travel in baja

BAJA CALIFORNIA

A strip of land that emerges from the ocean, located south of California, in the United States, and is the northern gateway to Mexico. With 71,450 square kilometers of surface, it has a great variety of climates and ecosystems.

With a population of nearly 4 million people from all over the world, the region forms a multicultural mosaic that is always welcoming. It is made up of seven municipalities.

YOUR ADVENTURE

Whale Shark

Sandboarding

Whale watching – Gray whale

22 jun 1:00 pm 8:00 pm Festival del Vino y Gastronomía de Tecate Festival

Event Details

More information: WebsiteLocation Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/2LsG3tViff3sDbBH7Address: Rancho Ojai carretera libre Mxl – Tij, Km 112 Tecate , Baja California, 21506

More information : Website Location Map : https://maps.app.goo.gl/2LsG3tViff3sDbBH7 Address: Rancho Ojai carretera libre Mxl – Tij, Km 112 Tecate , Baja California, 21506

June 22, 2024 1:00 pm - 8:00 pm (GMT-07:00)

Rancho Ojai

Calendar GoogleCal

22 jun 8:00 pm 10:00 pm NATANAEL CANO - TUMBADO TOUR Concierto

More information: WebsiteLocation Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/dXtgnyw7gw1Ho8528Address: CIUDAD DEPORTIVA, AV AVIACION MEXICALI, Baja California, 21230

More information : Website Location Map : https://maps.app.goo.gl/dXtgnyw7gw1Ho8528 Address: CIUDAD DEPORTIVA, AV AVIACION MEXICALI, Baja California, 21230

June 22, 2024 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm (GMT-07:00)

Ciudad Deportiva Mexicali

04 jul All Day 07 Centenario Caesar's Festival

More information: WebsiteLocation Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1DEk4kNCJBcVtL516Address: Caesar’s Restaurante. Av. Revolución. Entre calles 4ta y 5ta.,

More information : Website Location Map : https://maps.app.goo.gl/1DEk4kNCJBcVtL516 Address: Caesar’s Restaurante. Av. Revolución. Entre calles 4ta y 5ta., Zona Centro Tijuana, Baja California, 22000

July 4, 2024 - July 7, 2024 (All Day) (GMT-07:00)

Restaurante Caesar's

05 jul All Day 07 4th July Weekend Papas&Beer

More information: WebsiteLocation Map: https://goo.gl/maps/5JW2z3uiBbopGEK4AAddress: Coronado 400, Playas de Rosarito, 22710 Rosarito, B.C. México

More information : Website Location Map : https://goo.gl/maps/5JW2z3uiBbopGEK4A Address: Coronado 400, Playas de Rosarito, 22710 Rosarito, B.C. México

July 5, 2024 - July 7, 2024 (All Day) (GMT-07:00)

Papas & Beer Rosarito

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The Ultimate Baja, Mexico, Travel Guide

Mexico’s 775-mile-long Baja Peninsula is a magnet for travelers in search of their own arid slice of adventure paradise. From surfing to mountain biking to beach lounging, here’s how to get off the beaten path and do it right.

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More than 75 percent of Baja’s 3.3 million residents live in the northern cities of Tijuana and Ensenada . Much of the rest of the 55,366-square-mile peninsula—surrounded by the Pacific Ocean on the west coast and the Gulf of California on the east coast—is wide-open space, an increasing amount of which is becoming preserved as federal lands, private reserves, and community projects. In total there are more than 14 million acres of protected land and water, including seven national parks, like Sierra de San Pedro Mártir in northern Baja, where Picacho del Diablo, the peninsula’s highest peak, rises to 10,154 feet. The rocky hike to the top is rewarded with views of the Pacific and the Sea of Cortez. Mountain bikers can get in on ocean views, too, with an exponentially growing network of trails in the mountains surrounding La Paz, Todos Santos, and Los Cabos.

But Baja’s most celebrated feature is its 2,038 miles of jagged coastline , which courts surfers, stand-up paddleboarders, sailors, scuba divers, snorkelers, paddlers, and anglers. Jacques Cousteau famously coined the Sea of Cortez, home to 800 varieties of fish, “the world’s aquarium.” Many of those species are protected in reserves like 27-square-mile Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park on the southern tip of Baja. On the Pacific side, the new, nearly three-million-acre Baja California Pacific Islands Biosphere Reserve   is a protective sanctuary for gray whales and sea turtles.

My first experience in Baja started in Tijuana with a fish-bowl sized margarita. It was 1988, and the city was festive and gritty. Its complexity intrigued me. A decade later, I hopped a flight to the pastel-hued 17th-century mission village of Loreto to find it full of Hawaiian-shirt-clad fishermen en route to compete in a tournament for dorado, marlin, and sailfish in the Sea of Cortez. I headed south to the solitude of a nine-room eco-resort (which has since closed) on a searing white-sand beach looking out on the mysterious, cacti-studded Isla Danzante.

Three years ago, my boyfriend and I rented a car to explore the southern tip of the peninsula, mountain-biking the foothills above Los Barriles, snorkeling with sea lions off Isla Espí‪ritu Santo, and eating whole grilled red snapper while sipping jalapeño margaritas at an under-the-radar restaurant on the edge of La Paz’s marina. Along the way, we found a wind-carved canyon pierced by sunlight above the Sea of Cortez and long stretches of empty Pacific white sand.

A few months ago we returned, going deeper into the peninsula, exploring a network of new mountain-bike trails, paddling the newly protected waters of the Pacific Islands Biosphere Reserve, and meeting with a young entrepreneur, Adolfo de la Peña, in the old mining community of San Antonio, where he is trying to resurrect his historic community. As quickly as things are changing in Baja, some of the best things remain the same, like that La Paz restaurant, where we returned to eat grilled red snapper. The fish was as exquisitely fresh as we remembered it.

What You Need to Know Before Visiting Baja

Prepare for warm days and cold water: The Baja sun is hot, but the Sea of Cortez and Pacific Ocean can be cold, so pack protective Buffs, hats, UPF 50, and quick-drying cover-ups. Also bring a solid pair of shoes beyond flip-flops—cactus spines are omnipresent, from the beaches to the mountain-bike trails.

Get supplemental car insurance: If you plan to drive your car into Baja, make sure it’s in prime working order. Pending how remote you plan to get, you may not be able to find replacements parts if needed. For an idea of spare parts to bring along, visit All About Baja’s  Vehicle Preparation Checklist . And be sure to buy a Mexican car-insurance policy as U.S. plans don’t work south of the border. Get a quote from  Lewis and Lewis , a company that has been selling Mexican auto insurance since 1983, from one-day to one-year policies.

Or rent a car: If you aren’t driving down yourself, unless you plan to never leave a resort, you’ll want a car to explore. Note that the minimum age for car rental is 25 years old, but some companies accept drivers 21 and older with a valid driver’s license from another country and add a surcharge to the rental fee. American car-rental agencies like Hertz and Thrifty are ubiquitous at the Los Cabos airport—and be sure to buy the Mexican rental insurance. According to Mexican law, uninsured drivers can be arrested and held for liable damages.

Drive only during the day: For three key reasons: there are wandering cows, the roads are narrow with no shoulders, and in the evening, there are a lot more big-rig cargo trucks.

Find a less expensive flight across the border: Fly to San Diego, then take a 30-minute shuttle, Uber, or taxi to the  Cross Border Xpress  (CBX) facilities, a 390-foot-long pedestrian skybridge that crosses from California into Mexico and goes directly to Tijuana International Airport. If you use the CBX service (from $16 one way, and an additional $12 one way if you use the CBX shuttle), there’s no need to enter Tijuana airport’s main departure lounge. You’ll pass through the CBX’s security and go directly to your gate. On a good day, it’s possible to reach your gate in about twenty minutes (though you should always allow for extra time pending high volume travel days and other factors). Domestic Mexican airline  Volaris offers direct flights to Loreto, La Paz, and Los Cabos, and Calafia Airlines has direct flights to Loreto and La Paz.

Check travel advisories for the region: The Baja Peninsula is safer than most of mainland Mexico, but the situation is fluid, so keep an eye on U.S. State Department travel advisories.

Do your camping homework: Unlike the U.S., camping is not strictly regulated in Baja, which has its pros and cons. You can find yourself alone on a stretch of golden sand savoring the sunset of a lifetime, but there are also fewer amenities, like toilets and trash receptacles. The best places to camp are near small coastal towns and away from mega resort corridors, like Los Cabos. Read online forums and feel out the vibe of the place before staking the tent.

What’s the Best Time of Year to Visit Baja?

January to March is prime whale-watching season and the height of tourist visits. Summer is the best time to surf and brings temperatures that can soar into the nineties. Spring (May and June) and fall (October and November) have more moderate temperatures—the seventies to eighties—and fewer crowds, but beware that the Pacific Ocean hurricane season runs mid-May through November. In the fall of 2019, the area around La Ventana was deluged with rain, which made the desert lush and green but also left roads impassable in some places. The calmest water for sea kayakers can be had from October through early December, the best time for kiteboarders and windsurfers is mid-October to early April, and anglers can try their luck year-round, depending on what they want to catch.

Where to Go in Baja

We’ve separated the peninsula into four general regions and chosen the best adventures and activities to do in each, from drinking world-class wine in Baja Norte, the official designation of the northern half of the state, to surfing off Los Cabos, at the southernmost tip. Driving the entire 775-mile-long peninsula, as many Americans do annually with their dogs, tents, mountain bikes , surfboards , and SUPs , takes a solid week.

Baja Norte 

For a great starter Baja road trip, complete with surfing, hiking, canyoneering, kayaking, and an opportunity to redefine your notion of what constitutes Mexican food, try this 346-mile loop, which starts and ends in Tijuana, going through Valle de Guadalupe and its vineyards, the coastal city of Ensenada, and the little-known Constitution of 1857 National Park along the way. Add stuffing yourself with the world’s most authentic fish tacos, and you’ve got way more fun than you can fit into a five-day outing, the ideal amount of time for an introduction to this area. Or simply choose a couple of the destinations or adventures below.

Day 1: Cross the border from San Diego into Tijuana

Tijuana is experiencing a cultural renaissance, with cutting-edge architecture, colorful murals, and a spicy food scene. Enter into Mexico at Mercado Hidalgo, a plaza flapping with Mexican flags and brimming with piñatas, sombreros, and sweet dulces . Stop for lunch at  Telefónica Gastro Park , a former vacant lot turned food-truck haven where creative eats like octopus-and-corn-fungus tacos go well with smoky cucumber margaritas. In the afternoon, meander the mural-and-graffiti-filled pasajes , or artistic corridors, of El Centro. Head to Border Psycho Brewery for a smooth cream ale, then on to 52 Kool for an explosion of traditional central-Mexico flavors and classic Baja ingredients, like seafood, quail, and organic chicken.

Day 2: Head east to Tecate and then on to Valle de Guadalupe

From Tijuana, head east on Highway 2D for 36 miles to Tecate. Stop at Restaurante Amores  in Tecate, where the husband-wife owner-chefs have impressive culinary pedigrees. Order the chile- and garlic-infused tortilla soup, garnished with octopus. From Tecate, turn south on Mexico 3, and drive 46 miles to Valle de Guadalupe. The award-winning wines in this region are the handiwork of a little-known sect of Russian Christians who planted grapes when they immigrated here in 1905. In the past decade, the valley has become Mexico’s answer to Napa, with chic tasting rooms and sleek hotels with infinity pools. At Fauna , a relaxed restaurant within the exquisite hotel Bruma , local David Castro Hussong has created an organic oasis on 200 acres of vineyards, where the stark elegance enhances the surrounding arid landscape.

Day 3: Surf in Ensenada

A tranquilo fishing port 30 miles south of Valle de Guadalupe, the surf here stretches north and south of the city, with serious waves at beaches like La Fonda, El Pico, and Stacks. Gentler breaks are farther south, at Playa Hermosa. Stop in at  Playa Hermosa Surf and Skate Shop for rentals, lessons, or to watch owner Alfredo Jaro and his crew shape boards. About 45 minutes south of the city, you’ll find La Bufadora , the second-largest marine geyser in the world. It’s a well-touristed spot, but it’s awe-inspiring to watch the salt water blow and is also a good way to scout the incredible coasteering options available alongside the rugged Pacific. Ensenada-based X Tour  offers canyoning, rappelling, hiking, kayaking, or a combination of all four in one day.

Day 4: Hike and seek wildlife in Constitution 1857 National Park

The Sierra de Juarez is 60 miles east of Ensenada on Mexico 3. An oasis for mule deer, bighorn sheep, cougars, coyotes, bobcats, and soaring falcons, the 12,380-acre forested park sits at about 5,000 feet and boasts high-alpine Hanson Lake. Hike Jeffrey Route, a two-mile loop from the visitor center. Along the path sits a representation of a Kumeyaay camp, the indigenous people who settled in what is now the southwestern U.S. and Mexico more than 12,000 years ago. Or hike to the top of Hanson Hill, the summit of which is almost 6,000 feet.

Day 5: Head back to Ensenada

Take advantage of the incredible array of fish and shrimp tacos sold at stands on nearly every Ensenada corner. They go well with the locally brewed Aguamala Astillero Imperial IPA. Tijuana is a 70-mile drive north on coast-hugging Mexico 1D.

Where to Stay in Baja Norte 

Tijuana:  One Bunk Tijuana , a 14-room boutique hotel in the center of everything, with clean, modern lines, exposed brick walls, and beds so comfortable you can sleep off an all-nighter. Doubles from $55

Valle de Guadalupe: At  Bruma , eight glass-and-wood suites surround a main living room, pool, and deck and are so organically designed that you feel immersed in the surrounding landscape. Doubles from $438

Ensenada: There’s a good array of Airbnbs here, or book an ocean-view room at Torre Lucerna , an updated old-school resort hotel with clean and peaceful rooms. From $131

Camping: There are a few gated campgrounds, like Playa Saldamando, eight miles north of Ensenada. For a more private option, drive south of Ensenada, boot up Google Earth, zoom in, and find dirt tracks that lead to any empty remote coastline, where you can camp as long as you leave no trace.

Los Cabos and Todos Santos

On the southern tip of Baja, you’ll find Los Cabos, a collective term for the town of Cabo San Lucas, to the west; the 18th-century mission village of San José del Cabo, to the east; and the 20-mile corridor of sand and rock escarpments in between. Los Cabos deserves its rap as the hub for tequila-slamming, scantily-clad spring breakers, largely because it’s easily accessed by Los Cabos International Airport. But the region still has gorgeous bones, like Cabo El Arco, the craggy rock arch that delineates where the Pacific ends and the Sea of Cortez begins, and, on the far east end of San José del Cabo, Estuary Beach, which is backed by a freshwater lagoon that harbors more than 350 species of vegetation and wildlife. In between are resorts for every budget, 11 major surf breaks, ample opportunities to watch whales or deep-sea fish for wahoo, marlin, and tuna, and culinary oases, like  Flora Farms , a 25-acre organic working farm and an open-air restaurant in the foothills of Sierra de la Laguna. For those who prefer more solitude with their sand and waves, the laid-back village of Todos Santos is about an hour’s drive north of Cabo San Lucas on Mexico 19. Beware: many beaches in Los Cabos are often closed to swimming due to deep drop-offs near the shoreline that create dangerous riptides and currents, so heed the signs. The most swimmable spots are Medano Beach, in the heart of Cabo San Lucas; Chileno Beach, in the luxury hotel zone northeast of Cabo San Lucas (and it has lifeguards on duty); and Playa Acapulquito, or Old Man’s Beach, near San José del Cabo.

What to Do in Los Cabos and Todos Santos

Find surf action for everyone in Los Cabos: From the hard-charging surfer to the adventurous family of five that wants the ultimate multisport ocean vacation, there’s something for everyone in Los Cabos. The string of breaks around Playa Costa Azul is the center of Los Cabos surf culture. Zippers, the rocky right-point break close to the beach, is home to the Los Cabos Open of Surf in June and has been part of the women’s and junior World Surf League pro tours for the past few years, while Old Man’s Beach and Pescadito are favorites for longboarders and beginners.  Costa Azul Surf School  offers rentals, lessons, and expert guides who lead excursions to lesser known breaks.

See a humpback whale breach: It’s one of the most awe-inspiring phenomena in the animal kingdom. Whales begin migrating south to the Los Cabos region in the middle of November, birth their calves in late December and January, nurse them through March and April, then begin their migration north. During this generous six-month window, take a two-and-a-half-hour Zodiac tour with  Whale Watch Cabo (from $89). It’s led by a marine biologist and is the most exciting way to see the whales as safely for them—and for you—as possible.

Go deep-sea fishing: Los Cabos has been hit hard with the illegal harvesting of billfish, so it’s imperative that you do your research on the most ethical charter company before signing up for a day of deep-sea fishing. One of the most long-standing is  Pisces Sportfishing , which started operating in La Paz in 1978 and eventually migrated south to Los Cabos. In 1995, it was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award for Conservation by the International Game Fish Association. Since then several of its captains have been recognized with the Billfish Foundation Award for most striped marlin released worldwide. The company charters everything from 22-foot skiffs to mega yachts (from $112).

Lose the crowds in Todos Santos: This beautifully preserved 18th-century mission village an hour north of Los Cabos isn’t exactly a secret, but it’s still a nice big resort antidote, with artisan shops, boutique hotels, and Hotel California , mistakenly believed to be the inspiration for the famous 1976 Eagles song. Mountain bikers will want to stop in at Over the Edge , a full-service bike shop that rents current models and full-suspension mountain bikes and can guide riders or point them in the direction of the area’s 30 miles of hand-built trails that roll over dunes and into the foothills and show off panoramic Pacific views.

While Todos Santos is near the Pacific, it’s not actually on the Pacific. Drive west of town, and almost any road will dead-end at a dune from which you can walk the seemingly endless stretch of golden sand known as La Cachora beach. Its water is so rough that surfers gravitate five miles north of town to La Pastora, a sandy beach with fun right breaks. You’ll need four-wheel drive to get there, but it’s worth it, especially since it’s also home to the  Green Room restaurant, named for the ephemeral feel and color on the inside of a wave. The restaurant’s mezcal margaritas and smoked tuna pâté, served right on the beach, are the perfect way to wind down a busy day.

South of Todos Santos is Pescadero, a reef break close to shore, and Cerritos, a sandy-bottom beach break with the most consistent surf in Baja Sur. Los Cerritos Surf Shop rents boards at the beach from sunrise to sunset.  Mario Surf School and  Pescadero Surf Shop , in the small hamlet of El Pescadero, also offer surfboard rentals, in addition to lessons and excursions (including kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding). Fuel up for the morning with a cup or two of organic, honey-processed java and a veggie frittata with spicy Mexican salsa from  Baja Beans , an outdoor café nestled among mango trees.

Three species of endangered sea turtles nest on the beaches of Todos Santos from October through March: the olive ridley, black, and critically endangered leatherback. Help them out by volunteering with  La Sirena Eco Adventures , a nonprofit that needs people to care for hatchlings, relocate nests, clean up the beach, and guard the turtle sanctuary.

Where to Stay in Los Cabos and Todos Santos

Airbnb and VRBOs are a ubiquitous option Los Cabos—Todos Santos alone offers more than 200 VRBO listings and endless Airbnb rentals, from canvas tents to palatial beachfront haciendas.

Todos Santos:  At the end of a dirt road on isolated Punta Lobos beach, 3.5 miles south of town, the newly opened, 32-room Hotel San Cristóbal  is a throwback to simpler times, where guests gather around a bonfire at night to sip cervezas. The on-site restaurant serves locally harvested bounty, from fish caught earlier in the day to herbs and greens pulled from nearby fields. From $270

Or check out  La Sirena Eco Adventures , which offers basic, clean eco-casitas, some with fully equipped kitchens, for their volunteers. From $60

Los Cabos:  Los Milagros , a 12-room boutique hotel, is a surprisingly inexpensive and peaceful oasis in the heart of Cabo. It was founded by a cyclist who rode his bike the length of the Baja Peninsula and loved Los Cabos so much that he founded the property in 1996. The walled courtyard and trellised bougainvillea are welcome respites from the action outside. From $70

Another great option is the  Montage Los Cabos , the first Montage property to open outside the U.S. This luxurious and intimate new resort fronts a sandy crescent beach on Santa Maria Bay, which protects swimmers and snorkelers from the riptides and waves. There’s a 40,000-square-foot spa, but lounging by the exquisite infinity pool is a meditation unto itself. From $825

The East Cape and La Paz

Long the haunt of sea-loving luminaries like John Steinbeck and Jacques Cousteau, Baja’s Sea of Cortez on the east coast is a marine biologist’s dream. It’s also a wind machine from mid-November to early March for kiteboarders and windsurfers. The less traveled East Cape stretches from the marina of San José del Cabo some 90 miles north through Cabo Pulmo National Park to the gentrifying coastal villages of Los Barriles and La Ventana. Fifty miles farther north is La Paz; this city of 240,000 residents, with its hopping malecón, or seaside promenade, is the jumping-off point for the 244 protected World Heritage site islands, the largest of which is Isla Espíritu Santo. Drive 221 miles farther north and you’ll find the 17th-century mission village of Loreto, the original point from which Jesuit priests set out to evangelize the peninsula, and San Ignacio Lagoon, the winter sanctuary of the eastern Pacific gray whale. The best way to access this part of the peninsula is to fly to San Diego, cross the border to the Tijuana airport, and book a flight directly to La Paz on a regional airline. The other option is to fly into Los Cabos International Airport and rent a car. Reliable shuttles like Ecobajatours make multiple trips between the Los Cabos airport and La Paz daily.

What to Do in the East Cape and La Paz

Snorkeling and scuba diving at Cabo Pulmo National Marine Reserve: In the 1990s, local fishermen stopped commercial fishing to let the waters and reefs regenerate. Since then, the reefs have rebounded, biodiversity has increased more than fourfold, and every formerly endangered major species has rebounded. Experience the comeback by snorkeling with Cabo Pulmo Sport Center , owned by the descendents of Jesus Castro Fiol, a pearl diver who was born here in 1897 and was instrumental in creating the national marine reserve. The center’s two-and-a-half-hour tour (from $55) explores coral gardens and the sea life that lives in them. Go deeper with  Cabo Pulmo Beach Resort , whose expert instructors offer diving at 14 sites, like the 45-foot deep  El Vencedor  wreck, and possible encounters with tiger and bull sharks at the coral reef La Esperanza (from $139).

Kiteboarding and windsurfing at Los Barriles and La Ventana: November through March, it’s not uncommon for “ El Norte ” to howl down the coastline at almost 30 miles per hour, which is why the fishing villages of Los Barriles and La Ventana, 50 miles farther north, come alive with wind fanatics in the winter months. Based in the beachside  Hotel Playa del Sol (from $140),  Vela Baja is a one-stop shop for kiteboarding, windsurfing, stand-up paddling, freediving, mountain biking, and, now, foiling. The laid-back little enclave offers special foiling clinics from world-champion pros like Daniela Moroz, updated equipment rental, and a community of like-minded souls. La Ventana has a long beach with a natural arc that, thanks to the wind direction, ensures even beginners will eventually wash ashore. The hotel, restaurant, and surf school  Baja Joe’s is situated in the heart of the beach, which means instantaneous action when the wind blows. It  offers International Kiteboarding Association –certified instruction for all levels, three-day camps, equipment rentals, or storage for surfers who bring their own gear.

Mountain biking at Rancho Cacachilas: Mountain bikers head to the hills at  Rancho Cacachilas , a solar-powered adventure resort that sprawls across 35,000 acres in the Sierra Cacachilas between La Ventana and La Paz. With 24 miles of existing and 43 miles of planned International Mountain Biking Association–sanctioned singletrack on the ranch, the riding is designed for all skill levels and and offers great ocean views. There’s also 37 miles of trails for running and hiking, and the ranch offers sustainability-oriented classes like beekeeping, artisan cheesemaking, seed storage, and water collection.

Sea kayaking and snorkeling: La Paz has a three-mile-long seaside promenade that makes for fun people watching during a sunset stroll after dinner at  La Costa , a low-key seafood restaurant tucked into the marina with tables in the sand. Spend a night in the city, then launch into the Sea of Cortez to kayak, snorkel among sea lions and whale sharks, and stretch out on the sand at one of many empty beaches.  Sea Kayak Adventures offers one-to-ten-day journeys from La Paz up to Loreto and over to the Pacific Ocean’s Magdalena Bay. Trips include everything from kayaking to whale-watching to hiking. To take a deep dive into outdoor leadership and personal communication skills, sign on to one of  NOLS ’s three Baja adult expeditions, an eight-day coed or women-only coastal sailing expedition, or a seven-day women’s sea-kayaking expedition.

Surfing: The waves on   the Sea of Cortez are less consistent than the Pacific. Most breaks require a big south swell or a strong storm. If you hit the timing right, you’ll find a nice, lonely right break at Nine Palms Beach in Santa Elena Bay, about an hour east of San José del Cabo. BYO boards.

Hiking: This region of Baja has a rich human history that dates back at least 10,000 years. The aforementioned Sea Kayak Adventures offers a five-day Cowboys and Cave Paintings journey from Loreto to the Sierra de San Francisco, where guests hike to visit many of the thousands of Unesco World Heritage cave paintings of people, deer, snakes, birds, and even whales. Another great day hike between La Paz and La Ventana that offers an opportunity to interact with locals is the old, partially cobblestoned Camino Real de Santa Ana, the route miners used for 300 years to transport precious metals north to San Diego. Start at the Museo Ruta de Plata  in El Triunfo, then hike roughly five miles along the Camino to the town of San Antonio, where local Adolfo de la Peña, whose father was a miner, has started the the cooperative Las Realeños de San Antonio . You can book an appointment with Adolfo, who will guide you through the town’s mining history, complete with a hike to two nearby mines—one of which is underground—and the best local sites, including the home of Bertholita, who cooks visitors spicy empanadas and queso fresco, and a local art cooperative.

Where to Stay in the East Cape and La Paz

Cabo Pulmo:  Cabo Pulmo Beach Resort has various-size villas and bungalows, all of them clean and colorful, some with full kitchens, and most within a few steps of the beach. From $89

La Ventana:  Camping La Ventana has ten campsites and three RV sites for rent just 200 feet away from the beach, hot showers, and a washing machine. From $20

Rancho Cacachilas: Chivato Base Camp , the rustic main lodging area at the ranch, has ten cabin tents in addition to six bunk rooms that sleep two people each, plus outdoor showers, composting toilets, and a central outdoor kitchen and gathering space. Or try Los Pisos, a ranch camp higher in the mountains that offers platform safari-style tents surrounding an outdoor kitchen. From $175 all-inclusive, minimum stay two nights; open October 1 to April 30

La Paz:  Posada Luna Sol , within a few blocks of the promenade, is a delightful jumping-off point for Sea of Cortez adventures, with breakfast by the pool, a third-floor terrace with views to La Paz Bay, clean rooms, and cruiser bike rentals for $10 per day. From $55  

On the other end of the promenade, Seven Crown La Paz Centro Historico is located in the heart of La Paz’s historic district and within steps of chic new restaurants, like Marinera Poke and Seafood (try the gyozas del puerto and the pin-up margarita), and offers free breakfasts at a street-side café next door. From $73

How to Be Conscious in Baja

Go local: A common practice in Baja is for gringos to buy up rental properties, fishing charters, and yachts, then use them to provide under-the-table tourist services to other out-of-town “friends” without paying local taxes or using local guides. This depletes residents’ resources. Be sure any U.S-owned entities—from fishing guides to hacienda owners—are doing fair and honest business that benefits the locals by providing training and income and puts money back into the communities. Better yet, look for locally owned businesses and guides, like Adolfo de la Peña in San Antonio.

Speak the language: It’s always respectful to speak the language of the country you’re visiting, so study up on your rusty high school Spanish.

If camping, pack out what you pack in: Garbage collection isn’t always consistent, so keep it with you until you can find a place to properly dispose of it.

Be frugal with your water use: Baja Californians have the country’s   lowest availability of fresh water per inhabitant—785 cubic meters per year—when the Mexican  national average is 4,200, according to data from the National Institute of Statistics, Geography and Information Technology. The lack of water will become a serious issue soon, especially if resort development remains unchecked. Be conscientious of your usage, and choose lodging and outfitters who are as well.

See marine life and other wildlife in an ethical way: Baja is one of the only places in the world guests can get within close proximity to gray whales after they’ve birthed calves in the Sea of Cortez lagoons or humpback whales as they start to migrate north to cooler Pacific waters. The most ethical way to see these giants is with boat operators who give them wide berths and heed local rules, like obeying limits on the numbers of vessels allowed on the water at any given time.

Looped video (seen on the desktop version) by ianmcdonnell/Getty

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21 unique Baja Mexico vacation spots to consider

Here are the best and secret Baja Mexico vacation spots that aren’t focused in the Los Cabos area. Browse these exciting destinations and discover the real Baja!

I moved to Cabo from Puerto Vallarta in 2021 and I can say that I love Baja more than PV. My second son is born here so this is our home (for now).

I was already in awe of Cabo San Lucas until my wife and I took a road trip to Baja California for one month . We drove from Los Cabos to Tijuana (and back) and I can truly say I’ve seen the best of Baja.

This is the best road trip I did – the Baja landscape is really one of a kind!

As this road trip was extensive, we discovered many Baja Mexico vacation spots that aren’t on the map yet, and here’s the list!

😎 Recommended: 56 best places to visit in Baja California

1. East Cape: best of the best Baja Mexico vacation spots

📍 East Cape, Baja California Sur

East Cape in Los Cabos stands out as one of the best Baja Mexico vacation spots due to its unspoiled beauty and tranquil ambiance. This destination is perfect for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters make it a paradise for snorkeling, diving, and kayaking enthusiasts. The rugged landscape is ideal for off-road adventures, including ATV tours and mountain biking.

Where to stay in East Cape: Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos

A prime oceanview resort in the East Cape with pool, restaurants, and everything you need! An all-inclusive stay starts from $280 per night.

2. Valle de Guadalupe: best vacation spot for wine-lovers

📍 Valle de Guadalupe, Baja California

Valle de Guadalupe is renowned as one of the best Baja Mexico vacation spots for wine enthusiasts and foodies. This lush valley is Mexico’s premier wine region, offering a delightful blend of rustic charm and sophisticated wining and dining experiences.

You can indulge in wine tastings at boutique vineyards , savor gourmet meals at farm-to-table restaurants, and enjoy the scenic beauty of rolling vineyards. Beyond the vines, the region hosts a variety of cultural events, including wine festivals and art shows.

Where to stay in Valle de Guadalupe: El Cielo Winery

A wine resort where you can do all the wine activities without leaving the premises! Room rates start at $180 per night.

😎 You might also like: Valle de Guadalupe weekend itinerary

3. La Purisima: best for quiet vacations

📍 La Purisima, Baja California Sur

La Purisima is a hidden gem among the best Baja Mexico vacation spots, offering a tranquil retreat into nature. This quaint village is nestled in the heart of Baja’s mountains, surrounded by lush forests and crystal-clear streams.

It’s an ideal spot for hiking, bird-watching, and enjoying the serenity of the natural world. The town’s slow pace and friendly locals provide a genuine experience of rural Mexican life.

📵 Note: There is no phone signal in La Purisima so it’s best for a weekend vacation in Baja.

4. Todos Santos: best vacation spot for young travelers

📍 Todos Santos, Baja California Sur

Todos Santos is celebrated as one of the best Baja Mexico vacation spots for its eclectic mix of history, art, and surf culture. This charming town is a haven for artists, with numerous galleries and workshops dotting its cobblestone streets.

The nearby beaches are renowned for their excellent surf conditions, attracting surfers from around the globe.

Where to stay in Todos Santos: Paradero

Paradero Todos Santos is one of the best resorts in Baja Mexico that has rooms with private bathtubs, outdoor pools, and all premium amenities from $575 per night.

🏄‍♂️ See also: How to do a day trip to Todos Santos, Baja California Sur

5. Cabo San Lucas: best Baja Mexico vacation spot for singles

📍 Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur

Cabo San Lucas is arguably the most famous among the best Baja Mexico vacation spots, known for its vibrant nightlife, luxurious resorts, and stunning natural landmarks like the Arch of Cabo San Lucas .

Activities here cater to every type of traveler, from whale watching and deep-sea fishing to golfing and spa retreats. Explore the less-visited Lover’s Beach by kayak or paddleboard, allowing for a more secluded and intimate experience of Cabo’s beautiful waters , away from the crowded tourist spots.

Where to stay in Cabo San Lucas: Villa La Valencia

The newest resort from the Villa Group, Villa La Valencia’s amenities is good for families with kids. They have a beach club and this is the only resort in Baja Mexico that has a lazy river (from $130 per night).

🏖️ You might also like: The best resorts in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

6. Mulege: popular RV vacation spot in Baja Mexico

📍 Mulege, Baja California Sur

Mulegé is a true oasis in the desert, making it one of the best Baja Mexico vacation spots for those seeking natural beauty and historical depth.

This picturesque town is nestled between the mountains and the sea, offering lush palm groves and tranquil rivers that invite kayaking and canoeing. The surrounding area is rich in history, with ancient cave paintings and the historic Santa Rosalía Mission.

Where to stay in Mulege: Mulegé Glamping

A new glamping spot in Baja Mexico where you can book an outdoor luxury tent for as low as $117 per night!

7. Loreto: best vacation spot for golfers with families

📍 Loreto, Baja California Sur

Loreto is a haven for eco-tourists and adventure seekers, ranking as one of the best Baja Mexico vacation spots.

As the gateway to the Loreto Bay National Marine Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers unparalleled opportunities for diving, snorkeling, and kayaking among vibrant marine life and pristine coral reefs.

On land, hiking and mountain biking trails offer breathtaking views of the Sea of Cortez and the desert landscape. Loreto also hosts one of the biggest golf courses in Mexico.

Where to stay in Loreto: Villa del Palmar

One of the most famous resorts in Mexico with a golf course and all amenities needed for a family vacation! Rates start at $160 .

8. Tijuana: best weekend in Baja Mexico vacation spot

📍 Tijuana, Baja California

Tijuana redefines the urban experience among the best Baja Mexico vacation spots, offering a vibrant blend of culture, art, and gastronomy. This border city is famed for its dynamic street art, innovative culinary scene, and bustling markets.

You can explore the cultural complex of CECUT, sample craft beers at local breweries, or indulge in the city’s renowned street food.

Join a local food tour, which takes you beyond the tourist spots to hidden gems where you can savor authentic Mexican flavors and learn about the city’s culinary evolution directly from local chefs and artisans.

Where to stay in Tijuana: Quartz Hotel and Spa

A luxury resort in Tijuana with rooms from $203 per night. This is also a great wedding venue in Mexico for those who don’t want to travel far from the US.

9. San Felipe: not-so-popular vacation spot in Baja Mexico

📍 San Felipe, Baja California

San Felipe is a charming coastal town, known for its warm waters, beautiful beaches, and relaxed atmosphere, making it one of the best Baja Mexico vacation spots for those looking to unwind. It’s a popular spot for fishing, boating, and off-road racing.

The town’s Malecón (boardwalk) is perfect for leisurely strolls, offering stunning sea views and local cuisine. Explore the nearby Valle de los Gigantes, home to some of the world’s largest cacti.

This surreal landscape offers a unique backdrop for hiking and photography, showcasing the diverse natural beauty of Baja California.

Where to stay in San Felipe: Casa Guadalupe

This 2-bedroom house is a cute little casita that can accommodate 2 adults and small children for $75 per night!

10. La Paz: best vacation spot for beautiful beaches in Baja Mexico

📍 La Paz, Baja California Sur

La Paz, the capital of Baja California Sur , combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and a serene ambiance, solidifying its status as one of the best Baja Mexico vacation spots.

It’s renowned for its stunning waterfront promenade, world-class beaches, and the incredible Isla Espiritu Santo , a natural aquarium where visitors can snorkel with sea lions and explore untouched beaches.

Participate in a whale shark encounter, offering the chance to swim alongside these gentle giants in their natural habitat, a truly unforgettable experience that highlights the area’s commitment to sustainable and respectful wildlife tourism.

Where to stay in La Paz: Puerta Cortes Residences

The best luxury resort in La Paz with a gym, restaurants, pool, bars, and a golf club (18 hole Gary Player Signature Golf Club). Nightly rates start at $404 (4 pax).

🏖️ See also: 38 things to do in La Paz, Mexico

11. Cabo Pulmo: best national park in Baja Mexico

📍 Cabo Pulmo, Baja California Sur

Cabo Pulmo is often hailed as the best national park in Baja Mexico, and for good reason. This marine park is a success story of conservation, home to one of the oldest coral reefs in the American Pacific.

Divers and snorkelers are drawn to its vibrant underwater world, teeming with marine life including colorful fish, rays, and sea turtles. The clear waters and rich biodiversity make it an unparalleled destination for those looking to immerse themselves in nature’s beauty.

Where to stay in Cabo Pulmo: Villa del Faro

A 30-minute drive to the National Park of Cabo Pulmo, Villa del Faro offers high-class service in the deserts of Baja Mexico for as low as $224 per night. This is a beachfront property in Boca de La Vinorama.

12. Guerrero Negro: whale-watching vacation spot in Baja

📍 Guerrero Negro, Baja California Sur

Guerrero Negro is renowned as one of the premier whale-watching vacation spots in Baja Mexico. This area is especially famous for the annual migration of gray whales that come to the lagoons to breed and give birth from January to March.

You can take guided boat tours to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures, an experience that is both humbling and unforgettable.

Visit the expansive salt flats and the saltworks factory in Guerrero Negro, one of the largest in the world, to learn about the local industry and see the striking contrast between the desert and the sea.

Where to stay in Guerrero Negro: Hotel Los Caracoles

A simple, highly rated trucker hotel in Guerrero Negro frequented by road trippers. Prices start at $116 for a room with 2 King beds. It’s very basic but their showers are amazing!

13. San Juanico: off-grid vacation spot for surfing in Baja Mexico

San Juanico is celebrated as an off-grid vacation spot for surfing in Baja Mexico, offering some of the longest and most consistent waves on the Pacific coast.

This remote village is a surfer’s paradise, with pristine beaches and a laid-back atmosphere that appeals to those looking to escape the crowds and connect with nature.

Beyond surfing, visitors can enjoy fishing, hiking, and star-gazing in one of the clearest skies in the world.

Where to stay in San Juanico: Cowabunga

A surfer accommodation in San Juanico, this property has a rooftop bar and all the amenities you need for surfing. Rates are under $100 (depending on the season). You can only book this property via e-mail.

14. Puerto San Carlos: top whale-watching vacation spot

Puerto San Carlos is another top whale-watching vacation spot in Baja Mexico , particularly for observing the magnificent gray whales in Magdalena Bay.

The calm waters of the bay provide a safe haven for whales, making it an ideal location for intimate and respectful wildlife encounters.

In addition to whale watching, visitors can explore the mangrove canals, rich in birdlife, or venture to the nearby sand dunes for spectacular views. This is the only whale watching spot in Mexico where you can actually touch the whales.

Whale watching is the only activity here so this town is only active from December to March.

Where to stay in Puerto San Carlos: Kayack House

A one-bedroom apartment at Kayack House costs $56 per night. This is one of the newest and top-rated accommodations in Puerto San Carlos. Note that there aren’t many hotels in the area.

15. La Ventana: vacation spot for kite surfing in Baja

La Ventana has established itself as a premier vacation spot for kite surfing in Baja Mexico, thanks to its strong and consistent winds that provide ideal conditions for the sport from November to April.

This small town has grown into a vibrant community of kite surfers, windsurfers, and adventure enthusiasts. Beyond water sports, La Ventana offers mountain biking, fishing, and SUP boarding.

Where to stay in La Ventana: Hotel Todo Bien

A prime hotel in La Ventana with an outdoor swimming pool, lounges, and terraces on a beachfront location from $342 per night.

16. El Pescadero: Baja Mexico vacation spot for retirees

El Pescadero has emerged as a favored Baja Mexico vacation spot for retirees, known for its tranquil pace of life, warm community, and natural beauty.

Nestled between the Sierra de la Laguna mountains and the Pacific Ocean, this small town offers retirees a serene environment with access to pristine beaches, organic farms, and artisanal markets.

El Pescadero’s climate is perfect for year-round gardening and outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and beachcombing. It is also just a 10-minute drive from Todos Santos , one of the most popular Baja Mexico vacation spots.

Where to stay in El Pescadero: Baja69 Cabañas

A wonderful accommodation in El Pescadero, Baja69 is only a few minutes from the famous Cerritos Beach. Nightly rates start at $95 .

17. San Jose del Cabo: best Baja Mexico vacation spot for families

San Jose del Cabo is recognized as the best Baja Mexico vacation spot for families, offering a more laid-back atmosphere compared to its more famous neighbor, Cabo San Lucas.

This city blends cultural richness, historical charm, and natural beauty, making it ideal for family vacations.

Families can enjoy a variety of activities, from exploring the art district filled with galleries and boutiques to snorkeling in the calm waters of nearby beaches.

Where to stay in San Jose del Cabo: Viceroy Los Cabos

Viceroy is a premiere luxury resort in San Jose del Cabo with all-inclusive stays for $960 per night. This resort has restaurants, a spa, and everything you need for a vacation in Baja!

🏖️ You might also like: The best resort towns in Mexico

18. Bahia Asuncion: best adventure vacation spot

Bahia Asuncion is heralded as the best adventure Baja Mexico vacation spots, captivating visitors with its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and array of outdoor activities.

This remote village is a paradise for those seeking adventure off the beaten path, with opportunities for surfing, fishing, mountain biking, and whale watching. The surrounding desert and mountain landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for off-road adventures and hiking.

Explore the nearby islands by kayak or paddleboard, offering a unique perspective on the region’s natural beauty and wildlife. For those interested in cultural experiences, visit the local community to learn about traditional fishing techniques.

Where to stay in Bahia Asuncion: La Bufadora Inn

Located in a private beach area, La Bufadora Inn is your best accommodation option in Bahia Concepcion with nightly rates from $85 for a family room.

19. Bahia de Los Angeles: best Sea of Cortez vacation spot

Bahia de Los Angeles is often celebrated as one of the best Baja Mexico vacation spots for its breathtaking landscapes and views of the Sea of Cortes.

This tranquil bay is a haven for marine life enthusiasts, offering some of the best opportunities for kayaking, snorkeling, and fishing in the clear, calm waters of the Sea of Cortez.

Visitors can explore the numerous uninhabited islands, rich in wildlife and natural beauty. Visit during the summer months to experience the bioluminescent plankton that lights up the bay at night.

Where to stay in Bahia de Los Angeles: Los Vientos Hotel

20. ejido erendira: secret vacation spot in baja mexico.

Ejido Erendira remains one of the secret Baja Mexico vacation spots, offering a serene escape from the more touristy destinations.

This small coastal community is surrounded by rolling hills and rugged cliffs, with access to some of the most secluded and pristine beaches in the region.

Surfing, horseback riding along the beach, and enjoying the local vineyards are just a few of the activities visitors can enjoy here. Visit during the spring when the surrounding countryside bursts into bloom with wildflowers!

Where to stay in Ejido Erendira: Coyote Cal’s

Coyote Cal’s is the coolest hotel in Ejido Erendira with a bar, restaurant, and rooms with stunning views of the Pacific coast of Mexico. Nightly rates start at $55 .

21. Los Barriles: best vacation spot for fishing

Los Barriles is recognized as one of the best vacation spots for fishing in Baja Mexico, attracting anglers from all over the world to its rich waters teeming with marlin, tuna, dorado, and other game fish.

Beyond fishing, this friendly community offers windsurfing, kiteboarding, and ATV trails, making it a haven for adventure sports enthusiasts.

Participate in a local fishing tournament, for a chance to engage with the local fishing community and experience the camaraderie.

Where to stay in Los Barriles: De Cierto Corazon

The coolest accommodation in Los Barriles, Baja California Sur where you can stay in luxury glamping pods for $288 per night.

Looking for more tips about Baja, Mexico?

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Baja California Travel

Your ultimate guide to baja mexico, baja california travel guide contents.

Quick Tips | Getting There | Top Destinations  |  Things to Do  |  Baja Tours  | Baja Blogs |  Baja Safety  | FAQ

Baja California travel guide

Where is baja california located.

Baja California Mexico, consists of two states that make up the Baja Peninsula on the country’s west coast — Baja California Sur (South) and Baja California (sometimes called Baja California Norte, or Baja North).

Baja California Mexico map

Baja Mexico Travel: Baja Sur vs Baja Norte

Baja California Sur is undoubtedly the more popular state for tourism — though both Baja states have things to offer.

In Baja Sur, the famous beaches of Los Cabos ( Cabo San Lucas  and  San Jose del Cabo ) and  La Paz  await! There’s also whale watching in winters, and the  pueblos magicos (Mexico magic towns) of  Todos Santos and  Loreto .

In the northern Baja Mexico state , there’s  Valle de Guadalupe , AKA the “Napa Valley of Mexico,” and the lively beach towns like  Rosarito , Ensenada and Tijuana.

There are also calmer beach towns like Puerto Nuevo and San Felipe, the Tecate pueblo magico , beautiful Bahía Concepción (Bay of Conception), and Mulegé (pronounced mu-lay-he), an oasis town on the Gulf of California.

Baja California Mexico: Know before you go

• 💰 Currency: Mexican Peso
• ⏰ Time Zone: Pacific Daylight Time (GMT-6)
• 🗣 Language: Spanish, though English is common, and you may even hear some indigenous languages
• 🎫 Mexico Visa: The vast majority of travelers do not need a visa for Mexico — this includes Americans, Canadians, Japanese and most Europeans. Head here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa.
• 🔌 Electricity Socket : You’ll mostly find Type A (two-prong) and Type B (three-prong) — the same as used in the United States. For visitors from other countries, you’ll need this  universal travel adaptor .
• 📲 Mexico SIM Card : Wondering, Do I need a SIM card for Mexico? The answer is yes, every traveler will want a one for the reasons explained in this article all about the best Mexico SIM cards .
• 🚙 Car Rentals : The Mexico rental car process can be a bit daunting, and many people are apprehensive to drive in a foreign country. I get it! Check out this guide to Renting a Car in Mexico for info on the process.

What’s the best airport for Baja Mexico?

Los Cabos International Airport (code: SJD) and Tijuana International Airport (code: TIJ) are the two largest airports in Baja California Mexico, and the ones most visitors will use.

If you’re going to Baja California Sur state, opt for Los Cabos Airport, and for Baja California state, use Tijuana Airport. There are also a few other smaller airports you can use, like the ones listed below ⤵

✈️ Baja California Sur State

• Cabo San Lucas : Los Cabos International (code: SJD)
• San Jose del Cabo : Los Cabos International
• Todos Santos : Los Cabos International
• La Paz : La Paz International (code: LAP)
• Loreto : Loreto International (code: LTO)

✈️ Baja California State

• Tijuana : Tijuana Airport (code: TIJ)
• Ensenada : Tijuana International
• Rosarito : Tijuana International
• Valle de Guadalupe : Tijuana International

Top Baja California Travel Destinations

Los Cabos & Cabo San Lucas , Baja Sur Mexico

Cabo San Lucas is a Mexican beach resort city on the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula. For decades now, it has been one of the top travel destinations in Mexico.

Just north, San Jose del Cabo , where the Cabo Airport is located, has a more chill vibe. Unlike Cabo San Lucas, this Baja beach town is known more for its art scene than its party scene.

Note: These two “cabos” are part of the Los Cabos Municipality.

La Paz, Baja Sur Mexico

La Paz has some of the best swimming beaches in Mexico outside of the Caribbean. As not all Baja beaches are great for swimming, La Paz stands out with its calm blue waters and soft white sand.

The best beaches in La Paz Mexico begin just outside of downtown, and continue for miles. Of them all, the undeniable star of the La Paz Mexico beach scene is picturesque Playa Balandra .

Valle de Guadalupe, Baja Mexico

Mexico has a few wine regions, though none more popular than Valle de Guadalupe, AKA The Napa of Mexico. It has about 100 vineyards and wineries — much more than Queretaro State , the second biggest Mexico wine region.

The closest beach town to Valle de Guadalupe is Ensenada Mexico . It is just two hours from the U.S.-Mexico border, and among the best party beach towns in Mexico and Baja.

Best places & things to do in Baja Mexico

There is a seemingly endless amount of things to do in Baja California Mexico, one of the top vacation spots in Mexico.

The majority of them involve being in, on, or near the water — though there’s a lot to see in the surrounding deserts as well. Click on any image below to learn more ⤵

Todos Santos

Cabo Arch & Playa del Amor

La Bufadora Blowhole

Magdalena Bay ( Gray Whales )

Cabo Pulmo National Park

Isla Espiritu Santo Island

Playa Balandra Beach

Best baja mexico tours.

Tours in Baja Mexico are a great way to see the peninsula — and unless you’re planning to rent a car in Mexico, this is the best way to get around because transportation fees add up quickly! 💡 Note: If you do want to have a car in Baja, make sure to check out this guide to Renting a Car in Cabo .

Is Baja safe for travelers?

According to experts, you are statistically quite safe while visiting Mexico.

In fact, the Baja Peninsula is one of the safest parts in Mexico — though some parts are safer than others — for example, you’ll want to exercise extra caution in Tijuana, which has good parts, and bad   parts . Now, that’s not to say bad things don’t happen in other parts of Baja; they do.

Millions of Americans go to Mexico on vacation every year, so if we play the numbers game, the number of incidents is very small… When I’m asked if Mexico is a safe place to go travel on vacation, my response is  yes . —Carlos Barron, FBI Veteran (source:  Forbes )

As with traveling anywhere, follow general travel safety like not walking home alone at night, watching your alcohol consumption and staying aware of yourself and surroundings.

For an added safety measure, pack these  travel safety items , dress in a way so your Mexico outfits blend in with the locals, and buy a Mexico SIM card .

A few places in Baja California are big party destinations, like  Cabo San Lucas , Tijuana and Ensenada , and safety can go out the window when there’s alcohol involved, so be mindful.

If you want to venture off the beaten path, do some research to make sure there aren’t any travel warnings where you’re headed — especially if you’re doing a Baja road trip .

What’s the best travel insurance for Mexico?

This is a question I get a lot as a Mexico travel writer and Mexico expat. To determine which Mexico travel insurance is best for you , consider factors like the policy’s total cost, your deductible, the coverage you need, your medical benefits, etc.

🏆 In general, I only ever recommend three companies to purchase Mexico travel insurance from:

• World Nomads — For general travelers and adventure travelers.
• SafetyWing — For general travelers and digital nomads in Mexico.
• Travel Insurance Master — Mexico travel insurance search tool, for those who want to compare policies.
• 👉 Click on any of the links above to get a FREE quote on your policy!

Baja Blogs: Learn more about Mexico travel 🇲🇽

Cabo Outfits Inspo: What to Wear in Cabo Mexico in 2024

Ultimate Packing List for Cabo San Lucas Mexico in 2024

Visiting Balandra Beach in 2024: What to Know Before You Go

Baja california travel: frequently asked questions, can you drink the water in baja mexico.

No — Unfiltered Mexico tap water is not safe for human consumption. However, you will need to keep drinking water and to stay extra hydrated, as Mexico is quite close to the Equator. In fact, dehydration is one of the most common ways people get sick in Mexico.

So what can you do?

• If you’re renting a home with a kitchen, you can boil the water before drinking it.
• You can keep buying bottled water — Though this gets expensive, and is horrible for the planet!
• Use the Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle . This refillable bottle not only keeps you hydrated, but also filters your water so you don’t get sick in Mexico, and is good for the planet ♻️ Get 15% OFF with code SOLO15!

The Water-To-Go Bottle has a built-in, three-stage filtration system that removes 99.9999% of all water-borne contaminants. These include bacteria, microplastics, viruses, heavy metals, chemicals and more. I personally own one, as you can drink Mexico water from any source (even the tap), and be completely safe.

🧳 Mexico Packing list

Wondering what else you need on your packing list for Mexico? Check out this guide — Ultimate Packing List for Mexico + FREE Checklist Download !

What’s the best time to visit Baja Mexico?

With its desert climate, Baja is basically a year-round destination . Its weather is similar to that of San Diego, California — which is pretty much perfect all year long — so you can expect warm, sunny days, and cool, crispy nights on your trip.

There is a short Baja rainy season from about mid-July to September, but other than that, Baja is ideal all year.

For the best value: You’ll get the most bang for your buck in the summers, from July to September . This is the rainy season, but with its desert climate, it doesn’t rain too much in Cabo.

Besides the rains, it is quite humid in the summers, but if you don’t mind the non-ideal weather, you will enjoy lower prices and smaller crowds.

When is the Baja whale season?

Winter is the best time to see whales in Baja, Mexico — whether that’s the friendly gray whales in Magdalena Bay , or the giant humpback whales in Cabo Pulmo National Park near Cabo San Lucas.

🗣 Mexico Language

Mexico Fun Fact : There’s actually no official language of Mexico!

Spanish is the most widely-spoken, so some mistakenly say Spanish is the official language of Mexico. However, the government actually recognizes 68 national languages, including the Nahuatl Aztec language, and the Maya language.

💰 Mexico Currency

Mexican Peso — Exchange rates vary, but have hovered around $18-21 pesos to $1 USD for about the last decade. You will find some places that take U.S. dollars, but usually at an unfavorable rate, so stick to using pesos in Mexico .

☀️ Mexico Weather

Mexico is a big country — the 7th largest on Earth, in fact! It’s hard to generalize the weather in Mexico, because it will vary greatly by where you’re traveling.

In general, temperatures are mostly mild everywhere all year long, though summers on the coast are hot and humid, and winters in Central and Northern Mexico are on the colder side. Throughout the whole country, the rainy season runs from (about) April through September.

✈️ Mexico Busy Season & Slow Season

• Mexico Busy Season: The busy season in Mexico runs October to March, as this is the dry season and you’ll get the best weather. December is the busiest month for tourism in Mexico.

• Mexico Slow Season : If you don’t mind some rain, you’ll often find the best travel deal during the Mexico slow season of April to September. Do keep in mind that June 1-November 1 is Hurricane Season, and Mexico beaches are all susceptible.

• Mexico Shoulder Season : The shoulder season is that magical time when prices are still low and the weather is good. The Mexico shoulder season is from about mid-October to November and January to early-April.

🧳 Download your FREE Mexico Packing Checklist here!

Check out this Ultimate Packing List for Mexico — so you know what to pack and what NOT to pack for Mexico! This article offers advice on packing for Mexico cities, and packing for a Mexico beach vacation.

Beyond what Mexico outfits and clothing you’ll want to bring, here are a few extra things to consider:

• Filterable Water Bottle: Mexico is close to the Equator, so you’ll need to stay extra hydrated. In fact, dehydration is one of the most common ways people get sick in Mexico.

A filterable, refillable water bottle not only keeps you hydrated, but also filters your water so you don’t get sick in Mexico.

The Water-To-Go Bottle has a built-in, three-stage filtration system that removes 99.9999% of all water-borne contaminants. These include bacteria, microplastics, viruses, heavy metals and chemicals.

• Mexico SIM Card: Want to be able to use your phone in Mexico?! Of course you do! Pick up a TELCEL Mexico SIM card before your trip, and swap it out on the plane while you’re waiting to exit, so you have phone and data service the second you arrive in Mexico.

•  Anti-Hangover Meds: Planning to party hardy?! Make sure you’re not wasting any of your precious travel time with a hangover. Liquid I.V. has about 70,000 reviews on Amazon, and is considered the best defense against a hangover.

•  Sun Hat: No matter if you’re headed to the beach or a city, you’ll want to wear a hat to shield yourself from the strong Mexican sun. This cute sun hat is the perfect stylish and practical accessory for your Mexico vacation.

•   Sunscreen: As you’ll want to reapply a few times throughout the day, a light, Mineral-Based Sunscreen is ideal.

Headed to the beach? Do your part to practice responsible tourism in Mexico by only using an eco-friendly reef safe sunscreen while swimming. You can even ditch the sunscreen altogether and opt for a long sleeve swimsuit (AKA rash guard) instead.

•   Bug Repellent: Mosquitoes are common throughout Mexico — especially on the beaches! REPEL Insect Repellent is an eco-friendly brand that’s DEET-free and plant based, with a pleasant lemon and eucalyptus scent. Don’t want to use a spray? Pick up some Mosquito Repellent Bracelets .

The vast majority of travelers do not need a visa for Mexico — this includes Americans, Canadians, and most Europeans. Head here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa.

🤔 What is the mexico FMM ?

When you go through Customs & Immigration to enter the country, you’ll receive your Forma Migratoria Multiple , or FMM Tourist Card (sometimes listed as FMT). If you’re coming by plane or cruise ship, there is no charge; for those driving across the border, the FMM costs about $30USD.

In most circumstances, all visitors get a 180-day (six month) visa — so you can legally stay up to six months!

🚨 Have your FMM on you at all times

Keep in mind that though it’s called an FMM card , it’s actually just a small piece of paper. Keep your FMM on you at all times in your wallet, as this proves your legal status in Mexico. It’s rare, but if an officer stops you, they can ask to see your FMM.

🎫 Don’t lose your FMM!

You need to have your FMM on you at all times, as proof of your legal status in the country.

Be sure to keep track of your FMM, as you’ll have to give it back to an Immigration officer at the airport, cruise port, or land crossing when you’re leaving the country.

If you lose your FMM, there is a $600 peso ($30 USD) cost to replace it, and some paperwork you’ll need to fill out before you can leave the country.

If you’re flying home, plan to arrive at the airport about one hour earlier than you normally would to do the paperwork and pay the fine.

As this question doesn’t have a yes/no answer ( I wish it did! ), I do my best to answer it in depth in this article, Is Mexico Safe for Travelers Right Now ? However, for the most part, Mexico is actually statistically quite safe for all travelers — including solo travelers.

Check my Solo Female Mexico Travel page for more info.

💃 Mexico solo travel guides

Mexico is a big country, and it has plenty of amazing solo female travel destinations — like the ones featured in this article, Mexico Solo Travel: 20 Safe Destinations for Female Travelers .

In it, you’ll get recommendations of places to visit in Mexico, from solo travelers who have actually been to them.

🎧 solo travel podcasts

• Ep. 34 |  Planning your first Mexico solo trip • Ep. 40 | Tips for safe solo travel in Mexico • Ep. 53 | 30 Solo female travel tips, Pt. 1

To answer the question, Is it safe to drive in Mexico? — YES , it’s considered safe to rent a car and drive in Mexico.

As the country is quite large, road trips are a great way to see a lot in a little time, and especially popular in the Yucatan Peninsula and Baja California Peninsula.

The one caveat to Mexico driving safety is that you’ll be in a foreign country, unfamiliar with their laws and customs. Head here for a complete guide to Renting A Car in Mexico: Everything You Need to Know , where you’ll also get 10 useful Mexico driving tips!

🚙💨 Looking for the best Mexico car rental company? Discover Cars works with both local Mexican companies and international companies to get you the best rates. Not only do I recommend them — I also use them!

As a general rule, you’ll want to know at least a few words of Spanish when visiting anywhere in Mexico. This is both a sign of respect, and will also help you have a better, smoother trip.

If you stick to the more touristic places in Mexico, you should be fine with basic Spanish. For those planning to venture off the beaten path, be advised most people in pueblos  (small towns) speak little to no English.

🗣 Here are some options:

• Brush up on your Spanish: Use a language-learning program like Rocket Spanish , so you’re confident, and conversational, before your trip.
• Download the Google Translate App: For this to work at all times, you’ll need a Mexico SIM card with data — as the app won’t work when you’re off-WiFi.
• Travel with a Mexico phrasebook: This Lonely Planet Spanish Phrasebook is an Amazon best seller, and a great non-digital language assistant!
• Save this infographic an image on your phone. This way, you have access to these common words, phrases and questions, even when you’re off-WiFi.

Journey To Mexico

Your Travel Guide To Mexico

12 Best Things To Do In Baja California

Use our comprehensive guide to find the best things to do in Baja California. There is something for every type of tourist in Baja California, from breathtaking beaches to exciting wildlife encounters!

Baja California, with its lush oasis, plethora of marine life, and breathtaking desert panoramas, is one of Mexico’s most popular tourism destinations. With a tradition of secluded cave murals, dilapidated Spanish missions, opulent beach resorts, and mouthwatering seafood, its human past is equally alluring.

You’re in for a treat if you’re considering a visit to this hidden treasure in Mexico. Here are a few of the best things to do in Baja California:

Things you'll find in this article

Where is Baja California

How to get to baja california, 1. enjoy the night scene in tijuana, 2. join wine tours at valle de guadalupe, 3. visit the fishing village of san felipe, 4. stay and enjoy the waves at las gaviotas, 5. travel to el mirador and la bufadora, 6. try the mount mazo volcano climb, 7. go to cabo san lucas, 8. explore cabo pulmo national park, 9. discover espiritu santo island, 10. whale watching at magdalena bay.

• 11. Make your way to Fox Canyo

12. Paddle Boarding at Loreto

Baja California, Mexico, is made up of the two states of Baja California Sur (South) and Baja California Norte (North), which together form the Baja Peninsula on the west coast of the nation.

The Baja California Peninsula, which stretches 750 miles south of the US/Mexico border, is a fantastic international road trip location that is conveniently accessible from the US.

The two biggest airports in Baja California, Mexico, and the ones that most tourists will travel to are Los Cabos International Airport and Tijuana International Airport.

Tijuana Airport should be used for travel to Baja California, while Los Cabos Airport should be used for travel to Baja California Sur.

Drive across one of the most active border cities in the world, Tijuana, from California. Before making travel plans outside of Tijuana, we advise you to review the most recent travel advisories.

There are two possibilities if you are traveling from Mexico’s mainland: either from Mazatlan or from Topolobambo, which is near Los Mochis. The nighttime Ferry travels to La Paz, taking around eleven hours. A seat or a private cabin can be reserved.

It’s not that regular or dependable between the cities, but renting a car and exploring the area is rather simple.

Things to Do in Baja California Norte

Known as Baja California Norte or just Baja California, this state in northwest Mexico borders California, in the United States.

Although Mexicali serves as the state capital, Tijuana is the most populous city in Baja California Norte. These are the best things to do in Baja California Norte to help you make the most of your trip to Baja California.

The world’s fifth-largest city in Mexico is an incredibly vibrant and diversified twin to its sister city, San Diego, located north of the border. The world’s most active international crossing, with at least 99,000 people passing through each day, blends the cultures and issues of the North and South.

Tijuana’s uncomfortable location as the meeting point of the north and south, together with a warts-and-all nostalgia for bygone eras, serve as major sources of inspiration.

The area has gained a lot of recognition recently for Valle De Guadalupe’s laid-back vibe and rural appeal, which draw many tourists from Southern California.

A great substitute for pricey Napa and Sonoma, where costs for lodging, food, and wine tastings have increased dramatically in recent years, is Mexico’s wine country.

In contrast to regions in the north, Baja’s wine area is still reasonably priced for the typical tourist who wants to experience the beverage and take in the scenery.

To book this tour click here.

Adventure seekers and foreigners from North America frequent the sleepy fishing community of San Felipe, which is situated by the Sea of Cortez. San Felipe, well-known for its breathtaking desert vistas and off-roading, is the ideal location to experience real Mexican culture.

You may enjoy a more laid-back atmosphere where you can have freshly cooked seafood at local eateries and view the bright, black skies at night, even though you won’t find large chain restaurants or opulent resorts here.

The renowned off-roading event, the Baja 250 race, is held annually at San Felipe. Off-road motorsports and desert trips in sports cars and ATVs draw large crowds of visitors.

Located in Baja Norte, the town of Las Gaviotas offers a resort-like environment on a beach that faces south. Las Gaviotas is a well-liked destination for people of all ages. The swimming pool and children’s park will be enjoyed by families. The exclusive surfing beach offers surfers reliable waves.

The stunning Pacific Ocean sunsets appear to continue for hours. Great restaurants with French, Italian, and of course the renowned Puerto Nuevo lobster are available nearby in addition to typical Mexican fare.

Every lot is oriented to take full advantage of breezes and ocean vistas. This resort environment has more views of the ocean thanks to the many parks and green areas that are kept up by the community.

La Bufadora appears to be a marine geyser located on Baja California’s Atlantic coast. Wave-driven seawater rushes up through a small aperture in the underwater cavern to create a geyser-like fountain and an amazing water spout.

El Mirador, a breathtaking viewpoint over the west coast of Baja’s cliffs and beach, is located not far from La Bufadora.

Although the camping is rather basic, you really do feel like you are on the edge of the earth, and the views are breathtaking from all directions. Our campsite was El Mirador Camping.

One of best the things to do in San Quintin is spend time at Punta Mazo Natural Reserve. This breathtaking region in the Bay of San Quintin features rocky cliffs, immaculate beaches, and even a swarm of volcanoes!

When the 12 volcanoes that make up the volcanic valley erupted more than 170,000 years ago, what is currently referred to as the Punta Mazo Nature Reserve started to form.

The Sudoeste and Mazo volcanoes particularly sculpted this region. Sand accumulated throughout time due to the influence of ocean currents, creating a singular and amazing area.

Things to Do in Baja California Sur

Baja California Sur, a captivating location offering a combination of natural beauties, cultural treasures, and exciting exploits, lies tucked away at the southern point of the Baja California Peninsula.

Baja California Sur is located at the southern tip of a peninsula, making overland travel to the remaining parts of Mexico a laborious process.

Every day, boats head for the mainland, primarily to Mazatlan, to reduce the journey. A boat ride typically lasts four to five hours. To help you get the most out of your vacation to Baja California, here are the top activities in Baja California Sur.

Every year, many beachgoers, travelers, and divers go to southern Baja California to visit Cabo San Lucas, which is among the most popular resorts in Mexico.

The downtown of Cabo San Lucas is the liveliest place in the area if you’re looking for a holiday full of hedonistic revelry.

The sandfalls in this area are famed for their underwater wonders. Families may paddle in the calm, tranquil waters of the Sea of Cortez, and surfers can test their skills against the waves all day long.

There’s also plenty to do on land, such as exploring galleries, shopping for one-of-a-kind crafts, and taking in the vistas of ancient San Jose del Cabo.

Tucked down at the end of a long, uneven road in the southeast of Baja California Sur sits the dusty tiny village of Cabo Pulmo.

The majority of tourists to the town, including us, come for the underwater world! A highlight of every journey to Baja California Sur is the underwater preserve of Cabo Pulmo National Park, one of Mexico’s greatest natural experiences.

The reef is located in the Sea in Cortez, which is known as “the aquarium of the world” because of its rich marine life.

Piritu Santo Island was officially designated as a National Park in 2007 and as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site.

Its striking natural beauty includes the contrast between the sea and the desert, volcanic rock formations, a large number of unspoiled beaches, and an abundance of native plants and animals.

Numerous sports are available on the island, such as stand-up paddle boarding, hiking on the island’s pathways, kayaking, and sport fishing.Encounter the island’s Glamping camps and don’t forget to arrange your visit with one of their licensed operators to really enjoy the experience.

The boats leave from the La Paz marinas and range in size from little pangas to luxurious yachts. There are tour companies that provide transportation if you’re traveling from Los Cabos, or you may rent a car and go to La Paz alone.

Magdalena Bay stretches more than thirty kilometers along Baja California Sur’s western coast in Mexico. Isla Magdelena and Isla Santa Margarita are hidden sandy barrier islands that shield the bay from the Pacific Ocean. The California gray whales’ annual journey to the bay to give birth to their young is one of the area’s most well-known features.

With its abundance of mangroves, which serve as a haven for many different fish species that nest there, the bay is also a well-liked spot for sport fishing. The little settlement of Lopez Mateos is located in the bay’s northernmost region.

11. Make your way to Fox Cany o

The lovely Canon de la Zorra swimming hole is located in a gorgeous rocky canyon. Mountains, cacti, and forests encircle this hidden gem on all sides.

A gorgeous swimming hole is created below when a lagoon empties into a waterfall. Visitors come from all around the region to spend time at this lovely location.

You may climb beyond the waterfall if you have extra time to investigate or if you’re feeling very daring. In addition to several hiking paths, there are several swimming pools. To avoid getting lost, just remember where you are going and follow the river!

Numerous Loreto activities are available to keep you occupied and on the water. Try kayaking or paddle boarding for a soothing yet energetic day. Rent a board from a number of beachside vendors for a relaxed day when you may see a variety of tropical fish along with other marine life.

Hola! Que tal? I'm Christine, a Filipina but in love with Mexico. I used to live in Central America and Mexico is my favorite. Love tacos, tequila, and margarita.

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The ultimate Baja California road trip guide

Oct 27, 2020 • 6 min read

While traveling to Ensenada be sure to spend at least a day in Valle de Guadalupe © Jorge Malo Photography / Getty Images

Baja California evokes a rugged, wild west kind of adventure. Stretching some 760 miles south from the US border, this Mexican peninsula is a land of compelling contrasts — a dry, mostly desert geography with hidden enclaves of lush vineyards, jagged mountains and solemn cactus forests bordered by crystalline waters and wide sandy beaches.

Baja is at once a sparsely-populated no man’s land, and home to thousands of species of marine life and millions of vacationing tourists. Here's what you need to know for the ultimate Baja California road trip. 

The Free and Sovereign State of Baja California

Estado Libre y Soberano de Baja California , the aptly grandiose official name of Baja’s northern state.

Removed from the Mexican mainland, Baja California has evolved its own distinct aesthetic and culture. From low-key towns with just the right amount of civilization to unmarked dusty roads awaiting exploration, Baja has a charm that keeps those who know coming back for more.

The peninsula is divided into two states: Baja California in the north and Baja California Sur below the 28th parallel. 

The infamous border town has finally grown into its own. A growing middle-class and burgeoning cultural scene has helped turn this former hedonism destination into a Mexican city with its own identity.

With an international airport, a solid bus system and many rental car options – along with its proximity to major US cities like San Diego and Los Angeles – Tijuana is the most convenient starting point for a Baja adventure.

But first, take a moment to get to know TJ (its local nickname). Stroll down Av Revolucion for Mexican nightlife options like Las Pulgas , sample local craft beers at Norte Brewing Co , and perhaps most importantly, chow down on spicy tacos or fresh seafood at one of the city’s many street vendors. Beyond the tourist trinkets and margarita-callers near the border, Tijuana has a vibrant food and culture scene worth exploring.

Expert tip: If you have some extra time, take a quick cab ride out to Playas de Tijuana. This beach suburb offers a lively local experience, with family picnics, seafood cocktails, and a close-up view of the US-Mexico border wall as it trails off in the Pacific.

Once you’ve given Tijuana a go, turn your attention south. Baja awaits.

A 2-hour drive down the Pacific coast you’ll find Ensenada . A major port town and vacation destination, Baja California’s third-biggest city is a good example of the state’s varied character. Arriving in town you feel the transition – from the border region’s hectic and often hard urban life, to a more relaxed Mexico.

Ensenada has an impressive waterfront promenade ( malecón in Spanish), a serious fishing and seafood scene, and a lively nightlife. Pass by Hussong’s , a cantina that’s been around since the 1890s, for mariachi. For freshly-caught seafood, stroll through the Mercado Negro fish market, or head a few streets off the main strip to Tacos Don Zefe for tasty fish tacos.

Expert tip:  Ensenada is a great home base from which to access Mexico’s biggest winemaking region. Valle de Guadalupe is a lush valley and wine-tasting hot-spot. There’s a growing selection of vineyards at affordable prices and tours can be easily booked from Ensenada.

The Road South – Baja California Sur

After Ensenada, Baja California’s remote and unsettled side begins to show itself. And it’s where most travelers must make choice – how to get south?

If traveling by car, the famous one-lane Highway 1 is a spectacular winding road with epic views. It can be slow-going and there are stretches of hundreds of miles with nothing but stoic cacti, tiny fishing villages and empty coastline. Leave early and plan your fuel stops carefully.

The bus system works quite well, with many options leaving from Tijuana or Ensenada. Travel times to Baja Sur range from 10-20 hours depending on your destination.

Expert tip: At about the halfway point of the peninsula, there are worthwhile stops like San Ignacio for its lovely lagoon and world-class whale watching; Mulegé for a lush oasis and white sand beaches; and Loreto for a time-machine colonial town.

The capital of Baja Sur, La Paz , like Ensenada, is an example of a major city that has maintained its smaller-town Baja feel.

With a charming malecón and a seafside main strip, La Paz is a relaxing vacation alternative to uber-touristy Cabo San Lucas. La Paz is the launching pad for Isla Espiritu Santo , one of the 244 islands that form a Unesco biosphere reserve famous for its overwhelming selection of marine life (French explorer Jacques Cousteau called the Sea of Cortez “the world’s aquarium”).

Expert tip: La Paz is also an ideal location for day trips, with windsurfing mecca Los Barilles and many secluded beaches within a 1 to 2-hour drive.

Todo Santos

Imagine a mix of sleepy Mexican village and chic Southern California boutique hotel, where dusty roads and charming cobblestone share the same block. Sprinkle some yoga studios and art galleries, with beat-up pickup trucks off-roading on deserted beaches – and you begin to get a picture of Todos Santos .

The latest destination for well-off artsy types, Todos Santos is part manicured tourist town, part rustic Baja escape. Deemed a Pueblo Mágico (magical town) by the Mexican government Todos Santos, despite intense gentrification, manages to blend high-end options with a laid-back vibe.

People who love it, love it a lot. You’ll find many Americans living here full-time or coming down for the season. There’s no shortage of pricier hotels and restaurants, with kale smoothies readily available.

Budget travelers generally have a hard time in Todos, but a family-run hostel has finally opened up, with Todos Santos Hostel offering dorms and cozy glamping options in a relaxed surfer/artist atmosphere. For quality pub fare and friendly locals, check out Chill N’ Grill where you’ll always find an ex-pat ready to gush over Todos Santos’ charm.

For those looking for a truly amazing experience check out Todos Santos Eco Adventures  . Owned and operated by husband and wife duo Sergio & Brian you can find all your sustainable adventure needs in one place. They can take you to a remote island for glamping where you can sleep under the stars by night and paddle board with sea turtles by day. They can take you birding and whale watching and basically help you enjoy the Baja in all its natural glory in an intimate, friendly and sustainable way. Plus the food is amazing too. 

Expert tip: About 15 minutes down the main road you’ll find San Pedrito and Los Cerritos beach , well-known surf destinations in a picturesque yet raw Pacific setting.

You might also like: 

Mexico's best off-the-grid beaches   Mexico's 10 best beaches   Canada and Mexico extend border restrictions with the US  

This article was originally published in May 2019 and updated in October in 2020. 

This article was first published May 24, 2019 and updated Oct 27, 2020.

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Drive to Baja California: The Ultimate Road Trip Guide

About the author

Nicole Abbott is a passionate travel writer and homeschooling mom of three, with a keen eye for unique destinations and a love for the outdoors. More info

One of the best ways to visit Baja California is by taking a road trip. The peninsula of Baja, California, consists of the desert and sea and is a popular tourist destination year-round. Baja California stretches over seven hundred miles and gives a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean waves and the west side of the Gulf of California.

Due to its extensive coastline, it comes as no surprise that Baja California boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the world. Beaches aren’t the only thing you’ll find that is beautiful in this vacation hot spot. Baja California has plenty of wildlife opportunities, snorkeling, whale watching, fishing, and more!

As you continue reading below, we’ve put together the ultimate road trip guide to Baja, California, to help you with your trip along the way. From crossing the border to required documents, and popular destinations, you’ll have everything you need to be well-prepared for your trip.

The Best Time to Take a Baja California Road Trip

If you’ve been planning a trip to Baja, California, the best time to travel is between the months of November and March . With temperatures staying in between the seventies and eighties, you’ll have the perfect ocean breeze and comfort. April is when you’ll see an increase in temperatures, so for a more comfortable experience, taking a road trip during this time is highly recommended.

Between the months of November and March are also the prime season for whale watching in Baja , California. Each winter, these whales migrate along the peninsula and make their way down to the Sea of Cortez.

While it sounds tempting, you’ll want to avoid driving to Baja, California, during the summer months. Not only is this because of the unbearable heat, but because of humidity, tropical storms, and prime vacationing time for travelers.

Crossing the US and Mexico Border

When taking a drive to Baja, California, there are two border crossings that travelers handle when taking their trip. These two borders are the San Ysidro border and Calexico/Mexicali border.

See also: The Best Beaches In Baja California

When crossing the San Ysidro border, you’ll travel through Tijuana and Ensenada, right along the Pacific coast, before traveling inland. When crossing the Calexico/Mexicali border, you’ll cross into Mexicali, right along the Sea of Cortez. For a more scenic route, you may prefer taking the Calexico/Mexicali border option.

When crossing the border, you’ll either get asked to move along or to pull over for an inspection. Crossing the border into Mexico typically isn’t a long process; however, on the way back to entering the US, it may take a bit longer.

Documents You’ll Need When Taking a Road Trip to Baja California

One of the most essential questions when driving to Baja, California, is, “Do you need a passport to drive to Mexico?”

The answer is yes. To enter Mexico through the border, you’ll need a passport or valid green card to show. Since Mexico gives travelers six months on their tourist visa, your passport should be good for six months after your border crossing travel date.

To get a United States passport, you go to a post office, library, or clerks of court. Passports can take two months to process, but you can pay more to have it expedited.

Auto Insurance

Another question travelers ask is, “Does my insurance from the US work in Mexico?” The answer is no. When driving to Mexico, your insurance from the US is not valid.

This means you’ll need a Mexican auto insurance policy to cross the border into Mexico from the United States. To buy Mexican auto insurance, you can visit Baja Bound . Baja Bound is one of the most trusted insurance names and has the best ratings for an insurance company. 

See also: Best Hiking in Baja California

Check out my guide on everything you need to know about Mexican Car Insurance .

It’s important to note that you can’t buy Mexican auto insurance at the border, and if you don’t present your paperwork, you won’t be allowed to drive to Baja, California.

U.S. Driver’s License

If you have a legal driver’s license for any state in the United States, as a traveler, you can legally drive in Baja, California.

Vehicle Registration

When you cross the border into Mexico, you must show your vehicle registration documents. If you forget to bring your vehicle registration documents, you won’t be allowed to drive in Mexico.

TVIP Car Permit

When traveling, you can get your temporary vehicle importation permit card when you get to the México border or before taking your trip to Mexico. To save you time when crossing the México border, it’s best to get a TVIP car permit in advance. You may apply for a TVIP Mexican car permit sixty days before beginning your trip.

FMM Tourist Visa

Your FMM Tourist Visa is your México travel visa. When traveling, every traveler in Mexico is required to have one to show proof that they are legal in Mexico. During your trip, make sure you have your FMM tourist visa on you at all times.

In some circumstances, you can get your FMM visa here before your trip while also being able to get one at the México border. An FKM visa costs 595 Mexican pesos, which is $30 in US dollars.

See also: Best Time to Visit Baja California: Events and Festivals

Pet Vaccine Records

If you’re planning to bring any pets along on your drive to Baja, California, you’ll need to bring your pet vaccination records. If you’ve talked to any pet owners who have completed this road trip, they’ll tell you that they’ve never been asked for these documents. However, just to be on the safe side, you should have them on hand for anything unexpected when entering a different country. 

What You Shouldn’t Pack for Your Baja California Road Trip

View this post on Instagram A post shared by @helissamynson

There are certain items that you’re not allowed to take when crossing the border into Mexico. Some of the things you’ll want to avoid packing are:

• Product – Any fruits, vegetables, meat, or cheese. If you need any of these items, you can visit a grocery store in Baja, California.
• Guns & Ammunition

Tips When Driving to Baja California

1. avoid driving at night.

An essential tip for driving to Baja, California, is to not go at night . Not driving at night is not recommended in Baja California for several reasons.

One of the reasons is poorly lit roads. Roads that aren’t well-lit make it challenging to locate hazards like animals, other pedestrians, speed bumps, or unexpected curves. It’s also prevalent to see livestock roaming around these roads, which can make night driving dangerous.

In addition, services are limited at night if you happen to break down or have an emergency, so driving during the day is highly recommended. Therefore, plan your itinerary for day driving and to reach your destinations before sunset. 

2. Stay Alert for Topes

Topes are just another word for speed bumps that you’ll find while taking a drive to Baja, California. Speed bumps are put into place to slow down traffic. Hitting a top at high speeds can damage your car tires or under your car, depending on what type you’re driving. 

3. Fuel Up Your Gas Tank

Before taking a Baja California road trip, Gas stations don’t come by too often, especially when traveling through more remote areas. This is true when traveling along the peninsula of Baja California.

Before starting your trip, have your gas filled up ahead of time and research the locations of gas stations to avoid any unexpected problems. It’s always best to be over-prepared than not. 

4. Be Aware of Narrow Roads

In Baja, California, narrow roads are very widespread. Narrow roads, in addition to traffic and bad drivers, can make driving in Baja, California difficult. When traveling on narrow roads, be extra cautious and keep a safe distance away from other cars .

When making your traveling plans, always plan for extra time when navigating narrow roads. 

5. Be Aware of Winding Roads

In addition to narrow roads, you’ll also need to be aware of winding roads. Baja California is a very ace drive, with some areas having winding roads. If you plan to stop and check out the scenery, make sure you pull over. 

6. Be Alert of Military Checkpoints

When taking a drive to Baja California along the main highways, it’s very common to come across military checkpoints. Military checkpoints are typically put into place to check for drug and arms trafficking.

When you come across a military checkpoint, follow any instructions given by officers. As a precaution, always keep your documents on hand, such as your license, registration, and proof of insurance. 

7. Have Supplies and Essentials

Taking a Baja California road trip can be an amazing experience, but you should always make sure you’re well-prepared. For a safe and smooth road trip, you should make sure you have the following supplies and essentials:

• Passport and identification
• Registration and Insurance
• Water and food
• First aid kit
• Tore deflator
• Portable air compressor
• Dash camera
• Downloaded maps
• Cellphone charger
• Emergency contacts

8. Have Cash on Hand in Pesos

Although you can still use your debit and credit cards in Baja, California, it’s always a good idea to keep cash on hand in pesos. When visiting a small town, they sometimes have limited access to machines, so having pesos on hand can help you pay for food and gas when needed.

9. Download Maps Offline

One of the challenges you’ll face when taking a drive to Baja, California, is not having internet access. Before beginning your trip, you should make sure you download any maps you need so you can have them offline.

Having maps offline can ensure that you won’t get lost along the way. When using your offline maps, you can access your GPS and other navigation features.

10. Avoid Parking on Painted Roads

If you see painted roads and are unsure if you’re allowed to park in these areas, don’t worry, we have you covered.

• Red curbs = no parking zones
• Yellow curbs = for taxis
• Blue curbs = disabled parking
• White = anyone may park

Where to Go When Taking a Road Trip to Baja California

📍 Where to stay: Hampton Inn by Hilton Tijuana  

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When traveling to Tijuana, you may have heard that it’s one of the most dangerous cities, but if you talk to locals, this isn’t true. Tijuana is filled with some of the best things to do, many of them including eating and drinking. This city also has a unique cultural history, as you’ll see when you visit their museums.

So what are some things you can do while you’re there? First, we’d highly recommend checking out as many breweries as you can during your short visit. Three favorites among travelers for breweries are Norte Brewing Co , Mamut , and Insurgente .

Since Tijuana is located only a short few miles from the shire, you can visit the beaches at Playa de Tijuana. If you’re looking for a way to spend the afternoon, basking in the sun is always a great idea. 

📍 Where to stay: Rancho La Puerta

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If you ask any traveler about Tecate, they’ll tell you it’s one of the most magical towns in Baja California. When stopping through Tecate, you’ll see beautiful landscapes and a town with much to offer.

Surrounded by mountains and luscious green countryside, Tecate also has many wineries. At the Tecate Brewery , which is owned by Heineken, you can go on a tour to view how their beer is produced. You also may receive a free beer along the way. 

In addition, when stopping through Tecate, you’ll notice this town has a more relaxed atmosphere. After driving for hours, it’s a great place to stop and rest along the way.

Many travelers who visit Tecate like to experience its abundance of outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and shopping .

3. Ensenada

📍 Where to stay: Estero Beach Hotel & Resort  

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Known as the wine capital of Mexico, Ensenada is surrounded by the Sea of Cortez and has a lot of natural bluffs where travelers may enjoy the outdoors. In Ensenada, you’ll find two national parks: The Constitucion de 1857 and the Sierra San Pedro Martir.

Ensenada also produces around ninety percent of its wine and is one of the most visited seaports on the Pacific Coast. If you’re a nature and adventure lover, Ensenada is the perfect stop to enjoy the outdoors. During your stop, you can go hiking, fishing, surfing, camping, zip-lining, and more!

Ensenada is the perfect spot for hot days, so if you need a place to cook off, Ensenada is the ideal place to make a pit stop!

4. Valle de Guadalupe

📍 Where to stay: Meson Del Vino

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cadena Noticias (@cadenanoticiasmx)

While staying in Valle de Guadalupe, you’ll quickly find out that it’s the center for restaurants, boutique wineries, and hotels. This rustic and relaxed atmosphere is sophisticated and filled with miles of dirt roads, with opportunities for endless exploring.

At the beginning of August each year, the fun, but crowded event, Vendimia Wine Harvest Festival , takes place. This festival occurs over a few weeks and is an exciting festival to attend.

If you’re looking for something affordable to do during your stay, you can visit the Museo de la Vid y el Vino . For only a $4 fee, you can learn about the entire winemaking process, including the history of Valle de Guadalupe.

Since Valle de Guadalupe is located inland, the weather can tend to be warmer, with temperatures reaching up to 100 degrees in the summer and 70 degrees during the day during winter. If you’re visiting this area, make sure you pack according to the season. 

5. Rosarito

📍 Where to stay: Rosarito Beach Hotel

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rosarito Beach Hotel (@rosaritobeachhotel)

Situated just thirty-five minutes from the United States border, you’ll find the city of Rosarito, so this may be one of your first stops during your Baja California road trip. Rosarito has various activities that make it an attractive location for travelers.

Rosarito is known by travelers and locals as having one of the most scenic landscapes and is popular among those who love basking in the sun because of its beautiful beaches. Rosarito is also one of the most accessible drives from the border.

From RV parks to its assortment of accommodations, Rosarito has something for everyone and every budget.

📍 Where to stay: Hotel Catedral La Paz

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Situated in southern Baja, California, you’ll find the sunny capital of Mexico, La Paz. From sports fishing to budget-friendly boat tours, La Paz has plenty of outdoor activities to fill your itinerary while you’re in town.

It’s here you’ll find gorgeous beaches, whale-watching adventures, and delicious seafood. La Paz is also home to the Malecon , where you can take a bike to explore around town or book a paddle boarding lesson.

This area of Mexico is genuinely considered paradise. With its hot deserts, ocean breeze, and turquoise blue waters, there’s nothing like the city of La Paz. La Paz is best known for its white sandy beaches, which beat any other beach in the Caribbean.

If you’re driving from the southern border of the US on Highway 1, it will take you around twenty to twenty-four hours. There is also a car ferry that crosses La Paz into Topolobambo and Mazatlan.

7. Todos Santos

📍 Where to stay: Villa Santa Cruz  

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During your stop in Todos Santos, you’ll be captivated by a beautiful oasis of gorgeous views that overlook sandy beaches. Todos Santos is actually considered Baja California’s best-kept secret among travelers .

Todos Santos is a top favorite for nature lovers with its hikers, kayakers, snorkelers, and fishermen. While in town, you can try out fantastic restaurants, beautiful hotels, shops, and beaches.

Todos Santos is a great place to relax and enjoy the downtime of your Baja California road trip. 

8. San Jose Del Cabo

📍 Where to stay: Marquis Los Cabos

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Marquis Los Cabos (@hotelmarquisloscabos)

For couples who are taking a drive to Baja California, San Jose Del Cabo, this city offers a charming feel for romantics, award-winning restaurants, and plenty of outdoor adventure.

There’s a diverse amount of attractions in San Jose Del Cabo, so you’ll have an array of choices when spending your time here. One of the top things you’ll want to do during your stay is indulge in some of the best food in San Jose Del Cabo.

One of the top restaurants in San Jose Del Cabo is La Revolucion . Here you’ll be able to indulge in cocktails, appetizers, and main courses that will keep you coming back for me.

Before you leave San Jose Del Cabo, you’ll want to escape to a nearby beach. There are several beaches in San Jose Del Cabo that are popular among travelers. One of the most classic beaches here is Costa Azul , a beach with a very laid-back vibe. 

9. Cabo San Lucas

📍 Where to stay: Sandos Finisterra  

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With its combination of weather and scenery, Cabo San Lucas is a great Baja California destination. Cabo is filled with great beaches, restaurants, and all-inclusive hotels.

It’s also known for being the home of the stone arch, one of the most famous landmarks that you’ll need to add to your must-see list. One thing to remember is that unless you enjoy crowds, you’ll want to avoid traveling during Spring Break.

Baja California Road Trip FAQ

Are there certain items i should avoid bringing on my baja california road trip.

When taking a road trip to Baja, California, you should avoid packing any produce or guns and ammunition, as you’re not allowed to cross the border with these items.

Where can I buy Mexican auto insurance?

To buy Mexican auto insurance, you can visit Baja Bound . And you should also check out my guide on everything you need to know about Mexican car insurance .

Which destination is excellent for couples?

San Jose Del Cabo is the best destination for couples who are living for a romantic getaway.

When is the best time to take a road trip to Baja California?

The best time to travel to Baja, California, is between the months of November and March.

When planning your road trip to Baja, California, it’s essential to travel during the best time, know the procedures for crossing the border, have the required documents, pack important essentials and supplies, and to travel and stay at the best destinations along the way.

From Baja California wine-tasting experiences to relaxing on the white sandy beaches, your Baja California road trip is guaranteed to be like one you’ve never experienced.

Nicole Abbott is a passionate travel writer and homeschooling mom of three, with a keen eye for unique destinations and a love for the outdoors. She brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to the travel community. In her free time, she enjoy arts and crafts, hiking, and sharing insightful travel tips and stories. Her articles aim to inspire and guide those eager to discover new places and experiences around the world.

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The Best 3-Week Baja Mexico Itinerary: Discover the Peninsula

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It’s road trip time. Whether you’re driving from Southern California or renting a car in Cabo this is the definitive guide to all the best destinations in the Baja Peninsula. The perfect Baja Mexico Itinerary if you will.

Baja is a desert. But not the desolate dreary flat kind of cacti haven. This desert is brimming with palm-fringed oasis, curious coyotes, a smattering of small Mexican towns with quaint cobblestone streets, and HUGE Saguaro Cacti. The winding roads make for, albeit long, but scenic drives through the landscape and plenty of opportunities for spotting local wildlife. & I haven’t even mentioned the beaches. Stunning slices of tropical paradise with calm waters for paddle boarding, clear water for snorkeling, and soft sand for lounging.

But first, let’s get you prepared for road-tripping Mexico. If you haven’t already read my blog post detailing everything you need to know before your Baja Mexico Road Trip, be sure to head there now & give it a read.

Now that you know the basics of a Mexican road trip we can look at our Baja Mexico Itinerary. Here is the lowdown on everywhere you need to pay a visit to on the Peninsula.

The Perfect Baja, Mexico Road Trip Itinerary

Most travelers to the Baja Peninsula only visit 4-5 destinations. Sometimes the limitation is time, but sometimes they just don’t realize how incredible the small towns of Baja are & all they have to offer. This is our complete guide to the Baja Peninsula curated over several trips and more than a month spent exploring its nooks and crannies.

This entire Baja Mexico Itinerary can be done in 3 weeks. It’s better to make it 4, if time isn’t a concern, to leave room for extra exploring on your own.

Oh TJ. This city is often what scares would be road-trippers away from the idea of ever exploring Mexico. I won’t sugarcoat it. The city is a little rough. If you’re faint of heart just pass on through. But like many large metropolia packed with a variety of immigrants, the food in Tijuana is delicious if you know where to look.

Even the hot and crispy churros served from vendors wandering between cars in the border crossing line are worth eating. Here are a few of my TJ favorites.

• Telefónica Gastro Park. A massive street food park known for it’s delicious cheap eats.
• Any taco truck selling Birria de Res.
• Caesar’s . After all the Caesar salad was invented in Tijuana. Not kidding.
• Mision 19. If you’re feeling fancy and want to see exactly what Tijuana’s stellar chefs can do.

Toll Roads: Between Tijuana and Ensenada there is a beautiful stretch of perfectly (almost) paved highway. This is the Scenic Highway. It’s not only the fastest route to Ensenada but the easiest for drivers unfamiliar with Mexican roadways. It is a toll road so be prepared to pay 40 pesos ($2) three times on your way down the coastline.

Rosarito & Puerto Neuvo

These two small towns are within an hour’s drive from the US/Mexico Border and a popular weekend trip for Southern California residents. I’ve written previous blog posts detailing the best eats in Rosarito and why you should visit the famous lobster village of Puerto Nuevo as well as an overview of the road-tripping the three towns of Baja North (Rosarito, Puerto Nuevo, Ensenada). All three can be easily explored in a day or two and are a perfect introduction to the Baja Peninsula.

Ensenada is a big city that feels small. Mostly because the town center is tiny and curated specifically for tourists. Most never leave those 3 main streets. But unless you’re looking for obnoxious bars with watered-down drinks and overpriced tourist food and knick-nacks I would avoid the main street.

All liquor in Mexico is a lower alcohol content than in the United States. Usually ranging from 28%-35%. In the U.S. most range from 35%-40% alcohol. Keep that in mind before you purchase any bottles.

As far as attractions go the town is relatively barren. The construction is modern and seems disjointed from the rest of Mexico. There is a blowhole called La Bufadora about 30-minutes south of the city, but I wouldn’t say you need to make the journey.

Best Eats in Ensenada

I spent 2 days in Ensenada, mostly for eating. Okay, completely for eating. & this city has some of the best damn street food on the peninsula. Hands down, the best seafood tacos in Baja. Here’s where you have to eat.

• El Parian . This bright pink breakfast establishment is serving cheap breakfast favorites like chilaquiles, huevos ranchero, and machaca omeletes. It’s much like your favorite diner back home, just Mexican style.
• Tacos Fenix (Fish & Shrimp). If you only eat at one place I recommend make it this one. This street food stand makes the best tacos in Baja & I don’t say that lightly. Perfectly fried, right before your eyes, the shrimp and fish tacos are simple (& cheap) and can be topped with a vareity of salsas, pickled toppings, and slaws.
• La Comadre. Your non-seafood choice. Just off of mainstreet this small restaurant is a local favorite. The tacos change daily and the meat is ladled from large red clay pots into large handmade tortillas. I loved the Birria.
• Mariscos El Guero. If you’re a seafood fanatic you’re in the right place. This cevichria has plates of the freshest fish plucked from the waters of Baja. The mixed ceviche is huge and piled with squid, fish, shrimp, and uni. Definitely enough to serve two.
• Hussong’s Cantina is not known for its food. But it is the oldest bar in Baja and has a fun vibe. It’s a tourist attraction (there’s another location in Las Vegas) but if you feel like grabbing a cold beer or Margarita and being serenaded by a full Mexican band it’s a good option.

If you’re looking for a place to car-camp in Ensenada look no further. You can sleep in any free parking space. We chose the roadside near the Hotel Cortez Baja Inn.

Valle de Guadalupe

The Napa Valley of Mexico. Without the Napa Valley price tag. The Valle de Guadalupe has been gaining in both international and local reputation as a top wine destination. About an hour’s drive from Ensenada, the dusty dirt roads of Valle de Guadalupe house over 70 local wineries. Some are better than others. Most visitors stay at a lovely Airbnb or guesthouse and hire a driver to winery hop for an afternoon.

We chose a more DIY approach, driving ourselves, and only visited two wineries in the area. A word of warning: The wineries are not close together. Often, you’ll drive 20-minutes on loose dirt and narrow roadways to reach them. There’s not really a town center. Aside from the wineries, this area is pretty undeveloped.

Best Winery in Valle de Guadelupe

Definitely, Vena Cava. I know we only visited two but this winery came highly recommended to us and did not disappoint. They specialize in natural wine but have a wide selection of white, red, and a very tasty food truck in their sprawling outdoor space overlooking the vineyard. The tasting room is inside a man-made cavelike structure built from the hull of ships.

If you’re looking for a few other wineries to add to your list…

• Finca Carrodilla

Best Food in Valle de Guadalupe

Ochentos Pizza . Although technically outside the maze of wineries in “town”, this local pizza joint is truly unique. The pizza is good but the ambiance is wonderful. You’ll traverse several dirt roads and a steep cobblestoned driveway to reach it but if you visit at sunset you’ll be rewarded with views of the whole valley. There’s always live music, a small zoo of animals outside (mostly goats, ducks, and sheep), and locally crafted beer.

Now your long driving days begin. La Lobera makes for a great pit stop after driving hours through rolling hills of cacti on single-lane roads. Unfortunately, La Lobera requires a 4X4 vehicle. This sand-colored stone formation holds a pool of turquoise water and a pile of sea lions seeking refuge from the sea. It’s about 2 miles on pitted sand-covered roads to reach it though.

Last Gas Fill-Up : Get gas at the Pemex in El Rosario de Arriba. This will start the long stretch through the uninhabited desert. There are no gas stations for 250 KM. Sometimes you can find random locals selling gas from barrels on the side of the road if you’re desperate but there’s no way to guarantee it’s good gas for your vehicle. Just fill up here and you’ll be fine.

• Bahia de Los Angeles

Welcome to the warm bathwater shores of the Sea of Cortez. Bahia de Los Angeles is a small scattered town with several campable beaches where you can pull right up onto the pebbly sand. Playa La Gringa is the best of the bunch. You’ll pass by all the rest on your way to Gringa so you decide for yourself which you prefer.

This beach is great for fishing, swimming, and of course paddleboarding. Just be sure to watch out for the stingrays that are scattered all over the East Coast of Baja. Just shuffle your feet in the shallows to avoid stepping on them.

Bahia de Los Angeles is also known for Whale Shark tours during the proper season. Just inquire anywhere you see a giant sign picturing a whale shark.

Playa La Gringa is not always monitored but sometimes locals come to collect trash and ask for a donation to stay on the beach overnight. We suggest a donation of 100 pesos.

On your way into town be sure to stop at the lookout point before you descend to see the bay in all its bright blue glory. & if you’re looking for a place to nab some Sea of Cortez seafood check out Restaurant Alejandrinas .

Ojo de Liebre Lagoon

Whales. Lots of them. We skipped this Lagoon because, alas, it was not whale season. But if you want to see humpback whales on your Baja road trip (& get insanely close to them) this is the place to be.

This area is world-renowned for its freakishly friendly whales. Researchers and tourists love them.

• San Ignacio

A true oasis in the desert. This region of Baja is desolate. Scattered with hundreds of varietals of cacti, dusty towns, and an unbearably flat landscape. San Ignacio comes out of nowhere. Vibrantly green and carpeted in tall date palms offering the only shade for miles around this small city thrives alongside the life-giving river. The town square is cobblestoned and overlooked by a massive Spanish missionary church.

You won’t need more than a day to bask in the shade and eat date-flavored everything. From milkshakes to date chicken to pan datil (date bread) the date palms that shade the town drive the cuisine in the area.

I wasn’t blown away by the food in San Ignacio outside of dates. But the small breakfast joint at the foot of the church had great classic Mexican breakfast fare and at night a hot dog stand often sets up out front.

Santa Rosalia

Back on the East Coast! Santa Rosalia is a fairly large city for Baja with…you guessed it, a large lovely town center. In case you haven’t picked up on that it’s kind of a trademark for Baja. We didn’t stay too long in Santa Rosalia (because the beaches awaited us) but there are tons of street vendors selling agua frescas (juices, flavored waters, horchata) and the best bakery in Baja. It’s called El Boleo and for under 20 pesos you can snag some of the tastiest local Baja pastries. My favorites were topped with pineapple.

This is the beginning of Baja’s best beaches. Well, 30-minutes south of here anyways. Mulege is not a beach town. It is, however, a popular tourist town due to its tasty local restaurants, close proximity to colorful canyons decorated with ancient cave paintings, and a scenic mission (church) overlooking a carpet of verdant palms.

Best Mulege Restaurants & Attractions

• Mulege Brewing Company. For a few beers.
• Dany Restaurant. The best food in town. Also heavily air conditioned.
• Mision Santa Rosalia de Mulege . A scenic overlook worth the short drive out of town.
• Faro de Mulege. Scenic lighthouse by the water.
• Restaurant Bar Los Equipales. Another great restairnat. They serve a lot of Machaca, however. Be aware that Machaca is dried beef. Not for everyone’s palate.

I recommend parking near the lighthouse directly on the beach. It’s not a good beach for swimming or other water activities but it’s outside the bustle of town and safe enough to sleep with all your doors open.

Best Beaches Near Mulege

I would venture to say that these particular beaches are not only the best in Mulege but the best in all of Baja. Crystal clear water, soft beige sand, tropical fish, and camping directly on the sand. It doesn’t get better than that. Positioned on the Bay of Conception these sands are even more protected from the mild waves of the Sea of Cortez than anywhere else.

Accessible via dirt pull-offs from the main highway you’ll often see the beaches coming. These are the names of a few favorites.

Playa Santispac

It costs 200 pesos for the night but this beach is completely protected from the waves. Great for early morning paddleboarding or kayaking. You can also easily reach Hidden Beach, also known as Playa Escondida, from here.

Playa La Escondida

Not to be confused with “hidden beach” this stretch of sand is further south. A crescent-shaped bay with turquoise waters and thatched huts offer a little shade for beach-goers.

Playa el Burro

One of the more developed beaches in the area. The shores are crowded with thatched homes for rent on Airbnb and don’t leave much room for van parking. This beach is great for a swim but if you’re looking to van camp I would opt for one of the others.

Playa el Coyote

Another great option for camping. Also offers some thatched huts for shade and is a favorite of the locals which typically means you’ll be sharing the sand with families BBQ-ing and blasting music into the evening.

One of my biggest disappointments was not getting to fully experience the city of Loreto. It was simply too hot for us to try and stay. From what I hear this big beachy town offers a lot in terms of marine exploration.

If you’re looking for a complete guide to Loreto click the link here .

This is one of the oldest and best-preserved missions in the Baja region. The same cannot be said about its roads. Getting to the summit of the small mountain and wandering the quaint streets is worthwhile IF you are very confident in your driving skills and maybe have either high clearance or 4WD.

San Carlos is much like the rest of the Baja west coast. Slightly charmless. But you’re not here for the town. You’re here for the whales. Visit during whale season and this is a bustling hub filled with open restaurants and street food. Outside of whale season, it’s a ghost town.

You’ll have to book a tour to see them properly but this is the home base for exploring Magdelena Bay.

Pit Stop: In the nearly non-existent town of La Pasadita is a roadside empanada and burrito shack sitting right next to an OXXO. Do yourself a favor and stop in for lunch. You get two bean burritos & a fresh juice for 50 pesos. The fresh empanadas are phenomenal as well.

No argument La Paz is my favorite city on the Baja Peninsula. It’s also the largest and most frequented by local tourists. It has the prettiest white sand beaches, local farmer’s markets, a foodie scene, and lovely sunsets on the Malecon. It’s easy to get overwhelmed in La Paz because of its sheer size but I recommend focusing your efforts on the region near the waterfront, also known as Zona Central. The surrounding area of La Paz has fewer restaurants and walking streets and is far more industrial.

Best Attractions & Food in La Paz

• Doce Cuarenta Coffee & Bakery. If you’re looking for an LA quality coffee shop with tasty guava pastries. Expect US prices.
• Tortas la Ventana. Local cheap sandwhich stop.
• Sanctuary of Our Lady Guadalupe. Scenic catholic church with a picturesque dome.
• Museum of Art. If that’s your kind of thing.
• Il Rustico. Authentic Italian thin crusted pizza joint with massive calzones and lovely garden seating perfect for date night in La Paz. Seriously, I wouldn’t recommend you get pizza in Mexico if it wasn’t out of this world good.
• Bismark-Cito: The Lobster House. Ocean front views and amazing seafood.
• The Malecon. Stroll the seaside street enjoying the marine themed monuments and perfect sunset spots. Also the street art La Paz is known for.
• Farmer’s Market: Thursday’s and Saturday’s near the Malecon.
• Playa Balandra. This is the best beach in Baja. Perfect white silk sand, unbelieveable water clarity and filled with marine wildlife, you have to try snorkeling at this beach. It’s also famous for an oddly shaped rock but I found that much less impressive than the beach itself. Plan to arrive early (6AM) if you want to score a parking spot. There’s also a short hike that offers great panoramic views of the entire bay.
• Playa el Tecolote . A good back-up if Balandra is too full. Tecolote has many loud beach restaurants and choppy waves hitting shore but it also is a haven for pelicans early morning. Arrive early to watch them diving for fish in the hundreds.

La Paz is famous for its chocolate clams. Don’t freak out just yet, it’s not candied seafood. It’s just a varietal of clam. Large chocolate brown shells bursting with chewy clam meat. You can eat them raw or grilled but you have to give them a shot at least once in La Paz.

• Todos Santos

Once a hippy haven this town is quickly turning commercial. That’s not to say I didn’t love my time spent there, it’s just not the quiet surfer bohemian town it once was. Now it’s got more of an LA hipster vibe. Lots of art boutiques, expensive souvenirs, and fancy upscale restaurants and hotels crammed into a tiny seaside fishing village.

Best Attractions & Food in Todos Santos.

• Choripanes. The best $2.50 sandwich you’ll ever find. Smoked sausages paired with fresh grilled panela cheese, tomatoes, onions, salsa, and chimmichuri.
• Frutas y Verduras “Mi Gente”. The best shop to grab some cheap fresh produce for beach snacks.
• Late-Night Street Food. The town park sidewalks crowd with vendors selling hotdogs, tacos, agua frescas, and my personal favorite tostilocos (chips topped with salsa, fresh corn, and cheese).
• Tortugueros Las Playitas. During hatching season this turtle conservation group allows tourists to help participate in the turtle release programs each evening. It’s a personal bucketlist item of mine to release a baby turtle into the ocean one day.
• Punta Lobos. This is a fishing beach. Huge crashing waves and LOTS of locals drinking, eating, and getting thier cars stuck in the sand. At around 4 PM you can buy fish to cook straight off the beach here. I enjoyed the laid back vibe but it’s not a particularly quiet place to sleep.
• San Pedrito Beach. A longtime favorite of vanlifers this beach is the best in the area for privacy and quiet camping.
• Cerritos Beach. You’ll have to pay for parking and it’s the bussiest beach in the area but it also has a restroom, surfboard rentals, and vendors selling fresh seafood and fruit on the sand. There’s a reason for it’s crowds.

Reaching these beaches from Todos Santos requires driving on sandy dirt roads. You don’t need 4WD, but be cautious.

Cabo San Lucas

If I’m sharing my own personal opinions here…Cabo sucks. Unless you are here for Spring Break or a Bachelor/Bachelorette party there’s nothing for you to do in Cabo. The food is mediocre and expensive, there’s nowhere to car camp, and it’s filled with drunken tourists. Sure you can see the famous sandstone arches but you’ll have to pay through the nose to get there. & all the best beaches IN Cabo are crowded and only accessible by an expensive boat tour.

Instead, skip it and head to Santa Maria Beach.

Just North of Cabo, this gem of a beach is free to visit and has some of the best snorkeling in Baja just off its shores. We cheated and entered the electric blue waters with a slice of white bread that was quickly devoured by tropical fish the size of my head. You can’t stay overnight but it’s definitely worth a day trip.

• San Jose del Cabo

The other Cabo. San Jose del Cabo isn’t known for its two-for-one margaritas, however. Instead, San Jose del Cabo boasts art boutiques, a cobblestoned walking district with colorful pennants flapping in the wind, and Baja Brewing Company (the best beer in Baja, sorry Tecate) . There are plenty of other travelers here but not typically of the van variety. It’s a higher class kind of tourism and often the prices reflect that.

Where to wild camp: On the outskirts of town is a hidden local sunset spot called La Playita. You can park atop the small cliff overlooking the dark sand and waves below for epic sunset and sunrise views.

Warning! The road to Nine Palms is no longer public. Even with a 4WD vehicle you’re not technically allowed to traverse that section of coastline. Which means you’ll be required to drive toward Santa Anita instead. As of 2021

Blink and you’ll miss this quaint town. For this adventure, you’ll need either some ballsy driving skills or a 4WD vehicle. Accessible from this small farming community is Sol de Mayo also known as Rancho Ecologico Sol de Mayo. After traversing the treacherous roads up the canyon to Cañon de la Zorra you’ll find a small petting zoo area with a cascading waterfall perfect for chasing away the heat of the day with a cool dip. Along the way, you’ll also be rewarded with panoramic views of the palm-fringed town smack dab in the middle of the desert.

Just follow the roadside signs to “Cascade” & you’ll find your way.

As I mentioned above, the road South of Cabo Pulmo is closed to the public forcing you to enter via the North entrance. But for those willing to wander off-the-beaten-path you’ll be rewarded with the best snorkeling in Baja. This protected swath of reef is difficult to reach and therefore in pristine condition. To visit the National Park you’ll need to pay park fees and hire a snorkel or scuba guide to swim on the reef.

Los Barriles

Fun Fact: Los Barriles is the number one kite surfing destination in all of North America. It’s kinda a big deal. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by gale-force winds and take one look at the impossibly long and flat stretch of beach and you’ll understand why. For non-kite surfers, there is plenty to do in the area as well. For starters, shopping. I’m not a big shopper but Los Barriles has some great locally made goods like woven plant holders, indigenous masks, and rugs.

If adventure is more your thing ATVs are big here. There are tons of rental shops offering ATVs for reasonable prices that you can take barreling down the beach.

Both times I was in Baja, Mexicali was over 110 degrees (F). So I didn’t go. But I highly recommend you add Mexicali to your itinerary on your way out of Mexico. The border crossing lines are shorter and you’ll get to see an entire new chunk of roadway rather than repeating the toll road from Ensenada to Tijuana.

On the road to Mexicali, you’ll pass through the beach town of San Felipe. I didn’t get to go but I had Playa Hawaii on my “must-see” list. If you pay it a visit I would love to hear how it is. The photos are all of crystal clear blue water (like the rest of the east coast) and wide-open beach parking.

Planning your Baja Mexico Itinerary

The Baja Peninsula doesn’t have a lot of roadways traversing its desert landscape. This means if you don’t plan your route carefully you’ll end up stopping in the same towns you explored on your trip down South. You should plan to hit about half your destinations on the way down to Cabo and then half on your return trip up the Peninsula, that way you don’t have endlessly long drives punctuated with stops in towns you’ve already seen. You gotta break it up a bit.

Here’s where we slept on our way down the Peninsula.

• Loreto (Nearby Beaches)
• San Jose Del Cabo

& here’s where we slept on the way back to the United States.

• Mulege (nearby beaches)
• Ojo de Liebre

This way the drives were broken up more evenly. Because those long desolate roads get mind-numbingly boring otherwise.

Map of Baja Mexico Itinerary

Only Have 2 Weeks?

If you only have two weeks to road trip the Baja Peninsula I recommend focusing on Baja California Sur. An example Baja Mexico itinerary would be…

Consider Vanlife for Baja Mexico

If you’ve been waiting for your sign to convert a campervan for epic trips all over the US, Canada, and Mexico. This is it .

Since we built our van in 2020 for under $4,000 ( here’s how ) we’ve traveled to nearly every single national park in the United States , traversed the Baja Peninsula, and circled the US looking for the best “American” foodie stops . It’s been the cheapest and easiest way to traverse the United States and I recommend it to anyone with the work flexibility to give it a shot.

Fun Fact: Utah & Florida were our favorite states for vanlife.

Here’s how you can get on the road in 6-weeks.

Invest in a Comprehensive Van Build Guide

Building a van is overwhelming. It often involves countless hours scouring Youtube, blog posts, and facebook groups looking for semi-helpful information. It’s a huge project and when we first purchased our van we didn’t even know where to begin. What van layout should we choose? How do I build everything from scratch (from window covers to shelving)? Should I choose sheep wool insulation or polyiso boards? & these are just the easy questions. Katie & Ben from Two Wandering Soles provide the answers. They created these super neat van build breakdowns to help guide us through the process.

& if you’re a first-time builder I highly recommend their complete van conversion academy.

Investing in Van Conversion Academy Includes…

• Clear blueprints for all the most complicated van systems (I’m talking about you electrical) complete with online shopping lists where you can purchase the  exact  parts you need. 
• Tons of layout options to choose from. They even provide exact blueprints and measurements that you can copy for multiple van designs!
• Access to an exclusive Facebook group of fellow builders where you can ask all the questions your heart desires. 
• A COMPLETE step-by-step walk-through on how to build your van from fan installation to sub-flooring to sound dampening to water and propane. They’ve thought of everything including what the most common pitfalls are with each step and how to avoid them. 
• Lifelong access to ALL this content. & loads more I won’t cover here.

If you invest in ONE thing before you begin your vanbuild, make it this master course. Katie and Ben helped us build our dream van and whether or not you spring for a Sprinter (we didn’t) or something more budget-friendly they will make sure you get the results you want before hitting the road.

Or just check out my vanlife page for more inspiration.

Save This Baja Mexico Itinerary For Later!

Further Reading...

3 Towns Worth Road-Tripping in the Baja Peninsula of Mexico

Why you Need to Visit the Popotla Fish Market

Why You Should Visit Puerto Nuevo: Mexico’s Lobster Village

Becky Atkinson

Thanks so much for all the valuable information you have provided! I will be taking my first drive down to Baja in March and staying gone a couple of months or more. I have a home in Los Bareilles and always fly BUT NOT THIS TIME BABY!! I’m Baja Guuuurrrl now. Lol 😆

I have a question. My family and I want to travel baja this summer…I am a teacher and can’t really take time off other parts of the year. My husband races in Baja and assures me we’ll survive, but after reading your post about the sweltering weather I’m worried. We are going to tent-in with a new black out tent to help with the heat. We are driving from Tahoe and hoping to make it to Muleje to spend most of our time. We have 10 days. Wondering about your thoughts on this? Thanks!

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Your Complete Guide To an Epic Baja Peninsula Road Trip

Why you should road trip beautiful vermont in fall, beyond_the_bucketlist.

The ultimate road-tripper’s guide to Baja, Mexico

With its endless stretch of pristine coastline, infinite camping possibilities, and hidden gems tucked far away from tourist hotspots, Baja may just be the ultimate roadtrip destination for those seeking adventure south of the border. 

Even more than the beaches and the prices, you’ll fall in love with the ‘no bad days’ attitude and easy living that come along with being in Baja, the simple pleasures of eating freshly caught clams right on the sandy beach or paddling out for sunrises that seem to burn only for you. As you’ll soon discover, the peninsula hides incomprehensible magic, best discovered with a loose agenda and your own set of wheels.

This guide contains everything you need to know about road tripping in Baja, including required paperwork for driving across the border, advice for hiring a car, Mexican auto insurance , driving conditions, military checkpoints, road rules, petrol stations & so much more! 

What's in this travel guide

A little intro to Baja, Mexico

The Baja Peninsula, often referred to simply as  Baja , is a 1200km-long, slender promontory of land bordered to the north by California (and a bit of Arizona), to the east by the Gulf of California/Sea of Cortez, and to the west by the Pacific Ocean. 

Although many people talk about Baja as a single entity (and indeed it was once united as  The Californias , including what is now American California), it’s actually  comprised of 2 different Mexican states: 

• Baja California (also called Baja Norte)
• Baja California Sur (abbreviated BCS)

Both Baja states are culturally and ecologically distinct from mainland Mexico in a multitude of ways, and the landscape here is an incredible blend of Arizona mountains (think: the Superstitions ), California deserts (think: Joshua Tree ), and wild, untamed Mexican coastline (unlike anything else). The image of cacti leading right up to the ocean is something you’re unlikely to experience anywhere else in the world.

Prepare to enjoy:

• the freshest seafood you’ve ever had, caught by locals on remote stretches of the Baja coast and sold in small roadside taco stands
• beachfront camping where you can walk from your van or tent right into the ocean in a few strides
• colourful historical towns with cobbled lanes
• unique wildlife encounters with everything from whale sharks and friendly grey whales to hatching sea turtles and curious stingrays
• real magic away from the tourists who don’t leave their resorts in Cabo
• unlimited snorkelling, diving, kayaking, and swimming opportunities… the list goes on!!

Baja roadtrip overview

Outside of only a few tourist hotspots and busy metropolitan centres, the Baja Peninsula is largely undeveloped— a complete lack of public transport means that the best (and often only) way to explore Baja’s wide open beaches, hidden hot springs, and remote coves is on a road trip!

For those who’ve yet to do it, however, the idea of driving in Mexico can be pretty intimidating. I’ll cover heaps more details about all of these topics in the sections below, but let me assure you of a few things up front:

• Is Baja, Mexico safe? Travelling in Baja is really no more dangerous than travelling anywhere else in North America, and as long as you use common sense and don’t go looking for trouble, you’re unlikely to find it. The crime rate in Baja is incredibly low and, outside of the border cities, suffers from almost none of the political turmoil or drug violence that you’re probably worried about (but truly needn’t be). I’ve spent over a year travelling all around Mexico, almost exclusively in a vehicle, and I often refer to Baja as “Mexico Lite” : there is a long history of American and Canadian retirees coming down here in their RVs and they’ve beautifully paved the way for a prominent “camper culture”, with plenty of English, accessible services, and a general sense of familiarity between locals and gringos.
• Sure, but is it safe to DRIVE in Baja? Generally speaking, Baja is an incredibly safe place to road-trip, with well-maintained highways, friendly locals, and plentiful campsites. The one challenge with Baja is that you’ll often find yourself out of service, so you need to be comfortable navigating offline and also being out of communication on occasion . See my connectivity section below for some tips on staying safe without reception.
• What are the road conditions like? A majority of your time in Baja will be spent driving on beautifully paved, brand-new highways, but to access some of the best camping, you’ll inevitably travel off Highway 1 and onto sandy roads that lead out to the beach. This is more challenging and there are a lot of areas I wouldn’t have felt comfortable driving my van by myself because I’m simply too inexperienced with rough terrain. Based on your own comfort/experience, you can stick to developed areas or venture out to wild camping sites; you’ll always have options!

Getting to Baja

You have 3 options for getting to Mexico’s Baja Peninsula for an epic road trip:

• Fly in to one of several international airports (& pick up a hire car)
• Drive across the US-Mexico border in your own vehicle
• Catch the ferry from mainland Mexico (with or without a vehicle)

Option 1 : Flying to Baja

If your Baja roadtrip will span the entire length of the peninsula (recommended!), you can fly into either the north or south end to start:

• Tijuana (TIJ) or Mexicali (MXL) International Airports, both at the far northern border of Baja California *note that my suggested Baja itinerary begins in Mexicali
• Los Cabos (SJD) or Cabo San Lucas (CSL) International Airports, both at the southern tip of Baja California Sur

For those looking to do only a portion of Baja California Sur on their roadtrip, I’d recommend flying into either:

• La Paz (LAP) International Airport, the capital city of Baja California Sur

Search the best flight deals for your trip to Baja ↯

Option 2: Driving across the US-Mexico border to Baja

If you’re coming from the US and have a car, van or camper already, driving across the border is incredibly easy and a fantastic way to explore Baja!

There are 6 ports of entry between California, USA and Baja California, Mexico accessible to public vehicles, with the busiest being  San Ysidro (the busiest land border in the entire world!)  and the least trafficked being Andrade (about 15min from Yuma, Arizona, although the actual crossing is in California).

If you’re following my Baja itinerary , I highly recommend crossing in Calexico East /Mexicali II , which is usually very quiet, quick, and without hassle!

Required documents for crossing the US-Mexico border

• Proof of Mexican Auto Insurance (read this post for details)
• Vehicle Registration (original & copy)
• Vehicle Title (copy) or Lien Agreement
• FMM Tourist Card

For more information about all of this paperwork and step-by-step instructions for the border crossing, check out this post ↯

Vanlife Baja & Mexico: A guide to crossing the border + all required permits (FMM & TIP)

Option 3: Ferry from mainland Mexico to Baja

There are  2 ferry companies operating between Baja and mainland Mexico  ( TMC  and  Baja Ferries ), departing from both Mazatlán and Topolobampo, Sinaloa on the mainland and arriving into La Paz, BCS on the southern end of the peninsula. These ferries transport passengers as well as cars (I took my van from Baja to mainland Mexico on TMC in 2022), so it’s a great way to continue your road trip or just skip a potentially pricey domestic flight if you’re already in Mexico.

If you’re thinking about taking the ferry between mainland Mexico and Baja, be sure to read this super detailed post that will walk you through the process in great detail — it’s written from Baja to mainland, but applies in the other direction, too ↯

Vanlife Mexico: everything you need to know about the ferry from Baja to mainland Mexico (La Paz to Mazatlán)

Getting around Baja

Option 1: driving your own vehicle to baja.

If you opted to drive your own car, camper, or van across the US-Mexico border into Baja, the most important requirement that you need to be aware of is Mexican auto insurance.

As a condition of entry to Mexico (the Baja Peninsula and/or mainland), you are required to obtain a Mexican auto insurance policy with a minimum of third-party liability coverage—  this just means that your insurance company would pay out (up to the stated maximum) in the event that another vehicle is damaged or another driver is injured and you are deemed to be at fault. Unless you’re driving an incredibly inexpensive car and have no fear of theft/damage/vandalism, then you’ll likely want to invest in a more comprehensive policy. I wrote an insanely detailed comparison of Mexican auto insurance options that will help you understand what kind of coverage is best for you ↯

Vanlife Baja & Mexico: How to get the best Mexican auto insurance for a converted van or camper

My recommendation: Baja Bound Insurance

During my first 6-month Mexico roadtrip, we actually had an accident in our van and our agent at Baja Bound handled the entire process for us , from speaking to the police, getting insurance information from the other driver, and we didn’t pay a single PESO out of pocket— it was an unbelievably easy and stress-free process, so I truly can’t recommend this company highly enough!

Option 2: Hiring a car in Baja

I’ve rented a car in Mexico on several occasions and you can expect the rates to be very reasonable— but you’ll pay about 2x the actual rental rate for required insurance, a detail that car hire companies like to hide in fine print until you arrive to pick up the keys.

• Including the most basic insurance option, it costs about $45USD/day to rent a compact car in Mexico (even with different pick-up and drop-off locations)
• You may want to consider something with high clearance and maybe even 4WD if you intend to camp on the beach, which is such a magical part of exploring the peninsula. In this case, you can expect to pay more like $120USD/day for an SUV (inclusive of insurance).

If you’re following my recommended Baja itinerary, set the pick-up location to Mexicali International Airport (MXL) and the drop-off to Los Cabos International Airport (SJD). Search for the best rates using DiscoverCars , which compares dozens of companies to find you the best deal ↯

All about driving in Baja

Highway driving.

A good deal of Baja driving is on the highway, and although there used to be dicey stretches (particularly in Baja Norte), I’m pleased to report that all major highways are in excellent shape as of 2022 and driving on the highway in Baja is now fairly straightforward! The only thing worth noting is just how narrow the roads are, often with no shoulder, so be cautious as large trucks come flying by.

There are a few interesting idiosyncrasies when it comes to driving in Mexico, so here are a couple important road rules/customs to be aware of:

• When driving on the highway, you’ll notice slower vehicles pull partly onto the shoulder and sometimes even put on their left blinker— this is a signal for you to pass , driving partly in your lane and partly in the opposing lane in what can quickly became a dangerous game of chicken with oncoming traffic. Most of the time, this works incredibly smoothly and you’ll come to appreciate the easy flow of cars around you! I’ve also had enormous trucks come barreling down the highway directly at me and move back into their lane only seconds away from a collision, so just be aware that this is not only customary here, but extremely common. I’m not encouraging you to pass at dangerous times, of course, but if you notice cars banking up behind you, it IS expected that you’ll move partly into the shoulder to let them by.
• This can become very confusing if you are actually trying to turn left off the highway, as people behind you might think you’re signalling them to pass and accelerate right into your path— to avoid this, the law in Mexico states that you should pull onto the right shoulder and wait for a break in traffic before turning left across both lanes. 

Free vs toll highways While mainland Mexico is littered with a confusing network of free roads ( libre ) and paid toll roads ( cuota ), you can easily manage my entire north to south Baja itinerary on free highways in excellent condition. Unless you decide to cross the border in Tijuana (in which case you may indeed want to hop on a toll road), then you can just stick to the libre .

Military checkpoints

There are half a dozen military checkpoints located along the length of the Baja Peninsula and you’ll hit most if not all of them on my recommended Baja road-trip itinerary.

For the most part, this is no big deal— you’ll be asked where you’re from and where you’re going, and then the officers will have a look inside your vehicle. However, there is always the potential that the officers will swing to the other extreme and spend an hour tearing your car/van apart, possibly with drug dogs.

In VERY FEW instances, this can be an opportunity for corruption to appear. The police in Baja are rarely brazen enough to demand a bribe outright, but the military guards may bait you with questions like “can I have these headphones” or otherwise try to suggest that you’ve violated some rule to see if you’ll offer money. It’s almost always enough to simply say NO and, when in doubt, pretend not to speak any Spanish while acting politely confused and the officer will quickly relent. You don’t need to be concerned about things becoming violent or scary, as you’re right in front of the checkpoint; in all likelihood, you’ll pass through without any incident!

The location of military checkpoints are noted within the driving directions on my Baja itinerary post so you can plan ahead : BAJA VANLIFE ROAD TRIP ITINERARY FOR 1-3 MONTHS (+ DRIVING DIRECTIONS & CAMPING IN 2022)

Street/town driving

One of the bigger challenge of driving through Baja is on small town streets, like in Mulegé or Loreto. These street are often cobbled and only wide enough for one car at a time (despite technically being two-way), so proceed with caution and, if you’re in a larger vehicle or a van, consider parking outside of town and walking in to avoid hitting your mirrors on the side of buildings, as I did multiple times.

Google Maps Baja towns are extremely poorly mapped on Google, so if you’re following navigation with Google Maps, you’ll regularly be taken the wrong way down one-way streets and routed in circles through the city centre. When you’re in town, keep your eyes open for signs; on the highway, Google Maps is very reliable.

Beware: topes!

This is certainly the most boggling feature of Mexican roads and you’ll come to loathe them with a fierce passion. A tope is essentially a speed bump , but in Mexico, the height and shape of these bumps have absolutely no standards and are placed with WILD abandon throughout town streets, highways, dirt tracks , and basically anywhere you would never expect to find a speed bump.

You’ll only have to hit a few surprise topes to realise how damaging these can be to your vehicle, and for some inexplicable reason, a majority are not painted or signed in any fashion. Constant vigilance!

Driving on the beach

Some of Baja’s best free camping spots are located directly on the beach— it’s a big part of what makes a road-trip through Baja so spectacular, but can also be concerning for those who have a heavy 2WD van and little experience driving on sand. Here are some recommendations:

• Invest in all-terrain tires : before travelling to Baja, I swapped my tires for what many consider to be the BEST all-terrain tires on the market ( BF Goodrich KO2 ). Costco and Discount Tire routinely run specials, but even at full price, they are absolutely worth the money and were invaluable in safely navigating sandy or rocky terrain in Baja!
• Travel with an air inflator and pressure gauge : deflating your tires is probably the single best thing you can do to avoid getting stuck on the beach and often lowering the pressure further does more than traction boards OR hours of digging if you do get spun in. I ran 65/80psi (front/rear) for standard road driving, but aired-down to 30/40psi for sand and found it made a huge difference. 
• Walk the route: whenever I arrived at a new beach, I parked the van and walked through the sand to check for loose/deep areas that I needed to avoid and suss out the best route forward. I know this saved me from getting stuck several times, since the sand can get deep quickly in areas where it’s not possible to turn around, but often there are alternate routes if you take the time to look.
• Chat to other travellers : I always tried to introduce ourselves to at least one other camper on the beach, knowing that people will be far more inclined to help (if I did get stuck) after a friendly conversation. And as a rule, never push your limits on a super sandy beach when there are no other cars around!
• Know your limits: the best tires aired down to 20psi still won’t get a 2WD van onto every sandy beach, so knowing when to turn around and find another camp is very important. Typically, there will be easier-access sites a few dozen metres from the beach, and a 30sec walk to the water is much better than spending 2hrs getting your van un-stuck. When that fails, just head to the next beach— there’s no shortage in Baja!

Safety tips for driving in Baja

• Out of an abundance of caution, NEVER drive at night in Baja
• Once beyond the urban centres of Tijuana and Mexicali, Baja Norte has long stretches of very empty highway, so it’s really important to fill up whenever you pass a petrol station around the middle of the peninsula (and in particular, be sure to leave San Felipe with a full tank of fuel)
• In anticipation of the very limited mobile reception that I mentioned above and will discuss in more detail below, I’d recommend downloading offline Google Maps so that you always know where you’re going, even without service

Services in Baja

In the not so distant past, all petrol stations in Mexico were government-operated— you’ll still see heaps of Pemex around , particularly in small towns, but you’ll also find American petrol stations like Chevron, Arco, and even Costco in larger cities.

I consistently found Costco Fuel to be ~3 pesos cheaper than all other petrol stations , which may not sound like much, but adds up to around $15USD if you’re filling the tank!

• A 24-gallon (90L) fuel tank like the one in my Promaster 2500 van costs about 1700-2100 pesos ($95-120) to fill , which works out to be very similar to fuel prices I was paying in Washington or Oregon, and even a little cheaper than California. *based on 2023 fuel prices
• As of 2023, you can expect to pay around 22-24 pesos per litre.

In Baja, gas station attendants always fill your tank for you , so it’s helpful to familiarise yourself with a few phrases:

• magna for standard unleaded petrol
• lleno, por favor for a full tank
• es posible pagar con tarjeta if you wish to pay by credit card (which I’d recommend, since this will blow through your cash quickly and you’ll definitely need it when paying for food and camping)

These attendants work entirely on tips, so it’s a good idea to carry around some 10 pesos coins and 20 peso notes for tipping — I gave a larger tip if they washed my windscreen, which most do!

Wifi & mobile reception

As mentioned previously, one of the largest challenging of travelling in Baja is the lack of consistent mobile reception for long stretches of the highway and certainly at many campsites— I’d say that I had zero bars at camp more often than I had usable data.

Modern technology offers a few excellent work-arounds in the form of StarLink (satellite wifi that works EVERYWHERE) or the cheaper option of PLB/sat-phones like the Garmin In-Reach Mini , which is how I personally checked in with family while out of service and was prepared to call for help in the event that my van broke down. This is excellent peace of mind on long drives and at remote campsites!

For mobile service in Mexico, I use  Airalo , an amazing app that offers data eSIM packages for nearly every country in the world — you can activate the eSIM entirely from your phone, so you’ll have service as soon as you drive across the border or land in Baja without needing to track down a local mobile shop! Use code BROOKE2994 for $3 off your first eSIM with  Airalo !

Purified water

One of my biggest concerns before travelling to Baja was refilling the fresh water tank in the van, but it truly couldn’t be easier to find purified water ( agua purificada ) on the road in Mexico!

Locals rely on “water stores” for their own drinking water, so every single town will have a designated shop where you can purchase clean water, and almost all of these will allow you to fill your tank directly with a hose ( manguera ).

• Over 6 weeks in Baja, I spent just $14USD on water— expect to pay about 1 peso per litre (~$0.05USD)!
• Use iOverlander to find water refill spots around Baja or simply ask locals for the nearest ‘ agua purificada ‘

Where to stay in Baja

Camping in baja.

For those with a van or camper (or the willingness to pitch a tent), Baja has some of the most spectacular campsites of all time. All your dreams of camping on the sand with the ocean a few steps out your door are totally possible— no 4WD required! Here are some of your options:

• Facilities:  electrical hook-ups, dump station, toilets, hot water showers, laundry, WIFI, sometimes even a pool
• Typical cost:  250-800 pesos ($12-40USD)

Established campgrounds

• Facilities:  toilets, palapas, occasionally a restaurant (which might offer WIFI for customers)
• Typical cost:  100-300 pesos ($5-15USD)

Boondocking

• Facilities:  none
• Typical cost:  FREE!

Following my recommended Baja itinerary for 6 weeks, I spent just $24USD on camping. Check out this post to find out how , plus for a downloadable Google Map with GPS coordinates of every single campsite!

Hotels & Airbnbs in Baja

Although camping is the best way to experience Baja, it’s also possible to road trip the peninsula staying in a mix of hotels and Airbnbs . This will limit you to more populated areas and greatly extend your budget, but of course it’s an option for those not travelling in a van/camper or with a tent!

Accommodation prices vary wildly, but you won’t struggle to find something for every budget in places like La Paz, San José del Cabo, Loreto, and Todos Santos. Smaller towns, such as Mulegé and Guerrero Negro, have far fewer options, but generally speaking, you can find a comfortable hotel room in just about every main town for an affordable price. Check Booking.com for the best deals ↯

The perfect Baja road trip itinerary

After my experience driving from Mexicali to the tip of Los Cabos in my van, I put together a super-detailed 1-3 month road trip itinerary through Baja that you can use as a blueprint for your own epic adventure!

Here’s a quick summary (north to south) of all my recommended stops , but be sure to check out my full itinerary for heaps of information on what to do, where to eat, and where to camp in each destination, plus practical information like the drive time/conditions between each stop and the location of military checkpoints.

Baja California (Norte)

• Guadalupe Canyon
• Bahía de los Ángeles

Baja California Sur

• Guerrero Negro
• San Ignacio
• Bahía Concepción
• La Ventana & Ensenada de Muertos
• Cabo Pulmo National Park
• Los Cabos : San Jose del Cabo & Cabo San Lucas
• Todos Santos

Baja vanlife road trip itinerary for 1-3 months (+ driving directions & camping in 2023)

Read more about Baja, Mexico

start here -> The ultimate road-tripper’s guide to Baja, Mexico

How to get the best Mexican auto insurance for a converted van or camper

Vanlife Baja & Mexico: A guide to crossing the border + all required permits (FMM & TIP)

The ultimate Baja camping guide (+ 35 of the best vanlife & RV campsites!)

Baja vanlife road trip itinerary for 1-3 months (+ driving directions & camping in 2023)

Ferry from Baja to mainland Mexico (La Paz to Mazatlán)

brooke brisbine

I've spent the last decade exploring the world— everything from solo trekking in the Andes to overlanding in Zambia, all while completing a PhD in Biomechanics, teaching at a university & securing permanent residency in Australia. In 2020, I finally fulfilled my dream of becoming a full-time nomad! Whether it’s vanlife in Mexico, scuba diving in the Galápagos, ticking off incredible US National Parks, or climbing in the Dolomites, I hope this blog will inspire your future adventures & help you find wonder in every corner of the globe. xx bb

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You may also like, salkantay trek (day 2): soraypampa to chaullay via salkantay pass, how to get from cartagena to medellín (bus or flight): colombia transport guide, snorkelling at los tuneles: the best day tour on isla isabela, galápagos.

Is Baja safe? Should you drive? Things to know before you go

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Homework is vital before travel in Baja California, especially if you’re considering a road trip.

Questions over Americans’ safety in Mexico have been underlined by the mid-January death of Orange County public defender Elliot Blair, who suffered unexplained head injuries at a Rosarito Beach resort; and by the early March shooting deaths of two Americans and one Mexican in an apparently botched kidnapping in Matamoros, 1,570 miles east of Tijuana.

Here’s a rundown of sources I consulted and factors I weighed before my eight-day drive to Cabo San Lucas in early January.

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Overall safety

The U.S. State Department classifies Mexico’s states in four ways for would-be travelers. The most severe advice is “do not travel,” which currently covers the states of Colima, Guerrero, Michoacán, Sinaloa, Zacatecas and Tamaulipas (which includes Matamoros) on Mexico’s east coast.

The state of Baja California is in the second most severe category — “reconsider travel” — because of crime and kidnapping, especially homicides in the non-tourist areas of Tijuana. The State Department urges those who do travel to remain on main highways. The State Department also puts the states of Chihuahua, Durango, Jalisco, Morelos, Sonora and Guanajuato (the latter includes San Miguel de Allende) in that category.

The state of Baja California Sur, which begins about 450 miles south of the U.S. border, is in the State Department’s less extreme “exercise increased caution” category.

Canada’s government urges Canadians to “exercise a high degree of caution” in Mexico.

The website elcri.men , which summarizes and analyzes Mexican crime statistics, said Baja California had the third-highest homicide rate among Mexican states in 2022, in large part because of Tijuana. By the same measure, Baja California Sur had the fourth-lowest rate among Mexican states.

If studying up on conditions in the Baja peninsula makes you or your companions uncomfortable, stay away. Even if nothing goes wrong, feeling unsafe can ruin a trip. (I didn’t drive the peninsula with my family; I drove it with two people who felt comfortable with it.)

Driving in Baja

In addition to a valid driver’s license, Mexican law requires anyone driving into the country to have Mexico-specific liability insurance.

Many companies specialize in insurance for Americans driving south, offering liability policies that often cost from $10 to $40 per day. More extensive policies can double the cost but may give you more peace of mind. Vendors include AAA , Allstate , Bajabound.com , Baja-mex.com , Discoverbaja.com, Geico and Mexpro.com .

25 restaurants, hotels and hidden wonders along the Baja Highway

Cave paintings. Missions. A lagoon where gray whales gather. Whether you’re taking on the whole highway or targeting one stretch, the landscape is full of revelations.

All authorities agree that driving at night in rural Baja is dangerous because of the many roaming livestock. In addition, drivers should be ready for long, narrow stretches of two-lane blacktop without shoulders or turnouts.

Two other things: Drunk driving is just as illegal in Baja California and Baja California Sur as it is in California. Also, it’s illegal to enter Mexico with a gun without written authorization in advance from Mexican authorities.

More driving tips:

• Occasionally drivers in Tijuana, Rosarito Beach and Ensenada are pulled over after an alleged infraction and offered a chance to pay a fine at the police station or on the spot. Don’t argue or pay on the spot, many Baja veterans say. Instead, they say, the best response is to ask for a written citation and agree to pay the citation at the police station or by mail (or challenge it) . An additional option: calling Baja California’s bilingual Tourist Assistance Hotline (078, around the clock) from any cellphone with roaming privileges in Baja.
• Police checkpoints are placed every few hundred miles along the peninsula. Officers typically ask drivers where they have come from and where they’re going. We went through about six checkpoints, the conversation never lasting more than one or two minutes.
• Many roads to scenic spots are dirt, not blacktop, and best handled by vehicles with four-wheel drive and high clearance.
• The peninsula is so big that most travelers choose to explore selected portions. Many travelers fly to Los Cabos, La Paz or Loreto, rent a car at the airport, drive a loop and return the car where they began. Picking up and dropping off a rental car in different locations is possible in Baja but can double the cost. Topoterra is the only company I could find that would rent me a vehicle in San Diego and let me drop it off (for a fee) in Los Cabos.
• In Baja (and all of Mexico) distances are measured in kilometers, gas is sold by the liter (and usually pumped by an attendant) and speed bumps ( topes ) pop up in some urban areas. Gas prices in Baja have lately fluctuated around 22 pesos per liter (about $4.50 per gallon) and are often cheaper than in California.
• Beyond the Pemex station in El Rosario there isn’t another gas station until Villa Jesús María (just north of Guerrero Negro), 200 miles south.
• More detailed advice is offered by the Automobile Club of Southern California , Bajabound, AllAboutBaja.com and other sources.

Communication and laws

Southbound travelers must show a passport or passport card and are required to get an FMM tourist permit online or in person from Mexican immigration officials at the border. For trips of more than seven days, the cost is about $36 (687 pesos).

The more Spanish you speak, the better. If you’re hoping to camp on ranch land, the best preparation may be hiring a local guide who can help get you permission.

To ease web access and communication with the U.S., many regular winter visitors to Baja use Starlink , which for $599 up front and $135 monthly allows a road-tripper or RV driver to access the internet from just about anywhere in Baja.

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Born and raised in California, Christopher Reynolds has written about travel, the outdoors, arts and culture for the Los Angeles Times since 1990.

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Baja California Travel Guide

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Graced with tantalizing desert landscapes, lush oases and rich marine life, Baja California is one of the most compelling and popular destinations in Mexico. Its human history is no less enticing, with a legacy of remote cave paintings, crumbling Spanish missions, luxury beach resorts and fabulous seafood. Yet even today, Baja maintains a palpable air of isolation from the rest of Mexico. The peninsula lies over 1300km west of Mexico City, and the sheer distances involved in traversing its length – it’s over 1700km long – are not conducive to quick exploration.

Bahía de los Ángeles

Valle de guadalupe, guerrero negro, south to la paz, the east cape, wine tasting in todos, surf and swim el pescadero, when to visit los cabos, sand falls and neptune’s finger, the corridor’s best beaches, lobster town, baja legends: halfway house and la fonda, the transpeninsular highway (hwy-1), practicalities.

One of the most magical sights in Baja is the annual grey whale migration from December to April; the best places to see the whales are the Laguna Ojo de Liebre, just off Guerrero Negro, or the lagoon near San Ignacio, where the town is an attraction in itself. The peninsula is also home to some of the most bewitching and thought-provoking cave art in the world – the Sierra de San Francisco, between Bahía de los Angeles and Loreto, was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1993 because of its five hundred particularly vivid rock-art sites.

And all along the coast you’ll find turquoise waters and white-sand beaches; most towns in Baja California Sur offer fantastic opportunities for diving, fishing and kayaking, but Bahía Concepción, Loreto, La Paz and the remote settlements on the East Cape are the standouts among them. In complete contrast, right at the end of the peninsula, the booming resort of Los Cabos offers its own special blend of boutique hotels, beach activities, top-notch restaurants and wild nightlife.

You never know where your Baja California adventure will take you, so don't set off without securing great value travel insurance from our trusted partner Heymondo .

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If you have your own transport, a worthy detour off Hwy-1 is BAHÍA DE LOS ÁNGELES (also known as L.A. Bay), a small community of fewer than one thousand on the Sea of Cortez. The town maintains an underdeveloped, frontier feeling, little changed from when Steinbeck sailed through in 1941, while the eponymous bay teems with sea life and is hemmed in by contorted mountains and lots of enticing beaches. Because of the difficulty getting supplies to the bay, lodging and food are more expensive than you’d expect, and there are no banks or ATMs, so make sure you have enough cash.

Perched on the edge of the Bahía de Todos Santos, 100km south of Tijuana, the attractive port of ENSENADA is far calmer, cheaper and smaller than its northern rival, making for an inviting pit-stop and jumping-off point for the wineries to the east. Like Tijuana, Ensenada is a relatively recent creation by Mexican standards, despite being officially “founded” (ie discovered by the Spanish) in 1542; nothing much happened until 1872, when gold was unearthed in nearby Real de Castillo. Ensenada was gradually developed as a port, the modern town effectively planned and developed by American investor George H. Sisson and the British-owned Mexican Land & Colonization Co in the 1880s. The town remained a backwater, however, with tourism and modern development only taking off in the 1950s. Note that US cruise excursions to Ensenada are booming, so be prepared for crowds on days that ships are in port (mainly during the summer months).

While you're here, don't miss the Mercado de Mariscos (aka Mercado Negro) at the northwest end of the Malecón, where you'll find numerous stalls selling the day’s catches. The diversity of what’s on display – from squirming eel and smoked fish to giant abalone – is impressive, and it’s a good place to try the town’s lauded fish tacos, which were supposedly invented in Ensenada and have been served at the market since it opened in 1958.

The vineyards of the Valle de Guadalupe, just east of Ensenada, are not quite Napa Valley standard, but the region is clearly on the right track, as illustrated by growing international acclaim and the pioneering work of French-trained winemaker Hugo d’Acosta since the 1990s. Though you can show up at the major wineries without a reservation, it is best to call vineyards before visiting, especially if you’re coming in the warmer months (July–Sept). The villages of San Antonio de las Minas in the southwest and Francisco Zarco and El Porvenir in the northeast are the centres of the valley’s production.

Baja wines: five of the best

Once derided for watery grapes and poor vintage, Baja wines have gathered a loyal following since the late 1990s thanks to small-production, high-quality boutique wines. These are five of the best:

• Vino de Piedra, Casa de Piedra Tones of black fruit lace this blend of Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon.
• Viñas de Camou, Château Camou Bordeaux-style blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot.
• Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot, Monte Xanic Smooth, dark-red wine with a peppery aroma.
• Special Reserve Chardonnay, Château Camou One of the best white wines in the valley.
• Gabriel, Adobe Guadalupe Another exquisite red-wine blend (55 percent Merlot), produced by Hugo d’Acosta.

Continuing south on the main highway, there’s little between El Rosario and the 28th parallel, where an enormous metal monument marks the border between the states of Baja California and Baja California Sur ; you’ll have to set your watch forward an hour when you cross. GUERRERO NEGRO , just across the border, offers little in the way of respite from the heat and aridity that has gone before (winters, however, can find the town quite chilly). Flat and dust-blown, it was only established in the 1950s as a supply centre for Exportadora de Sal, the world’s largest salt manufacturer, and is surrounded by vast saltpans and drab storage warehouses. At most times of year you’ll want to do little more than grab a drink and carry straight on, especially if you don’t have a car – it’s a dispiriting place to navigate on foot. In January and February (and, peripherally, Dec & March–April), however, Guerrero Negro is home to one of Mexico’s most extraordinary natural phenomena, the congregation of scores of grey whales just off the coast.

Everyone ends up in LA PAZ eventually, the state capital and largest city of Baja California Sur. The outskirts may be an ugly sprawl, but the old town centre near the languid malecón, modernized as it is, has managed to preserve something of its sleepy provincial atmosphere. During the last week in February, La Paz livens up with its boisterous carnival, a plethora of colourful parades and cultural events that transform the town, while eating here is a real pleasure at any time. There’s not much to see in the city itself, but the surrounding beaches are lots of fun, and a boat trip to the Isla Espíritu Santo, rich in marine life, should not be missed.

South of Ensenada, most travellers follow Hwy-1 as it shifts from suburban sprawl to farmland and then into curvy, hilly passes that eventually drop into the Santo Tomás valley. From here it’s around 1375km to La Paz, a journey which can take twenty hours direct or preferably several days, taking in the entrancing landscapes and small towns along the way – you’ll see far fewer tourists on this stretch of the Transpeninsular Highway. The alternative (if you have your own transport) is to detour via Hwy-3 and Hwy-5 to San Felipe, then take the rugged route along the Sea of Cortez to rejoin Hwy-1 north of Guerrero Negro.

Bahía Concepción

There is good diving and fishing immediately around Mulegé, but the best beaches are between 10km and 50km south of town along the shore of Bahía Concepción, for once easily accessible from Hwy-1 – the drive down to Loreto along this stretch of road is truly spectacular. The bay ranges from 3km to 6.5km wide, is 48km long and is enclosed on three sides and dotted with islands. The blue-green waters, tranquil bays and white-sand beaches are spellbinding and relatively undeveloped – though you will at times find teams of RVs lining the waters – and it’s a good place to break your journey for a day or so before travelling south. As far as kayaking goes, there are few places better than Bahía Concepción.

Whale watching from Guerrero Negro

Whale-watching is the principal reason people visit Guerrero Negro, as hordes of friendly California grey whales (up to two thousand at a time), which spend most of their lives in the icy Bering Sea around Alaska, can be observed (at remarkably close quarters) from within the nearby Laguna Ojo de Liebre (aka Scammon’s Lagoon), thrity minutes south of town. It’s a magical experience – and many visitors actually get to touch the whales, which sometimes come right up to bobbing vessels after the engines are switched off.

Organized tours begin in Guerrero, but you can also drive to the lagoon and hire a cheaper panguero (boat) yourself. Take Hwy-1 south for 9km and look for the sign to the Parque Natural de la Ballena Gris. From here it’s 6km along a rough dirt road to a gate (which someone will open, but only during the whale-watching season Jan–March), and another 18km to the lagoon. You’ll probably be asked to pay the park entrance fee here.

San Ignacio

Leaving Guerrero Negro, Hwy-1 winds 142km inland for the hottest, driest stage of the journey, across the Desierto Vizcaíno. In the midst of this landscape, SAN IGNACIO’s appeal is immediate, even from a distance. Gone are the dust and concrete that define the peninsula, replaced by green palms and a cool breeze; despite being hammered by Hurricane Odile in 2014, it remains an oasis any desert traveller would hope for, and another excellent base for whale-watching and cave art tours. There are no banks in town and few places accept credit cards – it’s best to come with a supply of cash.

Tours and trips from San Ignacio

Whale watching.

Although whales are most in evidence in January and February, whale-watching tours to the nearby Laguna San Ignacio (around 50km from town, on mostly paved road) are offered from December to April. If you have your own car you can cut your expenses considerably (allow 1hr to be safe).

Cave-art tours from San Ignacio focus on the Sierra de San Francisco about 45km north of town, where 320 sites exist, dating back some eight thousand years; tour operators usually pass through the little town of San Francisco de la Sierra and head for the easily accessible Cueva del Ratón, or remoter caves such as the Cueva Pintada and Cueva de las Flechas in Cañón San Pablo, which require a minimum of two days.

The Tides of San Felipe

The upper reaches of the Sea of Cortez experience the world’s third largest tides – fluctuations of 6–7m are common. You’ll soon realize why tide calendars are so common in San Felipe; water that laps lazily against the beach in the morning can recede a kilometre into the hazy distance by mid-afternoon.

Legend has it that while walking in the hills around Santa Rosalía in 1868, rancher José Villavicencio chanced upon a boleo, a blue-green globule of rock that proved to be just a taster of a mineral vein containing more than twenty percent copper. By 1880, the wealth of the small-scale mining concessions came to the notice of the Rothschilds, who provided financing for the French Compagnie du Boléo (or “El Boleo”) to buy mining rights and to build a massive extraction and smelting operation in 1885. Six hundred kilometres of tunnels were dug, a foundry was shipped out from Europe, and a new wharf built to transport the smelted ore north to Washington State for refining. Ships returned with lumber for the construction of a new town, laid out with houses built to a standard commensurate with their occupier’s status within the company.

By 1954, falling profits from the nearly spent mines forced the French to sell the pits and smelter to the Mexican government who, though the mines were eventually left idle, continued to smelt ore from the mainland until the 1990s. Starting in 2004, Canadian-listed Baja Mining Corp worked hard to reopen the mine – despite running into financing problems in 2012 (Korean Resources Corp is now the main shareholder) and damage caused by Hurricane Odile, production of copper, cobalt and zinc finally began in 2015, with the new El Boleo expected to have a minimum life of 22 years. Minera y Metalúrgica del Boleo has promised to work with local authorities to develop housing, infrastructure and utilities, and so far has created around a thousand new jobs in the area (with 65 percent local hires).

Cave art around Mulegé

Other than as a springboard for the beaches to the south, the main reason to stop at Mulegé is to take one of the cave art tours out to the Sierra de Guadalupe. This range boasts the densest collection of rock art in Baja, as well as some of the most accessible at La Trinidad (29 km west of town), requiring as little as five hours for the round trip (including 6.5km on foot). Getting a group together to cut costs shouldn’t prove a problem in high season, but you still need to shop around as the tours differ considerably. Overnight excursions are possible too, including a night at a 260-year-old ranch and two different cave locations. Head to Las Casitas in Mulegé (615 153 0019), which also acts as an informal tourist office for information on other local attractions and tours. They can connect you with Mulegé Tours, run by Salvador Castro Drew (615 153 0232) – Salvador grew up in the area and is one of the most knowledgeable local guides.

Sea lions, whale sharks and Isla Espíritu Santo

There are plenty of opportunities for fishing, diving and boat trips from La Paz, but it would be a shame to leave without visiting the azure waters of uninhabited Isla Espíritu Santo, a short boat ride north of the city. Protected within the Parque Nacional Archipiélago de Espíritu Santo (including the nearby Los Islotes, a small group of islands that hosts a colony of sea lions), snorkelling trips invariably encounter dolphins, manta rays, and depending on the time of year, fin whales and whale sharks (Nov–March) – the sea lions are a sure bet and always the most entertaining.

Another popular escape for fishing and diving enthusiasts, LORETO was the site of the earliest permanent settlement in the Californias. Founded in 1697 by Juan María Salvatierra as the first Jesuit mission to the region, Loreto served as the administrative capital of the entire California territory until a devastating hurricane struck in 1829 and La Paz took on the role. Today Loreto is booming again; much of the centre is given over to craft shops and galleries, many selling silver, while the seafront malecón and central Plaza Cívica have been spruced up in recent years.

Some 8km south of town lies the largely expat community of Nopoló (aka Villages at Loreto Bay ), one of the most ambitious residential developments in Mexico, and the posh Villa del Palmar resort. Construction has provided a massive economic boost to the entire region, but critics claim that the project threatens to overwhelm the already limited water supply and Loreto’s delicate natural assets: Mexico’s largest marine park, Parque Nacional Bahía de Loreto , lies just offshore, while the weathered landscapes of the Sierra de la Giganta provide a stunning backdrop.

South of La Paz, Baja California finally runs out of land where the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez come together in spectacular fashion. The ocean and sea meet at the sister towns of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, known collectively as Los Cabos – easily the most exclusive parcel of land in Baja California. Undeniably beautiful and home to the lion’s share of the peninsula’s lavish resorts, golf courses and oft-photographed beaches, the area is one of the fastest-developing regions in Mexico (despite being hammered by Hurricane Odile in 2014), supporting a sizeable North American expat population and hordes of time-share owners.

But Los Cabos is just a tiny part of the cape. Many of its most remarkable areas still require a great deal of time and preparation to access, and many travellers rent cars to drive the loop north of Cabo San Lucas: via the fast Hwy-19 running straight up the Pacific coast through historic Todos Santos; the older Transpeninsular Highway (Hwy-1) trailing north from San José del Cabo to La Paz; and the third, most exhausting route along the East Cape.

The East Cape region features 120km of wild coastline, littered with stunningly beautiful beaches, especially around Cabo Pulmo. There is only a handful of towns and villages, with far less development than Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, though thanks to a major influx of North American “snowbirds”, US dollars are also widely accepted here, and English is often spoken.

The best of the East Cape is protected within Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park, with pristine beaches and a rare hard coral reef just offshore. The area is anchored by the off-the-grid village of CABO PULMO, which has a population of around 250, basic facilities (only solar power), no paragliders and no jet skis. The beach here is rocky with strong riptides, but just fifteen minutes’ drive south on a bumpy gravel road is Playa Los Arbolites (entry M$30), a gorgeous privately owned beach with palapas, toilets and showers, and decent snorkelling. About five minutes further south by car is Playa Los Frailes (free, no facilities), a picturesque cove with sensational snorkelling – it can be like swimming in a fish tank, with rays and turtles also gliding around. There’s also a sea lion colony about 1km further along the shore, accessed by boat, kayak or by a combination of wading and swimming (strong swimmers only). Rent snorkelling gear back in Cabo Pulmo.

The largest and most accessible resort town on the East Cape is LOS BARRILES, a sportfishing and windsurfing centre some 66km north of Los Cabos airport on Hwy-1 (beyond the turning to Cabo Pulmo). Though it gets busy in the winter, it retains a fairly laid-back scene, with low-key development along the shore.

Visit La Bodega de Todos Santos (612 152 0181) on Hidalgo, between Militar and Juárez, for Baja wine tastings (mostly Valle de Guadalupe), every Monday 5–8pm. The wine shop is otherwise open Tuesday–Saturday noon–7pm, with red wine tasting (and Doña Guillermina’s tamales) on Wednesdays 5–8pm. Also sells its own olive oil from the Valle de Ensenada.

Before heading further south consider stopping at El Pescadero, just 12km from Todos, a small dusty village close to some of the best surf breaks and beaches on the coast: Playa San Pedrito, a short walk from the village, and gorgeous Playa Los Cerritos, 1km south (look for the turn at km 65). Both beaches are good for swimming. Mario’s Surf School (612 142 6156) rents surf boards and offers lessons at Playa Los Cerritos, and there's a good choice of accommodation and eating options in the area. Most buses stop at Pescadero, on Hwy-19 (every 30min or so in both directions), but you really need a car to make the most of the area.

High season in Los Cabos, as in the rest of Baja, is November through until May, though domestic tourists also provide a mini boom July and August. January and February is the best time to see whales. Avoid Christmas and Easter (packed) and spring break (Feb/March) if you want to sleep; the fishing competition season in October and November can be fun but also busy. In the summer and early autumn off-season (May–June and Sept–Oct), the heat (up to 42 °C) makes things less appealing (though the sea is warm; many locals swim at night). Whenever you visit, you can be assured that it rarely rains – all the fresh water comes from desalination plants.

Dive trips are big business in Cabo. Experienced divers shouldn’t miss the rim of a marine canyon at a site known as Anegada, off Playa del Amor, where unusual conditions at 30m create the “Sand Falls” (famously discovered by Jacques Cousteau in the 1970s), with streams of sand starting their 2000m fall to the canyon bottom. Nearby, Neptune’s Finger is a rock pile smothered in sea sponges, gorgonias and sea fans.

The distinction between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo blurs further each year as new resorts are erected along the 33km Corredor Turístico (aka Hwy-1), or just the CORRIDOR, separating the two towns. As a general rule, Sea of Cortez beaches may be swimmable and Pacific beaches never are, but before you swim or surf anywhere in Los Cabos, ask a local and read any posted signs. Obey any signs warning you off wet sand and note that beaches deemed safe one season may not be safe year round – summer especially can be hazardous.

The good news is that every beach is free and open to the public, though getting to and from them can be a hassle without your own car. With the exception of Playa El Médano in Cabo San Lucas and Palmilla in San José, you can’t comfortably reach any of the beaches on foot unless you’re staying at one of the adjacent resorts. If you’ve got your own transport you can turn off Hwy-1 at any of the beaches and park in the sand; local buses (M$17–23) run up and down the highway every twenty to thirty minutes between around 5am and 10pm daily (just flag them down). There are no toilets or lifeguards at the beaches and if you want shade, food or drink, bring your own. All distances here are measured east from Cabo San Lucas towards San José del Cabo, 33km away.

Barco Varado, km 9. The remains of a Japanese trawler that sank in 1966 lie offshore here, making diving the main focus of this beach, though it’s also a popular surfing spot. Take the marked dirt access road off the highway; mind the rocks on your way down.

Bahía Santa María, km 13. You can scuba and snorkel on rock reefs (rays and turtles hang out here) at both ends of this horseshoe cove, and go swimming at the protected beach in the middle. There’s a secure parking lot ten minutes’ walk from the beach (signposted from the highway).

Bahía Chileno, km 14.5. There are toilets here (the only beach that has them) and a dive shop that rents watersports equipment (nothing with a motor, though), making Chileno one of the easiest beaches to enjoy. Definitely the best family beach; excellent for swimming, diving and snorkelling, or just relaxing along the well-packed sand – it’s also one of the few beaches with shady palm trees. Look for the signs to “Chileno Beach Club”. It’s popular, so go early.

Playa Palmilla, km 27. Good, safe 1.5km-long beach used by San José hotel residents needing escape from the strong riptide closer to home. Point and reef breaks when surf’s up. Popular for standup paddle boarding. Access the beach by following signs to One & Only Palmilla and taking the only dirt-road cut-off to the left, about 2km from Hwy-1.

Playa Acapulquito, km 28. AKA Old Man’s, this is a top surfing beach for beginners, blurring into Costa Azul. Also home to super-cool Cabo Surf.

Costa Azul, km 28.5. The region’s best surfing beach is known for the Zippers and La Roca breaks during the summer (look out for rocks at low tide). Board rentals available at the car park. Swimming is possible during the late winter and early spring, but ask at Zippers beach restaurant (daily 11am–10.30pm; T 624 172 6162) before you dip in.

American day-trippers have been coming to TIJUANA, the definitive booze-soaked border town, in significant numbers since the 1950s. Visits crashed ninety percent between 2005 and 2009 thanks to escalating drug-related violence and subsequent US travel warnings, but things are much improved since then, and the main commercial drag, Avenida Revolución, or La Revo, has recovered some of its former colour. Indeed, police crackdowns have left central Tijuana safer than ever before, and drug violence rarely affects tourist areas.

Founded in 1889, Tijuana now has a population of almost two million, and despite its often shabby appearance, the region’s duty-free status and its legion of maquiladores (assembly plants) have helped make it one of the richest cities in Mexico. The city has developed dynamic arts and culinary scenes, with institutions like Centro Cultural Tijuana (CECUT) emerging as a breeding ground for home-grown artistic and cultural movements. In the Zona Río, beyond the areas where most tourists venture, you’ll find sophisticated restaurants, clubs and modern concrete and glass buildings, offering the best glimpse of Tijuana’s other life – one that has more in common with San Diego than the adult-themed carnival atmosphere of La Revo. And the food is fabulous – Tijuana excels at tasty street snacks but also boasts some of the best restaurants in Mexico.

Once not much more than a dusty roadside settlement between Rosarito and Ensenada at Hwy-1 km 44, Puerto Nuevo is nowadays known the length of the peninsula for its near-fanatical devotion to the local speciality that bears its name: Puerto Nuevo-style grilled Pacific lobster. Found off the coast and throughout the rest of the Pacific Rim, these lobsters don’t grow as large as their Atlantic counterparts (actually, they’re giant langoustines more closely related to shrimps) and they don’t have claws, but they’re just as delicious.

Choosing where to sample the revered dish is made easy enough by the town’s one-way street plan, which juts to the west from Hwy-1; almost every one of the more than thirty restaurants here serves lobsters the same way, grilled and split in half with beans, rice and warm flour tortillas (M$150–300 depending on the size of the lobster). Most restaurants open 10am to 8pm on weekdays, with some open until 11pm Friday and Saturday. Cash only.

Some 25km south of Rosarito, the legendary Halfway House (“halfway” between Tijuana and Ensenada, at Hwy-1 km 53; 661 614 0372), opened as a cantina in 1922 on a cliff overlooking the ocean. Today the old-fashioned dining room may have changed little since the 1920s, but the menu certainly has: think quality seafood and the infamous “golden cadillac” margaritas.

A little further south, at km 59.5 in La Misión, La Fonda Hotel (646 155 0308) was established in 1962 by Eve Stocker. The ageing, rustic Mexican inn comes with ocean views, great Sunday brunches and easy access to the beach (one of the best surf breaks in Baja). Eclectic decor, handmade furniture, a breezy deck and decent Bloody Marys at the bar (all-you-can drink on Sun) enhance the experience.

The Transpeninsular Highway is one of North America’s great road trips. Part of the thrill comes from the long spaces separating major towns, the narrow segments of highway that snake along precarious cliffs and the animals and washouts that can block the road. But the biggest draw is the near-constant beauty of the desert, mountain, sea and ocean vistas and their illumination by brilliant blue skies and starry nights. The times here include necessary stops for petrol and army inspections; all cars and buses are searched at military checkpoints stationed between Tijuana and Ensenada (2); north of El Rosario; north of Guerrero Negro; north of San Ignacio; and north of La Paz.

Tijuana to Mexicali

Mexicali to San Felipe

San Felipe to Ensenada

Tijuana to Ensenada

Ensenada to San Quintín

San Quintín to El Rosario

El Rosario to Cataviña

Cataviña to Parador Punta Prieta

Parador Punta Prieta to Bahía de los Angeles

Parador Punta Prieta to Guerrero Negro

Guerrero Negro to San Ignacio

San Ignacio to Santa Rosalía

Santa Rosalía to Mulegé

Mulegé to Loreto

Loreto to Ciudad Insurgentes

Ciudad Insurgentes to La Paz

La Paz to Todos Santos

Todos Santos to Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas to San José del Cabo

Many Americans and Canadians take their cars to Baja; despite the scary headlines when it comes to drug violence along the US-Mexico border, this is generally easy and safe. If you intend to go on from Baja to mainland Mexico, you need to apply for a Temporary Importation of Vehicle Permit (see

"). Car insurance is not mandatory but is highly recommended. There are many companies along the US-Mexico border that sell Mexican car insurance by the day, week or month (most normal US insurance policies don’t provide coverage for driving in Mexico). Note also that in Tijuana, tinted windows are now banned. Other nationalities can always

on arrival – easy enough in Los Cabos or Tijuana.

If you're planning a trip to Mexico, don't miss our Mexico itineraries and information on how to get there . 

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AllAboutBaja.com

Travel Guide to the Baja California Peninsula

4 Important Travel Tips for Baja

Baja Travel Tips

Preparing for your journey to baja.

The very best way to experience Baja is by driving, but make sure to… Be Prepared! Check out our travel tips below.

If you are driving to Baja from California, we recommend that you use our Tijuana border crossing map!

Getting ready for a journey to Baja can present completely different scenarios, depending on how you plan to travel and how long you plan to stay. For many, it can be as easy as throwing a few pairs of shorts, some shirts (or blouses), and a bathing suit, or two, into a bag. For others, it can be considerably more complicated.

If you are flying to Baja, your task can be pretty easy, again, depending on the length of your stay. If you are driving, it can become as involved as preparing a well-equipped 4×4 vehicle for heavy-duty off-road use.

For others, it can mean packing of a motorhome or large trailer for a multi-month trip to a deserted beach where few supplies are available nearby. We have witnessed some really incredible examples of RV packing tricks, that defy the limits of both space and gravity.

Do I dare drive the family car to Baja? Of course, this is done every day. Make sure your vehicle has recently been serviced and be sure to check it over very, very carefully. Follow our instructions on the Be Well Prepared… The List page and remember that you are not in an off-road vehicle. You should be okay if you follow these travel tips.

Fishing-oriented travelers may have to get the boat, trailer and all of their fishing equipment dusted off and put into good working order for their next Baja adventure. Quite possibly, they will end up having to buy some extra coolers for all of the fish they are going to bring home.

For others, it may involve the prep of motorcycles or quads for the desert, dusty roads, and sandy beaches they plan to explore during their next Baja adventure.

In any case, getting ready for your first or your 30th Baja journey will usually bring on a feeling of exhilaration not usually associated with any normal vacation. Getting ready to experience “The Baja Feeling” is usually accompanied by a wonderfully exciting inner emotion.

Preparing for a drive down the Baja peninsula?

4 important travel tips.

First –  Make absolutely sure that your vehicle is up for the trip. See: Driving to Baja?   Be well prepared…The List . This should be done well before you are ready to leave.

Second –  Be sure to get a Mexican Car Insurance Policy , your U.S. car insurance policy is not good in México. Try to purchase your México auto insurance online or at one of the many insurance outlets, near all border crossings. Do not wait until you get to México! Change some dollars into pesos. Keep a bunch of small U.S. Dollar bills (1’s, 5’s, and 10’s, just in case). Do not count on all Mexican gas stations accepting your credit card (some do – some don’t). Not all gas stations will accept U.S. Dollars, although most will. Please note: You may even consider purchasing Travel Insurance !

Third –  You will need to obtain a tourist form FMM (they do not call it a Visa anymore) if you are planning on driving south of Ensenada or San Felipe on the eastern coast. For information on how and where to get your FMM, call the Mexican Consulate in San Diego at (619) 231-8414, in Phoenix at (602) 242-7398, or in Yuma at (928) 343-0066. No special auto permit or bond is necessary as long as you intend to stay on the Baja peninsula.  Alert : You may not be able to get an FMM in Ensenada, so do it at the border just to be safe.

Fourth –  First Day of Driving. Try to drive to San Quintín , El Rosario , Cataviña , or even Guerrero Negro for your first overnight stop. We often drive as far south as San Ignacio but that is really pushing the limit, for most drivers. For your second day, you may then plan a much more leisurely pace. Enjoy your drive, take in the beautiful scenery, and enjoy the abundant pleasures that Baja has to offer.

If you know just a few words of Spanish, always try to find a chance to use them, even if your pronunciation is not correct. If you know nothing of the Spanish language, try to learn a little before your trip. Just trying to speak a little Spanish can mean an awful lot to many Mexicans, who will take this as an extremely friendly gesture. Spanish for Travelers

How do I get to Baja?

It is very easy to get to Baja! The question is; which means of travel is best for you?

The very best way to experience Baja is by driving, it is usually a truly incredible experience!

If you are driving to Baja, from California, we recommend that you use our Tijuana border crossing map!

FMM Tourist Permit:

You will need to obtain a tourist permit (FMM) if you are planning on driving south of Ensenada or San Felipe on the eastern coast. You also need to get a permit if you plan to stay near the border for more than 7 days. For the best information about the FMM, call the Mexican Consulate (Visa Section) in San Diego at (619) 308-9953. The Consulate can also advise you as to what you need if you intend to travel with a pet. No special auto permit or bond is necessary as long as you intend to stay on the Baja peninsula.

The very best place to get an FMM is right after you pass through the customs lanes in Tijuana. The immigration office is on the right, just past the divided lanes. If you are staying seven days or less, the visa is free, if you are staying more than 7 days the cost is $20.00 U.S. You can request a multiple-entry visa that will be good for 180 days. If you wait until Ensenada or Guerrero Negro to get your permit, you will probably be subject to a fine (it’s not the good old days any longer) of up to $75.00 U.S. Airlines and cruise ships will provide the FMM for you.

Walking Travel Tips:

This is the poorest choice of any! Walking across the border, into México, is just not something we can recommend to anyone. It does not matter how many times you have done it in the past, walking across the border is just not a good idea. If you are thinking about taking a bus down the peninsula, think about using a U.S.-based tour company to get you to the bus station inside of México. Check the Internet yellow pages, you should be able to find a transportation company near the border that has the proper permits to take you across the border.

Airlines Travel Tips:

We do not hesitate to recommend flying into México, except for the border cities. The border cities are what you want to stay away from, for now. Flying to any location in southern Baja is the safest option. If you are planning to fly into Southern Baja, there should be no cause for any changes to your travel plans. Los Cabos, La Paz, and Loreto each have international airports, and these areas are some of the safest in all of México. Major U.S. and Mexican airlines have many flights scheduled into these airports, on a daily basis (except for Loreto).

Private Aircraft Travel Tips:

Private aircraft make flights into Baja on a daily basis. There are several remote resorts and beach camps in Baja where this actually has become one of the preferred means of travel to get to these particular locations. Private pilots must clear out of the U.S., with customs officials, and then check in with Mexican customs and immigration officials. You just reverse the situation when leaving México.

Cruise Ship Travel Tips:

Cruise ships serve Ensenada, Cabo San Lucas, La Paz, and Loreto. Even though we do not currently recommend visiting Ensenada, there must not have been many problems reported by their passengers. If there were any problems, the cruise lines would halt service to that destination. There are several smaller cruise lines, with much smaller boats, that offer whale-watching trips and ecological cruises out of Cabo San Lucas and La Paz.

Driving Travel Tips:

Driving is my favorite way to travel in Baja. It is a relatively easy option and this is the very best way to enjoy all of the incredible scenery that the wonderful Baja peninsula has to offer its visitors. This option offers travelers a free choice of how much time they choose to spend in each special location.

If you are driving, it is impossible to avoid the border area cities in northern Baja. With that in mind, there are some extra precautions you should be prepared to take.

If you are going to drive to Baja from anywhere east of California, we suggest you drive, at least, to Yuma, AZ on Interstate 8, before crossing the border. You can also cross the border just west of Yuma, at Andrade, CA (not recommended), or better yet, drive farther west to Calexico (recommended) where there are two places to cross the border. Crossing into Mexicali from the easternmost border crossing is your best bet. Many Baja aficionados who travel from all over the eastern U.S. prefer to cross at Tijuana. This route just seems to get you into the heart of Baja much quicker. Remember, that recent U.S. laws require you to have a passport to return to the U.S.

Bus or Shuttle Travel Tips:

You also have the option of taking a shuttle to Tijuana or a bus to Rosarito Beach. Mexicoach runs a shuttle and bus service from the parking lot by the end of the San Diego trolley line, on the U.S. side of the border.

DRIVING PRECAUTIONS : Purchase your Mexican Auto Insurance (this is a must) before you enter México. We recommend Baja Bound Insurance Services , they are reliable and they make it really easy. Cross the border as early in the morning as possible and do it with a full tank of gas and some pesos in your pocket (get these on the U.S. side of the border). When possible, try to travel in groups or small caravans. Keep an eye out for others on the road, or when you are stopped, that are driving south, and try to arrange some sort of an impromptu caravan. Try to get as far south as possible before stopping for the first night.

Try to drive to San Quintín, El Rosario, Cataviña, or even Guerrero Negro for your first overnight stop. Cataviña and Guerrero Negro are pretty long drives so plan for an early departure if this is your choice. We often drive as far south as San Ignacio, but that is not something I recommend for everyone. For your second day, you may plan a more leisurely pace. Enjoy the drive, take in the beautiful scenery, and enjoy the abundant pleasures that Baja has to offer.

***Once you arrive in México there are a few practical ways to go that extra step to assure a safe and pleasant trip. Always use common sense and avoid any overt displays of wealth, such as wearing a lot of fancy jewelry, expensive watches, or flashing large wads of cash. (If you must wear the jewelry or that Rolex, wait until you are comfortably situated in your hotel).

Remember, to always be polite and respectful of the local people. Leave the “Hurry Up” attitude at home, things happen at a much less frantic pace south of the border. Get used to it – it is very real – go with the flow and you should have an enjoyable trip.

Even if you know just a few words of Spanish, always try to find a chance to use them, even if your pronunciation is not correct. If you know nothing of the Spanish language, try to learn a little before your trip. Just trying to speak a little Spanish can mean an awful lot to many Mexicans, who will take this as an extremely friendly gesture. We have a page, “ Spanish for Baja Travelers “, that you can print and take with you, although I suggest you purchase a good Spanish language book.

There are also two ferry routes that bring travelers from mainland México to Baja. If you’re using this means of transit to arrive in Baja, you are probably already well-versed in what it takes to use the ferries, so we will not go into any detail about this method of travel. If you plan on going to the mainland from Baja, you will have to post a special bond.

So far, there have been no major problems in any areas of Southern Baja. Baja Sur is considered to be the safest place in all of México.

Baja Mileage Chart – Highway Distances

Routes, Highways, and Driving Distances in Baja, Mexico. To print this Baja mileage chart – Click on the link directly below. The map will open in a new window as a PDF file.

NOTE : The chart will print only the first section of the Baja mileage chart – “Highway 1 – Distances In Miles”

Print the Baja Mileage Chart from the open PDF window – then close the PDF window and continue browsing this site.

CLICK HERE to Print – the Baja mileage chart will open in a new window as a PDF file.

Important Telephone Numbers

Tourist Assistance – Toll-Free from anywhere in México 01 (800) 903-9200

Green Angels: (Roadside Assistance) 01 (800) 987-8224 or dial 078, where possible.

When dialing a local number from the U.S. or Canada: Dial 011 – 52 –  three-digit area code (from the list below) – dial the local number. To dial a Mexican cell phone from the U.S. – Dial 011 – 52 – 1 – three-digit area code (from the list below) – dial the local number. From within México: Dial 01 – the three-digit area code – then the local number. Locally: Just dial the number shown (as you would at home).

Emergency Telephone Numbers

Emergencies: (Police, traffic, fire, etc.) Northern Baja: 066 Southern Baja: 066

Immigration: Tijuana: (664) 636-6017 Ensenada: (646) 174-0164 La Paz: (612) 122-0429 Los Cabos: (624) 143-0135

Tourist Assistance Hotline: 078

Area Codes: Northern Baja

Tijuana: (664) Rosarito Beach: (661) Ensenada: (646) Tecate: (665) Mexicali and San Felipe: (686)

Area Codes: Southern Baja

Guerrero Negro, Santa Rosalia, Mulege: (615) Ciudad Constitucíon and Loreto: (613) La Paz and Todos Santos: (612) Los Cabos and The East Cape: (624)

Lost or Stolen Credit Cards/Travelers Check (Toll-Free)

American Express: 01 (800) 001-3600 Visa: 001 (800) 847-2911 MasterCard: 001 (800) 307-7309 Citibank: 01 (800) 849-4479

Medical Services

Dial: 066 for Police, Ambulance, or Fire from anywhere in Baja.

If you are going to be staying in an area away from a town, always check with the nearest hotel to get a local number for a doctor in the area that speaks English. Write that number down and give it to all members of your group.

Consulates & Tourism Offices

American: Tijuana: (664) 622-7400 Los Cabos: (624) 143-3566

Canadian: Tijuana: (664) 684-0461 Los Cabos: (624) 142-4333

British: (Los Cabos) (624) 173-9500 Ext. 220

Mexican Tourism Office in Los Angeles: (213) 351-2069

Banks (Toll-Free)

Banamex: 01 (800) 111-2020 Bancomer:  01 (800) 112-2999 CitiBank: 01 (800) 681-9875 Scotiabank Inverlat: 01 (800) 704-5900 HSBC: 01 (800) 712-4825

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Cabo San Lucas   Travel Guide

Courtesy of ferrantraite | Getty Images

Why Go To Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas first beckoned to Hollywood's elite in the 1940s. The town's rather seedy reputation changed as world-class resorts took up residence here, in the neighboring village of San José del Cabo  and along the 20-mile stretch of highway that connects the two (known as "the Corridor"). The construction of an international airport in the 1980s made it easier for travelers from all over to hop a nonstop flight to the "Los Cabos" area.

These days, this destination on the southernmost tip of Baja California is still known for its decadence – just take a look at the sprawling golf courses  or deluxe villas. But the elitist pretense has dwindled: Days in the spa are just as coveted as evenings at a beachside watering hole. One sprawling sanctuary boasts as much as 40,000 square feet of treatment rooms and facilities. And there's a good chance that you'll see celebutantes and college freshmen sunning themselves side by side on the same stretch of sand.

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• # 4 in Best Spring Break Destinations

Best of Cabo San Lucas

Best hotels in cabo san lucas.

• # 1 in Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal
• # 2 in Grand Velas Los Cabos
• # 3 in Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection

Best Things to Do in Cabo San Lucas

• # 1 in Land's End (El Arco)
• # 2 in San José del Cabo
• # 3 in Santa Maria Beach

Popular Tours

Los Cabos Luxury Sailing, Snorkel and Lunch Cruise

(1932 reviews)

from $ 97.30

ATV Tour, Camel Ride, Tequila Tasting and Mexican Buffet Lunch

(2224 reviews)

from $ 134.10

Cabo Migrino Beach and Desert ATV Tour plus Tequila Tasting

(899 reviews)

from $ 75.00

Cabo San Lucas Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Cabo is from May to June, when the wintertime crowds have gone home and the summertime storms have yet to hit. October and November are also nice months for a vacation, but you'll need to begin your hotel search early if you want to save money. It could be that your motivation for visiting is not the beach: If you're into whale watching, plan to visit between mid-December and mid-April. If you like to fish, look to come in the late summer or fall (October is the most popular period). Keep in mind: Pacific hurricane season runs from mid-May to November. Though Cabo typically only experiences tropical storms during the hurricane season, the city has seen hurricanes make landfall in the region. It's best to consider an international travel insurance policy regardless.

Weather in Cabo San Lucas

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Cabo is great for sport fishers Local catches include marlin, tuna and dorado. And remember, practicing "catch & release" is strongly encouraged in these waters.

Cabo is great for foodies Obviously, Cabo's strong suit is seafood. Try the delicious fish tacos – they'll change your life.

Cabo is great for whale-watchers If you're visiting in winter, you should take a sunset catamaran cruise around Land's End . This is a great spot and time of day to spot gray whales.

How to Save Money in Cabo San Lucas

Skip the all-inclusive  While all-inclusive accommodations are normally a way to save money, this might not be the case in Cabo due to additional hotel taxes. You'll save money dining off-property.

Inquire about the shuttle  Some hotels offer airport shuttle service for an additional fee. The cost varies, but it will undoubtedly be cheaper than taking a taxi.

Just say no  Vendors often peddle their crafts in tourist areas. Learn to say a firm but polite, " No, gracias. " If you think you'll be too tempted, avoid popular spots like Playa del Amor  during the midday cruise ship rush.

Culture & Customs

Many workers in Cabo's tourism industry speak English, so you can get by with limited Spanish. Many of the stores and restaurants have an Americanized feel, especially in the city center's chain restaurants. Nevertheless, it may be both helpful and respectful to know some basic Spanish vocabulary, such as hello ( hola ), goodbye ( adios ), please ( por favor ), and thank you ( gracias ).

Cabo's official currency is the Mexican peso, though U.S. dollars are widely accepted here as well. You're better off converting your cash to pesos, however, as the return exchange rate is unfavorable and even if you pay in U.S. dollars, you'll receive change in pesos. The U.S. dollar-to-peso exchange rate varies, so be sure to check what it is before you go.

And when it comes to dress code, keep in mind that standard beachwear is permissible during the day; dressy casual is preferred for upscale restaurants and nightclubs.

What to Eat

Cabo San Lucas has a special affinity for seafood, but restaurants featuring European and North American cuisines also attract travelers. Dining is generally expensive, but you can find cheaper eats and more fascinating cultural experiences if you try some of the hole-in-the-wall taco joints ( taquerias ) located downtown or along the hotel corridor.

Over the years as the area has increased in popularity, Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo have started to draw more and more acclaimed chefs (and their innovative menus) to Mexico. Some popular spots to try include  Suviche Restaurant  by Jean-Georges Vongerichten, located within the One&Only Palmilla Resort, which plates sushi and ceviche;  Flora's Field Kitchen , which offers farm-to-table meals; and Tadd Chapman's  Don Sanchez , which dishes out traditional Mexican fare with innovative flair. For a special occasion meal, consider El Farallon at the Resort at Pedregal for its oceanfront perch. If you're looking for a more casual but still tasty authentic Mexican meal, head to one of Cabo's smaller hot spots, such as Edith's ,  Mi Casa , Tiki Cabo San Lucas or  Hacienda Cocina y Cantina .

Cabo's spike in tourism has also caused a rise in crime. Both cities have been affected by the drug trade – and have seen some accompanying violence – but the main tourist areas are relatively safe. Travelers should be vigilant about their belongings, though. Pickpocketing is common in heavily visited areas, and those looking to take a drive along the Transpeninsular Highway should be vigilant after dark when highway robberies have been reported to happen. The U.S. State Department's website urges travelers to exercise caution. If you plan to swim, warning flags on beaches should be taken seriously. If black or red warning flags are up, do not enter the water and you should never swim alone.

Getting Around Cabo San Lucas

The best way to get around Cabo San Lucas is on foot or by car. Sites are clustered within the downtown area, though some vacationers opt for a ride on the scenic water taxi to get from the downtown marina to the best beaches. The only trouble is that you can't walk between the Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo ; you'll need to drive yourself or take a taxi along the Corridor. Just don't venture too far off the beaten path – there have been reports of car thefts in outlying areas. Car rental agencies have set up camp in Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), which sits roughly 25 miles northeast of Cabo San Lucas and 7 miles north of San José del Cabo.

Taxi rides from the airport to Cabo San Lucas can be pricey. Check with your hotel to see if they offer a shuttle service, or consider pre-booking with an independent company. You may have to share the ride with other passengers, but you'll save a bundle. Past travelers provided favorable reviews for Cabo Shuttle Services , All Ways Cabo Transportation and Airport Baja Transfers .

Entry & Exit Requirements

You'll need a passport that's valid for six months after your visit to enter Mexico. The paper FMM Tourist Card traditionally issued upon arrival has been phased out at certain Mexico airports, Los Cabos included. You will now receive a passport stamp. For more information on entry and exit requirements, visit the U.S. State Department's website .

The southern tip of Mexico's Baja Peninsula is where vacationers head to experience Los Cabos and its beaches, golf courses and resorts.

Explore More of Cabo San Lucas

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RVing Baja, Mexico: Road Trip to Paradise

Flanked by the big surf of the Pacific ocean and the tranquil Sea of Cortez, with three mountain ranges and a cactus-studded desert running up the middle, Baja is what camper dreams are made of! With basically one main road escorting you to the big highlights and a few dozen spurs into unspoiled wilderness, it’s as easy or adventurous as you want it to be.

Even though we have spent extensive time in Mexico ( housesitting , vacationing, even road tripping ) and consider this country one of our favorites in the world, we were a little nervous about RVing Baja. This is in part because Mexico is often portrayed as “dangerous” in the news, but also because we didn’t know if our slapdash RV style would fly. We wild camp in the middle of nowhere, drive well past sunset, and own a vehicle you could break into with a can opener. When we realized these were our own problems and ones we could easily fix, it was time to discover the Baja magic!  

Table of Contents

Our Baja Road Trip Route

Bahía Concepción has some of the prettiest beaches and not a single chain hotel! Driving from the Pueblo Mágico of Loreto there is a bit of a lull, but when you reach the city of La Paz and its surrounding islands and mountains, it’s wondrous all over again. Greater La Paz was even worth hopping out of the camper for a few days of island glamping on Espíritu Santo and a rancho homestay in the Sierra de La Laguna. (If you want to carry on farther south, check out this blog from a previous trip around Los Cabos ). Read on for our favorite tips from roads less traveled.  

Baja Camping 101

Let’s start with the basics of camping in Baja. The average cost of an ocean-view campsite is around $7 and quite often free. To discover them, start by downloading the iOverlander app . This led us to a variety of gems, from secluded sand dunes to family-owned restaurants that let you stay in exchange for buying a burrito. The app also maps out where to find propane, fresh water, showers, dump stations, and more with their handy filters. If you like the social aspect of camping, check out the VanLife app or Xscapers to connect with fellow adventurers. FYI, camping on our own always felt totally safe and serene. To help make this happen, we didn’t drive after dark, read the comments for each iOverlander listing, and stopped going down dirt roads if rain was in the forecast (after we LEARNED THIS THE HARD WAY !).

Tecate Border Crossing

Instead of entering Mexico via the busy Tijuana crossing, we went 45 minutes inland to Tecate. This town is not just the home of Tecate brewery, but it is a Pueblo Mágico, (a special designation for Mexico’s most culturally rich and historic towns). There was one car in line and when it was our turn, the officer only asked for our car registration (not even our license or passports!) and to take a glance inside the camper before he sent us on our way. While we kept driving to make sunset in wine country, we would recommend staying a night in Tecate to get your Mexican bearings and enjoy its traditional town square, 1,500-year old cave paintings, and tour the peninsula’s most beloved brewery.

Valle de Guadalupe: Wine Country Camping

Highway 3 carries on through beautiful mountain passes to Valle de Guadalupe’s “Ruta del Vino.” The region has been making wine for over 100 years, but the industry only started booming 20 years ago. Today there are more than 150 wineries, making it the “Tuscany of Mexico.”

For our first night in the country, we seized the opportunity to use our Harvest Hosts membership and camp at a winery (free of charge in exchange for buying a bottle). We pulled into L.A. Cetto just as the sun was hitting the mountains and casting its glow on their 4,000 acres of vines. Save from a security guard looking after the place (gracias, señor!), we had the entire place to ourselves. The next day we were happy to repay one of the country’s oldest and largest wineries with a tour and tasting. We’d also recommend Las Nubes and Bar Bura, not just for their wine but for their views of this gorgeous region.

Punta Banda: Hot Springs & Marine Geysers

Less than an hour south of Ensenada (home of the original fish taco and Baja’s oldest cantina, the great Hussong’s), lies our favorite sliver of the far north: Punta Banda peninsula. It is full of natural wonders, starting with their hot spring beach! At low tide, you can see steam rising from the sand—those are your hot spots and where you want to start digging. We plunged our shovel (see our Baja packing list below) and 100-degree water bubbled up! In just fifteen minutes, we had a natural jacuzzi with views to the bluffs! Could Punta Banda get any better? It did.

At the tip of peninsula, we found Campo El Mirador , a campground on a mountain spine that drops to the sea and the famed La Bufadora marine geyser. At high tide, this blowhole shoots water up to 90 feet in the air! From your campsite, it’s a gorgeous hike through coastal succulent gardens and free when you arrive by foot! Hot Springs Intel : There is no name or sign for Punta Banda’s hot springs. This is what RVing Baja is all about! To get there, follow these GPS coordinates (31.7167, -116.6661) and park at the mini mart (good to buy some cervezas from them to earn your spot). On the right, there is unassuming long narrow path between properties that leads down to this delightful public-access beach!

The Otherworldly Desierto Central

Baja’s tourists generally stick close to the border and Los Cabos in the far south, but little do they know that Baja’s most iconic beauty lies in the middle. The Valle de los Cirios is the second largest protected natural area in Mexico, spanning from coast to coast all way to the state line with Guerrero Negro. Towns vanish and cacti are the new skyscrapers. Fifty-foot tall cardons, Dr Suess-like cirios plants, pink barrel cacti, and boulders are strewn about the sierras.

The first sign of civilization you’ll encounter is one created 1,000 years ago by the Cochimí people at the incredible Cataviña cave paintings. We took the short, steep hike and ducked into the ancient art gallery. Spared from wind and rain, the ceiling retained its vibrant depictions of dancers, animals, and geometric motifs. Rather than hike back the way we came, we climbed down the backside to the river valley for some fun rock scrambling among this palm-tree oasis.

Connectivity Tip : There is no cell service between El Rosario and Guererro Negro. Hotel Mision Cataviña offers WiFi by the hour, plus a decent restaurant, bathrooms, and a beautiful cactus garden.

Ojo de Liebre: Communing with Gray Whales

In addition to warm weather, gorgeous scenery, and fantastic people, the reason we came to Baja, Mexico is for the one-of-a-kind whale watching. Each winter hundreds of gray whales migrate from their feeding grounds in the Arctic to their breeding grounds in Baja. They come to birth and raise their calves in three Pacific lagoons: Magdalena Bay, San Ignacio, and Ojo de Liebre. With whale hunting a thing of the past, generations of whales have come to see boats and humans as a chance for friendly interactions. It seems unbelievable but mothers actively encourage their babies to approach panga boats!

So excited by this prospect, we seized the first whale-watching opportunity on our route. Leaving from Guerrero Negro with Mario’s Tours ($50 for three hours, plus lunch), eight of us hopped in a little boat and cruised along the sand dunes until we got to Ojo de Liebre. We saw whales spouting off in every direction and with patience, a mother and calf came to play with us for 25 minutes ( and we caught it on video !). Spyhopping and diving just inches from our boat, this was by far the most intimate whale encounter we have ever had. Though speaking of intimate, we later saw three whales rolling around in a courtship ritual!

Whale Watching Tip : While we loved our experience out of Guerrero Negro, the town of San Ignacio is a much cuter basecamp (a Spanish colonial charmer) and supposedly their lagoon has even friendlier whales!

Don’t Miss These Spanish Missions

Heading out to the Sea of Cortez, incredible Spanish colonial missions begin to appear. Starting with Misión San Ignacio Kadakaamán, you’ll drive alongside gorgeous palm-lined lagoons and this stone beauty from 1728 appears in the heart of San Ignacio village. At the start of Bahía Concepción, the expat haven of Mulegé is great for getting gringo comforts and propane refills and, of course, its mission. Tucked high above town and up a snaking side street, it’s easy to miss but well worth the efforts to see this foreboding structure overlooking the river and sea. (Interesting fact, it doubled as a stronghold in defeating the invading Americanos during the Mexican-American War of 1846-1848.)

Farther south, the 17th-century Misión de Nuestra Señora de Loreto Conchó is the first mission the Spanish built in the region, making it mother of all Baja and Alta California missions. If you have the time, Misión San Francisco Javier de Viggé-Biaundó is an hour off the main road from Loreto and supposedly the prettiest of them all!

Santa Rosalía: French Baja

Santa Rosalía is the first real town when Highway 1 hits the Sea of Cortez, and while it’s far from the prettiest, it is the quirkiest. It was started by a French mining company in 1884 so the architecture is unlike anywhere on the peninsula, with its ornate wooden homes and a metal church designed by none other than Gustave Eiffel of Paris tower fame. The owner of the mining company, snatched it up after its appearance in the World’s Fair and had it flat packed on a boat to Baja to bring some religious sophistication to town. He also made sure they had a quality French bakery—the one and only, El Boleo. We followed our nose to this institution and a worker motioned us over for a behind-the-scenes tour of their pastry chefs making the original recipes in the 19th-century stone ovens.

Bahía Concepción: The Best of Baja RV Beach Camping

When you see those idyllic photos of Baja with turquoise waters, cactus-studded islands and white-sand beaches, it’s probably somewhere along Bahía Concepción. While there are surprisingly few tourists, there are few enclaves of snowbirds that have it all figured out. When we got to Playa Santispac, this beach cove dotted with islets took our breath away, as did the volume of RVers. We would normally be turned off by such a crowd and $10 camping fee, but something interesting was happening here. This was a world unto itself where over 100 retirees set up camp for months at a time, completely cut off from the outside world, with nothing but this stunning beach, the facilities of their RVs, and one rocking bar.

After a glorious kayak around the islands, we walked the beach chitchatting with people from Alberta, Michigan, and virtually every cold weather region in North America. Then the music sparked up! Turns out, the original Van Halen drummer winters down here and he’s formed a solid local band. We may have been 25 years younger than anyone at this party, but they were dancing us under the table until Baja Midnight (9pm) and rewriting the definition of a retirement community. For something more chill along Bahía Concepcion, Playa El Requesón is a stunning spit that fans into two coves and beaches like Playa Armenta are plenty beautiful for the price of free.

Kayaking Bahía de Loreto National Park

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Mike & Anne – HoneyTrek.com (@honeytrek) on Mar 8, 2020 at 1:31am PST

The town of Loreto is a tourist favorite with its ancient mission, ficus-tree archways, margarita happy hours…but to us, it’s all about the Bahía de Loreto National Park. This UNESCO biosphere reserve and Mexico’s largest marine preserve is ripe for island hopping, scuba diving, and kayaking. For a self-guided kayak adventure, we honed in on Isla Coronado, a volcanic island with beach coves, rock scrambling, reptile spotting (16 species!) and sand spits too shallow to be reached by motor boats.

In the protected bay there was very little wind so we cruised alongside the birds, fishies, and bobbing sea turtles. After three miles of paddling, we reached the white sand beach, without a soul on it, and hiked the black boulders to the ridge. On the way home, our arms were feeling the burn, but a sandbar island and the lunch in our drybag kept us motivated. Our craft skidded ashore, feeling like this low-tide island only emerges for adventurers like us. Kayaking Tip : For the put-in spot, follow signs to “La Picazon” restaurant and have faith that the long dirt road will get you to a good parking spot (GPS: 26.0897, -111.3256) and a short path down to the beach.

The Road Angels of Lonchería Lupita

After Bahía de Loreto, Highway 1 does a massive S-curve into the desert abyss until it swoops back out to the Sea of Cortez, and even though it’s not the most interesting stretch, we had one of our favorite cultural experiences here. It was getting dark so we consulted iOverlander and they listed “Lonchería Lupita” as a roadside cafe that’s friendly to RVers. We arrived as they were closing but instead of turning us away, the family invited us into their personal kitchen for an off-menu burrito feast complete with a mountain of steamed veggies (a vegan dream!).

While Lupita was preparing dinner, Mike and her grandson invented games with a ball and a box, while I enjoyed a chat with the patriarch. Then, in walks the daughter with her eight-day-old baby. Even though she’d only known us a few minutes, she put her newborn in my arms as if we were part of the family.

La Paz Carnaval

We reached the vibrant city of La Paz, just in time for Carnaval! It’s said to be one of biggest pre-Lent celebrations in the country, so if you’re arriving in February, try to align your trip with the festivities ( dates here ). This five-day festival takes over the malecón (seaside promenade) with parades, bands, rides, games, and countless food stalls. With our expat friend Kristen Gill as an accomplice, we dove head first into the carnaval revelry. We cheered on the parade, sampled junk food, drank the legendary Doble Canalas (beer, clamato, and vodka), danced at every bandstand, and rode the swirling swings for 360-views over town.

Bahía de La Paz: Snorkeling with Whale Sharks

Every winter upwards of 100 adolescent whale sharks come to feed in the Bay of La Paz. While this happens in various locations around the world, this is one of the most accessible and responsibly managed destinations for these wildlife encounters (read: no feeding or crowding). We went on a full-day boat trip with RED Travel , a Baja leader in sustainable tourism, and it exceeded our expectations. To make sure the whale sharks have ample space, a limited amount of boats can be in the sanctuary at any time. The good news is, “waiting your turn” means a boat trip into the archipelago to see rare birds like the blue-footed boobies, the San Rafaelito sea lion colony, and Balandra Beach (known to be one of Mexico’s most beautiful).

After a whale shark orientation by our brilliant young guide and biologist, Andrea Quintero, we were ready to swim with the world’s largest fish. The main rule is to stay out of their path (as docile as they are, they move like freight train). We swam alongside a baby, then a 25-footer, marveling at their gorgeous spotted skin, swishing fins, and the symbiotic fishes hitching a ride.

Swimming with Dolphins in Bahia de La Paz

As if our wildlife encounters couldn’t get better, a pod of dolphins was diving around our boat and our guide asked, “Want to swim with them?” With a heck yea, we dove back in and were eye-to-eye with a half dozen bottlenose beauties! To end the perfect day, we docked on a deserted beach for ceviche (cod or quinoa style), cervezas, and sunbathing. See this incredible day on film, here .

Glamping Isla Espíritu Santo

Featured in our book Comfortably Wild: The Best Glamping Destinations in North America , Camp Cecil earns its spot in the “Safari” chapter and our hearts. During our three days on the island we cruised alongside dolphins, swam with baby sea lions, and spotted birds rarely seen outside of the Galapagos. Better yet, whenever we sailed or paddled back to camp, fine food and fabulous tents awaited us with big smiles. Watch this video —it’s time to go glamping Baja style!

Ranchero Culture in the Sierra de la Laguna

The Sierra de La Laguna is also a UNESCO biosphere reserve, recognized for its contrasting ecosystems and volume of endemic species. Our two favorite tour operators Todos Santos Eco Adventures and RED Travel both offer trips here. As tempting as it was to try the brand new Camp Cecil de La Sierra glamp camp, we were excited to try an overnight trip with RED and learn more about their Mexican culture and reforestation programs. We arrived to the fourth-generation Mesa family ranch and were welcomed with a vegetarian feast. Sitting on their terrace, surrounded by tropical fruits and looking out to the rolling cow pastures, we started to see the interconnectedness of life on the ranch and food on the table.

Tortilla-Making in La Paz

Over the course of two days, Ricardo showed us how to milk cows and Cristina taught us to turn that fresh milk into cheese. We visited the neighbors who proudly showed us their thriving vegetable fields. In the evening, we spent time in the thatch-roof kitchen learning the art of tortilla-making, over the same comal Richie’s mother cooked on 70 years ago. As we were eating dinner, our guide spotted a pair of endemic elf owls and it inspired a nocturnal safari that lasted until 11pm, followed by another birdwatching session at sunrise. Despite its UNESCO status, the Sierra de la Laguna is being threatened by mineral exploration.

To prove that the cultural value of the Sierras is greater than the proceeds of mining, we need families like the Mesas, tour operators like RED, and tourists like you. Check out RED’s environmental and community initiatives here .

Returning North

While it could be a bummer to retrace a 1,000-mile route, Baja is so gorgeous it’s worth a second pass. Plus, the recently paved Highway 5 makes it easy to switch things up with a drive along the Sea of Cortez to the Mexicali border. We cruised into the desert abyss, then Gonzaga Bay appeared like a mirage. Big mountains, sweeping beach coves, and islands spiking out of the sea, it was Baja at its rawest beauty. We pulled into the Papa Fernandez campground, where they charged us a whole $5 to camp on a million dollar beach (GPS: 29.8321, -114.4028) with only one other RV.

Further up the coast, make sure to stop at the unassuming town of Puertecitos and their ocean hot springs at low tide, when their rock pools hit the perfect temperature. For our last night on the Sea of Cortez, we stayed in the sleepy tourist town of San Felipe, walking the malecón, drinking margaritas, and toasting to one heck of a trip.

Mexicali & Mechanics All Over Baja

As we were approaching the Mexicali border, it dawned on us that Mexico has some of the best and most affordable mechanics and we’d be remiss to not get a little more work done. We pulled into Super Mofles to weld a crack in our manifold downpipe, partly because it was a good deal, but also because auto shops had proved to be a priceless opportunity for cultural exchange. When we got our leaf springs done at Muelles Verdugo in La Paz, we felt so fortunate to spend the day with a pair of brothers in a medieval-style blacksmith shop passed down from their father, where they were literally reshaping metal with a coal fire, an anvil, and brute force.

We bonded and as a tip, we gave their adorable son my old Razor scooter and them a six pack of beer so we could raise a glass to their incredible work. All told we got a new muffler ($55), catalytic converter ($100), welded manifold downpipe ($10), oil change ($5), rebuilt front sway bar + bushings ($25), four new leaf springs (quoted at $1,100 in the US and $180 in Mexico), and an even better Buddy the Camper. From the Verdugo brothers welding to Lupita’s luncheonette, the warmth of the Mexican people is as strong as the sunshine.

RVing Baja, Mexico: Planning and Packing

We love Baja and hope you fell in love with it too. Looking forward to your thoughts and questions in the comments below!

32 Comments

Wow! What an adventure! I want to re-create this so bad. You had me at wine country camping. I’ve always wanted to see more of Mexico and this really is pushing me to go as soon as we get the chance. I love that some of the older folks were able to dance you guys under the table – that’s great! Also, I’ve found people in Mexico to be the most sincere, kind, and familial. The fact that your new friend felt comfortable allowing you to hold her most precious treasure, her newborn in your arms says it all. Exceptional post!

You totally should re-create it Stephanie. It was honestly one of the coolest road trips we have ever done. Most people just fly to Cabo, or go to the border town of Tijuana…and they totally skip all the magic in the middle! And you are spot on about the beauty of the Mexican people, they are so warm and giving (contrary to what the media would have you believe)

Baja is a place that has been on our travel wish list for awhile. We had a small taste test when we went wine tasting in Ensenada as a cruise port stop. We too were surprised with how great the wine from this region was. I can see why it would be a great spot for an RV trip. Some of those camping spots look simply stunning! I love that mix of desert and cactus with roaring seas! So cool that you were there when the grey whales visited. But scuba diving with whale sharks is on our absolute travel wish list. What an amazing experience that must have been!

Valle de Guadelupe was quite sophisticated and Ensenada is definitely getting trendier with its microbreweries and vegan food stalls. Though our favorite part of that area was just south on Punta Banda…it would actually be an easy weekend trip from San Diego if you’re ever that way! Baja is so darn pretty, all our camping spots were incredible and oh my goodness, the whale sharks! Hope you get back down to Baja!

I love it! This has always been. dream of mine and I love how thorough you were with your guide! Some of my must sees are the Marine Geysers and the whale watching! Cap it off with some whale sharks, I don’t think I’ll ever leave!

Glad you enjoyed it Joe! We felt the exact same way…we totally didn’t want to leave, and we are already planning our return, once this COVID madness is over.

Baja looks like it has everything! The outdoors, amazing beaches, those gray whales, good food, and of course wine tasting. Just added it to my list when I eventually get south of the border!

It has all of those things….and so much more! We spent 3 weeks there, and we EASILY could have spent 3 months on the peninsula!

I love road trips by RV. Last year we traveled for six months in a camper truck from Alaska to Florida. But we would like to make a similar trip to Mexico. I have added the places you guys visited to my list. Especially Valle de Guadelupe, because we are also wine lovers. And Punta Banda because we love hot springs, and when we only have a chance, we visit hot springs. And I would love to kayaking Bahía de Loreto National Park. You had such a beautiful adventure!

Hey Agnes, welcome! You guys did a road trip from Alaska for Florida….for serious? Did you do any blogs about it? Mexico was soooooo amazing, and so much safer than we thought (or rather, were told by the news) it would be! Thanks for the love girl!

This looks like the perfect life. I usually go with my car and stay in camping grounds, and my dream is to have a van or a camper to have the whole house with me. RVing Baja in Mexico looks an amazing destination, I’d love to be able to camp or glamp there one day. How long have you been traveling around?

Oh yeah camper/rv/van through Baja is the ONLY way to explore it (in our humble opinion)…we have been traveling North America full time for 3 years, and we can’t imagine a better way to see the continent!

Wow! This looks amazing! I haven’t had the courage to go RVing, but it is something that I have always wanted to do 🙂 You had me at the wine tasting, then I started seeing all the pics and I fell hard! The Ranchero Culture in the Sierra de la Laguna looked very unique, so raw and true. I always try to dive in the local culture of the places I travel to. Thank you so much for sharing this with us!

Lulia, oh wow, thanks for the lovely reply. You TOTALLY need to try the RV style. It is such a unique way to meet people, and also to explore a country…because you are no longer bound by the city centers and where the public transportation goes. You can really get out in the country and into places most people never visit!

I love your photos at Bahía de Loreto National Park!

My husband and I are planning to do some boondocking in Baja. Curious on what type of auto insurance coverage you purchased? Full coverage or liability?

Baja is incredible, you’ll have a blast! We Sanborn’s liability insurance.

Greetings! My husband and met in San Felipe, Baja 31 years ago. On a subsequent trip we made it all the way to Baja de Los Angeles. It has been on our list to travel the whole of Baja by vehicle.

We are now 64 and 60 years old and we have another adventure to plan! We are looking at starting our trip in 12 months when we get ‘off the wheel’ – so to speak.

We will down size our home of 20+ years into a 5th wheel and rent the house out! Whoo hoo!

Putting this plan in writing makes me so excited as it makes it more real!

Your tips and guide are just what I was looking for to help in the process.

Kim & Steve Rapholz Ojai, California

Kim & Steve, congrats on the big downsize and upcoming adventures! We gave up our house 10 years ago for a life of travel it was the best decision we ever made! We love helping more people hit the road…have you checked out our Trip Coach page: http://www.HoneyTrek.com/TripCoach ? We’ve helped 60+ people successfully hit the road for multi-month and multi-year journeys and hope we can do the same for you!

Your trip sounded perfect, incredible write up! Thank you! I want to leave for a Baja trip next week and this answered many questions I had.

One question that comes to mind is: How fluent are you two in Spanish? If you are fluent how did that impact the trip and same question if you are not fluent.

I know very little Spanish and wonder if this trip would be best next winter with more knowledge of the language, or take this trip and learn with the locals lol?

So glad our post was helpful! Anne is close to fluent and I know a good bit of Spanish so it’s hard to gauge how hard a trip would be without it but what we do know is that the locals are incredibly friendly and that most have enough English to understand what you’re saying…and of course use however much Spanish you have to show you’re trying. Don’t wait…go for it!

Hi, I’m so thrilled that I landed in your Baja blog. I too have a Sunrader and just wanted to learn about how the roads were for your SR. Any tips for preparing my toyhome? I’m heading south in a few weeks!

Thanks and enjoy the holiday season!!! Ruby

yay for Sunraders!!! You’ll love Baja, just check the weather before you go off-roading so you don’t get in too deep. Did you see our “Boondocking Gone Wrong” article? that’s what I’m talking about lol. So glad you enjoyed our post and have so much fun in Baja…it’s camper heaven!!!

We went on a full-day boat trip with RED Travel, a Baja leader in sustainable tourism, and it exceeded our expectations. Nice post thank you!

That’s fantastic! Love RED and so glad you enjoyed our post : )

Thanks for the great article !! I would love to go . I’m a full time solo female rv ‘er. Is it safe , do able for someone traveling alone ?

So glad you enjoyed the article! Baja felt very safe…met lots of solo travelers and also groups to tap into when you wanted company. Lots of vanlife meetups and communities of rvers. Have so much fun!

Awesome read….I have always wanted to take our RV to Baja….i think you just gave us the courage to do it!

Hi. What a fantastic story about your adventure in Baja. I am solo female traveler with a 25 foot 2019 Ford Transit based class C motorhome (Leisure Travel Van). It has very low clearance and it’s only a rear wheel drive. Would it be possible to replicate your route with such a vehicle? I’m a little concerned about getting stuck in soft sand when beach boondocking. Thanks.

Besides our renegade “boondocking gone wrong” experience, which is largely because we didn’t check the weather and you never want to drive down sandy/clay roads around a rainstorm, we were totally fine. Our camper is an old dog, you’re 2019 Transit will do great! have so much fun!!!!

Hi, Anne and Mike! Thank you for sharing your experience. I’ve read a few posts on RVing Baja because it’s a trip I’m looking forward to do soon and yours is the one I liked the most. I was wondering if this will be a suitable trip to do with a five year old kid and a toddler. What do you think? Thank you again! Ber

Hey Bernardo. Thanks for your kind words about our Baja RVing blog post…glad we were your favorite.

As for Baja, it felt SUPER SUPER safe. And I would say it’s the perfect trip for people of any age. So many amazing beaches to explore, hikes through MASSIVE cactuses, and just super friendly people at every turn. P.S. Just don’t plan to spend much time in Cabo, it’s super touristy and hella expensive 🙂

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Baja California Peninsula

Baja California Peninsula, also known as Lower California Peninsula, is a peninsula in North America, separating the Gulf of California from the Pacific Ocean. The peninsula is a Mexican territory and bordered to the north by the US. It extends approximately 1,247 kilometers and comprises two Mexican states ; Baja California Sur and Baja California. The peninsula is characterized by a unique landscape and rich marine life, making it one of Mexico’s most visited destinations. The region has four desert areas, including the Central Coast Desert, San Felipe Desert, Magdalena Plain Desert, and the Vizcaino Desert.

Brief History

Baja California Peninsula is located in Northwestern Mexico and separated from the mainland by the Gulf of California. It is bordered to the north by the US states of California and Arizona, south and west by the Pacific Ocean, northeast by Sonora, and Southeast by Sinaloa, with the Gulf of California separating the peninsula from the two Mexican states.

Baja California Peninsula is approximately 1,247 kilometers long from Mexicali in the north to Cabo San Lucas in the South. It is 40 kilometers wide at the narrowest section close to La Paz, Baja California Sur, and 320 kilometers wide at the widest point. Its coastline is approximately 3,000 kilometers long and has about 100 islands, of which 37 are in the Sea of Cortez. The peninsula is separated from Mexico's mainland by around 258 kilometers at the farthest point and shares a land border with the state of Sonora. It covers approximately 143,390 square kilometers.

Initially, Baja California Peninsula was part of the North American Plate. However, the East Pacific Rise initiated the separation of the plate and the peninsula about 12-15 million years ago. Currently, the peninsula is part of the Pacific Plate and is slowly moving in a northwestward direction, away from the East Pacific Rise.

A fault block, rising from the gulf side and slopping towards the Pacific, is the peninsula’s main geologic feature. The feature comprises a chain of mountain peaks forming the Peninsular Ranges. The Sierra San Pedro Martir contains the highest point on the peninsula, Picacho del Diablo, at 3,096 meters. Other mountain ranges on the peninsula are Sierra de Juarez, Sierra de la Giganta, and Sierra de San Borja. Volcanoes and lava flow dominate the peninsula’s center, including Las Tres Virgenes at 1,996 meters above sea level, last erupted in 1746.

European explorers considered the peninsula’s existence as a myth before its discovery. The idea of its existence first appeared in a 1510 novel authored by Garci Rodriguez de Montalvo, as the Island of California. In 1539, while Francisco de Ulloa was exploring Mexico's west coast, he confirmed that California was a peninsula and not an island as earlier thought.

Until 1804, the Peninsula was referred to as Las Californias under Spanish rule. Later, it was divided into two territories; Baja and Alta California. In 1848, Mexico ceded Alta California to the US (admitted to the Union as California in 1850).

Baja California Peninsula was divided into two territories, southern and northern territories, in 1931. The North Territory became Mexico’s 29th state as Baja California, while the South Territory was renamed Baja California Sur.

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Drift San Jose del Cabo, a Member of Design Hotels™

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Welcome to Drift San Jose del Cabo, a Member of Design Hotels™

Drift san jose del cabo immerses you in the real baja.

Unlike most Baja hotels, Drift San Jose del Cabo encourages guests to immerse themselves in southern Baja and truly experience the city’s art district from this design-forward, industrial chic boutique in the heart of it all. Drift happily steers you to the best experiences, including a Gallery District walking tour. It also plays host to such events as a weekly backyard party with tacos, craft cocktails, and live music. One can also enjoy Mexican culture through the hotel’s Mezcal Tasting Bar. Architecturally, the hotel preserves the distinctness of the existing structure, naturally extending original spaces for a more welcoming and embracing experience.

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Check-in: 3:00 pm

Check-out: 12:00 pm

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Maximum Number of Pets in Room: 1

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Miguel Hidalgo 613, Gallery District, Centro, San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur, Mexico, 23400

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The check-in time at Drift San Jose del Cabo, a Member of Design Hotels™ is 3:00 pm and the check-out time is 12:00 pm.

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15 Dream Vacations You Can Actually Afford With Costco Travel

Posted: October 28, 2023 | Last updated: October 28, 2023

Need a vacation? Your Costco membership might be able to help you find a great deal on a place you actually want to visit, regardless of the reason you need a trip. 

Check out these family-friendly vacations that you can book through Costco Travel and get some extra savings. Using one of the top travel credit cards could help you save even more.

Compare the best travel credit cards for nearly free travel

Cruises offer great family-friendly treats like excursions and onboard activities. Costco’s version of a Mexican cruise starts with boarding a Carnival cruise ship in San Francisco for five days of relaxing in the sun.

One of the best Costco hacks is that you can earn a gift card for booking through the warehouse retailer.

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Oahu, Hawaii

Head to the great Pacific and Hawaii with this Costco trip to Oahu. The package includes a beach-side hotel in Waikiki Beach for ocean surf as well as swimming pools with a water slide.

Perks of booking through Costco include a lei greeting at the hotel and having your resort fees covered as part of your booking.

You can get plenty of extras at the Garza Blanca Cancun when you book a trip for the family through Costco.

Your membership may include a complimentary room upgrade or resort credit depending on the type of accommodations you choose. You’ll also get a Costco gift card when you book through the warehouse retailer.

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Riviera Maya

This all-inclusive resort includes unlimited meals and 24-hour room service as well as a kids club to send your little ones if you want a break.

The package also includes access to nature parks and tours so you can explore the area or simply relax at the Hotel Xcaret Mexico. Plus, buy your trip with the right credit card and you could earn cash back while taking advantage of the good deals. 

Walt Disney World

Is there any family vacation quite like a trip to Walt Disney World? Check out the Walt Disney Swan and Dolphin Resort for all your Disney needs with discounts through Costco.

Booking through Costco can get you an early theme park entry, a complimentary room upgrade, and some free meals for your kids at the resort.

Universal Orlando

Another theme park highlight in Florida is Universal Orlando. You can take advantage of all it has to offer with a stay at Universal’s Adventura Hotel.

You can pick up Universal Orlando tickets with this package through Costco and also enjoy a $50 Universal Orlando resort gift card if you have a Costco membership.

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San Diego, California

Take advantage of the California sun with your family at San Diego’s Mission Bay resort. Check out Costco’s deal for families, which includes $45 in resort credit.

You can also have your resort fees waived if you book through Costco Travel, which can help you keep more money in your bank account .

Western Caribbean

You don’t have to stay at a theme park to enjoy a Disney vacation. In fact, Costco can book you a Western Caribbean vacation on a Disney cruise if you want to head out on the water.

A great Costco perk for booking through the retailer is a Costco gift card to help you stock up on travel essentials before you head out for a fun family cruise.

Want to try something a little more unusual? Pack up the family and head to Fiji to really get away from it all.

Booking your vacation through Costco includes water sports and meals while you’re at the resort. And Costco’s price also covers airfare and access to Fiji Airways’ departure lounge.

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Scottsdale, Arizona

If you want to stick closer to home, try Costco’s deal with the Hyatt Regency hotel in Scottsdale, Arizona. The hotel boasts a water playground, spa, and golf course for all your sporting needs.

You can also get waived resort fees, complimentary breakfast, and a rental car included in your package when you book through Costco.

Take a trip to Tahiti with the family and stay at a luxury bungalow out on the water for a unique vacation experience.

Your Costco booking includes airfare, breakfasts and dinners, and a complimentary mini-bar. You can also get a lei greeting for the whole family when you arrive for your trip away from the everyday world.

Take a four-night cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas. The trip from Los Angeles includes two days at sea and a stopover at Ensenada on the Baja peninsula of Mexico.

There are plenty of onboard activities for kids as well as adults. You’ll also get a Costco gift card if you book with their travel department.

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European cruise

Check out several ports in Italy, France, and Spain with a trip on the Norwegian Epic cruise ship.

The cruise stops in many cities, including Cannes, Barcelona, and Rome. The vacation also includes a Costco gift card if you book with Costco Travel.

Head to Costa Rica and the all-inclusive Westin Reserva Conchal.

If you book through Costco, your stay will include five nights in a deluxe junior suite as well as meals and a kids club for extra fun for your little ones.

Dominican Republic

Another tropical oasis you may want to take the family to is the Dominican Republic.

The Majestic Elegance is an all-inclusive resort on the beach for plenty of fun along with a stocked mini-bar and meals that are all included. You can also get a Costco gift card if you book your trip through Costco Travel.

Bottom line

Take advantage of your Costco membership to get some extra perks on your next trip, especially if you have an Executive Membership.

You can also get more perks and points if you use the best credit cards for Costco when you shop at the warehouse retailer. 

And don’t forget to check out Costco for things you might need for your trips like swimsuits, pool toys, or books. You might be surprised what you can find at Costco, especially during the right season. 

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• 6 genius hacks Costco shoppers should know
• 9 things you must do before the next recession.
• Can you retire early? Take this quiz and find out.
• 9 simple ways to make up to an extra $200/day

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