Top Places To Visit In Baja California
Baja California is a very unique, and very safe region of Mexico. This peninsula of desert and sea is just south of California, and offers all types of experiences within its oceanic borders. The best way to experience Baja California is by having your own vehicle. There is nothing like cruising through where desert (with TONS of cacti) and sea meet at your own pace. Stopping to see just how vast these areas are will certainly be something you do, even if you weren't planning on it! Plenty of transportation options exist, although I suggest having the freedom of your own vehicle.
From surfing to whale watching, camping under the stars to partying the night away, here are my favorite places to visit while in Baja California. Don't forget to subscribe for more details about traveling through Mexico!
Ensenada
Ensenada is a popular coastal city in Baja California, and is a great first stop while heading south. Only 80 miles south of San Diego, Californians frequent here for an authentic taste of Mexican culture. Many come for the variety of outdoor activities offered here, while others come to relax by the water. Other activities include wine tasting, along with a large variety of amazing restaurants to try.
Stay At Ensenada Backpackers Hostel
Set up home base at the most popular hostel around this area, Ensenada Backpackers. The hosts are beyond generous, even cooking meals for the guests many days. With both indoor, outdoor, and balcony areas to relax, you have a great spot to unwind when the day is over. Any hostel offers the opportunity to meet fellow travelers, and this one is no exception.
Hike Cañon De Dona Petra
Enjoy the beautiful views of all of Ensenada from above. This area is open year round, and is mostly used for walking, hiking, or mountain biking around the network of trails. At the center of the park is an attraction called El Jardin de Tara. Walk around this 28 foot colorful statue of Buddhist Princess Tara, donated by the people of Nepal to this amazing city.
Hussong's Cantina
Told to be the birthplace of the margarita, Hussong's Cantina is the oldest and best known Cantina in Baja California. With a very rustic look, and very professional staff, the pictures of historical figures seem to come to life while enjoying a drink here.
La Bufadora
La Bufadora is a marine geyser just outside the city of Ensenada. There is ample parking here, and even busses that will bring you if you do not have your own transportation. The crowd of people you are surrounded by add to the excitement. This place goes to show you smiling is most definitely contagious.
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Valle de Guadalupe
Take a wine tour just outside Ensenada in Valle de Guadalupe. This vineyard is considered to be the oldest in the western hemisphere! A private tour with Valley Girl Wine Tours will include a driver, so enjoy the wines this amazing string of vineyards has to offer without hesitation.
Bahía De Los Angeles
If you are looking for a remote place with very calm vibes, Bahía De Los Angeles (Bay of the Angels) is the place to be. Spend a couple days here to recharge before continuing on south.
Campo Archelon
By far the best place to stay in the area, regardless of your budget. Campo Archelon offers palápas to camp right by the water for cheap, or full homes where you can stay with more people. Both are a part of a small community formed within the camp, with the owners ready to help you in any way. Kayaks are available for free to use in the ocean, and the facilities are very well kept.
Guerrero Negro
Guerrero Negro is surrounded by desert, making it quite the hot place to visit. The two main reasons people visit this area? Whale Watching and Salt Works. Peak season is between January and March here, although most things are open the entire year.
Whale Watching
During mid-January to mid-March, people from all over come to experience grey whales migrating to the lagoons of Baja California to give birth. Coexisting in the waters with these enormous animals is definitely something you will not forget.
World's Largest Salt Works
On your way down the peninsula, be sure to visit the world's largest salt making facility in Guerrero Negro. This plant exports 7 million tons of salt per year on average. Let this video by Postandfly show you just how beautiful it is.
Mulegé
This oasis town has offered indigenous people shelter from the desert for thousands of years, and has plenty to prove for this. With some of the oldest rock art in the Americas, Mulegé is more than just a place with beautiful beaches.
Cañon La Trinidad
Although you are not allowed to enter without a guide, Mulegé Tours does a great job with showing you what Cañon La Trinidad has to offer. From the colored walls, the ancient indigenous paintings, and the shimmering pools of water, you can see why natives settled here for thousands of years.
Bahía Concepción
Bahía Concepción is among a stretch of beautifully small beaches located on the main road through Baja California. Driving by, you will most definitely want to stop and check it out if you were not already planning to. The stunning turquoise water, combined with the palapas strewn over the beautiful white sands make this place a type of paradise.
Museo Comunitario de Mulegé
Did you know the prison in Mulegé is known for letting their prisoners out during the day? Take a short stroll through this now museum to get a sense of the history of this whole area. This experience shouldn't take you more than an hour, but is definitely worth checking out.
Loreto
Back in 2009, Mexico launched the campaign for "Pueblos Magicos" (Magical Towns). This was an initiative to attract tourists to the various offerings Mexico has within its borders. Each of the 32 towns has something unique to offer, although each of them are just as hospitable as the next.
Loreto is a magical town, and for good reason. The history of this place, paired with the views are a great reason to visit such a town. Old mission villages surround the already historic Loreto. Pair that with more outdoor activities, and you are setting yourself up for nostalgic moments in the future.
Experience Local History
Walk around Baja California's first Spanish colonial city, and experience what will feel like time traveling. The cobble stone streets and colonial architecture is well maintained here, and for good reason.
Mision de San Javier
This mission was founded back in the 1600's by Jesuits in the Roman Catholic Church. It was abandoned and closed in 1817, although the town remained around it. Its main mission? Convert the natives to Christianity.
This site has since been restored, and as of the 2010 Mexican census, there are only 131 people residing within the village of San Javier. Be sure to ask around to see the ancient, 1,300 year old olive tree! It is hidden by a small dirt path, although any local will be happy to tell you where it is.
Isla Coronado
Plan a day trip over this island for a day of beach relaxation. Be sure the pack water and food, as this island is not inhabited. Any local fisherman will be happy to bring you over for a small fee, and you will be happy you decided to. The white sand beaches and crystal clear water are not covered in other visitors, so you will enjoy some nice time to relax by yourself or your group.
Whale Watching
All along Baja California offers whale watching opportunities. Back in Guerrero Negro, people flocked to visit the migration of grey whales. On the opposite side of the peninsula, people gather to observe to observe eight different species of whale. These whales normally reside in the northern part of the Sea of Cortez, but migration happens to avoid the colder weather up north.
La Paz
As is most of Baja California, La Paz is considered a very safe city to visit. It is also the state capital of all of Baja California! The city is growing very quickly, and it does not take away from the beauty of it. The boardwalk is full of places to eat and visit, and will give you a beautiful view of the sunset no matter the day.
Casa Esterito Hostel
If you are planning on staying in a hostel, Casa Esterito should be your go to hands down. Miguel and his crew treat you as if you are family, and the friendships that are made there are simply unforgettable. I still keep in touch with people I have met there to this day! The accommodations are very well thought out, and there is air condition for the hot Baja nights.
Walk the Malecon
The malecon (boardwalk) of La Paz is where all the action is. Most of the things you are looking for in La Paz are along the boardwalk. Great restaurants, great bars, and great views of the water. You really can't ask for more than that! There are lots of beautiful statues that reside on the malecon itself, each of them signifying something from the sea. There is one more really cool thing to do on the malecon, and that is...
Watch the Sunset
Anywhere you decide to do this will be a great choice. La Paz offers a spectacular sunset at any time of the year. There is something about how the sun reflects through the clouds and onto the water that offers some serious ambience.
Playa Balandra
Playa Balandra is about a 15 minute drive from the center. There are very cheap buses that will take you there and back, and run through most hours of the day. There are kayak rentals for $15/hour. One hour should be more than enough to get your fill of exploration in this area. Be sure the check out the Hongo (mushroom) rock! There are some spots that sell snacks there, but be sure to bring some food and water so you are well prepared for your day trip. I'm sure you will go more than once!
Visit the Whale Museum
The whale museum drops some serious knowledge on the giants of the sea. Located right on the malecon, you will know you arrived when you notice a huge whale skeleton right outside! Be sure to go in and take a look while strolling around town.
Swim With Whale Sharks
Many places offer whale watching, but La Paz gives you the opportunity to swim with whale sharks! These very peaceful creatures seem even bigger when you are in the water with them.
El Autentico Súper Burro
I'm a big eater. I really enjoy hefty portions of food anywhere I go. El Autentico Súper Burro offered exactly that. This was the first place I was introduced to what a Gringa is. Go ask for one and you will not be disappointed!
Todos Santos
Todos Santos is a laid back beach town only an hour away from Cabo San Lucas. Even with such a short distance between them, the vibe from these two places is totally different. Todos Santos is a great place to get some surfing in, while soaking up the mellow beach culture of the area.
Tortugueros Las Playitas
Want to volunteer at a sea turtle conservation area? Join this crew as they protect and conserve the marine eco systems of Baja California! From October to May, you can help release baby sea turtle hatchlings and help with other duties behind the scenes of this awesome initiative.
El Pescadero
Only a 20 minute drive from Todos Santos, El Pescadero offers two great surf spots. If you are a beginner or intermediate surfer, Los Cerritos beach is a great place to get started. Looking for a bit more of a challenge? San Pedrito has much stronger currents and a rocky shore, so be sure you know your way around the water before giving this one a shot. Rent a surf board for only $12/day, and experience waves for any level of surfing you enjoy.
Cabo San Lucas
Known as one of Mexico's top 5 tourist destinations, Cabo is definitely a place full of wonder. Beautiful beaches, great night life, and great memories will be packed into your stay here.
Mayan Monkey Hostel
Absolutely one of the best hostels I have ever been to, Mayan Monkey is very well managed. With a rooftop pool and bar, and curtains over your air conditioned sleeping arrangements to maintain privacy, you will not regret visiting this place at all. The vibe in this hostel is irreplaceable, and you will meet some amazing people while staying here.
Water Sports at Medano Beach
Medano Beach is the main beach at Cabo San Lucas, where lots of fun activities take place. Walking distance from the center of town, you can experience almost any water sport imaginable here.
Take a relaxed kayak or paddle board ride to the archway, try jet-skiing for the first time, or fly high and watch others from above while parasailing. These types of activities range from $30-$70 per hour depending on what you are looking for, but don't be afraid to haggle! The prices vary with each crew walking along the water.
Night Life in Cabo
If you are looking to party, you have come to the right place. Cabo offers a strip of bars and clubs that have truly made a name for themselves. Open til late hours of the morning, these places take going out to a whole new level. While you are hopping around, make sure Mandala (pictured above) is one of your stops along the way.
San José del Cabo
Day trips outside of the city limits are a great way to break up your stay in one place. San José del Cabo is a great place to soak in some relaxation and quiet. The white sand beaches, and its small shopping strip give you a bit of a break, and a more local experience compared to Cabo San Lucas.
Cabo Pulmo
Another day trip that is well worth the trip is Cabo Pulmo. Are you an avid scuba diver, or looking to try it for your first time? This national marine park is the perfect place to go check out some wildlife. The views under the water seem other worldly. The oldest of only three coral reefs along the west coast of North America, you will never be bored while you are under the water.
If you aren't ready to dive too deep, but still want to catch some of the sights, snorkeling is available here as well. If you decided not to rent your own vehicle, the second best option is by shuttle. There are scheduled times to be dropped off and picked up from Cabo Pulmo with this option, so you will not be stranded there. A third option is to take a bus to San José del Cabo, then taxi the remainder of the way.
Final Thoughts
The cool thing about all these? They all line up along the singular road to the southern tip. Mexican Federal Highway - 1 connects the entire peninsula, and these are all stops along this road. Going back to transportation, this is a decent sized peninsula! Having your own vehicle to explore at your own pace is something you will truly not regret investing in for this adventure. There are some places that are much easier to coordinate visiting with your own set of wheels.
Baja California continues to become more and more popular as the years go by, and for good reason. Come check out for yourself what makes this place so special. I can assure you the memories you will make and the people you will meet will impact your life in a very positive way!