Location & Transportation
When you arrive in Ensenada, your cruise ship will dock in an industrial harbor right by the impressive Malecon, where you'll also spot the world's largest Mexican flag flying tall on an enormous flagpole. The cruise pier is conveniently within walking distance of Avenida López Mateos, the main tourist strip filled with shops and restaurants. If you’d rather not walk, taxis and shuttles are on hand at about $4 per person round trip for a quick trip downtown.
Sightseeing
Ensenada has evolved from a humble fishing village into a vibrant resort town with plenty to see. I love taking a stroll along the waterfront promenade where you can admire the modern port facilities and enjoy scenic views of the bay. Don’t miss these highlights:
- Avenida Primera: Wander through fashionable shops and boutiques.
- Bodega Santo Tomás: Founded by the Dominicans in 1888, this historic winery offers a taste of local tradition.
- Historical Charm: In 1602, the explorer Sebastián Vizcaíno was so taken by the bay's beauty that he named it Ensenada de Todos Los Santos (inlet of all the saints).
Tours & Excursions
There are some great day trips you can take if you have a couple of extra hours ashore:
- Wine Tours in Guadalupe Valley: Just about a half-hour ride from Ensenada, a tour of the vineyards in this famous wine region is a must for wine enthusiasts.
- La Bufadora Excursion: Experience the dramatic natural sea geyser, La Bufadora, which shoots water more than 100 feet into the air. Excursions here start at around $15 per person – you can usually book the tour at the local bus station.
Shopping
Avenida López Mateos is not only known for its terrific dining options—it’s also a shopper’s delight. Stroll down this vibrant street to browse local handicrafts, souvenirs, and a mix of modern and traditional stores. It’s perfect for picking up a memorable gift or two.
Dining
When it comes to food, Ensenada offers a delicious blend of traditional Mexican flavors and fresh seafood specialties. Be sure to try local favorites such as:
- Fish Tacos and Baja-Style Seafood: Fresh catches from the Pacific are a real treat.
- Local Mexican Cuisine: Enjoy authentic dishes in casual taquerías or seaside restaurants along the promenade.
Culture & Local Events
Ensenada reflects a rich local culture with a mix of traditional charm and modern flair. Here’s what you need to know:
- Currency & Payments: The Mexican peso (MXN) is the local currency. In tourist areas, prices might also be shown in US dollars (look for “US$” or an S with a double stroke), with roughly 17 pesos to 1 US dollar. While US dollars are accepted in many spots, note that credit cards aren’t as widely used, and some establishments may add a small surcharge for card transactions.
- Language: Spanish is the main language here, though you’ll find that English is quite common in tourist areas and border zones.
- Opening Hours: In big cities like Ensenada, many shops and restaurants typically open from around 10:00 or 11:00 AM until 8:00 or 10:00 PM. Smaller establishments might have shorter hours during the week.
- Local Events & Festivals: Ensenada hosts lively cultural events and festivals, especially during the summer. Whether it’s a local food festival or a neighborhood celebration, there’s always something festive happening. It’s a good idea to check local listings for the latest events.
- Safety & Awareness: As with any popular tourist destination, be mindful of your belongings when out and about. Registered taxis and official tour providers are your safest bet when exploring further from the port.