Wondering what to do in Ensenada Mexico?

There are tons of fun things to do in Ensenada whether you want an action-packed trip or a laid back vacation.

I would highly recommend having access to a car on your trip to Ensenada. While the town itself is completely walkable, several of the best things to do in Ensenada require a vehicle.

You can rent a car in Tijuana, which is relatively easy to do from the airport.

You can also take your own car across the border and drive in Mexico that way (just be sure you have the right insurance).

Alternatively, you can take a few tours to some of the below-listed places. 

Where to stay in Ensenada Mexico

There are so many great hotels in Ensenada Mexico. It depends whether you want to stay in the downtown area or up around the vineyards, but there’s a little something for everyone.

QUICK FACTS

Lies on the Pacific coast of Baja, California, and has a population of around 700,000.

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 300 pesos.

ENSENADA NIGHTLIFE

Drinking age is 18, last call is 3 AM.

Downtown is the hub for all of the best clubs.

For those wanting a chilled bohemian night out, Ensenada has plenty of coffee bars.

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.

Take a day trip to visit some of the Ensenada wineries, on the outskirts of the city. Tours and tastings are available.

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.

LOCAL WISDOM

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.

Where to find good cheap food: Ensenada has many taco vendors and the fish tacos are a must-try. Affordable restaurants can be found almost anywhere in the city.

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.