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.
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.
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
The bay at Bahía De Los Angeles is incredible to look at. This is a great place to stop and spend some time at the beach. You will notice there are lots of islands out in the bay, and they add to the beauty. You can either sleep at a hotel, or if you have camping gear, there are lots of spots to set up right on the beach.
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.
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
From January to March, visit Loreto for some whale watching tours. Many companies offer boat trips out to see gray whales during their migration period.
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.
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.
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.
Learn to Surf
Todos Santos offers some of the best beginner-friendly surf breaks in Baja. Local surf schools provide lessons and board rentals, making it easy to experience the famous Baja surf culture.
Hotel California
Visit the legendary Hotel California that inspired the Eagles’ famous song. Whether or not this is the actual hotel from the song is debated, but the atmosphere and history make it worth a visit.
Los Cabos
The southernmost tip of Baja California offers a completely different experience from the rest of the peninsula. Los Cabos is where luxury meets the desert, with world-class resorts, championship golf courses, and some of the best sport fishing in the world.
Snorkeling and Diving
The waters around Los Cabos offer incredible underwater experiences. From snorkeling at Chileno Beach to diving at Gordo Banks, the marine life here is spectacular. The Sea of Cortez is known as “The World’s Aquarium” for good reason.
El Arco
The famous natural rock arch at Land’s End is a must-see landmark. Take a boat tour to get up close to this iconic formation where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez.
Mandala Bar
Experience Cabo’s legendary nightlife at Mandala, one of the most famous clubs in Mexico. With multiple levels, VIP areas, and world-class DJs, it’s the perfect place to experience the party side of Cabo.
Final Thoughts
Baja California offers an incredible diversity of experiences within its desert and marine borders. From the wine country of Ensenada to the party scene of Cabo, from the tranquil missions of Loreto to the whale sharks of La Paz, this peninsula has something for every type of traveler.
The beauty of Baja lies in its contrasts – where ancient indigenous rock art meets modern surf culture, where vast desert landscapes meet pristine beaches, where you can swim with whale sharks in the morning and watch spectacular sunsets in the evening.
Having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to experience Baja at your own pace, stopping at hidden beaches, exploring remote canyons, and discovering the magic that makes this region so special.
‘Til next time,
Pete – A Traveling Teacher