13 Thrilling Things To Do In Ensenada, Mexico

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 getaway. 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.

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. 

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.

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