Things to do in Ensenada Port Near Downtown Cruise Terminal

Local Gems In Ensenada Downtown

Looking for quirky things to do in Ensenada while on a cruise or just exploring downtown? Scroll to the bottom!

As someone who lives here full-time and also travels (including the occasional cruise), I’ve gathered a local’s take on Ensenada—quirky, fun, and a little off the beaten path. This is the same insider info I share with my massage and tour clients.

For each spot, I include the “Easy Touristy Option” and my “Local Gem” alternative.

Because let’s be honest: sometimes you’re in the mood for convenience, and other times you’re up for a little adventure and charm—minus the polish.

This guide is always a work in progress—kind of like life, right?

How to Get Around First:

Go for a stroll along La Primera (First Street) or the Malecon (harbor walk), or take the shuttle from the cruise port.

🚐 Shuttle Tips:

• Las Dunas drops you at Three Heads Park (right near McDonald’s).

• Misioneros drops you at Pueblo Antiguo, directly into a classic souvenir zone.

Eat Tacos & Churros!

Food is half the fun in Ensenada—and if you’ve already tried the famous Buffalo Milk on Catalina Island, churros and tacos are the perfect Mexican counterpart.

Churros

• Easy Option: Café La Churrería – A clean, sit-down spot with a coffee shop vibe, great for pairing crispy churros with espresso or hot chocolate.

• Local Gem: Street cart on the Malecón – Follow your nose! You'll find a small churro stand between the cruise port and the Mercado Negro (fish market). Simple, hot, sugary goodness.

Mexican Candy

• Local Gem: Just around the corner from Hotel Santo Tomás, there’s a small stand loaded with coconut treats, tamarindo snacks, and all kinds of Mexican sweets.

• Easy Option: Pop into an OXXO or 7-Eleven and explore the local candy aisle—try a Pulparindo or Lucas for a true taste of Mexico.
  

Diner Food – Comfort & Local Flavor

Local Gem: Buen Provecho Café
A super simple, no-frills working man’s café inside Villa Mexicana, next to El Portero Viejo. I love the buffet setup and the fresh juice options. It’s where locals fuel up—good food, fast, and cheap.

Easy Tourism: Hogaza Hogaza
Right on La Primera, this cozy café offers salads, sandwiches, pastries, and coffee. A soft landing if you’re taking a break from tacos and want something a little more familiar and polished.

Best Tacos in Ensenada

Fish Taco

• Local Gem: Mako’s Tacos – Just one block south of the cruise port. Walk to the main street (Blvd Costero), turn right, and it’s on the right. Super fresh.
  Also try: Mariscos Pez Urbano for more seafood flair.

• Easy Tourism: Bullos on La Primera – Crispy tacos with beer & margarita packages. Tourist-friendly with sit-down seating and solid reviews.

Meat Taco

• Easy Tourism: Ranchito Fénix – A sit-down spot just a block from Tacos Fénix. Easier for groups, with fast service.

• Local Gem: El Paisa on 10th and 20 de Noviembre – Local favorite for carne asada with handmade tortillas and lightning-fast taco assembly.

• When You Want Pork: Carnitas Riviera – Great street-style carnitas, just a few blocks from the port.

Seafood Tacos / Mariscos

• Easy Tourism: La Guerrerense – Anthony Bourdain’s famous pick. Tons of flavor combos and toppings. Grab a bite from the cart or sit down in their nearby restaurant. Always a line, but worth it.

• Local Gem: La Doña – Hidden behind CEARTE near the Riviera Cultural Center. Local favorite for fresh seafood. Bonus: it’s just down the block from Carnitas Riviera, so you can try both in one go. Only 3 blocks from port security!
  
  

Lobster & Seafood Delicacies

Lobster Tacos & Plates

• Easy Tourism: Mariscos Bahía – A casual and comfortable seafood spot right on the Malecon. Good portions, sidewalk patio seating, and easy to find.

• Local Gem: Cocedora de Langosta – Known for their lobster tacos and fresh prep. A go-to for locals wanting authentic flavor without the tourist crowds.

Smoked Tuna or Marlin

• Where to Go: Mercado Negro Fish Market – Located along the harbor, this is your stop for smoked tuna, marlin, and other ocean treasures. Affordable (around $13 USD/kilo), flavorful, and easy to pack for the road. Perfect for adventurous foodies.

Shop Like a Local (or a Tourist Who Knows Better)

La Primera (First Street) is your main shopping strip—packed with souvenir shops, jewelry, clothing, and quirky gifts tailored for cruise visitors. Expect lots of NFL gear, novelty items, and the kind of silly-but-fun trinkets tourists love.

Leather Goods:
Check out the leather store right on the corner of Miramar and La Primera—and another across the street—for quality belts, bags, and wallets.

Specialty Foods & Health Stores:

• La Milpa (3 blocks behind the Riviera) carries Mexican herbs, teas, and health foods. Don’t expect much fresh produce, though.

• El Roble inside Santo Tomás wine building focuses on vegan/vegetarian items—mostly imported goods from the U.S.

Local Markets & Thrift Finds:

• Los Globos Tianguis is a sprawling 5-block market of secondhand treasures, budget clothing, and a produce & spice section. Great for bargain hunters and local flavor.

• Avenida Ruiz (the route to our spa) has authentic small shops for the first 8 blocks—after that it’s mostly schools and dentists.

• Gastelum Street offers no-frills local stores. Walk past 5th and you’ll see the real Ensenada—bus stops, commuters, and local buzz.

Big Box Stores:

• Macroplaza has a Walmart, Home Depot, and modern shopping. It’s far from the cruiseport and lacks much local character, but it’s an option if you need basics.

🍨 Vanilla & Cigars

Vanilla:
Mexico produces some of the world’s best vanilla. Many souvenir shops along La Primera carry decent bottles—just check for “pure extract” on the label.

Cigars:

• Local Gem: Habanos Cigar Shop on Blancarte has a solid selection. Their Cuban cigars are legit. I personally go for the hand-rolled Mexican cigars at the entrance—they’re budget-friendly (~$4) and wrapped in paper, not plastic.

• Upscale Option: There’s a newer coffee-and-cigar lounge on La Primera if you prefer a more polished experience.

• Skip: The wandering salesmen and souvenir shop cigars—quality is questionable.

Jewelry & Silver Shopping in Ensenada

Mexico is known for its beautiful silver craftsmanship, and Ensenada is no exception.

Easy Tourism Tip: Stick to shops in downtown Ensenada rather than tourist traps like La Bufadora. While the blowhole is fun, the silver sold there is often overpriced and may not be genuine. For better quality and value, browse the jewelry stores along La Primera or check out trusted shops near the Riviera Cultural Center.

Looking for something authentic? Ask if the silver is stamped ".925" — that means it's genuine sterling silver.

Sip Local: Tequila, Mezcal, Wine & More

Mexico invented tequila—so if you haven’t tried mango or chocolate tequila, now’s your chance!

• Tour + Tasting: Doña Engracia offers a great tequila-making tour with generous tasting sizes. We often include this stop after ATV, horseback, or zipline tours.

• Downtown Sample Stop: Tequila Room on First Street is a fun, energetic stop offering free samples (and a friendly push to buy a bottle). Ask for the mango and chocolate tequila here—or at Pai Pai and La Bufadora.

Mezcal
If you prefer something smokier, mezcal is Mexico’s other beloved agave spirit.

• Local Gem: Loca Bar is a dark, cozy mezcal tasting room tucked inside the Bodegas Santo Tomás complex, 7 blocks up from First Street. Pair it with a coffee next door—vacation mode on!

  • Note: Opens around 5 PM, or try AltaBaja Bar upstairs, a rooftop spot that opens at 3 PM (give or take—Google hours aren’t always reliable here).

• Easy Tourism: Mitos on Costero Blvd (just before La Primera) offers mezcal and tequila in a stylish upstairs space.

Wine Tasting
Ensenada is the gateway to the Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico’s wine country.

• Local Gem: Bodegas Santo Tomás downtown is your best in-city option. Beautiful architecture, fountains, and an upscale setting make it worth the walk—7 blocks from First Street.

• Easy Tourism: For the real wine experience, head out to Valle de Guadalupe on a wine tour.

Craft Beer

• Phosphorus on La Primera has rotating taps and a trendy vibe. Great if you want a break from tequila.

🍸 Margaritas

• Easy Tourism: Bar Andaluz inside the Riviera Cultural Center offers classic margaritas in a beautiful, historic setting.

• Local Gem: Hussong’s Cantina is legendary—gritty, iconic, with peanut shells on the floor and mariachis in the background.

Spa & Self-Care in Ensenada

Easy Tourism:
Our spa offers convenient cruise port pickup and drop-off, international-quality massage, and top-tier cleanliness. We’re proud to be the “easy tourism” option—highly rated on TripAdvisor, Yelp, and Google. Midweek discounts are available for larger packages, making it even easier to relax without breaking the bank.

Local Gem:
Matty’s Spa is a beloved neighborhood spot for manicures and pedicures, with a small massage space perfect for individuals (not ideal for couples or groups). It's cozy, no-frills, and very local.

A Note of Caution:
Avoid places with covered windows or those advertising “shower service”—these typically offer sensual services. Always check TripAdvisor or Google for legitimate reviews to ensure a professional experience.

Compared to the Ship Spa or Catalina’s Sea Spa:
Our prices are significantly lower, though we keep it simple—not overly luxurious. You’ll still get an excellent massage and warm service from local professionals.

Bonus: Thinking About a Tattoo?
Several clients have recommended Black & Gold Tattoo Studio on La Primera. It’s clean, professional, and delivers high-quality results. You can check out their work here: @blackgoldmx.ttt

Collect Your Selfies with the Ensenada City Signs!

There are at least five colorful “Ensenada” signs scattered around town—perfect for memorable photos!

• One at the entrance to town, at the far end of La Primera (furthest from the cruise port)

• One on the Malecon, just to the left of the ship dock

• One inside the cruise port security area

• One on Playa Hermosa beach

• One at La Bufadora (the blowhole)

The first three are all within walking distance from the ship, so you can check them off easily during your visit.

Get Some Culture in Ensenada!

If you're looking to soak up some local history, art, and quirky fun, these cultural stops offer a great mix of authentic and entertaining experiences—all walkable from the cruise port where Carnival and others dock.

Cultural Highlights:

• Riviera Cultural Center & historic Bar Andaluz – Charming gardens, regional architecture, and the birthplace of the margarita (allegedly!)

• CEARTE Art Museum – Contemporary art and regional exhibits with a focus on Baja’s cultural roots

• Regional Historic Museum – Housed in an old jail, this compact museum shares the history of the area, its people, plants, and traditions

Self-Guided Walk (Do These in Order from Cruise Port):

1. Capone’s Hideout

2. Funky Furniture Store

3. Fresh Churro Stop

4. Decorate Ensenada with a US Dollar Bill at El Corralito

5. Get a Mexifornia Driver’s License (just for fun!)

6. Meditation Gardens behind the Riviera

7. Hipster Shops Collection in Villa Mexicana

8. CEARTE Art Museum

Have updates?
Ensenada is always changing, so if you notice something new or outdated, let me know! I want to keep this guide fresh and helpful for everyone exploring this awesome town.

Explore the Riviera Cultural Center
Step into Ensenada’s past with a visit to the beautiful Riviera Cultural Center, known for its colonial architecture, lush gardens, and fascinating history. Originally built as a casino by none other than Al Capone, this historic building is now home to a small museum, cultural events, and the legendary Bar Andaluz, which claims to be the birthplace of the margarita.

Wander the well-maintained public gardens, admire the colorful wall murals, and soak up the charm of one of Ensenada’s most iconic buildings. Entrance to the gardens is free, and the museum has a small admission fee.

How to get there:
It’s just a short, easy walk from the cruise port. Walk straight from the ship, and you’ll spot the large white building—can’t miss it.

Bonus:
On Sundays at 4 PM (when Carnival Imagination is docked), the plaza comes alive with live music and dancing. A local group of golden-age dancers takes the stage at 3 PM and encourages everyone to join in. Whether you're into Latin tunes or old-school American classics, it's a feel-good experience that doesn’t interfere with your cruise sleep schedule—and yes, dancing with strangers is encouraged!

Funky Design & Art at Fausto Polanco Furniture
Looking for something totally unique? Stop by Fausto Polanco Furniture at the quiet end of La Primera (just over the little river/bridge). This funky designer furniture and art shop blends bold Mexican style with quirky creativity.

Some pieces will make you laugh, others might just spark your next home redesign idea. Whether you’re redecorating or just window shopping, it’s a fun stop for color, texture, and inspiration.

📍 Corner of La Primera and the bridge—on the quieter side of downtown.

Eat a Fresh Churro
Fresh churros in Mexico are like Krispy Kreme at their best—crispy, sugary, and totally addictive. When they’re hot out of the fryer, they’re pure joy.

My go-to spot? A tiny churro window on La Primera, tucked between larger shops next to El Rey Sol. It’s easy to miss, but unforgettable once you find it.

Another local favorite is the churro vendor near the Roma Pharmacy at Three Heads Park (by the giant flag plaza). You’ll usually find him set up near the horse carriages.

Trust me—ask for them fresh and try one stuffed with cajeta (caramel) if you want to level up the experience.

Leave Your Mark at El Corralito!
Bring a dollar (or two) and post it on the wall at Restaurante El Corralito—but don’t forget to write a message! A wish, a goal, a rant, or even just your name and the date. It’s like carving your initials in a tree… but tastier and less destructive.

Next time you visit Ensenada, come back and find your bill—like checking in on a time capsule.

The vibe here is fun and casual, with a menu that blends Mexican favorites and classic diner-style plates. A great little memory to create while you eat!

Get Your “Mexifornia” Driver’s License
Want a souvenir that’ll raise eyebrows and spark laughs? Grab yourself a fake Mexifornia driver’s license—a hilarious little keepsake that costs about $10 and takes just 10 minutes to make. You’ll find it at Rudy’s Curios, right across from McDonald's on La Primera.

Bonus: they sell fireworks too (just don’t light them near the port!).

Rudy’s Curios is one of many quirky souvenir shops along the street. Most carry similar oddball treasures—perfect for a fun gift to a young niece or nephew, the kind that will be adored for five minutes and forgotten in five months. But hey, it’s the thought (and the laughter) that counts.

Visit a Park in Ensenada

Easy Tourism:
Start with Three Heads Park and the Flag Pole (Parque de la Bandera)—just steps from the cruise port, right on the boardwalk. The enormous Mexican flag is an iconic sight, and there are playful water fountains, vendors with coffee and tacos, and space to relax by the harbor.

Local Gem #1: Parque Revolución
About five blocks inland from Hussong’s Cantina, this is a newly revitalized neighborhood park. It’s where locals gather for casual strolls, kids run around the playground, and seniors play chess under the gazebo. There are street food stands, and it’s right next to Boules, one of my favorite spots for outdoor lunch under the magnolia trees. On Sundays, expect vendors, balloons, maybe a live band—this is local life in full swing.

Local Gem #2: Keiki Ecological Park
Ready for a light urban hike? Head 13 blocks uphill from the Papas & Beer side of La Primera to this peaceful botanical garden. You’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Ensenada, plus a unique statue of Princess Tara, a Buddhist gift from Nepal in the 1980s. The trail is safe and runs through residential neighborhoods, or you can grab a cab for about $8.

Bonus: This park is just a block from our massage studio and two blocks from my favorite taco stand (El Paisa!). If you're booking a massage with us, request an early pickup so you can explore this authentic slice of Ensenada before or after your session. We’ll still get you back to the ship with time to spare.

Keiki Park features labeled native plants and occasional events like organic markets on Sundays. It’s a peaceful alternative to the buzz of La Primera.

And on your way up, don’t miss another great stop: Parque Revolución, on Sexta and Obregón. Big shady trees, a playground, food vendors, and—on Sundays—live music and a joyful local vibe.

Hipster Food + Lifestyle: Villa Mexicana

Tucked just behind La Primera, Villa Mexicana is a low-key, revitalized complex of modern shops, cafés, and eateries that feels more like local life than cruise-tourism. If you’re craving something stylish, chill, and Instagram-worthy—but still 100% safe and local—this is it.

You’ll find everything from ceviche spots, juice bars, and bakeries to wine and cigar shops, all wrapped in charming, walkable architecture. I love wandering the alleyways to see what’s new. It’s not brand-new construction, so it has an established charm, but most shops are fresh, modern, and designed with care.

The vibe is completely different from the busy cruise strip of La Primera—less pressure, more personality. Shops here are owned by young locals with a sense of style and quality. Think less dusty old-school panadería, more curated panini and pour-over coffee.

Getting There:
It’s a pedestrian-only zone bordered by Riveroll, Alvarado, La Primera, and Segundo. You can’t walk in from La Primera directly—shops block the way—so you’ll need to enter from one of the side streets.

I recommend this spot for anyone who wants to slow down, support small businesses, and experience Ensenada beyond the souvenir stands.

More guides on artsy things, kid-friendly stops, and walkable adventures coming soon—I’ll link them here as they go live.

CEARTE State Art Museum

I always appreciate a little extra art in my life—especially when it’s free. (Confession: I once bought a piece at the Carnival Art Gallery mostly because the hype and salesmanship got to me… oops.)

For a more relaxed and genuinely enriching art experience, take a short 2-block walk from the cruise ship to CEARTE. This modern cultural center features two large exhibition halls with rotating art shows, an airy outdoor sculpture plaza, and a peaceful café with outdoor seating.

There’s also a small bookstore, and while the performance space usually activates in the evenings, the daytime visit is still a worthwhile cultural pause during your walk around town.

🎨 Tip: Check their Facebook page for current exhibits and events.

Other Useful Blogs:

Best Taco in Ensenada

Best Ensenada Excursions Recommendations

Beach Options in Ensenada

Visit Ensenada Downtown with us on a City Tour!

Jesse Atkinson is an expat from Wisconsin who has called Ensenada home since 2011. He’s the founder of Ensenada Massage and Ensenada Excursions and Tours, and spends his days building a life by the sea—raising his dogs, Tina and Lola, on Playa Hermosa.

Things to do in Valle de Guadalupe Beyond Wine (Copy)

Is the Valle de Guadalupe Open?

Yes, the Valle de Guadalupe is open. Hotels and Restaurants have changed their seating operations and made investments for covid. Many take reservations, so you will want to call ahead.

Things to do in Valle de Guadalupe Beyond Wine and Food

Updated 5/2021

In my 10 years living and working in Ensenada as an Expat, I have grown to love escapes to the Valle. I have come to love the Valle de Guadalupe for many things I already love, which don’t tend to be wine and fine dining, so I wanted to offer a few ideas to diversify your options.

Craft, Artesanal Beer. Yes, Ensenada has a hoping microbrew scene and you can find some in the Valle de Guadalupe. Check out Wendlant’s brewery and tasting room for a sunset beer. It is on the ocean just at the end of the D3 highway that goes through the Valle.

Kombucha in Valle De Guadalupe: My friend Todd opened a cool little place with fresh Kambucha and some tasty meats in San Antonio de las Minas, on the right straight back from the stoplight.

One of my coolest massage clients, Kino has Big Mountain Kombucha. The band leader with a reggae image lives a wild and healthy life.

Bike Ride:

Several of the resorts have bike ride options: Hotel Boutique and La Tierra have those options, allowing you to use their bikes to pedal around on the dirt roads and visit local wineries. It’s fun. As for biking on the roads, I don’t recommend it. Although the highway is well paved, and the shoulder is large in some areas, traffic is not accustomed to respecting bikes. Usually, you only see road bikers with a lead and follow vehicle, which seems like a lot of hassle to coordinate for me. And on the weekend the one-lane roads get backed up when biking groups are riding.

Mountain biking or gavel biking is AWESOME in the Ensenada area. Bring your own gear.

Zipline:

Cuatros cuatros resort has Desert Nest Zipline. They are not quite as big and awesome as Las Canadas 40min south of Ensenada but are much closer.

Hot Air Balloon Ride:

Valle is beautiful, why not get a new perspective.

Animal Life for the Kid in You

Ranch life in Valle de Guadalupe has a couple of options for animal viewing or petting.

The Valle features a kids zoo ‘Zoologico Parque del Niño’. It’s on the Porvenir side of the Valle.

And many other places have random ranch animals. My favorite is Casa Vieja, with goats that love to be rubbed, and ostriches.

And you may see road runners on the unpaved roads.

Hike to Waterfall/ hot springs

Still getting info for closer options. El Salto, 20 min north on road to La Mision is an interesting 30min walk hike to along canyon floor to rocky gorge, with an option for a steep uphill section of the hike. Camping options are available too.

Cheese tasting in Valle de Guadalupe

The cheese room in San Antonio Las Minas has a sampling of cheeses, jams, and such. Fun little stop and cheese wine combos are legendary to melt the fat of cheese with the acidity of the wine. Check out fresh apple pie in the cafe a couple of stores down.

Wine museum:

Valle de Guadalupe has a wine museum that is new and well run. It has great displays on the history of the region and winemaking. However, they have restricted hours during covid.

Get your Art on

Tres Mujeres has a great art cave. The owner Yvette is a ceramic artist.

My friend Jo Ann Knox runs a nice art collectivo in the rustic and authentic Casa Vieja. Several artists are on display/ for sale with a couple of food options. Find them by navigating to Cava VinTango near San Antonio Las Minas.

The adobe-style of the house and sprawling restaurant, rusty tractor, is a treat to meander around.

Live music in the Valle de Guadalupe is available, and you will have to search and call ahead. Check out Brent at JazzLite, he also runs the coffee cart at the highway exit for Maglen Guru Resort. Valle Girl Wines has a Sunday afternoon outdoor concert. Ochentos Pizza has Saturday night bands and is actually one of my favorite spots.

For hip electronic music, check out Casa Frida’s DJ sets and Agua de Vid. Saturday nights my buddy and Las Vegas-based DJ Arron Feld has been playing around the Valle this spring. Check his facebook for when he is playing.

Yoga and Pilates

Yes, Luna de Sol has some yoga offerings at Hotel Boutique. Michelle is a gentle and authentic soul. They are still in construction on the wellness center.

For private yoga classes in your rental, Ensenada Tours and Excursions can arrange a teacher, about $8-10 USD a person.

Spa Experiences in Valle

Most of the physical Spas are closed for Covid. However, there are mobile massage options that allow you to stay in your amazing rental and request a massage and facial at your place. And take the best nap ever after, without driving. Valle Mobile Spa offers packages for couples and groups from $99usd a person in Valle.

ATV Tours in Valle de Gudalupe

El Cielo has run some ATV Tours, however, it is unclear if nonguests can access them.

Horseback riding:

Many places have horseback riding, Hotel Boutique has good options. For a private guide, Contact Rosabella in Valle de Guadalupe, Marty Harriman in La Mision, or Chrystal B at Desert Trails south of Ensenada near La Bufadora.

The Valle runs on Baja Time, so for a larger, group with a budget, you may want to use a travel concierge

Best Ensenada Beaches for Surfing, Swimming, Walking (Copy)

Ensenada has it all, almost! And sometimes information is hard to find for visitors without family and friends network, so here is my local share on best beaches for different activities.

I will be updating this with location pins and more info as I explore and surf the best beaches here, so please forgive my work in progress and come back. Send me comments too with what you discover and I will update.

Are the beaches in Ensenada open?

Yes! As of 9/26 the beaches are open. This may change. I don’t know about La Mision or Rosarito, but Ensenada Playa Hermosa was full of families and shade umbrellas.

Playa Hermosa, Malecon Section

Characteristic: Long and wide sandy beach along the major city road and sidewalk. City cleans seaweed daily? A few palapas and nonfunctional showers.

Access: Public beach with street parking, wooden walkways, mini-mart OXXO within walking.

Bano Situation: Public toilets available for a few pesos, and outhouses.

Best activities: common family playtime, surfing the consistent moderate beach break, fishing, horseback rentals nearby, bike lane for biking/running. 3-mile jog on beach is great.

Locals tip: live music bands near 7-11 Saturday and Sunday afternoon near busy oxxo section. Pacifica beach entrance is much quieter.

Google pin Oxxo and Concrete steps:

Google pin quiet entrance end of bike path.

Keep in mind local beach culture is different than Southern California, so you won’t find as many beach sunbathers and sporty types. Signs posted request dogs on leash on city beaches. Other places dogs are often of the leash. Camping and beach fires are allowed. Camping is not 100% safe in public areas.

Playa La Jolla, Punta Banda

Characteristic: Long sandy beach in private rental and RV area. No big waves, so great for SUP, kayak and wading.

Access: Entrance is through a private community.

Bano: nada

Best activities: digging in the sand for thermal water, kayak, SUP, swimming, long walks, horseback riding.

Locals tip: during low tide, dig in the sand to get thermal warm water to well up.

Google Location Pin:

For an Ensenada Beach with Sand Dunes and Estuary in Ensenada, Use Pacifica Condo Entrance

Quintas Papagayo:

Characteristic: Long rock cliff/wall with public walk way infront of nice homes. Begins in Coral Marina to Quintas Papaguayo. In Sauzal

Access: Entrance is 1) Northern enterance thru Coral Marina Hotel, enter and go back parking to left behind hotel. Hotel security closes the fence gate at 6pm? 2) Southern entrance through a Service road along Highway 1, just between some houses with a metal bar gate, usually unattended. No parking or car access at 2nd entry point.

Bano: nada

Best activities: walking, chatting, moutain biking, dog walking. Cover is good for kayak and swimming, but smooth rocky shore - no sand! Coral Marina has rentals that you can take in their private cove, but separate area and cove than public area.

Locals tip: during summer days, gets a bit crowded with people hanging out, not doing beach stuff. Music, chatting, eating, socializing.

Google Pin:

Tres Ms Industrial Beach and Surf Break:

Characteristic: Small sand, then smooth rocky beach under steep cliff. Point break for intemediate and advanced surfers. Beach is fine to hang out in. It is surrounded by industrial buildings, with brewery across the street.

Next to Wendlant’s brewery, great for walk before or after beer, or dog walk. In an Industrial Area, surf break in distance in picture. . .

Access: A bit tricky. The off/on ramp between D1 (north south rosarito-enseanda transpenninsular) and D3 (east-west Ruta del Vino) follow sign to Wendlant’s Brewery. Past stop sign and straight through industrial area to ocean. Wendlants on left, parking and beach access on right.

Bano: no shower, toilet, or bathroom

Best activities: Surfing, catch the sunset before/after a visit to the brewery, or on way to/from Valley de Guadalupe.

Locals tip: Wendlants has nice tasting room. Long walks along the sidewalk to industrial port. Not a particularly beautiful area. There is security at entrance for the industrial port, so cars and stuff should be safe. Also long sidewalk along the rock barrier to the port, good for walking and seldom used.

Google Location Pin:

San Miguel Camp and Surf Point:

Characteristic: Rocky point with great point break for experienced surfers. Large parking lot for camping, hanging out.

Access: Easy car access with 100 peso entrance. Camping allowed for more. Just after the toll booth entering Ensenada.

Bano: Bathroom and showers in stinky condition.

Best activities: Surfing, chilling, Sunsets, camping, dog walking. A classic surf point, may be crowded for surfers when conditions are good.

Locals tip: Dry river/ estuary next to the parking lot is nice for long walk/ scramble with dogs. There is a bit of sand on the river. Mini mart and restaurant within walking distance. Since it is private, more secure for camping, and not as many locals as other places.

Google Location Pin:

Stacks: Another rocky/sandy break for intermediate/advanced surfers. NO facilities, NO parking. Lots of car's break ins.... so...NO!

Other useful info: Best Taco

Fun Things to do in Ensenada While on Cruise Shore Day (Copy)

A Local’s Tips On Things to do In Ensenada Downtown near Cruiseport

Looking for Quirky things to do in Ensenada while on a cruise or just hanging around downtown? Here are 8 almost free fun ideas. You could always do Excursions, but try these ideas near cruise port and budget-oriented. If you do 1-5 in order, it’s a walkable journey from cruise port where carnival and others dock.

1) Capone’s Hideout 2) Funky Furniture 3) Fresh Churro 4) Decorate Ensenada with US Dollar Bill 5) Get Mexifornia DL 6) Mediation Gardens 7) Hipster Collection of shops 8) Art Museum

Please let me know if any of this info needs updating - things are always changing here and I hope to give accurate, updated info so others can enjoy things to do here in Ensenada.

Riviera Cultural Center by Al Capone and Birthplace of Maragrita!?

1) Explore Riviera Cultural Center. Built by Al Capone as a casino, this building and grounds has great architecture, mini museum and well kept public gardens. Also hidden Bar Andaluz inside that claims to have invented the Margarita?? . . . .and check out that cool wall mural and public green gardens are best in town. To get there, it’s right off the cruise ship, keep walking straight and huge white building. It is free to walk around, and the museum has a small fee.

As a bonus on Sundays afternoons at 4pm (Carnival Imagination is in), there is group dancing by Golden Agers - 3pm and after they dance to latin and a few american oldies. Everyone dance with anyone who asks, so if you are a dancer and would like go move a bit it’s a fun option. I love it because I get to dance and it is a day even, it doesn’t kill my sleep schedule.

Funky Mexican Style Art Furniture

2) Funky design and art at Fausto Polanco Furniture store. This designer-art-furniture place has some cool stuff to browse from the Mexican style. Some of it makes me laugh, some of it inspires new home ideas. On the quiet end of La Primera on corner just over the river/bridge. Redecorating is always fun to get new ideas for your living space.

This shop has a few other locations in Rosarito and around mexico.

Now That’s a Churro!

3) Eat fresh Churro. Churros are the Mexican equivalent of Krispy Creme. When they are fresh - Amazing crispy sweetness for your mouth. I love churro shop on La Primera next to Rey del Sol. It’s literally a tiny window sandwiched between bigger businesses.

As an alternative, next to Roma pharmacy on Three Head’s Park, there is a Churro guy that is good too. You should see the horse carriages there.

Leave your mark on Ensenada - Post $1 Bill.

4) Post dollar bill in Restaurante Corralito with a message. You pick the message! Could be a wish or a grievance. So it will cost you a $1 or $2. But then you can come back next year and check on the status. It’s kinda like leaving your mark, but not in a tree carving. And you are in Mexico, so defacing government property of $1 is not punishable by Uncle Sam.

El Corralito has a fun atmosphere and pretty good with some mexcian dishes and some standard plates as well.

Mexifornia Driver’s License!

5) Get a Mexifornia Driver’s Liscense. What better way to confuse your pals than with a weird souvenir from Ensenada. Opps, again not entirely free. Price is $10 and takes Ten Minutes inside Rudy’s Curios, Across from McDonalds on La Primera. Fireworks available too . . .

This place - Rudy’s Curios - is a non descript souvenir place. There are about 10 of theses places along the street selling about the same inventory of oddities, souvenirs, and such. The kind of stuff that is good for gifts for my 5 year old neices that are soo excited to get a gift, and it can be forgotten or destroyed in 5 months.

I will post my Shopping ideas here:

Keiki Statue and Ecological Park for city views

6) Walk/Hike up to Keiki ecological Park offers great views of the city, a botanical garden and statue of Princess Tara, a Buddhist sculpture gifted from Nepal in 80s. You will have to walk here through safe neighborhoods. It is 13 blocks back from Papas and Beer end of La Primera. You could cab it too and spend a few pesos. It is near best massage studio in Ensenada (mine) and best turkish coffee as well at Cocina Azzi.

The gardens have a variety of labelled plants that are endimic to our semi arid environment. Currently on Sundays once a month, they host a local organic farmers/ craft market. It’s worth a visit if you are tired of the hubub of La Primera.

If you take the walk, you will also pass a nice park; Parque Revolucion on Sexta and Obregon. It’s an urban park with huge shade trees, some statues, playground, and authentic local street food - burritos, tortas, random sweets and coffee. On Sundays it’s pretty lively with locals with their kids. Summer time has public dancing occasionally.

7) Hipster Collection of Food and Lifestyle: Villa Mexicana is a revitalized collection of hip shops just behind La Primera. As a cruiser, the entrance is off the beaten path, but’s is a nice slice of local life compared to La Primera. I recommend it.

You will find cool little bakeries, cigar and wine shops, ceviche places, juice bar, several restaurants, and all in an nice architectural area built for outdoor walking. I like roaming the alley ways seeing whats open and new. The area is not new so it has a classic feel, but many of shops are new so I like it. Since it is not built for toursim like La Primera, the people are chillax and things are quieter. Yes, it is 100% safe.

The new places are opened with style, modern marketing and quality. That is to say, it’s not the arguabley more authentic, dusty local panaderia built 35 years ago.

To get there for this coolish thing to do, it is bordered on four sides by Riveroll, Alvarado, La Primera, and Segundo. You can’t enter from Primera since there are solid shops, and you can’t drive in. Here is are walking directions from cruiseport

I will be posting Things to do with Artsy, Kids, Walking . .. . . and will link when those are written;)

8) CE Arte State Museum I always appreciate a little extra art in my life, especially when it’s free. I actually bought my a piece from the Carnival Art Gallery during my curise, but mostly because the hype and salesmanship overtook me, lol. For a more relaxed art museum, take 2 block walk from the boat to CE Arte. It’s free with two large exhibition rooms, rotating exhibits. It has a nice cafe with outdoor seating and bookstore, and an outdoor statue in the center of huge plaza. There is a performance space and different activities, but usually in evening.

Check Facebook here for events and location:

Jesse Atkinson is an Expat from Wisconsin, and has lived in Ensenada since 2011, building life Ensenada Massage and raising his Dog, Tina.

Ensenada Tours and Shore Excursion Recommendations (Copy)

This is my two pesos of advice on Ensenada Tours and Shore Excursions

As an ex-pat massage therapist living and working here for 9 years, listening to cruisers chat about tours and cruising myself (Carnival Imagination 4 day Dec 2018!!), I have seen all sides of the Tours business in Ensenada. I frequently take adventures on my own and with my friends that visit by land. And I even took a cruise to Ensenada - yeah I know, who cruises to their own home town:)

Shore excursions are readily available on the boat, but generally large buses. When I cruised the 4-day cruise in Dec 2018, I was ready to get away from the crowd. A private excursion is a good option, especially if you want to get several things in, or want the flexibility to stop for tacos/tequila/ change your mind depending on how your other half/kids feel.

Whether you drive into town or are on the ship, you could make an inexpensive day of just wandering around for a few hours. The Malecon is nice for a walk, the 3 heads park “Tres Cabezas'“, then a quiet coffee, or taco and beer on the first street (La Primera), and meander through Riviera Cultural Center, CEArte museums. For tours, Jump below; I recommend a half-day tour and a massage before getting back on board.

La Primera (First Street): Just a block from the Harbor, this 5 block stretch is an area of Ensenada where the shops and vendors have been built up over the years for day tourism from the Carnival ships. At night it is a different scene. It’s a bit fun, a bit of a free for all of the stuff for sale and guys offering tacos and beer and other items you might want to sell. Plenty of pharmacies, taverns, shopping, coffee shops. It’s a safe, nice stroll close to the ship, and entertaining. Skipworthy if you are more annoyed than entertained by curiosities for sale, cheap beers, and crowds. And after squeaky clean Catalina, you may notice we don’t sweep the streets, or destroy old buildings as quickly. You will encounter sidewalk vendors offering tacos, tequila, tours, excursions, and happy ending massage.

Casa Ramirez: They have high-quality stuff from all over Mexico - a huge country with a diverse culture. Visit and check out the handmade goods, and ask questions of the knowledgeable staff. Street items are fun, usually much lower quality and imported often.

Best Coffee and Salads: Hogaza Hogaza: German-style bakery with fresh-squeezed orange juice, Keifer, amazing salads, and great coffee. Run by a Canadian scientist, Rodger. He’s a buddy;)

Tequila Room for tasting is a cornerstone of La Primera street. Angel speaks perfect English and gives great education on the amazing tequila culture of Mexico. Tastings are free and, after you are tipsy, he will offer you a bottle of high quality sipping tequila to buy. Perhaps a go is a good souvenir you can pack away as a memory. Don’t open it to avoid Carnival complications.

Tacos (both fish, shrimp, and steak) are great pretty much anywhere. La Guerrenense is a pretty renowned local tostada/ceviche spot.  For fried fish taco, I love the crunch at California Taco Bar. After massage or excursions, I drop off many folks here.

Cultural Highlights: At the end of First Street, and across the street from the cruise port, you will find La Riviera, a cultural center and best gardens and architecture, supposedly built by Al Capone as a casino originally. The bar inside invented the margarita purportedly. But there are several claims on that invention. Across the street, you will see CEARTE, our free modern art museum. Small museum with rotating exhibits, I like it. The State Tourist office is in front of CEARTE with info, but not much help for day of planning.

Ensenada Tours and Shore Excursions:

These excursions and tours linked here should give you more personal service than larger tour providers I have seen (cruise websites) and get you back on the boat on time. The cruise ship would like you to book with them, so they warn you about safety and getting on the boat to play on your fears. Walking off the ship you can book find some tours with about 20% discount to ship prices, and you may have to deal with cross-culture communication and stressful negotiations. You will probably get a more service rather than a bus. Some are taxi tours are good, some are so so.

ATV Ensenada:

Where can you ride ATV’s on-street and ocean anymore? Not in California for sure. I grew up with three-wheelers before they were outlawed. Riding is great, and should be done safely.

ATV’s that are rented in the street are kind of a free for all. You can make up your own route. Although that sounds great, riding in traffic on streets is not so great. I recommend excursions where you get a guide and ride in area that is off street and designated. There are a few near the zip lines and in the Wine Valley.

If you decide for the street ride, be responsible in traffic and of natural areas.

Zipline Tour:

Las Canadas is fun outdoor park. Zipline excursion is the best I have done here in Ensenada, and safer than Guatemala. Let’s face it, soo many rules in US that the adrenaline as been taken out of some adventure. These bridges and zips are killer fun. My friend Arturo gives a good tour and transportation there. I can refer you to him.

There are several Zip Line options, Las Canadas is the biggest and easiest to access. They have a combination of zipline and suspension bridges. Desert’s Nest has some great zip lines near Valle de Guadalupe. Further north near Las Gaviotas is an option, but I actually have never heard of anyone going there.

Zipline Suspension Bridges are awesome!

Ensenada Massage: How about a day spa excursion with private pick up/drop off, great facilities, pricing at $99 a couple in the afternoon compared to about $250 a couple on the ship spa. Fit a massage in before or after your other tours. Yes, I own the place and ensure quality and amazing service. Our #1 TripAdvisor and Yelp, and Google Ratings speak for themselves. My team rocks;) We started offering groups of 5 massage for family and girlfriend parties, and kids get a discount now too.

Wine Tour Excursion in Valle de Guadalupe:

It’s awesome and much younger than Napa and Sonoma the energy of the outdoors, great food, investment, interesting architecture, and eco friendly is remarkable. Over that last decade, the area has grown to world destinations for food and wine. Sweet views, delicious food, and wine to lighten your mood….. Can you do it in an excursion day? Heck yeah, schedule a morning pick-up private tour, lunch, guide. You can find a trained wine specialist like Valley Girl Wine Tours, or take a more budget route with the packaged tour.

I prefer the small tour approach using a private excursion tour for flexibility.

Scuba/snorkel/kayak: I have scubaed here and had great experiences in kelp forests. Keep in mind waters are pretty cold, and visibility is limited since we get good waves from the pacific. Diego at Baja Blue Diver and Dale have well-run operations. If your cruise passes through Catalina, consider diving/scuba there with Ron Moore, a legend in the dive community. Kayaking with is my preferred way to see the La Bufadora and the amazing cove there.

Horseback Riding Excursion:

Our guests have had great experiences with Chrystal’s Desert Trails ocean view rides on the beach. Some of the other horse care and cleanliness practices on other tours may be different from US standards, (this is partly why I recommend Chrystal). For rides in Valle de Guadalupe, $45 a person, I can connect you with Rosabella.

We actually offer a massage and horse ride package too so you can easily get them both in and logistics are easy between horse ride and our massage studio.

Horseback Riding On The Beach

Blowhole and Bufadora Excursion

La Bufadora is a natural blowhole geyser on the end of the geographic bay that protects Ensenada city. Cool scenery on the way out there and the waves spouting up is fun by the ocean. To get from parking to blowhole, you will pass through an exciting barrage of souvenir vendors selling entertaining junk in a Mexican carnival-like style. I like to call it the gauntlet. If you can get through without a free sample of pina colada or candied nuts, or weird, inappropriate coffee mug or shirt, you win!

Transportation: Uber or private driver and tour guide, white car street taxis are a pain here.

Dune Buggy Excursion: My friend Dusty from the Carnival Imagination Facebook group says it’s overrated. The vehicles have a limitation on the throttle so you can’t really let loss and go fast. Having said that, the outskirts of Ensenada are beautiful and very different from downtown and La Primera.

Adult Beverages: Since Alcohol is a bit pricey on the ship and you won’t be driving, you may want to consider some drinks while onshore. Craft Beer: Lucky Irish 4 is a hot new addition to Ensenada Craft Beer Scene. Tons of craft beers on the killer Ocean Patio. 1 pm opens Cantina: A tavern rooted in Mexican heritage with consistent mariachi bands, Hussong’s stands alone as an interesting experience. Other places on the La Primera first street just aren’t as interesting. Tuesday and Thursday 2 for 1 beer. Amigos is a good choice for rowdy beers on the street. Interesting Dive Bar: La Cueva de Pirata. Just a block from the cruise port, and totally for locals and musicians after their nightly gigs. So local that I am the only one to leave a google review. . . . . If you want to drink on the street in the sun with US music and a rowdy scene, try Amigos on First Street, near Papas and Beer.

Wine without leaving Centro: Santo Tomas Bodega wines for tasting, lunch place, and collection of cool shops nearby with the best coffee, a vegan bakery, hidden mezcal shop and upstairs joint Alta Baja with cool city views. On 6th and Miramar, it’s a walk from the La Primera first street. Think of it as boutique upper-class shops. Not old school Mexican, and not dusty middle-class shops either.

Cigar: Legit Cubans at Habanos with a semi-cool cigar lounge, Are they legitimate Cubans? I think so for these that are sold in the store - not the guys occasionally up and down the street. Daniel at Habanos across from Villa Marina parking entrance runs his own shop and is my source for an occasional smoke.

Surf Lessons: Why not? Yes, I learned to surf here. Winter waves are plenty for beginners. Water is clean enough. Beach Playa Hermosa works well for beginners with an easy beach break. Guides are fun and equipment (boards and wet suits for cold winter water) new and reasonably priced. For higher-level surfers custom tour on Request. Elsa at Playa Hermosa Surf and Sup has the best operations and Carnival outsource to her. So she is moonlighting direct to clients (Carnival takes a HUGE cut). Ask her about Surf and Massage Package.

Skydive: Safe and fun, skydiving is amazing. Fabricio at Skydive Baja is the man in Ensenada. Yes, they can do pickup and dive during your cruise stop. He was my first roommate in Ensenada, so I can vouch he is adrenaline junkie. And safe enough run the best operation around.

Fun Eats:

da Toni - the best Italian seafood spot in Ensenada. Super authentic, high end of local pricing, and cute.

Planta Baja - great views/good dinner/right next to Baja Brews out in Sauzal.

Boules - great dinner spot. Off the ocean next to nice city park.

Parque Revolucion: It’s a city park for the residents, huge magnolia trees, music on Sundays, guys playing chess, kids on playground, sandwiches for sale.

Ecological park and Buddhist statue with views of city. Keki is Fifteen blocks from the first street and a block for office. I am considering planning out a self-guided walking tour to this and Parque Revolucion as part of hidden cultural side of Ensenada. Great maintained gardens and city views.

The first five cruisers to leave a comment here, I will buy a taco and beer!! Give me a virtual hug by leaving a comment;)

Map of Ensenada Save on your phone if you like to orient yourself:)

Tips in Other Posts

Is Ensenada Safe?

Prescription Medicine: Pharmacy’s here sell lots of stuff at cheaper prices. I have never heard of a problem with quality. What you are sold in pharmacy is the actual product labeled. Taking medication back Rule: . . . Not everything is available without restriction. Many medicines are controlled and the pharmacies are regulated, so no shady practices. You can bargain of course and prices.

For more adventure (or relaxation massage) consider an excursion/tour:

Kayak Excursion to Blowhole