Hey there, adventure-seekers from Los Angeles, San Diego, and beyond! Get ready to fall in love with the lively Ensenada, Mexico—a vibrant gem on the beautiful Baja California coast. With its thunderous La Bufadora, mouthwatering street food, and electrifying nightlife, Ensenada is the ultimate spot for your next coastal getaway.
Whether you're here with family, friends, or for a solo retreat, this guide will uncover the best of Ensenada.
Culture Meets Shopping in Downtown Ensenada
Downtown Ensenada is a cultural hub brimming with vibrant energy, rich history, and endless shopping opportunities.
Whether you're in the mood for exploring colorful shops, enjoying inviting cafes, or admiring lively street art, downtown Ensenada has something for everyone.
Ventana al Mar Park: A family-friendly destination with an interactive fountain that dances to music and vibrant lights, providing a perfect spot for kids to cool off while parents soak in the atmosphere.
Waterside Outdoor Amphitheater: Experience the enchantment of an evening performance at the waterside amphitheater, heightened by the sea breeze. Keep an eye out for local events during your visit to immerse yourself in Ensenada's rich culture.
Marine Geyser: La Bufadora
La Bufadora is a breathtaking natural wonder and a must-see for anyone visiting Ensenada. This marine geyser shoots water up to 100 feet in the air, creating a spectacular show that will leave you in awe.
Best Time to Visit: To beat the crowds and enjoy the best views of the marine geyser, plan an early visit. Ensure you wear comfortable footwear for exploring the rocky cliffs and protect yourself from the sun's rays with sunscreen and a hat.
Parking and Facilities: There are a few parking lots in the area which offer parking for a fee. There are also bathrooms you can use for a fee, so make sure you have cash.
Street Food Near La Bufadora: After the mesmerizing show, treat your taste buds to local street food offerings. Look for vendors with bustling lines—a surefire sign of deliciousness. Try the zesty grilled corn, known as elotes, with a splash of lime, and don't hold back on adding extra salsa to your tacos.
Nightlife on Calle Primera
For a fantastic evening filled with youthful energy, head to Calle Primera. This vibrant street is the heart of Ensenada's nightlife, where the locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy live music, dancing, and good vibes.
When you're here, don't miss:
Hussong's - Established in 1892, Hussong's is the oldest and best-known cantina in Ensenada. Grab a table if you're lucky and enjoy some margaritas, reputedly created here in October 1941 by bartender Don Carlos Orozco.
(FYI - the second Hussong's opened in Las Vegas in 2010.)
Papas & Beer -If you're in the mood to dance or catch a game, Papas & Beer is the place to be. While it's not the best spot for dinner, it's perfect for a lively night out. They also have another location in Rosarito.
Las Cañadas Adventure: Thrills Amidst Nature
Las Cañadas is an outdoor paradise just outside Ensenada, offering 70 acres of green space and a wide range of activities for the whole family.
Zip-Lining: Soar through the trees and enjoy breathtaking views with the zip-line courses available at Las Cañadas.
ATV Track: For a true off-road adventure, try the ATV track. You can rent an ATV on the premises and explore the rugged terrain.
Other Activities: Las Cañadas also offers boating, hiking trails, camping, horseback riding, and bird watching. Plan a full day here to make the most of your visit.
Food and Dining in Ensenada
Ensenada's food scene is as diverse as it is delicious. Whether you're craving street food or a fine dining experience, Ensenada has something for everyone.
Street Vendors and Local Eats
Gorditas: Don't miss out on gorditas, thick tortillas filled with savory or sweet fillings. Vegetarian options include cheese, beans, and vegetables, while sweet lovers can enjoy fillings like caramel or chocolate.
Fresh Tortillas: Watching skilled locals make fresh tortillas on the street is a must-do. These warm, soft, and aromatic flatbreads are the foundation of many iconic Mexican dishes.
Tamales: While exploring Ensenada, look out for street vendors selling tamales. These portable delights make for a perfect on-the-go snack between sightseeing stops. The tamales we picked up were vegetarian but you need to ask.
Grocery Stores
Your first stop should always be a grocery store to stock up on essentials.
Soriana: A famous supermarket in Mexico, including Ensenada, where you can find all sorts of groceries and household items.
Popular Dining Spots
Planta Restaurant: For fine dining with vegetarian options and a view, head to Planta Restaurant. Opt for a table by the ocean to savor coastal views, especially during sunset.
The mushroom risotto, freshly made pasta, and tortilla soup come highly recommended.
There are other vegan spots, just look up Happy Cow.net.
Here are some to explore:
La Guerrerense: This iconic street cart is known for its seafood tostadas, ceviche, and salsas. It's been around since the 1960s and is often hailed as the best seafood in Mexico.
Muelle 3: Located on the waterfront, Muelle 3 is perfect for seafood lovers. The ceviche and grilled fish are especially popular.
Taqueria El Trailero: Renowned for its carne asada tacos and a wide selection of salsas, Taqueria El Trailero is a local favorite for authentic street food.
Tacos Fenix: Known for its mouthwatering tacos al pastor, this food truck offers a delicious combination of marinated pork and pineapple.
El Rey Sol: A classic French-Mexican fusion restaurant with a rich history, offering an elegant dining experience.
Viator Experiences
Explore Ensenada with Guided Tours
For those who prefer organized tours, these Viator experiences are excellent options:
Horseback riding in Punta Banda, followed by two hours at La Bufadora for sightseeing, shopping, and dining.
Ideal for those without a car, this small group tour takes you to the geyser and back to your hotel, with time to shop for souvenirs.
Ride horses along the shore—perfect for cruise travelers who dock at Ensenada.
Explore Las Cañadas with optional zip lines, La Bufadora, and Mirador Playa Hermosa. This family-friendly tour offers a variety of experiences, including beach time, museums, shopping, and tequila tasting.
Sample authentic Mexican food and beer on this cruise-friendly tour, including stops at renowned eateries like La Guerrerense and Tacos Fenix, as well as local breweries.
