city of Puerto Quetzal , the Chilean city of Valparaíso , the Japanese city of Yokohama and Hong Kong .

Ensenada has been recognized for its gastronomy and is on the list of UNESCO Creative Cities for its cuisine. Locally sourced fruits and vegetables combined with sustainably harvested seafood and local vineyards are hallmarks of the city's progressive dining scene.

Ensenada boasts overall very pleasant weather with the sea bringing cold air in hot days and not much cold on the winters. It is also very fickle and you are advised to bring a sweater and pants along with your shorts and shirts.

Ensenada has a dry Mediterranean climate. Precipitation is scarce and is concentrated in the coldest months, from November to February, in which the average temperature is 13 °C and rarely reaches frost. On the other hand, the warmest months, from June to September, are also the driest, and have an average temperature of 22 °C. The end of summer and the beginning of autumn is commonly the warmest time in the city. The Santa Ana winds are responsible for raising temperatures at any time of the year, when the wind direction changes and brings warm air from the interior to the coast. It is in these months that the highest temperatures occur most frequently (between 25 and 30 °C usually).

Take the bus from Tijuana . The ride is about 2 hours and ticket prices start at M$60 (US$3). ABC operates most buses on this route but ACN operates at least one bus daily and shuttle services and combis are also available.

• 31.872802 -116.619554 1 Terminal Autobuses Central , Av Riveroll 1015 . Newer station with nicer waiting area.  
• 31.868574 -116.624489 2 Terminal Autobuses Calle Sexta ( Bus station ), Calle Sexta 575 . 05:00 - 20:00 . Dirty and chaotic company-specific bus terminal for ABC (Autobuses Baja California).  

Drive' across the border from San Ysidro. Go in the morning and you will be going the opposite direction of the nightmare traffic trying to get into the U.S.. Once in Tijuana, follow the signs to Rosarito and Ensenada on route 1. There will be three toll stops en route to Ensenada. These tolls cost M$31, less than US$2, each. You can pay with US dollars or pesos, but no mixed currency. The scenic highway ("carretera escenica") is well maintained and is an enjoyable ride along the beautiful Baja coastline. If you go in spring and early summer, the wildflowers on the hillsides are gorgeous. The ride from Tijuana to Ensenada takes 1-1½ hours. Stop in Puerto Nuevo for a Mexican lobster dinner. There are many rest areas and vista points along the way. AAA and other travel magazines recommend that you only drive in Mexico during the day for safety reasons. The toll road (scenic highway) is somewhat winding compared to divided highways in the United States or Europe , but a great improvement over two-lane roads south of Ensenada.

Coming from the US, if you want to avoid Tijuana's heavy traffic, you can try biking in from Tecate. As one blogger somewhere suggested, go on a Sunday, there's the fewest cars on the road. The blogger also noted that highway 1 has no shoulder and high motor vehicle traffic. The toll road, 1d, has a shoulder and little traffic, but bikes aren't allowed, so a police officer might tell you to get off at the next exit. Somewhere on the internet, it is also noted that there are hundreds of crosses on Highway 1 representing people who died on that road.

Cruise ships: Ensenada has become a regular stop for several lines of cruise ships since the 1980s. Although this is certainly the most expensive means to travel to Ensenada, it is also most enjoyable.

• Carnival shuttles . Carnival Cruises has the Misioneros Tour company run shuttle buses between the port and Ensenada every 10 minutes. It's US$2 to Ensenada and US$2 to get back to the ship. US$4 round-trip . ( updated Jul 2018 )
• By foot Most of Ensenada's downtown tourist attractions can be accessed by foot. Others, like La Bufadora and Wineries are too far away to walk to, but tours will take you there for a fee. If your espanol is "malo" you could take local buses inexpensively out and back to La Bufadora.
• By bicycle Most of the Boulevard Costero and the scenic highway can be traveled by bike. Take precautions for the scenic highway north of Costero is a freeway and trucks and cars travel at high speeds. Ensenada's South is not very bike friendly. Bloggers typically note that drivers give each other less room in the US, but are more courteous (e.g., sharing right of way, no road rage, etc). There is safety gear you shouldn't need, but pretty much everywhere in North America, you do anyway. The driver will be wrong, but you could be dead. So add visibility: - Get a high-visibility shirt, - a "safety wing" that puts a reflector 1 foot to the left of your bicycle (and folds in if it is hit), and - a slow-moving vehicle triangle.
• By car The city is easy to navigate by car and parking is free and available everywhere. On highways, the left lane is just for passing and local drivers will tailgate you if you coast on the left lane. You can rent a car at the Rosarito Hotel.
• Taxis and buses Radio taxis are available and will take you anywhere. Route taxis and buses serve mostly suburban routes and are not very useful for tourists, although are very cheap (US$0.75, M$8).

• 31.870014 -116.628902 1 Museo Histórico Regional ( Regional History Museum ), Gastélum s/n, Centro , ☏ +52 646 178 3692 . Tu-Su 09:00 - 17:00, closed M . Small museum in a former prison. Exhibits show the history of Baja California from the time of ancient indigenous civilizations dwelling in caves through the era of Colonial Mexico with the missionaries and early settlers through today. Occasional temporary exhibits on special topics.  
• 31.85106 -116.628902 2 Caracol Museo de Ciencias ( Caracol Science Museum ), Club Rotario 3, Zona Federal , ☏ +52 646 152 1993 . Th-Su 10:00 - 17:00, closed M-W . Modern science museum with spectacular ocean views from its myriad floor-to-ceiling windows. Permanent galleries focus on the heavens, earth, and the sea. The museum has a large planetarium. The museum has special seasonal exhibits as well as special events like nature walks, skywatching, etc. M$80 (adults), M$50 (children) . ( updated Jun 2024 )
• Carnival Tours . Bufadora tours from Carnival Cruise lines cost more than anywhere else, but will pick you up and drop you off from the cruise ship port. US$36 . ( updated Feb 2017 )
• Misioneros Tours . This tour company runs the shuttle buses between the Carnival cruise ships and Ensenada. The stop in Ensenada is right by their tour booth where you can buy a discounted Bufadora tour. They prefer US dollars. US$15 . ( updated Feb 2017 )
• Baja Wineries More than 100 wineries are just outside Ensenada in the Valle de Guadalupe . A second area of wineries is about an hour south at Santo Tomas. The Valle de Guadalupe wineries are located along Highway 3 toward Tecate. Most offer tours and tastings, however some wineries require that you make an appointment in advance. Several tour operators in Ensenada offer day trips to the wineries. Some wineries have tasting rooms in Ensenada.

The greatest experiences in Ensenada involve going out early to Bufadora, having ceviche at 1st street, drink at Hussong's, then go to a beach and end back in a club or bar. All of these require independent transportation so it would be wise to rent a car, and have a designated driver.

Beaches and surfing

• Beaches . The city of Ensenada is on the Ensenada Harbor, so you'll have to drive south or north to get to a local beach. Private beaches like Estero Beach and Mona Lisa have resort accommodations and facilities, but public ones like San Miguel and El Punto are free for anyone who wishes to walk by the sea. Ensenada area has several celebrated surfing spots, such as San Miguel Beach , California Trailer Park , Stacks and 3 M's (Spanish: Tres Emes ), which are located in the north coast of the city. Todos Santos Island a small island west of Ensenada (about 2 hours by boat), and a world-famous surfing spot. The Billabong XXL surfing contest has been held at Todos Santos Island several times. Wave faces can reach above 18 m (60) feet on the island. Brad Gerlach, 2006 winner of Big XXL, surfed a wave of 20 m (68 feet) in December 2006.  
• San Miguel Beach , San Miguel Beach ( Near Ensenad's highway toll, ask a taxi ). A small rocky beach that offers a great night view of the city. Great for camping and drinking, locals favor it for it's relaxed nature and private nature which means you won't be disturbed unless you make a lot of noise. Free entrance, US$12 camping .  

Hiking, nature and off-road

Hiking can be done on the nearby Canon de Dona Petra, and on the nearby Laguna Hanson. Arrangements with local eco tour companies are needed.

• El Salto . Its a beautiful canyon, excellent for rock climbing, rappel and hiking; and in rain season you can view a spectacular waterfall that is over 30 m (100 ft). You can find it at KM 76 in the Tijuana - Ensenada Libre Highway. Camping Facilities. US$2 .  
• Canon de Dona Petra Hike ( ask a taxi to get you to the starting point ). Every first Sunday of the month, locals hike through this 10-km hike. It's free and you can find many people. It takes about 3½ hours at good pace and it's of moderate difficulty. At the end of the hike, you can take the bus back to Ensenada for about US$1. free .  
• San Carlos Hot Springs ( Aguas Termales ) ( head five miles south of town ( just past Chapultepec) on the road to San Quintin, turn East at the golf course and follow the signs, or ask the locals ). Features pipe-fed hot pools, cold pool, and mud pool as well as cabins, showers and camping, is popular with the locals, despite a 16-km rocky dirt road with 13 (or so) shallow water crossings; medium-clearance vehicles are recommended.  
• California Motorsport Adventures . Off-road adventure tours for people of all riding abilities. Everyone welcome: families, couples, friends, single riders, bachelor and corporate groups. Full day excursions or longer tours available also. Ride in the dunes and then enjoy a guided adventure into the surrounding mountain trails. Contact the office for reservations.  
• Whale Pursuing ( Whale Watching ). The gray whales' annual migration from Alaska to the lagoons of Baja California Sur between the months of December and March, and back in the months of April and May, can be seen from the coast of Ensenada. Sightseeing tours are available every day during migration season. Whale watching not guaranteed.  
• La Bufadora ( The Blowhole ), Punta Banda . La Bufadora is a marine geyser and the largest blowhole in the world, often shooting upwards more than 30 m (100 feet) above sea level. The exhibit hall roof top is approximately 25 m (80 feet) above sea level and the blowhole frequently sprays above it. Free .  
• Sports Fishing . Ensenada Baja California has been known for sport fishing over fifty years. Each year hundreds of anglers head for Ensenada to go fishing and take advantage of the shorter distances needed to travel by sea to get to the big catch. The short range day trips are good for cranking in Bass, Bonita, Barracuda, Cod and Yellowtail, while the long range trips pull in Tuna, Albacore, Dorado. Prices Vary .  
• Baja 1000 ( The Longest International Off Road Race in the World ). This important race held in November as well as the Baja 500 Off-Road race held in June start in Ensenada. While the Baja 500 almost always ends in Ensenada, the Baja 1000 ends in Ensenada in even-numbered years while in odd-numbered years ends at the tip of Baja, usually in Cabo San Lucas . Amenities are extended during the days prior to the start. Race info including course map updated regularly at the website.  
• Wine Harvest Festival ( Fiestas De La Vendimia ). Every year, before the end of spring and until the end of August, the wine harvest season is celebrated around the Guadalupe Valley and in the city of Ensenada with a series of events. These events range from private wine tastings and galas, to concerts of classical music and famous pop artists at the wine yards. The end of the harvest season is commemorated by a two-day free event at the Santo Tomas winery in Ensenada with a festival that is preferred by the locals. Be sure to check out the site for there is an event almost daily. Varies .  
• Carnaval . The Ensenada Carnaval is one of the country's largest, as thousands of people gather in the streets for six days and nights.  
• Curios , On 1st street . Many regional art pieces for cheap can be found on 1st Street.  
• MacroPlaza , Transpeninsular ( Ask a taxi or take any Maneadero Bus ). Mall with clothing and supermarket options. If you want to see a movie and don't mind Spanish subtitles, go to a Mexican movie theater. US$5 tickets is a steal compared to USA prices.  
• Open Air Fish Market ( Mercado Negro ), Boulevard Costero . Baja's largest seafood market. Located near the oceanfront. Most of the market's open air stalls sell catches fresh off the fishing boats that dock nearby. This is also a great place to try a famous fish taco.  
• Fish Tacos . The fish taco is said to have been born in Ensenada (or possibly San Felipe ). The local style includes deep-fried seafood, with a white sauce and a shredded-cabbage topping, along with several salsas. Dining at the row of fish and shrimp taco eateries by the pier is an Ensenada must.  
• Taqueria El Fenix . This local favorite serves delicious tacos, shrimp and fish.  
• Caprichos . Incredible fine dining. Located in the heart of Ensenada on the cobblestone street, across the road from Hussongs (whether it is the original or not is unknown). It also serves delicious burgers on a back grill.  
• Tortas Michoacan . Really good sandwiches with either pork, ham, carne asada, or all three, very delicious, kind of a little walk away from the tourist area, look for the counter with a big line of people on the main street just 1 block south of a Chinese buffet, it's about 2 blocks east from the main tourist area and about 10 blocks south on the widest big road with all the shops all the way along it.  
• Ceviche La Guerrerense . Great street ceviche car that serves a huge variety of ceviches for US$1 each. It also has a huge variety of salsas ranging from light to super hot. Be careful with those and ask for assistance. Also serves cocktails. Located on 1st street and Alvarado  
• 31.875016 -116.628054 1 Tacos El Paisa , 10th street and 20 de Noviembre ( ask a taxi to take you here ). If you want to have the true Mexican taco experience, go to this place. Favored by locals, it offers US$1 tacos. Carne Asada, Adobada, Tripas and Cabeza are available as quesatacos, tortas, and huaraches. A must-taste that will scratch that Tex-Mex flavor you are used to. With everything  
• Cremeria los Globos . This cheese shop is a gem, offering an astounding vaiety of artesanal cheeses from across Mexico, including Real de Castillo, a small town near Ensenada where 30 craft cheese makers produce everything from soft melting cheeses to hard grating cheeses. ( updated Jun 2023 )

• Cantina Hussong's , Ave Ruiz #113 , ☏ +52 646 178-3210 , [email protected] . Legendary and historic bar. Established in 1892 Hussongs is the oldest bar in the Californias, Hussong’s began as a stagecoach stop built by its German founder Johan Hussong. Some say that the city of Ensenada was built around this bar. Rumor has it that the Margarita was invented here. ( updated Feb 2017 )
• Papa's and Beer Ensenada ( El Papas ), Ruiz y Primera . Another legendary and historic bar right across the street from Hussongs.  
• Mango Mango , Primera & Ruiz . 20:00 - 03:00 . A place to dance Caribbean and norteno rythms US$5 .  
• Abel's Bar , Boulevard Costero 1000-6 between Diamante and Medusas ( Easy to find on Costero ). A rock-oriented bar that serves cheap drinks and good music with a metal mood.  
• La Taberna (Cervecrería Tijuana) . Located on 1st Street (half a block away from McDonald's), the Tijuana Brewery Tavern offers award-winning draft beer in many varietals, ranging from light lagers to dark ales. This is a local favorite hangout for all sorts of people, and happy hour is available at least two nights a week.  
• 31.865269 -116.662312 1 Hotel Coral & Marina , Carretera Tijuana-Ensenada Km.103 #3421 , ☏ +52 646 175 0000 . A beautiful hotel with amazing bathrooms and views. Located on the main road between the end of the toll road and downtown. There's a marina for your yacht and many amenities. Shuttle service into town (4.8 km or 3 miles away), US$4 for a taxi. ( updated Mar 2017 )
• Playa Saldamando Trailer and campground located 13 km (8 miles) north of Ensenada. Over one mile of coastal property, all fenced and gated to enhance security. Employees are on the property 24 hours/7 days a week providing friendly service. Campsites available on the beach and on the cliffs above. All sites have beautiful ocean views. Large sites available to accommodate large groups. Clean, maintained camping areas and our clean restrooms with flushing toilets and showers.
• 31.860486 -116.615922 2 Ensenada Backpacker ( Hostel ), Calle Segunda 1429 ( Between Floresta and Guadaluper St ), ☏ +52 646 177-1758 . Check-out: 12:00 . The Ensenada Backpacker is a few blocks from Ensenada's most popular attractions. They offer dormitory and private rooms. US$20 . ( updated Mar 2017 )
• Ocean View Rental Home . Su Casa is set on a hillside with a spectacular panoramic ocean view of Todos Santos Bay and its islands in the gated secure community of Cibolas del Mar. It is 15 minutes north of Ensenada, where the toll road ends. This Spanish style home with tile roof has a large flagstone deck and covered outside area. It is in an area of private family homes in a quiet neighborhood. US$200/night .  
• Hostel Sauzal feels like more of a bed and breakfast than a hostel with a gracious host, and a sweeping ocean view from the huge flower garden. Just north of Ensenada in El Sauzal, US$15/night. Don't come here expecting a party. Do come here to relax and recharge.
• Hotel Las Rosas , ☏ +52 646 174 4320 . By the sea hotel that is a good spot for a wedding. US$80-446 .  
• 31.86428 -116.62444 3 Hotel Eiffel , Macheros #274 , ☏ +52 646 977 8800 . Coffee shop and wifi are part of this francophile-themed hotel. M$940 . ( updated Feb 2021 )

The nearby cities of Tijuana , Tecate and Rosarito can be easily visited as a day trip.

The wineries and restaurants that blanket Valle de Guadalupe are highly recommended destinations.

More than a hundred miles into the Pacific Ocean is Guadalupe Island , a desert island. It is a next-to-impossible destination : the closest most people get to the island is a great white shark diving expedition which is based in Ensenada.

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In 1542 Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo first discovered the seaport that Sebastián Vizcaíno named Ensenada-Bahía de Todos Santos (All Saints' Bay) in 1602. Since then the town has drawn a steady stream of explorers and developers. After playing home to ranchers and gold miners, the harbor gradually grew into a major port for shipping agricultural goods, and today Baja's third-largest city (population 369,000) is one of Mexico's largest sea and fishing ports.

There are no beaches in Ensenada proper, but sandy stretches north and south of town are satisfactory for swimming, sunning, surfing, and camping. Estero Beach is long and clean, with mild waves; the Estero Beach Resort takes up much of the oceanfront, but the beach is public. Although not safe for swimming, the beaches at several of the restaurants along Highway 1 are a nice place to enjoy a cocktail with a view. Surfers populate the strands off Highway 1 north and south of Ensenada, particularly San Miguel, Tres Marías, and Salsipuedes, while scuba divers prefer Punta Banda, by La Bufadora. Lifeguards are rare, so be cautious. The tourist office in Ensenada has a map that shows safe diving and surfing beaches.

Both the waterfront and the main downtown street are pleasant places to stroll. If you're driving, be sure to take the Centro exit from the highway, since it bypasses the commercial port area.

Explore Ensenada

Nightlife 2

Restaurants 5

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Ensenada Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Ensenada , Mexico? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

• Lies on the Pacific coast of Baja, California, and has a population of around 350,000 .
• Located just 125 km south of San Diego, it is the heart of Mexican wine country .
• A commercial port city known for its fishing and tourism industries.
• Nickname: La Cenicienta del Pacifico   (“The Cinderella of the Pacific”)

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Currency:  Mexican Peso  (MXN).
• Spoken languages:   Spanish .
• Best time to visit: anytime (mild, Mediterranean climate). Winter nights can get chilly.
• Arriving from the airport: Ensenada has no airport – the most frequently used airport to get here is San Diego Airport . There are two options on how to get from the airport to Ensenada. The first is to drive across the San Ysidro border, and then follow the signs through Tijuana to Ensenada, which takes around 1.5 hours. There are 3 toll roads on the way, each costing 30 pesos . Another option is to cross the border and take a bus from Tijuana for around 200 pesos .

WHERE TO STAY

Downtown Ensenada   has every type of accommodation you could want, from upscale hotels to budget dormitory rooms. 

GETTING AROUND

• Taxis are all over Ensenada and will take you just about anywhere, for a reasonable price.
• Ensenada’s buses serve mostly the central/suburban areas – a single ride is just  8 pesos .
• Hiring a car can be a fantastic option, as parking is free.
• You can get to most of downtown Ensenada by walking – however, be aware that some of the best attractions cannot be accessed by foot .

ENSENADA NIGHTLIFE

• Drinking age is 18 , last call is 3 AM .
• Downtown is the hub for all of the best clubs, whether you prefer chart-music experience or samba-class style night out.
• For those wanting a chilled bohemian night out, Ensenada has plenty of hookah (shisha) bars.
• Great bars to start your night: Wendlandt Brew Pub (top pick), Transpeninsular Brewery, la bête noire (cocktails and music), As de Guia Gastrofonda, and Lucky Irish Pub.

UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT

• La Bufadora, located around 19 miles from the center of Ensenada, is a blowhole that reaches up to 100 feet. The views are incredible and the road leading to the blowhole is lined with Mexican craft shops and food stands.
• Tip: visit La Jolla beach on the way to La Bufadora (one of the best beaches in the area).
• Take a day trip to visit some of the  Ensenada wineries , on the outskirts of the city. Tours and tastings are available.
• Visit Guadalupe Valley for the wine, scenery, and amazing restaurants.
• Go  whale watching  (December to May). Witness the gray whale’s annual migrations from Alaska to Baja California, and back again.
• Centro Social, Civico y Cultural Riviera (Riviera Social, Civic and Cultural Center) is a beautiful building with local artistic and historical exhibits.

INTERESTING WALKS

• Hiking is abundant in the hills surrounding Ensenada. Try the Canon de Dona Petra Hike and take the bus back to Ensenada once you’re done.
• Walk along the seafront and around the port, right on the coast of the Pacific Ocean. See if you can catch a glimpse of the seals sunbathing on the docks!

LOCAL WISDOM

• Join the active TalkBaja Facebook Group to ask your questions and get the latest tips and advice!
• The San Carlos Hot Springs are a hidden treasure in Ensenada, just 5 miles south of the town. Nestled into a hilly valley, the site also has camping facilities. 
• Ensenada’s Carnaval is one of the country’s largest and lasts for six days and nights – parades take place in the streets and there are circuses, concerts and fun fairs along the seafront.
• The longest international off-road race in the world called the Baja 1000, taking place in November – on even numbered years, it ends in Ensenada. The Baja 500 takes place in June, and always ends in Ensenada.
• Great restaurants to try in Ensenada: Mexipon Ramen & Curry Bar, Victor’s Restaurant (breakfast / brunch), El Correcaminos (breakfast / lunch), Bronco’s Steak House, La Cocedora De Langosta (for ceviche),
• Where to find good cheap food : Ensenada has many taco vendors and the fish tacos are a must-try. Recommendations: Tacos Mi Ranchito El Fenix, Tacos Puebla, and Birrieria Rodríguez.
• Dangerous areas to avoid : while Ensenada is not especially dangerous, be careful with personal belongings. Don’t go out alone at night to areas you are not familiar with.

Recommended trip duration:  2-3 days

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The Best Things to Do in Ensenada, Mexico

Seek out Bourdain-approved street food, drink in the legendary birthplace of the margarita, and surf the waves in this Baja California beach town.

As one of the most popular ports in Baja California, just a one-hour drive from the US border, Ensenada has evolved into a popular vacation destination for spring breakers and seasoned cruisers. The resort certainly scores highly for buzzing nightlife, but there’s a mellower side, too, with history museums, a pleasant harbor district and the Playa Hermosa (Beautiful Beach) that really lives up to its name. So, whatever floats your boat, there are loads of things to do in Ensenada – here are the best.

1. Get away from the bright lights, and visit Lighthouse Beach

Natural Feature

A few miles along the coast, at the end of the Playa Guarnicion Militar, is a sleepy, laid-back neighborhood popular with tourists seeking a little seaside serenity. The slightly rugged, out-of-town Lighthouse Beach (or Playa El Faro) attracts independent vacationers, thanks to its abundance of modest holiday rentals and camping opportunities. Clean and generally calm Pacific waters make it family-friendly, too, as well as a great place for a little fishing.

2. Splash around in the fountains in the Ventana al Mar

Architectural Landmark

Ventana al Mar (Window to the Sea) is a little harborside park and part of the bustling malecón (waterfront promenade) in the city. There’s not much shade during the day, but kids (and big kids) love to run through the numerous fountains to cool off. Locals tend to congregate here when the day cools, to enjoy synchronized water and light shows and regular live music on the outside stage. To find it, just head towards the marina, and look out for the huge Mexican flag fluttering on a monumental pole.

3. Enjoy local shopping and top-notch tostadas on Avenida Adolfo López Mateos

Architectural Landmark, Market

Also known as First Street, Avenida Adolfo López Mateos is Ensenada’s main artery, lined with loads of tourist-friendly local businesses. You could easily while away a few hours here, starting with a coffee at one of the many cafes, watching the odd horse-drawn carriage trot by. Pop into colorful shops full of local handicrafts and curios or small galleries selling works by local artists. And, when you’ve worked up an appetite, don’t miss the renowned La Guerrerense street-food stall, as raved about by Anthony Bourdain himself.

4. Papas & Beer

Music Venue

If you are in town to party, you will not be disappointed, especially if you happen to visit during spring break. The part of the Zona Centro towards the harbor is the throbbing heart of the city’s nightlife, with a cluster of some of its liveliest bars. You’ll often find an up-for-it crowd at Papas & Beer , while nearby El Pato has the best live music shows in town. Don’t forget to pop into Hussong’s Cantina, the oldest in Baja – and the legendary birthplace of the margarita.

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5. Explore the city’s fascinating past and checkered history

Until gambling was outlawed in the 1930s, Ensenada was one of the hottest gambling hubs in Mexico, attracting a roll call of colorful characters. Opening in this gaming heyday was former-casino Hotel Playa Ensenada, a rumored haunt of mob boss Al Capone. Today, it goes by the name of Riviera del Pacífico and is still wonderfully evocative of the era. It now houses a cultural center and small museum that traces the region’s storied past.

6. Visit a sea-cave blowhole, and spot a different kind of whale

As it’s part of the huge All Saints Bay, it’s no wonder there are plenty of water-related sights to enjoy in Ensenada. One popular tourist spot is La Bufadora, the world’s second-largest blowhole, shooting seawater up to 100ft (31m) in the air. The legend goes that it was a trapped whale, which eventually turned to stone. You can also see the real flesh-and-blubber variety during the annual whale migration between November and February.

7. Sample delicious Mexican wine on a tasting tour

Mexican wine? Absolutely. Just north of Ensenada is the Valle de Guadalupe, a booming wine region and Baja California’s answer to Napa Valley. It’s home to scores of wineries, and there are numerous wine-tasting tours in Ensenada that can take you to one in an afternoon – or several in a day. The scenery is spectacular around here, and it’s also great fun bumping along the dirt tracks that lead to the wine estates.

8. Ride the waves in one of the top surfing destinations in Mexico

Ensenada is one of the most popular surfing spots in Mexico, with surfers from both sides of the border descending on the resort in the fall when conditions are perfect. Indeed, board-bearing daytrippers from San Diego have been patrolling these waves since way back in the Forties. But there are loads of other open-to-everyone, water-based activities here, too, including kayaking and scuba diving.

Experience the beautiful city of Ensenada further by booking a stay at a luxurious resort or a quaint boutique hotel , bookable now with Culture Trip. The local cuisines and spectacular beaches of Baja California will be sure to get your wanderlust ticking.

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13 Thrilling Things To Do In Ensenada, Mexico

February 27, 2024 By: Maria Haase This article may contain affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you buy through our links.

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Located on the Baja California Peninsula, Ensenada is a bustling port city just 80 miles south of San Diego. It’s regularly frequented by Californians seeking a taste of Mexican culture. 

Ensenada has been drawing in Americans and cruise ship visitors for decades. This is thanks to its incredible marine life, picture-perfect downtown area, live traditional Mexican music, and an array of wineries in Guadalupe Valley .

With so much to see and do here, we’ve put together some highlights to assist in your planning. Read on for the best things to do in Ensenada, Mexico.

My husband Greg and I love going down to Ensenada, either as a quick day trip or for a weekend getawa y. Just about 1.5 hours away from San Diego, yet you feel like you are a world away. Perfect for a little mini-vacation.

Top Things To Do In Ensenada, Mexico

Explore the shops along avenida lopez mateos.

An absolute must-see, and a wonderful place to kick start your journey, is Avenida Lopez Mateos.

Avenida Lopez Mateos is a charming street in the downtown Ensenada area. It’s brimming with quaint shops selling art, jewelry, and unique trinkets.

Spend an afternoon strolling this famous street, enjoying fresh seafood al fresco, and recharging with a coffee. All while soaking up traditional live music. 

Treat Yourself To Some Amazing Food

While rambling down Avenida Lopez Mateos, you might stumble upon the iconic La Guerrerense food cart .

Serving up mouth-watering tostadas made with fresh local fish, La Guerrerense is a family affair. The food cart began in the 1960s and has won many awards over the years.

This small street food stall has become one of the most sought-after places to eat in Ensenada.

Their most famous dish is the sea urchin ceviche and clam tostada, yum!

Unsurprisingly, the delicious seafood is the star of the show in this coastal destination. A trip to Baja California would not be complete without trying Baja fish tacos.

These fried fish delights are found throughout the city and will keep you returning for more and more after your first sample. 

While the Ensenada sights are a big draw to the area, it’s the food that keeps people coming back.

Sip On Fine Wines At Guadalupe Valley

With almost 90% of Mexico’s wine coming from this region, you best believe Guadalupe Valley is a wine-lovers paradise.

Over 120 wineries can be found here, the only hard part is narrowing down which of the many vineyards to visit. 

Also Read: Best Wineries in Guadalupe Valley Best Hotels in Valle de Guadalupe

We’ve rounded up some of the area’s finest Guadalupe wine-tasting tours below:

Guadalupe Valley Wine Route Tour In Baja California: Visit Baja California’s oldest winery as part of this tour, along with three other wineries. Along the way you’ll learn all about the wine-making process and sample some of the products, if you wish. This tour also includes a stop at the Wine Museum of Baja California.

Valle de Guadalupe Wine Tasting Tour: Roam around four acclaimed wineries with an experienced and knowledgeable guide. One of the vineyards you’ll visit has been in business for 90 years!

Xecue Wine Tasting In The Guadalupe Valley: If you prefer to spend time sipping a variety of wines while relaxing, this tour is for you. Learn about and sample five different wines with a beautiful vineyard as your backdrop.

Check Out La Bufadora

While in Ensenada, be sure to visit La Bufadora Blowhole. You can read our full guide on how to plan a visit to La Bufadora here.

This famous spectacle is one of Ensenada’s most famous attractions and is located just 25 minutes from downtown.

Thought to be the second largest among marine geysers in the world, visitors have been flocking to La Bufadora to witness water shoot up over 100 feet into the air for years. Let us tell you, it’s a wonderful thing to witness. 

Check out some of the fantastic La Bufadora tours below:

La Bufadora Tour In Baja California: Spend a few hours exploring La Bufadora and shopping for crafts at a local market with this 4 hour guided tour. You’ll also stop by a hotel where the world-famous margarita cocktail was invented!

Scenic La Bufadora, Flea Shopping, And Tequila Private Tour: For those seeking a little more privacy and flexibility during their visit, this private tour is for you. It requires at least four people and can be customized to add in extra stops.

Las Canadas Ecopark And La Bufadora Private Tour: If you’re looking to get the most out of your visit to La Bufadora, you’ll enjoy this private tour. The tour includes a few hours at the Las Canadas Ecopark, where you can take in stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Even partake in zip lining if you wish.

Go Horseback Riding On The Beach

Head to the seaside and enjoy an afternoon of horseback riding along one of the area’s many gorgeous beaches.

This is one of the most popular things to do in Ensenada, and a must on many visitors’ to-do lists. 

Some great tours include:

Authentic Horseback Riding Experience in Beautiful La Mision: All experience levels are welcome on this scenic adventure. Tours start and finish at a local ranch where you can also visit dogs, donkeys, goats, and sheep. Photos and videos of your experience are included in the package.

Ensenada Shore Excursion: Blowhole And La Bufadora Tour With Horseback Riding: If you’re short on time during your stay in Ensenada, this tour combining La Bufadora and horseback riding will be perfect. Ride along Playa La Loya before hitting the local market and the famous blowhole.

Private Horseback And La Bufadora Shore Excursion: Those who prefer a quieter tour will love this 4-5 hour adventure. It combines horseback riding on a tranquil beach and a visit to La Bufadora. The nature of this tour also allows for some flexibility and additional stops.

Visit Museo De Historia

Learn about Baja California’s interesting history with a stop at the Museo De Historia. Explore the museum’s many exhibits across seven rooms, with displays containing information about the local Indigenous people and how the city has evolved over the years.

Be sure to pick up a booklet on your way in. This will provide English translations of the display information. 

Museo De Historia is pretty small in size. A tour usually takes around an hour, depending how fast you soak up the information. Of course, you can stay around for as long as you like.

Chill Out At Parque De La Bandera

No trip to Ensenada would be complete without a visit to the Parque De La Bandera.

The name actually translates to Flag Park , thanks to its huge, Instagram-famous Mexican flag. The flag is so large, it can be seen flying high from many parts of the city. 

One of the most popular things to do at the park is to enjoy the dramatic fountains.

This is where you can find an exciting light and water show around nighttime. The show usually starts at 8:00 pm, and is definitely worth checking out during your visit.

Pay A Visit To The Caracol Museo De Ciencias

Caracol Museo De Ciencias is another favorite among families visiting Ensenada. The museum was constructed to resemble a massive ship and is, not surprisingly, situated near the harbor. 

At Caracol Museo De Ciencias, you’ll learn all about Baja’s wildlife. Visitors can explore the fascinating observatory, understand how climate change is affecting the planet, and read about dinosaur fossils found in the area.

One of our favorite parts was the earthquake simulator. Here you can experience what an earthquake feels like in the museum’s unique simulator! 

Stroll Along The Malecon

If you plan to explore Parque De La Bandera, be sure to visit the park’s gorgeous boardwalk, called the Malecon. 

The Malecon is one of Ensenada’s best-loved spots for both locals and tourists. It’s a great place to soak up the Baja sunshine, sample delicious Mexican cuisine, and sip on a refreshing local beer or margarita. 

Keep an eye out for the famous golden busts of three key figures from Mexico’s rich history: Benito Juarez, Miguel Hidalgo, and Venustiano Carranza.

Go Deep Sea Fishing

One thing you have to do while in Ensenada is hit the waters for some deep-sea fishing. Whether you’re a professional or a novice, you’ll have an absolute blast.

Join your captain to go fishing for various fish species like barracudas, white sea bass, yellowtail, rock cod, and many others.

With some luck, you may also spot dolphins, seals, or even sea lions.

Below are some popular tours in the area:

Carnival Deep Sea Fishing: Suitable for anyone over the age of eight, this fun expedition takes you far out to sea for a whole five hours. The captain will take you to areas with the best chance of finding your catch. Snacks are included with each booking, and you’ll be in the company of professionals who know the open Pacific Ocean better than anyone else.

Sergio’s Sportfishing Centre: There are a couple tour options you can pick from at Sergio’s Sportfishing Centre. These include private excursions and open tours, plus the hugely popular whale-watching boat rides, for those visiting from December to April.

Pila’s Sportfishing: Offering a variety of chartered boat options, you’ll have plenty of choices for a fun deep-sea fishing adventure. Whether it’s a relaxing afternoon, or a party out at sea, tailor your journey based on your group’s interests.

Visit Las Cañadas Park

An essential for thrill-seekers visiting Baja Norte, ziplining at Las Canadas Park is the perfect activity for anyone seeking an adrenaline kick. As you fly high through the skies, take in incredible views of lush forests and majestic mountains. At Las Cañadas, you can also go horseback riding, ATV-tours, and enjoy a water park. The best part? You can camp there as well (or rent a cabin or even a tipi). Such a fun place for the whole family to have an incredible time!

See some of the fantastic tours available below:

Las Canadas Canopy Tour In Ensenada: Jump across five hanging bridges and catch some air time on this exciting 1 hour experience. Meet your guide and group at the park, around 30 minutes from downtown.

Las Canadas Eco Park And La Bufadora Private Tour: Ideal for a family day out, this private tour will allow you to explore Las Canadas Park and La Bufadora in one day.

Take In Some Views On A Hike

Ensenada is blessed with picturesque hiking routes, and options for all fitness levels, interests, and timeframes. 

Some of fantastic hiking routes include:

Cascada El Salto: At just over 2 miles roundtrip, this hike takes less than an hour to complete. The exciting hike will lead you through a beautiful canyon and waterfall.

Punta Brava: A short, but moderately challenging route, this hiking trail takes you out to the Pacific Ocean. Here you’ll be treated to some of the most breathtaking seascapes you’ve ever seen. Don’t forget your swimsuit if you fancy a splash in the water.

Valle De Guadalupe Aguas Termales Y Ruinas: This popular route is just under 4 miles round trip and a fairly easy route. Stops throughout include hot springs and water ponds.

Mezcal And Tequila Tasting Tour

When in Mexico, do as the Mexicans do and enjoy the famous mezcal and tequila.

You’ll find a huge selection of these beverages in bars and restaurants throughout Ensenada, but the best way to sample is through a tasting tour.

Learn all about Mexico’s most famous spirits while sampling some for yourself. It’s probably best you leave the car at your hotel for the day.

If you’re a tequila-lover wondering what to do in Ensenada, this should definitely be a consideration.

Below is a popular tequila tasting tour in Ensenada:

Mezcal, Tequila, And Ceviches Guided Tasting Tour: Taste three mezcals and three tequilas as part of this tour. Come knowing nothing and leave an expert; that’s what it’s all about.

Go Off-Road On An ATV Adventure

Get off the beaten path and explore Ensenada’s countryside on an exhilarating ATV tour.

Many of these tours explore the Guadalupe Valley area, where you can combine off-road travels with a winery visit (no driving after). 

See some of the exciting tours available below:

ATV Off-Road Adventure Through Valle De Guadalupe And Winery Visit: Drive through scenic landscapes and vineyards on this tour. Followed by a stop at one of the area’s fabulous wineries.

Off-Road Tour Experience Plus Winery Visit: Explore Baja California’s wine country and its incredible views, while stopping at two wineries for some yummy tastings.

Sunset Off-Road Experience: Take ATVs up to a mesmerizing viewpoint, and soak up the jaw-dropping vistas as the sun goes down, on this evening adventure.

Spend The Day At Canon De Dona Petra Ecological Park

Canon De Dona Petra Ecological Park is hugely popular with avid hikers. Not to mention visitors hoping to switch off and relax during their time in Ensenada.

Take on rewarding trails, photograph unbelievable landscapes, go mountain biking, and come in contact with various forms of nature. That’s what Canon De Dona Petra Ecological Park is all about.

That wraps up our list of top things to do in Ensenada, Mexico. No wonder this has been a hot spot for Californians seeking a quick weekend away, without going too far.

There’s nothing hold you back, it’s time to embark on your Mexican adventure just south of the border.

Last Updated on February 27, 2024 by Maria Haase

About Maria Haase

Maria Haase has been a travel writer since 2007, stumbling into this profession during an internship in China. She grew up in Germany, but has lived in San Diego since 2006. Maria is a globetrotter, but also adores to explore her own back yard whenever she is home. She loves to share her favorite spots, help visitors plan their trips and share helpful tips about her chosen hometown San Diego.

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Introducing Ensenada

About ensenada, ensenada travel guide.

In 1703, Jesuit Padre Juan de Ugarte planted the first vineyards here. Today it is home to premier wine producers together with festivals that honour the grape. Ensenada is located on a peninsula 700 miles- (1100 km-) long that extends south from Tijuana into the Pacific Ocean, and is backed by small mountains. Blessed by mild year-round weather, the state's third-largest city is a popular with both short and long-haul cruise passengers. Dubbed the 'Cinderella of the Pacific', Ensenada is the main port in Baja California and sits in the heart of Mexico 's rolling wine country.

Sightseeing:

Wine-lovers will have plenty of opportunity to sample Ensenada's home-grown vintages with a number of first-class tours that take in cellars and wineries galore. The region is also famous for its natural phenomenon, a craggy blowhole created by marine erosion that spews seawater skyward at force. Baja California is rich in marine life and offers excellent opportunities for experienced divers and anglers. Baja's Pacific lagoons are an important breeding ground for whales, particularly the gray whale, and whale-watching is another popular pastime during a visit to the port. Highlights: • Sample local wine at the de Santo Tomas (the oldest winery in the region). • Marvel at La Bufadora (The Blowhole) and its soaring jet of foamy seawater. • Whale watching in Central Baja Lagoon (Dec - Mar). • Shoreline kayak expeditions. • Jet-skiing at the Estero Beach Resort. • Explore Ensenada's rugged countryside in a Jeep Wrangler (4x4).

Tourist Information Centres

Ensenada Tourist Board Blvd. Lazaro Cardenas 609 - 5, Ensenada, B.C. Mexico 22800 Website: www.enjoyensenada.com

Baja California is synonymous with keen-priced duty-free products such as tequila, perfume, silver and gold jewellery, pottery, leather and cosmetics. Mexican souvenirs are also on sale, including woven woolen blankets, brightly coloured scarves, and straw hats. Markets, department stores and tourist shops are located on Avenida Lopez Mateos while the tangerine-coloured Plaza Marina shopping mall is primed to welcome cruise ship arrivals, in a top spot by the water.

Restaurants

Ensenada is full of inexpensive gastronomic attractions, from its decent sandwich shops and coffee bars to a finger-licking array of waterfront taco stalls serving authentic Mexican fare. The tacos de pescado (fish tacos) are particularly good, cooked fresh to order using whatever has been caught that day. For quick-and-easy American fast food head to the Plaza Marina shopping mall, where several outlets offer burgers, fries, hotdogs and chicken. Hussong's Cantina is another Ensenada tradition; a century-old bar with sawdust on the floor that serves snacks and ice-cold beer.

When to go:

Ensenada is mild, sunny and dry. A cool Pacific current keeps summer temperatures down, with average highs for June, July and August a comfortable 24̊C (76F). The hottest days occur in winter when the wind can switch direction and come from the east off the desert.

Nearest Destination:

Transfer distance:, transfer time.

© Columbus Travel Media Ltd. All rights reserved 2024

32 Best & Fun Things to Do in Ensenada (Mexico)

A prominent coastal city in Mexico, Ensenada is the third largest city in Baja California Peninsula.

There are lots of fun things to do in Ensenada which cuts across outdoor activities, cruise ship destinations, wine villages, coastal activities, and lots more.

The city is known for its wide range of ideal vacation experiences it has to offer such as watersports, thrilling adventures, wine tastings, sun tanning, horseback riding, spectacular dinings, and practically almost every experience a tourist would like to try out.

There are also lots of mind-blowing tourist attractions in Ensenada such as the El Salto Canyon and Waterfall, Guadalupe Island, La Bufadora, Canon Parque Ecologico, La Lobera, and more.

Ensenada also boasts history and culture in its historical destinations such as the Regional Museum and the Riviera Center known as the cultural heart of Ensenada and home to the Ensenada Museum of History.

Are you planning a vacation? here is a list of the best things to do in Ensenada for a fun time.

Things to Do in Ensenada

1. explore the wine country.

Located about 20km north of Ensenada, Valle De Guadalup also known as the wine country is a popular tourist destination for wine lovers, it comprises more than 75 wineries.

The destination is frequented by many year after year as a result of its fine wines and intriguing dining with perfect velvety red wine, gourmet dishes, and cheese.

A perfect way to explore this wine village is booking a tour with a trusted tour agency which will take you through the beauty and amazement of this area as you taste a variety of local wine and cuisines.

The majority of the wine tours take individuals to the top four vineyards, snacks venue, and the remarkable wine museum which teaches visitors about the evolution of the Mexican wine country and how it got to where it is today.

2. Avenida Lopez Mateos

Avenida Lopez Mateos is a lively shopping street in Ensenada filled with lots of stores that offer different kinds of items.

Some of the items featured in the stores of this street include beautiful embroidered Mexican dresses, straw hats, crafts, blankets, jewelry, and ponchos.

Avenida Lopez Mateos also features wonderful food venues like street-side cafés and restaurants which offer a variety of deliciously prepared cuisine, coffee, Grateful Dead Drink and other popular drinks.

Stroll along the street to enjoy all the excitement it has to offer.

3. The Opal Mine

To purchase the best Mexican jewelry, visit The Opal Mine, a popular jewelry store that features varieties of beautiful locally-made jewelries including those made using fire opal, the national stone of Mexico.

The Opal Mine has customer friendly staffs who are ready to attend to visitors and guide them as they select from the hundreds of available jewelry designs.

This beautiful jewelry store has its interior designed to look like an original opal mine to create a picture of the origin of the polished stones.

The Opal Mine also offers a while-you-wait jeweler service which enables the re-sizing of rings.

There is a wide range of jewelry available in the store and you can easily find jewelry that perfectly suits your budget.

stop by this jewelry store while you are in Ensenada to get unique jewelry made with the precious Mexican opal as a souvenir for your family or loved ones.

Address:The Opal Mine, Lazaro Cardenas, Zone Centro, 22800 Ensenada, B.C., Mexico,

4. Ensenada Museum of History

If you have interested in History, a visit to the Ensenada Museum of History should make one of your top things to do in Ensenada.

Forming part of the Riviera Cultural Center, the museum is focused on portraying the history of the Baja Peninsul and also the significant individuals who contributed to the development of the area.

Among other things you get to learn in this museum include information about the influence of the explorers and European missionaries on the native local populations.

The museum, though quite small in size contains detailed and well-documented history which is written in both English and Spanish.

Among other features of the Ensenada Museum of History includes a photo library, a library, and a shop.

There are also available guided tours for visitors carried out by well mannered and polite guides.

Address: Ensenada Museum of History, Centro Cultural, Riviera Blvd, Zona Centro CP 22820, Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico

5. Hussong’s Cantina

Hussong’s Cantina is a popular historic tourist location in Ensenada widely recognized to be the birthplace of the margarita.

Situated in an erstwhile stage-coach inn, the area is a highly frequented destination by both locals and tourists alike.

A notable unique feature of this Catina is the floor of the bar which got peanut shells scattered across it.

Aside from drinks, Hussong’s Cantina also offers large bags of peanuts, and diners are permitted to leave peanut shells on the floor.

An adequate place to meet and interact with locals, Hussong’s Cantina is quite busy on an opening day and has Pigeons flying around due to the peanuts shells on the floor which they love.

Additionally, on some days of the week, there are Mexican bands who come to perform live music in the bar. Visitors can as well watch sports events on the screens available at Hussong’s Cantina.

While in this area, do not forget to have a taste of the signature Margarita which is believed to have originated from this location in 1941 when it was prepared for the daughter of a German ambassador who visited and it was named for her.

Hussong’s Cantina is open for visits from Tuesdays to Sundays from 11AM–10PM. The venue is closed only on Mondays.

Address: Hussong’s Cantina, Av. Ruiz 113, Zona Centro, 22800 Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico,

6. Cañón de Doña Petra Ecological Park

To witness the beauty of nature, visit Canon De Dona Petra Ecological Park, a popular nature-filled attraction in Ensenada, situated in an elevated residential area.

The park situated in a strategic position gives an amazing scenic view of the spectacular coastline of Baja California and the city as well.

Having a serene and comfortable environment, Canon De Dona Petra Ecological Park is a perfect place to get an alone quiet time or read a book peacefully.

The park has a nice network of nature trails that boast activities such as hiking, walking, and mountain biking.

Also featuring different species of local birds, the park is an ideal place for bird lovers who wish to take on bird watching.

The people of Nepal donated a bright and amazing statue of the Buddhist Princess Tara and it is positioned at the center of the park.

Canon De Dona Petra Ecological Park is open to visitors every day of the week from 7AM – 9PM.

Address: Canon de Dona Petra Ecological Park, Av. Ruiz, Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico

7. La Lobera

Nestled between the town of Rosario and San Quintin, La Lobera is an amazing sea cave located at Ensenada’s rugged south coast which has an open rooftop.

Opening up to the beach 20 feet below, this attractive crater shaped like a stadium is a habitat to Sea lions and is encompassed by circular mysterious rock outcrops

Though not exactly located in Ensenada, La Lobera is a beautiful and unique attraction to visit and behold amazing land formations and incredible as well as exceptional sea lions.

Added to that, there is a classic restaurant just close to the area which is known to serve the best food on the highway,

Address: Baja California, Mexico

8. Walk the Malecon

The Malecon is a short enjoyable boardwalk located along Ensenada’s Bay of All Saints which begins at a fish market and extends to the park.

This boardwalk gives an amazing view of the sunrise and sunset which gives passerby an exciting strolling experience.

A popular feature of the Malecon is the large Mexican flag mounted in the area which is about 300 feet tall and was part of the Banderas monumental project.

Described by Tour guides to be one of the world’s largest flag, the Mexican flag of this area is about 28meters wide and 50meters long.

Furthermore, the Malecon also features talented artist who stands along the boardwalk performing live mariachi music and entertaining onlookers and passerby.

The Malecon gives a lively energetic Mexican vibe with its busy environment that features barking sea lions, fishermen bringing in their catch, pelicans call, and lots more.

9. Valley Girl Wine Tours

If you are a wine lover and wish to have a taste of the different local wines of Ensenada, do join the Valley Girl Wine Tours.

Valley Girl Wine Tours is a private tour agency that gives a perfect Valle de Guadalupe wine experience.

The tour features a private driver that takes you through the area to wineries where you get to taste varieties of fine wine and also see different beautiful vineyards with the company of an experienced guide and wine experts.

The tour is organized to suit your favorite wine preferences taking you to at least three wineries where you taste their special handcrafted wines, a wonderful restaurant that serves you lunch, and an artisan cheesery.

Address: Valley Girl Wine Tours, Street with no Name at the Entrance to Heaven, Ensenada, 22755, Mexico

10. Regional Historical Museum

One of the best things to do in Ensenada for history lovers is visiting the Regional Historical Museum.

Though also a history museum, Regional Historical Museum is completely different from the Ensenada Museum of History of Riviera Cultural Center.

The museum is housed by a historical building in Ensenada which was formerly a local prison and has most of its exhibits displayed in rooms that were initially prison cells.

Regional Historical Museum is a significant attraction that enlightens individuals on the culture, history, and landscape of Baja California, with exhibits like fossils and bones which are millions of years old.

Added to the historical permanent exhibits the museum also features temporary exhibitions which change occasionally.

Address: Regional Historical Museum, Av. Gastelum, Colonia Centro, CP 22800, Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico

11. Juan More Taco Food Tours

To have a taste of the various Mexican local food offered by Ensenada, sign up for the Juan More Taco Food Tour, which takes you on an interactive walking tour across Ensenada to try out different delicious Mexican cuisines.

A food tour is advantageous for ignorant tourists who intend on trying out Mexican local flavors but don’t know where to begin, if that is the case Juan More Taco Food Tours is perfect for you as they help you discover your favorite local dish in different local restaurants.

The tour lasts for an average of 2 hours 30 mins taking participants through downtown Ensenada and other local neighborhoods where they get to learn about the culture and also taste the area’s best food.

This makes one of the best things to do in Ensenada, do add to your Ensenada checklist.

Address: Juan More Taco Food Tours, Ensenada’s Boardwalk Fountain, Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico

12. Caracol Museo de Ciencias (Caracol Science Museum)

If you are a science lover, a visit to Caracol Science Museum should be added to your list of things to do in Ensenada.

Nestled in between the harbor and the enormous Riviera Center, Caracol Science Museum is an innovative and modern museum that features different marvelous works of science.

The museum consists of exhibits that teach visitors about Mexican and Baja engineering and scientific projects most of which have English captions.

Among several other permanent exhibits in the museum include a Manila galleon which was shipwrecked off the coast, The Heavens, and The Earth.

The museum also has an exhibit of a dinosaur as well as other temporary exhibits that focus on receding polar ice caps and their impact on the marine environment, this answers what to do in Ensenada, Mexico for lovers of science.

13. El Parque De La Bandera

The park comprises of a fountain, a bandshell which serves as host to several live music events throughout the year, and a playground where the kids can play around.

Visit the park at 8 p.m to witness the dancing fountain, a lit water programmed to follow the beat of the music playing.

El Parque De La Bandera is a perfect place to visit at night to relax and enjoy amazing views of the port area.

14. ATV Ensenada

ATV Ensenada is an Ensenada tour agency that takes participants on a variety of exciting and interesting tours around the city on all-terrain vehicles.

The agency offers an opportunity for participants to drive on their own ATV or be a passenger on a vehicle of two-seaters which gives a fun-filled drive suitable for everyone.

Some of the tours offered by ATV Ensenada include the ATV Mountain Tour filled with adventure and action, the ATV Wine Tour which takes participants on an exciting trail riding to four different wineries, and the ATV Zip Line Combo Tour.

ATV Ensenada also features an ATV Blow Hole Tour perfect for nature enthusiasts as they get to visit Ensenada’s prime attractions.

You can also join the ATV Hot Springs Tour filled with lots of adventures, this makes what to do in Ensenada for a fun time.

Address: ATV Ensenada, Avenue Castillo & Boulevard Costero, Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico

15. Riviera of Ensenada

To know more about the culture of Ensenada visit the Riviera Center which is recognized to be the cultural heart of Ensenada, this is one tourist attraction Ensenada you should not miss.

The center also comprise of the Ensenada Museum of History, it is a historic building once home to the Riviera Del Pacifico Resort and Casino.

Built in 1930, the center is an ideal place to visit for architecture enthusiasts and history lovers. It is beautifully designed with several ornate woodwork, beautifully painted ceilings, ornate chandeliers, and local tiles.

Riviera of Ensenada also features interesting daily docent-led tours(some in English) which takes participants through the beauty and knowledge of the center

Additionally, the area is encompassed by several outstanding nature-filled manicured gardens, which are also exciting to explore.

Address: Riviera of Ensenada, Lazaro Cardenas 1421, Bahia Ensenada, 22880 Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico

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16. Play with Cat Cubs at Pai Pai

Pai Pai is a rehabilitation center situated in the Paipai Eco-Tourism center just left of the Oxxo curve, which focuses on helping big cat cubs that are injured, sick, abandoned, and orphaned.

The cats in this center are divided according to their ages into three different groups and the visitor’s tours as well are grouped in this manner.

Visitors are free to pick a tour of any age group of their choice including that of the baby cubs.

Aside from its many cat cubs the center also features parrots, lemurs, and a petting zoo that comprises of different domestic animals.

Pai Pai is a perfect place to visit for kids and adults alike, the trip is worth it too, as there are lots of amazing views along its path.

Admission into this center is at a very affordable price which is used for maintenance.

Address: Km 6 Carretera Ensenada – La Bufadora, Ejido Cnel. Esteban Cantú, 22790 Ensenada, B.C., Mexico

17. Desert Trails

Located about ten minutes north of Ensenada, Desert Trails is the perfect place for Equestrians to have a fun exploring time.

Having many touring opportunities and choices, the company features a small stable which comprises of different well-trained horses suitable for both beginners, average or expert horse riders.

Visitors can decide to explore the area through horseback riding or on a trail ride. There are also riding lessons carried out by horse riding experts available to individuals who wish to upgrade their horse-riding skills.

The company has a small stable of well-trained horses suitable for just about all skill levels, and you can choose to simply explore the area on a trail ride or combine horseback riding with a tour of your choice.

These tour rides are of different durations from one to four hours and feature a country barbeque, packed lunch, or a wine or cheese tour.

18. Plaza Civica

Located at the Ensenada Central Area, Plaza Civica is a place to get some knowledge about the founding history of Ensenada.

This history endowed plaza is home to three of Mexico’s most significant historical figures which are Miguel Hidalgo, the golden head busts of Benito Juarez, and Venustiano Carranza.

There is an inscription on each of the figurehead which describes the significance of the person represented to the history of Mexico.

There is a wide range of interesting knowledge available for you to uncover in this area and also remarkable views of the ocean.

Plaza Civica also features local vendors who sell items ranging from used books to crafts, jewelry, and street-food snacks.

Also, there is a gigantic flag and beautiful sights in this area which makes it a perfect place for tourists to take photos.

This is one of the best tourist attractions in Ensenada, do add to your bucket list of things to see in Ensenada, Mexico.

19. Sergio’s Sportfishing

Established in 1997, Sergio’s Sportfishing is a fishing organization that takes in interested fishermen and women aboard their tailormade sport fishing vessels to embark on an adventurous fishing experience.

The expenditure features a six-hour to full-day sportfishing tour in the deep sea of Todos Santos Island, Punta Banda, and San Miguel Reef.

Sergio’s Sportfishing fleet of sportfishing vehicle is only capable of accommodating an average number of 3 to 30 people per tour or excursion.

The fleet has several useful equipment such as live bait, sinkers, rods, fish-finder, and reels all aimed at making the tour an easy and exciting one.

The sportfishing vessels are also available for rentals for individuals who wish to explore the beauty of the waters or host an on-board private party.

Address: Sergio’s Sportfishing, Callejon Todos Santos, Centro, 22800, Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico

20. La Guerrerense

Among several other unique classy food venues in Ensenada, La Guerrerense is a popular food cart frequented by both locals and tourists alike.

Established in 1960, the restaurant offers fresh and delicious seafoods and is recognized by many including celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain to be one of the best Food Carts in the World.

Some of the delicious seafoods available on the La Guerrerense menu include octopus, shrimp, ceviche tostadas, and lots more.

Aside from seafoods, the cart also offers a variety of expertly prepared special homemade salsas.

Though having very little seating, the cart is famous for its delicious seafood and has long queues of people waiting for orders each day.

For this reason, diners are advised to visit early to get a taste of the restaurant’s favorites before it gets sold out.

Address: La Guerrerense, Av. Adolfo Lopez Mateos 917, Zona Centro, 22800 Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico

21. El Jardin de Tara

Located in the Ecological Park of Canon De Dona Petra, El Jardin de Tara also known as Garden of Tara is a beautiful garden filled with different species of gorgeous plants.

The prime attraction of the gardens is the bright and colorful statue of the Tibetan princess the White Tara which makes it a unique attraction for many tourists.

The statue of Tara portrays an enlightened female figure who is filled with wisdom, compassion, and joy and she is adored by Buddhists across the world.

The colossal 20-foot sculpture was a symbol and gesture of peace donated to Ensenada by the people of Nepal.

Additionally, the gardens are an ideal place to take a nature stroll and have a beautiful scenic view of the ocean beyond and the city.

Address: El Jardin de Tara, Av. Ruiz, Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico

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22. Rancho Los Bandidos

Among other exciting things to do in Ensenada for an adventure time, joining the Baja Bandidos horse riding excursion is a perfect addition to your Ensenada bucket list.

The excursion begins at a horse ranch situated in Domicilo, Conocido, where participants are paired with the perfect healthy horse that fits their riding skill and experience.

Still at the ranch, the riders are given a short safety briefing and set out on their respective horses through the trail that leads to the San Miguel hills filled with the most spectacular views of the city.

Some of the amazing views along the trail include the Salsipuedes Bay, the golden coast, the Pacific Ocean, and the Salsipuedes Bay.

The ride is accompanied by friendly professional guides who are ready to assist riders in any way possible.

After the excursion, back to the ranch, participants are offered a variety of amazing snacks including pole tacos, chips, drinks, and salsa.

The Baja Bandidos horse riding excursion lasts for an average of 1-2 hours and it costs about $71.99 for individuals abouvey13 years of age and $ 61.99 for children from 8-6 years of age. Price may vary overtime do inquire for their website.

23. Desert Nest Zipline

For a fun outdoor adventure time, visit the Desert Nest Zipline a mountain-top adventure park located in El Sauzal which offers an intriguing zipline experience, this is one of the top things to do in Ensenada.

Among other exciting features of this Park is a circuit of five ziplines, which is about 3.6 km (11,811 feet) in length.

Desert Nest Zipline offers an off the mountain ride on safe Double parallel cables with a kind of seat that has secure straps to ensure more safety.

The Mountain-top adventure park gives an amazing scenic view of the ocean and surrounding areas. Visitors can also crossing the suspension bridge and thereafter try out the zipline ride.

Note that the ziplines only accept a minimum weight of about 45kg (99 lb.).

Address: Desert Nest Zipline, El Sauzal, Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico,

24. Skydive Baja

If you are in Ensenada for a thrill or an adventure, do try out diving with the Skydive Baja.

Skydive Baja creates an opportunity for interested individuals to expedite the adventure of diving off a helicopter or plane from a high altitude of about 12,000 feet.

Skydive Baja is also available for diving newbies who wish to be part of a thrill by trying out the sport. There is onsite instruction given to newbies by experts to help guide them through the dive.

The adventurous dive features a one-minute free fall before the release of the parachute which gradually floats you down to land.

This answers what to do in Ensenada for an adventure, if you are an adventure seeker, this activity should make your list of things to do in Ensenada.

Address: Skydive Baja, Carretare Ensenada San Felipe, Ojos Negros, 22771 Ensenada, B.C. Mexico

25. Las Canadas Canopy Tour

Among other fun things to do in Ensenada, the Las Canadas Canopy Tour is an interesting zipline adventure that is worth adding to your to-do list while in the city.

The canopy tour comprises of an array of about five separate zipline sectors with two of the ziplines being more than a quarter-mile long.

The five sectors are connected by five hanging bridges, each of which requires a different balancing approach.

The adventure of the tour begins at the central tower where participants are safely strapped in a harness and released to slide across through the bridges from which they enjoy a perfect view of the area from above.

There are also safe lockers where participants can keep their valuables before embarking on the tour.

Address: Carretera Ensenada KM. 31.5, La Paz, Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico

26. El Salto Canyon and Waterfall

To experience an amazing view while in Ensenada, visit The El Salto Canyon and Waterfall, this is one of the top-secret attractions in Ensenada.

Located less than an hour drive from central Ensenada on the Ensenada–Tijuana Free Highway, this area is a perfect destination for hiking or exploring.

However, a little amount of 2 dollars is to be paid if you wish to explore this area and if you wish to make use of the camping option for a night an amount of 5 dollars is to be paid.

The hiking trail leads directly to the base of the canyon which features beautiful rock formations and several seasonal pools.

You can as well decide to extend the hike over a large hill, which gives an amazing view of the surrounding area and also leads to an inland lake where you can indulge in recreational activities like swimming and fishing.

Among other fun activities that can be done in this area include Rock climbing and lots more.

Address: El Salto Canyon and Waterfall, (off the Ensenada–Tijuana Highway), Baja California, Mexico

27. La Cava de Marcelo

Try some delicious cheese at La Cava de Marcelo, known to be the main cheese producer in the entire Ensenada.

At this attraction, you get to be enlightened on matters regarding crop production, livestock keeping, and sample cheese alongside fine wines.

The restaurant at La Cava de Marcelo offers spectacular traditional and modern Mexican cuisines made using carefully selected fresh locally sourced ingredients gotten from Ojos Negros valley.

28. Surf Ensenada

Amongst the top activities in Ensenada is surfing, Surf Ensenada is a training agency for surfing which gives aspiring surfers a personal Surf one-on-one lesson on surfing to improve their surfing abilities in a short while.

The private lesson runs for an average of 2 hours with an on-land section which enlightens newbies on all there is to know about surfing before entering the water.

Surf Ensenada is at the service of individuals of all ages including children with readiness to teach anyone the way of surfing.

No need to come with any surfing gear as Surf Ensenada provides all you will be needing for surfing including a rash vest, sunscreen, wet suit, and the actual soft-top surfboard.

Surf Ensenada also offers group lessons for a family or other group of people.

This makes what to do in Ensenada for a fun time, it is a perfect way to learn surfing or improve your skills in surfing while in Ensenada.

Address:Surf Ensenada, Ensenada, B.C. Mexico

29. Maya Cacao

If you are a chocolate lover, then a visit to Maya Cacao should be added to your list of things to do in Ensenada.

It is believed by the people of Ensenada that about 3,500 years ago the first cacao beans were given to the ancient Mayans, and that chocolate was first mentioned in the ancient Mayan scripts during that time.

Ever since, the cacao bean has been regarded as a food of the gods. Stop by the Maya Cacao to know more about this tale and the history of the cacao bean.

The cacao bean is also available in the area, which gives you a chance to see how the beans grow.

Additionally, Maya Cacao features a detailed chocolate-making demonstration which lasts for about 60 minutes and when finished, visitors get to taste a traditional Mayan chocolate drink and several other chocolate drinks.

Address:Maya Cacao, 914 Alvarado Ave, Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico,

30. Guadalupe Island

If you have an interest in cage diving with enormous white sharks, a visit to Guadalupe Island should be a perfect addition to your checklist of things to do in Ensenada.

The Island creates an opportunity for interested visitors to indulge in a life adventure by getting aboard the Nautilus liveaboard vessel in Guadalupe Island which takes passengers deep into the ocean.

The adventure lasts for five days spent on board the vessel with an opportunity to go 30 meters below the ocean surface on highly protected cages for an average time of 2 hours daily.

The dive takes participants so deep to come face to face with great white sharks in a natural and safe environment guided by an experienced divemaster.

To enjoy this adventurous memorable experience visit between July and November each year.

31. Flyers Trampoline Park

If you are looking forward to giving your kids a fun-filled experience when you visit Ensenada, then one place to check out is the Flyers Trampoline Park. It features a lot of fun activities for kids of all ages.

Flyers Trampoline Park is a warehouse with plenty of play space and numerous areas for varieties of fun activities. The older kids can also join in being part of this fun-filled adventure.

The Park has basketball courts, large trampoline areas, dodgeball, and many other fun activities. Parents can feed their eyes with the many activities or just watch as their kids have a good time in this facility. 

Flyers Trampoline Park is open all through the week. Their staff is very welcoming and super friendly.

Address: Transpeninsular 86, Carlos Pacheco 4, 22890 Ensenada, B.C

32. Ensenada Pier Extension

This destination is a nice place to visit. You can hang out with your loved ones and friends as you enjoy your home-packaged meal and drink while enjoying the lovely scenery.

The attraction is furry-friendly, but visitors must ensure their dogs are well looked after and are leashed at all times. You can take a quick dip on the beach, skate, or enjoy a boat ride.

An ideal time to visit this beach area is when the sun sets and blends with the blue waters, which makes the entire place more colorful and lovely to take photos.

Address: Carlos Pacheco 4, Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico

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Plan to Explore Ensenada

Ensenada is a perfect place for some vacation time with family and friends.

Filled with fun and lots of excitement, the city has several captivating attractions suitable for individuals of all ages.

Do plan a visit to this destination for your next vacation and take part in the excitement this city has to offer. Hit the pin button to save this piece as you make plans to visit this coastal city.

Ensenada Baja California Travel Guide

Ensenada Mexico

Discovering ensenada mexico where culture and cosmopolitanism collide.

Ensenada, Baja California, Mexic o , where cultural richness meets the laid-back vibes of a coastal haven.

Nestled just 108km south of the border, Ensenada emerges as the cosmopolitan sister to its more exuberant counterpart, Tijuana.

• Ensenada: A cultural mosaic where diverse travelers meet.
• 108km south of the border: A perfect blend of cosmopolitan and laid-back vibes.

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Ensenada mexico attractions.

Riviera del Pacífico

Let’s kick things off with Riviera del Pacífico . Back in the 1930s, it started as Hotel Playa Ensenada and has since evolved into an extravagant Spanish-style former casino. Rumor has it; Al Capone might have dropped by! Dive into its rich history and soak in the allure of this iconic spot.

• Riviera del Pacífico: A historic gem turned casino, possibly visited by Al Capone.
• Explore the extravagant Spanish architecture and soak in the rich history.

For breathtaking views, head to El Mirador atop the Colinas de Chapultepec. Whether you fancy a climb or a drive, the panoramic views of the city and Bahía de Todos Santos are worth it. Pro tip: it’s a must-visit for that Insta-worthy Ensenada skyline shot!

• El Mirador: Panoramic views from Colinas de Chapultepec for the perfect Insta shot.
• Choose between a scenic climb or a drive to enjoy the breathtaking vistas.

Museums Galore

Ensenada isn’t short on history, and its museums prove it. The Museo de Historia de Ensenada traces northern Baja history, complete with replicas of fascinating cave art. Then, there’s the Museo Historico Regional de Ensenada , housed in the city’s oldest public building. Imagine stepping back to 1886!

• Museo de Historia: Dive into the history of northern Baja with cave art replicas.
• Museo Historico Regional: Explore the city’s oldest public building, dating back to 1886.

Local Experience on Avenida López Mateos

Take a stroll down Avenida López Mateos (Calle 1a) – it’s a feast for the senses.

From mouth-watering French cuisine to quirky souvenir shops with tasteless T-shirts (an essential part of any trip, right?), the street captures the essence of Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico .

It’s like a microcosm of culture and commerce!

• Avenida López Mateos: A sensory feast with everything from French cuisine to quirky souvenirs.
• Immerse yourself in the microcosm of Ensenada’s diverse culture and commerce.

Waterfront Highlights

As you explore, don’t miss the waterfront. Spot the colossal Mexican flag proudly waving over the malecón.

If you’ve got kiddos in tow, make a beeline for the dancing musical fountain – it’s a hit with the little ones and those young at heart!

• Waterfront Wonders: Don’t miss the colossal Mexican flag and the dancing musical fountain.
• Perfect spot for families and the young at heart to enjoy the waterfront delights.

Ensenada is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. It’s not just about the attractions but the unique blend of culture and cosmopolitan flair that makes this city so special.

• Ensenada Adventure: A unique blend of culture and cosmopolitan flair.
• Pack your bags and embrace the eclectic vibes of this Mexican gem.

From the historic enchantement of Riviera del Pacífico to the breathtaking views atop El Mirador , and the cultural richness housed within Museo de Historia de Ensenada and Museo Historico Regional de Ensenada, this coastal city beckons with open arms to all who seek an unforgettable adventure.

Explore Downtown Ensenada Baja California

Exploring of Avenida López Mateos and the waterfront delights, it’s clear that Ensenada is more than a destination; it’s a mosaic of experiences, a collision of cultures, and a testament to the beauty that unfolds when history meets modernity.

Whether you’re a food enthusiast, history buff, or a seeker of scenic wonders, Ensenada welcomes you with its vibrant spirit and warm hospitality.

Ready for your next Ensenada, Baja California adventure? Explore the attractions, savor the local experiences, and make memories in this captivating slice of Mexico ! 🇲🇽✨

Other great friendly destinations

Los Cabos Baja California } Mexican resort destination well known for its Ultra Luxury Cabo Resorts and fine dining, as well as spa resorts. The Location is privileged for being a desert surrounded by the Ocean Pacific and the Sea of Cortez .

Right in the Sea of Cortez and next to the desert is San Felipe Mexico , here you will find everything you need to lodge yourself and your family in a great vacations by the Sea of Cortez , all the great food the traditional mexican food can offer, and the world famous mexican beer.

Lake Chapala Jalisco Mexico in the Mexican state of Jalisco and is one of the largest freshwater body in the entire country, find where is located at a few minutes from Guadalajara the second most important city in the country, well known for its Tequila, Mariachi, food and all traditions living in this colorful country.

Loreto Mexico this destination among others like los cabos, and la paz, has prevailed like a forgotten hidden gem.

Now that tourism in the country has become more important than ever, this destination still growing and turning into a great vacation spot.

An Introduction To Surfing In Mexico

Are you looking for the best guide to surfing in mexico on the internet.

You are in the right place. I have lived in Mexico since 2009 but I have been surfing in Mexico since the 1980s. This is your local guide to the most famous surf spots in Mexico for beginner surfers.

It is no surprise that Mexico is such an established surfing destination. Surfing in Mexico has had an allure since the 1960s. Mexico has always had a close relationship with Southern California and all it took was a few stories of ideal Mexico waves with nobody out to create the modern Mexican surf mythology. Surfing big waves in Mexico is one of life´s great travel experiences.

One of the key differences between the United States and Mexico is the percentage of the population that lives on the coast. The three principal cities in Mexico are Monterrey, Guadalajara, and Mexico City, none of which are on the coast.

There are no cities like Los Angeles or New York near any surf spots. In Southern California, surfing became mainstream and big business. In Mexico, it stayed a counter-culture endeavor for much longer than it did in the United States. 

To this day, many of the best surfing regions are rural in nature. Most Mexican states have small coastal cities and long stretches of undeveloped beaches. This is changing quickly. Baja California, Nayarit, and Oaxaca are all growing exponentially. Now is the time to visit.

Surfing in Mexico: An Overview Of The Best Mexico Waves

Mexico is enormous. There are almost 7,000 miles of coastline and much of that has consistent swells. The Pacific coast of Mexico is home to the premier surf towns. From California to Guatemala, there are waves for every skill level.

If you are willing to search, you can find waves where everyone says there are no waves. Both the Sea of Cortez and the Caribbean have waves when the conditions come together. If you are willing to search, there are a lot of waves to be found. 

Because the coastline is so long and faces two different oceans, there are several distinct seasons. Baja Norte tends to favor wintertime north swells that form near the Bering Sea and the Aleutian Islands.

Baja Sur and most of mainland Mexico tend to prefer summertime south swells. Summertime in Mexico is wintertime in the southern hemisphere when massive low-pressure systems form between Australia and Antarctica. Those storms send swell energy marching all the way across the Pacific Ocean before detonating on Mexican shores.

The Caribbean loves hurricane season which runs between late summer and early fall. Hurricanes are also common in the Pacific Ocean and will light up the surf spots that have a more westerly swell window like Nuevo Vallarta. 

Yes, it is possible to score in the off-season, but it is a lot less likely. If you have to book your tickets well in advance it is best to choose the high season rather than hoping to get lucky. If you have the flexibility to plan a strategic strike mission when a huge swell hits the radar, you can score some of the best waves on the planet with very few people out. 

I’m not going to be talking about any secret spots. These are all well-known Mexico waves with some tourist infrastructure.

Water Temperature in Mexico

The water temperature is going to vary enormously from north to south. Additionally, climate change is altering averages with bigger variations and unseasonal weather. Hurricane season is taking on a new meaning as the average storm is significantly stronger than in the past. 

The winter months in Baja California, Baja California Sur, Tamaulipas, and Sonora are cold. Most people will not be able to get into the water without some type of wetsuit. Northern Baja is significantly colder than Southern California and booties and a hood are a nice addition on the coldest winter dawn patrol mornings. 

Climate change is creating some outlying conditions. In 2021 Nayarit had a month-long cold spell that saw most of the locals wearing full suits. Most of the tourists were able to still get in the water with just a jacket but the water was significantly colder than most years. 

In the summer it is more likely to struggle with dehydration because the warm water temperatures are in the high 80s and not refreshing. Make sure to drink plenty of water and stay in the shade when not in the water. 

The Hazards of Surfing in Mexico

Make sure to choose your Mexico waves appropriately. There are waves for both beginners and experts alike so make sure you know your limits. If in doubt, don’t go out. Rescue services and medical care are not the same in small towns as they are in big cities. 

Baja California Surf Spots

The motto around here is “Aquí inicia la patria” or the homeland begins here. There are a lot of waves up and down the Baja California Peninsula and a lot of people surf. The state of Baja California is the upper half of the Baja Penisula. The vast majority of the population of Baja California lives in the area between Tijuana and Ensenada. South of Ensenada, the landscape turns to farmland and then desert. There is a four-lane toll highway from Tijuana to Ensenada with a heavy concentration of excellent waves. There are some of my favorite waves in Mexico. 

The water temperature in Baja California is strikingly different from the rest of Mexico. It is really cold most of the year. It is colder in Baja California than it is in Alta California. I recommend a full wetsuit and booties just in case. It is better to be prepared for long sessions than to be sitting on the beach watching perfect waves because it is too cold for board shorts. 

1) Playas de Tijuana

This is where  Tijuana  goes to the beach. Playas de Tijuana is the northernmost territory on the Pacific Coast of Mexico. There is a bull ring right on the corner of the beach and the border with the United States. 

Mexican surfers in the 1960s would paddle over to Imperial Beach to get ding repair supplies. I don’t know if they still do that anymore 😉

The water quality is suspect in the winter because of runoff from the Tijuana River. If you are coming in from San Diego, this is probably not the best wave in the region. It is a great place to learn to surf for beginners but experienced surfers will enjoy the surf spots further south along the coast. 

2) Baja Malibu

The break at Baja Malibu is nothing like the setup at Malibu in Los Angeles. Baja Malibu is a heavy beach break like Black’s or Moss Landing. A steep, offshore canyon, focuses swell energy into thumping A-frame waves so perfect that one surfer can take off going right and another surfer can take off going left and they will both get barrelled. 

This is where I got my first double in-and-out barrels. I got two clean in-and-out barrels on the same wave. 

On a negative low tide and a huge swell Baja Malibu turns into a left point break with an insanely strong current pushing north. 

Baja Malibu is an advanced surf spot best suited for a more experienced surfer. It is a difficult and large playing field and the paddle out is a challenge. It requires a lot of duck diving to punch out through the breakwater to the outside. 

There is a little bit of parking up by the arches and a little cafe with some food and cold beers. Sometimes there are tacos and sometimes there are not. 

3) San Miguel

A lot of people like to compare San Miguel to Trestles but that is a little bit of an overreach. San Miguel has good waves but it is only a right and it is only one wave that can’t handle a crowd like Trestles and the San Onofre State Park can. 

That being said, San Miguel is a great wave. It is a right point that breaks over round river rocks. Getting in and out can be a little complicated for novice surfers if they are not wearing booties. I like to wear booties here even when it isn’t that cold because it makes getting in and out so much easier, especially on the low tide. 

This is considered to be one of the best waves in the region so it will be incredibly crowded on the weekends because it is an easy day trip from San Diego and Orange County. It is hard to get waves when it is crowded because it is not super consistent and the wave connects for so long that it is hard for two guys to share the same wave. 

I stepped on a stingray in rural Colima and there was nowhere to find a bucket to fill with hot water. I had to settle for a cup of hot water and a piece of cotton to apply the hot water to the wound. It was not an enjoyable experience. 

The hazards of surfing in Mexico are the same as the hazards of surfing anywhere. There are big waves and serious currents when the waves are large. Getting in and out of the water when the waves are big can be difficult especially if the high tide pushes up against the cliffs. 

Sharks are not as much of a concern as stingrays and jellyfish are. Shark attacks are rare. Jellyfish stings are quite common. The stingray shuffle should be standard practice when surfing warm water breaks like in Mexico. In California the stingrays are small. In Mexico, there are more types of rays like bat rays, eagle rays, and even manta rays even though the manta rays don’t have stingers. 

When surfing the reef breaks make sure to keep an eye out for sea urchins. It is very important to swim out of the shallows rather than putting your feet down on the reef when urchins are present. That is a quick way to ruin a surf trip to Mexico. 

If you want to get off the grid and explore rural areas it would be best to employ the services of a surf guide. Google Maps doesn’t say which areas are sketchy and which are safe. I have taken the family to a couple of neighborhoods that my wife will never let me forget, both in Hawaii and in Mexico. Just because Google shows a dirt road heading to the beach doesn’t mean that there is 2-wheel drive access or that it is safe. Do your research before going off the grid.  These guys learned the hard way not to drive down an unknown dirt road looking for exotic birds . 

Transportation To The Best Mexico Waves

This is where things get complicated. There is no one-size-fits-all answer. The easiest Mexico waves to access will have the largest crowds. The most isolated waves are going to require some form of private transportation. You can provide for that in the form of a private vehicle brought to Mexico, a rental car, or a surf guide. 

Each region is going to have a different set of circumstances. If you have a family, the best bet is going to be a nice hotel within walking distance from a quality break. Make sure there is a nice pool for the kids so Mom and Dad can spend a couple more hours in the surf.

A surf road trip through Mexico is a common coming-of-age tale for young surfers. Mexico is the perfect place to explore and improve one’s skill. 

The Best Surf Camps In Mexico For Beginners

Beginners who choose the correct equipment and the correct surf spots will catch more waves than those who don’t and thus improve more quickly. It is the difference between catching 30 waves and catching 3. The people catching 30 waves per session are going to become intermediate-level surfers more quickly and graduate to surfing better waves and utilizing more specialized equipment. 

The ideal conditions for a beginner are slow-breaking, medium-sized waves, predominantly sand bottom with few rocks. The fewer people the better but the beginner spots can usually handle a huge crowd because the waves do not break in one specific spot but rather all over a large area with enough space to spread out. Competitive reef breaks with a well-defined take-off spot will present trouble for beginners. 

Many times, beginners do not yet own their own equipment. These beaches have some sort of surf rental and instruction available.

• Punta de Mita and Sayulita, Nayarit
• Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca in the winter and NOT in the summer
• Los Cabos, Baja California Sur

The motto around here is “Aquí inicia la patria” or here begins the homeland. There are a lot of waves up and down the Baja California Peninsula and a lot of people surf. The state of Baja California is the upper half of the Baja Penisula. The vast majority of the population of Baja California lives in the area between Tijuana and Ensenada. South of Ensenada, the landscape turns to farmland and then desert. There is a four-lane toll highway from Tijuana to Ensenada with a heavy concentration of excellent waves. There are some of my favorite Mexico waves. 

San Miguel works best on a northwest swell. Punta Banda, where the Bufadora blowhole is located, blocks most of the swell energy from the south. 

There is a campground and parking costs about USD$5 per car. 

4) Punta San José

Baja California is a different place south of Ensenada. There is no toll road, just a two-lane country highway. There is not nearly as much development here as there is closer to the border. The feeling of a surf trip to Punta San José is much different because of the wilderness and open space. It is much harder to do a day trip south of Ensenada because of the traffic in Ensenada and the border wait to get home. Most people who make it this far are going to stay for a little while. 

The area south of Ensenada is wine country and vineyards are visible from the highway. The turn-off for Punta San José is in the town of Santo Tomás which is named after the Dominican mission that brought grapes to the region. If you get a chance, you should check out the Santo Tomas winery a few minutes out of town. It is one of the largest wineries in the country.

As the name would imply, Punta San José is a point break. A right-hand point break, to be specific. It is a reef break and there are a lot of sea urchins. Getting in and out of the water at low tide without booties can be a little complicated. The wave needs a solid northwest swell to start working. It is not worth the drive out here unless the buoys are less than 4 ft. 

There is a rustic campground with a bathroom and not much else. Campers need to be self-sufficient around here. Bring plenty of water and whatever you want to eat. Remember not to set up camp next to the cliff and have a few too many tequilas before bed.

Baja California Sur Surf Spots

The Baja Peninsula is comprised of two different states: Baja California and Baja California Sur. La Paz is the capital of Baja California Sur and the majority of the population lives on the Gulf side. The Pacific is still wild and desolate. There are a lot of dirt roads required to reach the remote surf spots and four wheel drive is an advantage. 

Then there is Cabo. Los Cabos feels like a cross between Las Vegas and Orange County. There is a lot of money and the community is very international. The area may be developing much more quickly than the water supply but the developers keep planning more golf courses. However, it doesn’t take long to get out of town and into the desert. There are a lot of outdoorsy and back-to-nature types of activities in Baja California Sur. Surfing is just the tip of the iceberg. 

5) San Juanico AKA Scorpion Bay

Old men with longboards absolutely love Scorpion Bay. The wave is fickle but with modern surf forecasting, it is pretty easy to score. A big south swell is going to light up the coast and a series of point breaks will connect rides for hundreds of meters. 

The bottom is a mixture of sand and rock. The waves don’t get too big around here so this is a great place to surf in Mexico for beginners. Just make sure to bring a board with a lot of volume because the wave is slopey (horizontal not vertical) and doesn’t sand up and barrel like the Bonzai Pipeline or Puerto Escondido.

There was a time when San Juanico was a lonely fishing camp in the middle of nowhere. It takes a long time to get here. There are three different routes to take into account depending on one’s level of off-roading experience and how outfitted the vehicle is. Coming in from the north is the shortest in terms of distance but many amateurs realize that the difficulty level is more than anticipated. Off-the-grid navigation combined with some technical sections of tidal mud flats could require some recovery gear. Coming in from the east requires some significant off-roading but it is a little faster and less technical. The southern route from Ciudad Insurgentes is the easiest drive but is much longer in distance.

Those washboard roads are not meant to be driven quickly. Sedans and unmodified pickup trucks will not be the same after taking a washboard road at 40 mph. 

There is a reason that people put so much effort into getting here: Long, right-hand point break waves. It is an easy wave to surf and will make beginners feel like a pro when they kick out of a wave 500 meters down the line. Scorpion Bay is one of the world’s classic waves that everyone should surf at least once in their life. 

6) Punta Conejo

Leaving La Paz, Highway 1 heads west for a little while before turning north again. Highway 1 gets within 20 kilometers of the Pacific. There is an unmarked dirt road off the highway that takes you the rest of the way. Four-wheel drive is not needed. I saw a guy in a Honda Civic going really slow down the trail. 

There is something about coming through the desert and cresting the last hills before seeing the ocean. Punta Conejo is beautiful. Like so many Baja surf spots, there is a small fish camp with some simple houses and some trailers. There will always be some surfers camped out on the bluff. 

The wave reminds me of Upper Trestles with the softball to basketball-sized round rocks. It takes some time to get in and out of the water at low tide. There is a long left and a faster right. The wave is playful and stands up quickly with a couple of barrel sections. It isn’t a particularly strong wave like Baja Malibu or Pascuales but very, very fun. 

The camping out here is rustic. Pack your trash. 

7) Todos Santos

Todos Santos, Baja California Sur is a great spot to learn how to surf because the waves are mellow, the water is warm, and there are amazing accommodations in town. The town was named a Pueblo Mágico by the Secretary of Tourism because of the mission, 19th-century buildings, and artsy community. It is actually like three towns because Todos Santos, Cerritos, and Pescadero are all just a few minutes away from each other. And there are waves all up and down the coast. 

On the south end of the beach at Todos Santos, Playa Punta Lobos which is a fun beach break. A little bit further down the coast is Playa San Pedrito which is a super fun river mouth right that breaks over a cobblestone reef. 

Playa Los Cerritos is the most famous break in the region because of the Cerritos Beach Hotel which looks like a crown sitting at the top of the point. It really is a great place to take surf lessons and catch your first waves.

Additionally, there is amazing food and drink in this area. Chef Javier Plasciencia has a restaurant called Jazamango. Agricole Cooperative runs a farm and a world-class kitchen. There is more specialty coffee and craft beer than a town this size should have. Todos Santos is definitely worth a visit not just for the surf but for the whole experience. 

8) Los Cabos

The Baja Peninsula is surreal because of the exotic landscapes and natural beauty, but Los Cabos is surreal because of what has been built. It is a very young town when compared with Veracruz or Acapulco and the lack of zoning restrictions probably helped the recent growth. 

There are green golf courses where there is no water. There is an over-the-top nightclub and entertainment industry that attracts talent from across the globe. International direct investment only increases as the peso devalues. There is immense wealth and eccentric behavior all around. 

First off, Los Cabos refers to the San Jose del Cabo and the Cabo San Lucas Metro Region with a population of about 350,000. Most of the population of the region is located along the 40 km corridor. 

It is a very quick flight from the United States to San Jose del Cabo so the place is full of English speakers. Spanish might be helpful but one could easily spend a weekend in a hotel without ever considering a word of Spanish. 

There is a very particular color to the water in Los Cabos because of the geology. The bottom is mostly decomposed granite stone and sand which does not get cloudy or murky. The visibility in Los Cabos is excellent and there is plenty of sea life in the area. 

It is always interesting surfing a new spot with crystal clear water and a shallow reef. You can see every rock and every fish below and the water magnifies the vision making the reef look even closer than it is. Those are the sessions you never forget. 

There are a ton of great Mexico waves along this section of the coast. Monuments in Cabo San Lucas is one of the few lefts in the area. Punta Palmilla is closer to the airport in San Jose del Cabo. It is a super fun right-hand point break that gets crowded with both locals and tourists alike. 

There is one fun wave after another as you head east out of San Jose del Cabo. The highway turns into a maintained dirt road and the golf courses fade into the distance. The interesting thing about the east cape is that the beaches face east. In order for these waves to work the swell needs to be approaching from a south or southeast angle but that is common all summer long. This is what surfing in Mexico is all about. 

Sonora Surf Spots

Sonora is not known as a surfing state. It is like Arizona but with a big sandy bay, except this is a gulf. 

San Carlos and Guaymas are famous beach towns but for boats and jet skis rather than surfers. Last year there was a hurricane that went straight into the Gulf of California. The whole time I was following the storm I was thinking there have to be some waves that only break on rare hurricane swells. You don’t get that much swell energy and not find a wave or two.

If you happen to be driving down the 15 from Nogales to the surf spots in southern Mexico, consider stopping in  Bahia Kino for some seafood . The scallops, clams, and oysters are some of the best in the world. 

Sinaloa Surf Spots

Sinaloa is such an amazing place it is a shame that the first thing that comes to mind is crime. The  seafood is spectacular . It is farm country and the breadbasket of Mexico for that matter. Mazatlan is one of the few coastal cities in Mexico with a well-preserved historic downtown. 

In addition to Mazatlan, there are a series of excellent point breaks in the north of Sinaloa but you are going to need a surf guide to access the best spots. I am still saving up to take a trip with  Sinaloa Surf Adventures . Those point breaks look like a lot of fun. 

When driving down the 15, I always  stop in Culiacán to stay the night . I know the area has a bad reputation for sensational events but those are rare. The food is incredible, there is a world-class botanical garden, and the baseball team is one of the best in Mexico. 

9) Mazatlan

Mazatlan has a long boardwalk that the locals and tourists enjoy to the fullest. The town is a swell magnet and has super consistent summertime waves all up and down the coast. I love surfing in the city . There are plenty of hotels that have waves out front and do not require getting in a car to surf. 

Playa Los Pinos is nestled between the Oceanography campus of the University of Sinaloa and an old navy party venue. The beach is a zoo in the afternoon but the waves are good in the morning when it is empty. The wave is a fun left that breaks off the rocks over a shallow sea urchin garden. Do not put your feet down. 

One of the most easily identifiable landmarks on the Mazatlan boardwalk is Valentino’s Nightclub on a little outcropping of rocks that separates The Zona Dorada from the older part of town. There are great waves on both sides of Valentinos. You can surf a right on the south side and a left on the north side. And there are plenty of hotels within walking distance. At the Hotel Playa Mazatlan, you can leave your wife and kids at the pool and sneak off to have a surf without anybody getting worried about a three-hour surf session. 

Isla de Piedra, AKA Stone Island, is another great Mexico wave. The name is kind of a misnomer. It is not an island but the tip of the peninsula on the opposite side of the Mazatlan harbor. The Isla de Piedra beach has a much more relaxed feel than the boardwalk does in Mazatlan proper. There are great waves, enramada restaurants on the sand, and some watersports activities for the whole family. This is another great family beach. 

Nayarit Surf Spots

Nayarit has become one of the premier destinations for surfing in Mexico. Surfing has helped define what the Riviera Nayarit is famous for.

Nuevo Vallarta was originally developed as a complement to Puerto Vallarta but the Nayarit side of the Ameca River lacked the old-school charm of the Jalisco side. Further up the coast in Punta de Mita, Sayulita, and San Pancho a different type of tourist infrastructure took root.

As the Riviera Maya battled a seaweed infestation, the Riviera Nayarit absorbed the excess demand.

10) Nuevo Vallarta

The town of Nuevo Vallarta is known for very large resort properties with excellent all-inclusive options. Many people rarely leave the resorts because there is so much to do at the hotel. 

Because  Nuevo Vallarta is located in the back of a large bay , there isn´t a lot of surf around here. However, there is a slab that comes to life when a large west swell, usually a hurricane swell, enters the bay. Keep that in mind the next time you are stuck in Nuevo Vallarta for hurricane season. 

11) Playa La Lancha

The north shore of the Banderas Bay is growing too quickly. There are still a few stretches of undeveloped beachfront but it looks like there are plans to develop most of the remaining areas. 

La Lancha Beach is located in Punta Mita  and is considered to be a great surfing spot for beginners. The wave is mellow and doesn´t stand up too fast. There is a lot of room to spread out and the better surfers will congregate on the north side of the beach where the reef creates a long and consistent wave. 

Currently, there is a public access trail that winds through an estuary to get to the beach. There is a surf shop next to the gas station that will rent equipment and give lessons. Makai, the restaurant next door to the surf shop, is excellent and should not be missed.

Playa La Lancha is one of the best beaches in Mexico to take surf lessons.  WildMex has great instructors , tons of equipment, and they are very well organized. They offer daily lessons,  week-long surf camps , and adventure tours of the region. 

12) Playa Sayulita

It would not be an article about surfing in Mexico if it didn´t include a section about  the surf in Sayulita . Sayulita is the premier surf town for beginning and intermediate-level surfers. Hodads have just as much fun as the surfers because of the party and yoga scene. 

Several generations ago this was considered a fishing village. Ten years ago the terms hippy surf town or boho-chic might have been appropriate. Not much of that bohemian authenticity remains. Sayulita is a commodity for sale. 

The town has grown faster than the infrastructure and water and sewage have become important local issues. Right now the water quality is fine but two years back, when the wastewater treatment facility was under construction, the entire town became violently ill. The reputation stuck even though the problem was resolved.

The wave at Sayulita breaks in front of a small river mouth. Most of the year the right is what people surf but during hurricane season the left is an absolute gem. The bottom is a mixture of river rocks and sand. The wave breaks over rocks and can get shallow at low tide. The beginners tend to congregate over the sand bottom closer to the shore on the inside. 

The nice thing about Sayulita is the restaurant and bar scene and the wide variety of waves within a short drive. Yes, you can surf on the main beach of Sayulita but I probably wouldn´t travel internationally just to surf this wave. 

You are going to want to rent a car and surf the world-class waves in the vicinity and make it back to Sayulita for dinner and drinks. If you get back early you can get a surf out front. 

Sayulita is one of the best places to take surf lessons in Mexico. I recommend WildMex.

13) Stoner´s Point

The  town of San Blas  is located about three hours north of Puerto Vallarta and 2.5 hours west of Guadalajara. It sits on the northern edge of the Matanchen Bay between the beach and an estuary. Matachen Bay was awarded a Guinness World Record for the longest surfable wave. The estuary inlet helps form the wave at Stoner´s. 

There is a  long history of surfing  in this area it is surprising there isn´t more tourism these days. The bugs have a bad reputation and scare away a lot of potential visitors. 

Stoner´s Point is one of the best waves in Mexico but it rarely works. It is a long right-hand point break that only comes to life on the biggest south swells of the year. 

To access Stoner´s it is possible to walk over from San Blas but that requires a quick swim across an estuary inlet that sometimes has crocodiles. Most people drive around the estuary to Las Islitas and walk the last kilometer into the point. Vehicles with 4-wheel drive can drive right up onto the beach and camp out all day. When it’s on, it’s on.

Except for the airport, Jalisco is not one of the premier destinations for surfing in Mexico. The Puerto Vallarta International Airport is right on the Nayarit border and is the most commonly used airport to access the surf spots along the Riviera Nayarit. The Guadalajara Airport is commonly used to access the beaches of Colima. 

Jalisco is one of the most Mexican parts of the country with great beaches. Unfortunately, the surf around  Downtown Puerto Vallarta  is not the main attraction but may be a byproduct. If you happen to be in the area then you might score some waves. I don’t think most people are going to travel internationally to  surf the waves in Jalisco . There are relatively few well-known waves for surfing in Jalisco when compared to all of the other phenomenal tourist activities.

The coast of Jalisco  is virgin in many places and access is limited. While there not be a lot of well-known world-class waves, I suspect there are a lot of secret spots for hard-core searchers. The Costa Alegra has all the basic qualifications for excellent surf. With a little motivation and time, I think some explorers could strike gold.

14) Quimixto

Puerto Vallarta  and the Banderas Bay do not see a lot of surf. One exception to this is the village of Quimixto. 

Quimixto is a remote village more famous for a waterfall hike and beachfront restaurants/beach clubs than surfing. However, the wave is really fun and picks up a surprising amount of swell considering it is inside the bay. 

The Quimixto waterfall leads to a river that forms the wave. The wave is a left-hander breaking over rocks at the river mouth. The best swells for Quimixto are northwests which are common in fall, winter, and spring.

It is a bit of a trek to get to Quimixto because there is no road. The road goes as far as Boca de Tomatlan before heading away from the coast. Water taxis shuttle visitors to the beaches along the southern part of the Banderas Bay. The water taxis leave from Boca de Tomatlan and the Los Muertos Beach Pier.

15) Barra de Navidad

Barra de Navidad is on the southern border of Jalisco with the state of Colima. The main surf spot is on the inlet jetty that separates Jalisco from Colima. Surfers can easily paddle across the inlet to the Grand Isla Navidad Resort or the Colimilla Restaurant for excellent seafood.

The harbor at Barra de Navidad is famous for launching the Spanish trade route with China back in 1564. 

Colima is an underground surfing powerhouse. Some of Mexico´s best surfers grew up surfing the black sand beach breaks. The state is small but there are a lot of great waves and an enthusiastic surf culture of real watermen. 

16) Boca de Pascuales

The Armeria River deposits black sand from the Colima Volcano on the edge of an underwater canyon. That underwater canyon picks up swell energy from all directions but absolutely loves a good south swell. During the summer months, those south swells create legendary A-frame barrels. The barrels are big and powerful, and attract jetskis for assisted take-offs. 

The beaches of Boca de Pascuales and El Real are located just a few kilometers from Tecoman in an agricultural community. The coconut palm orchards are a tell-tale sign that big barrels are on the way. 

Many people compare  Boca de Pascuales  to Puerto Escondido and the waves do share some similarities. The towns however are quite different. Tecoman is an agricultural town and Pascuales is a collection of enremada thatched-roof restaurants and a couple of simple hotels. Puerto Escondido is a major international tourist destination not just for surfers but for other holidaymakers as well. 

17) Cuyutlán

Cuyutlán  is the name of the lagoon and the village. The village sits on a sand bar between the lagoon and the Pacific Ocean. The lagoon is famous for  gourmet salt production . The port of Manzanillo is just 25 minutes away but Cuyutlán feels like it is a world away. 

Time moves slowly in Cuyutlán. During the week the beach and boardwalk are empty. On the weekends and holidays, local families from Armería, Colima City, and Guadalajara make their way down to the beach to eat seafood and play in the water. 

The wave at Cuyutlán is powerful. Much like Pascuales, the wave is biggest in the summertime. However, the river mouth at Pascuales continually shapes the sandbars which sculpts better-formed waves. There aren´t as many makable waves at Cuyutlán as there are at Pascuales. Cuyutlán still has some excellent waves but it is not as consistently good as Pascuales is. There are also a lot fewer people surfing in Cuyutlán. 

The Cuyutlán boardwalk is lined with simple enremada restaurants that serve their food under umbrellas on the sand. The place will be packed on Sunday and empty on Monday. 

Michoacan is a magical place . It has a long and rich history dating back well before the Spanish arrived in the 16th century. The food and agriculture are regarded to be among the best in Mexico. 

The coast of Michoacan is incredibly rural. The port of Lázaro Cárdenas has a significant population but that is the only city on the coast. Lázaro Cárdenas is about a four-hour drive from the  capital of Morelia . 

Most of the inhabitants of the region live in villages or small towns. 

Unfortunately, Michoacan has a reputation for insecurity. Everyone has a different tolerance for security issues in Mexico. I have never had a problem with safety in my travels through the region. 

My in-laws’ people are from Tierra Caliente, Michoacan, and counsel me to take extreme caution when traveling to rural parts of Michoacan. My recommendation is to err on the side of caution. It may be cliché to say but don´t drive at night along the coastal highway. 

18) La Ticla

There are a lot of beautiful beaches in Mexico but La Ticla has to be one of the best surfing spots in the country. This is a small village where the wifi is slow and the cellular signal is hard to find. The beach is the main attraction around here. People come here to lounge in a hammock and watch the waves rather than lay in bed and watch tv.

La Ticla has a river flowing through the town. The river mouth creates some really great waves. There is a short, fast right and a longer left. The waves that break on the outside are great for advanced surfers with ramps perfect for launching airs and little tube sections. The wave doesn’t barrel as consistently as Boca de Pascuales but it is close enough that you can surf both on the same trip. 

19) Barra de Nexpa

I hope I am not being desensitized to the spectacular waves in Mexico. There are so many different styles of waves for both beginners and advanced surfers alike. Nexpa is a left that every goofy footer should train on. The long, long lefts will improve a surfers style the same way that Rincon does in California. 

Nexpa is an hour north of Lázaro Cardenas yet still in the southern half of the state. Just a few minutes down the road is the much more established beach town of Caleta de Campos. Nexpa is all about surfing. It is like a surf camp. The accommodations are rustic but most folks are spending 6 hours a day in the water and returning to the room to sleep and drink as much water (or Modelo) as possible. 

The Nexpa River moves some serious water during the rainy season. The river rocks form a well-organized reef that picks up south swell all summer long. The wave is a proper left point break with some steep, strong waves. The wave isn’t perfect and has some mushy sections. It is very easy to gain speed on a wave like this to push through the flat sections and catch the steep section again. This is a great place to improve one’s turns on big open sections with lots of speed.

On my first trip to Mainland Mexico, I was surfing Pascuales with guys from all over Mexico: Cabo, Mazatlan, and Nexpa. The guys from Nexpa were so proud of their wave and so inviting that I had to drive down there to check it out. That surf trip was a life-changing experience and I often say it was responsible for moving to Mexico for school and ultimately setting down roots. 

Driving the coast of Mexico and surfing is magical. 

The coast of Guerrero is very similar to the coast of Michoacan. The vast majority of the coastal road is rural and off the grid. It reminds me a lot of Big Sur in California with a different temperature. There are a lot of rugged landscapes and striking cliff-top views.

The area also has some security concerns. We have a lot of friends in Morelia and their favorite beaches are in the Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo area. None of our close friends have had any problems but it is always a friend of a friend that has a horror story. Don’t drive at night. I prefer to drive early in the morning about 30 minutes after sunrise. 

20) La Saladita

This is one of the longboarding world’s favorite waves and where professional longboarding’s favorite event is held. The  Mexi Log Fest  has been in Nayarit for the last couple of years but La Saladita is where it became legendary. The coolest longboarders from across the globe would make their way to Mexico for the type of event that brings the underground guys and gals out. 

At La Saladita everyone surfs. Little old ladies, young kids, and sponsored veterans of the sport.

This is an ideal left-hand point break for a longboard. The waves are slopey (more horizontal than vertical) but run on for hundreds of meters. It is easy for a dozen surfers to all share the same wave doing turns around each other like they were tieing a braid. Even when the waves are big the style of surfing complements the turns of a longboard or maybe a fish. 

The bottom is a mix of sand and rock. 

There isn’t much to do in La Saladita except hang out at the beach. 

21) Troncones

Troncones is another authentic Mexican surf town. The waves are consistent and surfing draws a lot of tourism to the region. Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo might be a little more upscale and La Saladita a little more rustic. Troncones is still a small town but there are a number of restaurants and hotels to choose from. There is a surf shop and even an ATM.

The surf is great for beginners in the wintertime and excellent for shortboarders in the summertime. The waves are not as powerful as they are in Pascuales or Puerto Escondido but there is still a good push. The north side of the beach has a point break that is within walking distance from the town. 

This is classic Mexico. You should check it out before it turns into Sayulita.

Oaxaca is the premier surfing in Mexico destination for advanced surfers. There are waves for beginners in the off-season but during the summertime, they should be reserved for the experienced surfer. 

When I was young I heard a statistic, a rumor really, that 75% of the surfers paddling out at Zicatela for the first time will break their board before they actually catch a wave. I know that was made up but it is supposed to highlight how strong the waves are in Oaxaca when compared to Florida or Santa Monica. 

Another thing to keep in mind is that Oaxaca is the center of the world for the surf industry during the summertime. There is a yearly pilgrimage of photographers and professional surfers hoping to get some images published in the magazines. 

The competition is fierce and mistakes will be punished.  Dropping in late  on a surfer that is already up and riding when the waves are big is very dangerous. Perpetrators will be made aware of their transgressions and may be invited to leave early. 

One thing that traveling surfers oftentimes miss is the Oaxcan food culture. There is  exotic seafood , traditional moles, and lots of  distilled agave spirits . Try to spend a little time getting to know the local culture.

22) Puerto Escondido

If Sayulita has the best Mexico waves for the beginning to intermediate surfers then Puerto Escondido is the place for the pros to be seen by the surf world. Video of great rides and huge swells are quickly uploaded to the internet. 

One great photo published on the cover of Surfer Magazine or the Surfer´s Journal could be the difference between a sponsorship contract for an aspiring young surfer or going back to a restaurant job. 

The town of Puerto Escondido has grown up with the surfing industry. Nowadays there are far more wannabes than big wave chargers. There are plenty of surf-themed restaurants, boutique Airbnbs, and juice bars that a digital nomad may decide to take up the sport. Everyone surfs around here or at least purports to. There will be a lot of people in the water even when the waves are big.

There are a couple of different Mexico waves in Puerto Escondido but the two most important places to surf are Playa Zicatela (AKA The Mexican Pipeline) and La Punta. Zicatela is across the bay (maybe 250 meters) from the town of Puerto Escondido. Punta Zicatela, or simply La Punta, is another 3 kilometers down the beach. La Punta and the Brisas de Zicatela neighborhood have grown into one of the coolest places to stay in the Puerto Escondido region. 

The main beach at Zicatela is famous for big beach break barrels. A-frames stand up tall and break both right and left. La Punta is a left-handed point break and the waves are a little smaller than they are at the Zicatela beach break. 

Watch out for the rocks on the inside. On my first wave, I did a big roundhouse cut back in the wrong part of the wave and finished my turn looking at some dry reef on the inside. The wave broke my leash throwing the board onto the rocks and snapping it in two pieces. I rode the wave 300 meters and did a dozen turns but it ended in tragedy. I love that wave even if you have to pay your dues. 

23) Barra de la Cruz

Barra de la Cruz is a rustic village some 40 kilometers east of the Huatulco International Airport. The wave is said to be not as hollow as it once was but it is still a treat. Because the wave is outside of the urban areas there are far fewer people surfing here than in Puerto Escondido. 

It would be hard to find a wave as good as Barra de la Cruz in Southern California with only a handful of people out. Trying to get a wave at Rincon when it’s firing is difficult, to say the least. Barra de la Cruz is no secret and the weekends are packed. The weekdays are an absolute dream. 

Rip Curl used to run a WSL (back then it was called the ASP) championship tour contest that changed locations every season. It was called The Search and was an extension of their philosophy and marketing campaign. The Search contests scored a lot of great waves and made Portugal a regular stop on the tour. The waves at Barra de la Cruz were legendary and every surfer on tour in 2006 voted Mexico as the best stop of the season. 

That much publicity created a tourism boom even if the event was billed as just “Somewhere in Mexico”. One guy decided to build a hotel on the other side of the river which changed how the sand entered the ocean, ultimately shifting the sand bars and the wave. The wave is still excellent just not like it used to be. 

Quintana Roo

It is pretty common to forget that the Gulf of Mexico has some surf too. For much of the year, the ocean is completely flat. However, there are moments when storms pass through sending small waves to the coast. 

There are waves right on the strips in the Zona Hotelera in Cancun. You can find fun waves to learn how to surf on Playa Chacmool along with a couple of surf schools. 

25) Cozumel

Cozumel is a small island off the coast of Playa del Carmen. The far side of the island doesn’t have a lot of development which makes it a perfect surf destination. The waves are surprisingly strong during hurricane season because the swell window opens up to the Caribbean Sea rather than the Gulf of Mexico. However, the region does not represent the best surf conditions because it is consistently windy. 

Surfing In Mexico FAQs

These are some of the most commonly asked questions that I get in my inbox. 

Is it safe to go surfing in Mexico?

Mexico is as safe as you want it to be. Flying into Puerto Vallarta and surfing in Punta Mita is safer than a surf trip to Venice Beach. Getting off the grid in Michoacan or Oaxaca will require some additional safety planning. 

I have written extensively about safety in Mexico. I recommend reading the full article about the  safest places to visit in Mexico  on how to prepare. While there are real safety concerns in Mexico, it is usually easy to avoid problems when you know where the true dangers are hidden. 

What month is best to surf in Mexico?

The surf season in Mexico coincides with the rainy season. The Pacific Coast of Mexico receives consistent south swells from April to September. 

June is the best month to surf in Mexico because the rainy season is just getting started but the waves should be in full swing. My birthday is in May and I have scored a lot of surf trips around this time. 

By the time July comes around, the rains are more like tropical storms. By September, hurricane season is in full swing and the weather conditions are more of a risk. 

Is Cancun a good place to surf?

Cancun is a great place to learn how to surf and take surfing lessons. The waves are small but they do not have great form. The weather is often windy when there is surf. There are no world-class waves in Cancun and it is not a destination for intermediate to advanced surfers. 

If you happen to be in Cancun with the family it is possible to find some wind swell waves. I would not plan a surf trip to Cancun unless you are a hurricane hunter. 

What is the surfing capital of Mexico?

Much like California, there are two surfing capitals of Mexico. Puerto Escondido is the global surfing industry headquarters during the summer months. Sayulita is the surfing capital of Mexico for beginners. 

During the summer months, surfers from across the globe head to Mexico. It reminds me of the wintertime pilgrimage of surfers to Hawaii’s North Shore. The place is full of professional photographers looking to publish photos in surf magazines across the planet. 

Puerto Escondido is a fun town with lots of great restaurants, surf shops, and hotels. There is a small airport and lots of fun things to do out of the water. 

Sayulita is the favorite surfing destination for beginning and intermediate-level surfers in Mexico. The waves are much smaller than they are in Puerto Escondido and there are surf camps all over the place. The whole Riviera Nayarit region is full of fun waves that are not as dangerous as the waves in Puerto Escondido. 

Some Final Thoughts on Mexico Waves and Surfing in Mexico

Surfing and backpacking through Mexico is a phenomenal experience. There are so many different styles of waves that everyone can find something that is right for their unique circumstances. 

If the boys want to go feral and stay remote in the desert for a month, it is easy to do. If you have a family and need a nice experience for the non-surfing members of the family, that too is an easy fix. 

There are Mexico waves all year long and you should come and get some. 

Buen provecho amigos.