3-Day Romantic Food, Wine & Shopping Adventure in Baja California

Baja California, Mexico

3 days

Ensenada shoreline
Wine tasting at Valle de Guadelupe
Windmills at La Rumorosa
Tijuana Cultural Center
Mexicali dunes at sunset

About Baja California, Mexico

Experience the captivating allure of Baja California, Mexico, a paradise where the desert meets the sea. This peninsula offers a blend of adventure and relaxation with its stunning beaches, vibrant marine life, and rugged mountains. Explore the charming towns of La Paz and Todos Santos, or indulge in the luxury of Cabo San Lucas. Dive into the Sea of Cortez, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known as the 'world's aquarium'. Savor the region's unique gastronomy, featuring fresh seafood and world-class wines. From whale watching and surfing to off-road adventures and tranquil spas, Baja California provides an unforgettable escape for every traveler.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Tijuana: Shopping, Culture, and Ocean Views

Morning

Start your day in the vibrant city of Tijuana. Explore the Avenida Revolución, known for its unique shops selling local crafts, clothing, and jewelry. It's a great place to pick up some souvenirs and experience the local culture.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Mexican lunch at one of the many authentic eateries along the Avenida Revolución. Try some local specialties like tacos, enchiladas, and chiles rellenos.

Afternoon

After lunch, visit the Tijuana Cultural Center, a significant cultural and entertainment complex in the city. It houses a spherical IMAX theater and a museum displaying the history and culture of the Baja California region.

Dinner

For dinner, head to the Zona Rio, Tijuana's modern business district, known for its upscale restaurants serving a variety of cuisines, including Mexican, Italian, and Japanese.

Evening

End your day with a stroll along the Malecón, a boardwalk offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. It's a perfect spot for a romantic evening walk.

Morning

Start your second day in the charming town of Ensenada. Visit the Mercado Negro, a bustling fish market offering a wide variety of seafood. It's a great place to experience the local lifestyle.

Lunch

Have lunch at one of the seafood restaurants near the Mercado Negro. Try some local seafood dishes like ceviche, fish tacos, and shrimp cocktails.

Afternoon

After lunch, take a tour of the famous Bodegas de Santo Tomás, the oldest winery in Baja California. Enjoy a wine tasting session and learn about the winemaking process.

Dinner

For dinner, head to the Guadalupe Valley, known for its vineyards and gourmet restaurants. Enjoy a meal paired with locally produced wines.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Museo de la Vid y el Vino, a museum dedicated to the history and culture of winemaking in the region. It's a great way to learn more about the local wine industry.

Morning

On your final day, explore the town of Rosarito. Visit the Rosarito Artisan Market, a popular spot for shopping local crafts, pottery, and textiles.

Lunch

Have lunch at one of the beachfront restaurants in Rosarito. Enjoy a meal with a view of the beautiful Pacific Ocean.

Afternoon

After lunch, take a walk along the Rosarito Beach, known for its golden sands and clear waters. It's a perfect spot for relaxation and sunbathing.

Dinner

For your final dinner, head to the Popotla Boulevard, known for its seafood restaurants serving fresh catches of the day.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to the Rosarito Beach Pier, a popular spot for evening walks. Enjoy the stunning sunset views over the Pacific Ocean.

Attractions in Itinerary (10)

Avenida Revolución

1
Avenida Revolución

Avenida Revolución is Tijuana's main shopping street, filled with shops, restaurants, and bars. It's known for its lively atmosphere, street art, and local vendors selling traditional Mexican crafts and souvenirs.

Shopping
Food and Drink
Cultural Experiences
Tijuana Cultural Center

2
Tijuana Cultural Center

A cultural complex that includes a museum, a theater, and a cinema. The museum's exhibits focus on the history and culture of the Baja California region.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Malecón

3
Malecón

The Malecón is a lively seafront promenade in La Paz, Baja California. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering stunning views of the sea, beautiful sculptures, and a variety of restaurants and shops.

Attractions
Landmarks
Mercado Negro

4
Mercado Negro

A bustling fish market offering a variety of fresh seafood.

Shopping
Cultural Experiences
Bodegas de Santo Tomás

5
Bodegas de Santo Tomás

Bodegas de Santo Tomás is the oldest winery in Baja California. It offers wine tours and tastings, allowing visitors to learn about the winemaking process and sample a variety of wines.

Attractions
Tours
Food and Drink
Guadalupe Valley

6
Guadalupe Valley

Guadalupe Valley, located in Ensenada, is a renowned wine region. It offers wine tours and tastings, and is home to a number of award-winning wineries.

Attractions
Tours
Food and Drink
Museo de la Vid y el Vino

7
Museo de la Vid y el Vino

A museum dedicated to the history and culture of wine production in the region.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Rosarito Artisan Market

8
Rosarito Artisan Market

The Rosarito Artisan Market is a popular market in Rosarito, Baja California. It offers a wide range of handmade crafts and local products, making it a great place to buy souvenirs.

Shopping
Cultural Experiences
Rosarito Beach

9
Rosarito Beach

Rosarito Beach is a coastal resort city known for its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife. It's a popular destination for surfing, horseback riding, and beachfront dining.

Beaches
Rosarito Beach Pier

10
Rosarito Beach Pier

The Rosarito Beach Pier is a popular spot in Rosarito, Baja California. It offers beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, and is a great place for a leisurely walk or a picnic.

Attractions
Beaches
Landmarks

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Tacos de Pescado

Tacos de Pescado

A popular street food in Baja California, these are fish tacos often served with cabbage, pico de gallo, and a variety of sauces.

Ceviche

Ceviche

A seafood dish popular in the coastal areas of Baja California. It's made from fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices, and spiced with chili peppers, onions, and cilantro.

Chiles Rellenos

A traditional Mexican dish originating from Baja California. It consists of a large chili pepper stuffed with cheese or meat, battered and fried.

Clamato Preparado

A popular cocktail in Baja California, made with Clamato (a mix of clam and tomato juices), beer, lime juice, hot sauce, and served with a salted rim.

Ensenada-style Tostadas

These are crispy tortillas topped with fresh seafood, a specialty of the coastal city of Ensenada in Baja California.

Almejas Chocolatas

A local delicacy in Baja California, these are chocolate clams often served raw with a squeeze of lime or cooked in a variety of dishes.

Churros

Churros

A popular dessert in Baja California, these are fried-dough pastries often dusted with sugar and can be filled with caramel, chocolate, or cream.

Carne Asada

Carne Asada

A popular dish in Baja California, it's grilled and sliced beef, usually served with tortillas, beans, and salsa.

Michelada

Michelada

A traditional Mexican cocktail made with beer, lime juice, assorted sauces, spices, and peppers. It's very popular in Baja California.

Guacamole

Guacamole

A traditional Mexican dip made from ripe avocados, cilantro, lime, onion, and tomatoes. It's a staple in Baja California cuisine.

Empanadas

Empanadas

A type of baked or fried turnover consisting of pastry and filling, common in Baja California. The filling can be sweet or savory.

Tequila

Tequila

A distilled beverage made from the blue agave plant, native to Mexico. While not specific to Baja California, it's a must-try when visiting any part of Mexico.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Baja California, Mexico is during the months of November to April. During this period, the weather is typically warm and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. It's also the perfect time for whale watching, as gray whales migrate to the region's warm waters. However, if you're interested in sport fishing, the summer months are considered the best time. Please note that the region can get quite hot from July to October.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

February 5

Mon

Constitution Day

March 18

Mon

Benito Juárez's Birthday Memorial

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

July 7

Sun

General Election Day

September 16

Mon

Independence Day

October 1

Tue

Inauguration day

November 18

Mon

Revolution Day Memorial

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Renting a car is a popular option for getting around Baja California. It provides the flexibility to explore the region at your own pace. Major international and local car rental companies operate in the area. Remember to check the insurance policy and ensure it covers travel in Mexico.

Baja California has an extensive bus network that connects major towns and cities. The buses are comfortable and often equipped with air conditioning. This is a cost-effective way to travel long distances.

Taxis are readily available in most towns and cities in Baja California. They are a convenient way to get around, especially for short distances. Always agree on the fare before starting the journey.

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in some parts of Baja California, including Tijuana and Mexicali. This can be a convenient and cost-effective way to travel, especially if you're familiar with the app.

Bicycling is a popular way to get around in some parts of Baja California, especially in the more touristy areas. There are plenty of places where you can rent bicycles.

There are ferry services that connect Baja California with other parts of Mexico. For example, there's a ferry from La Paz in Baja California Sur to Topolobampo and Mazatlan on the mainland.

Private transfers can be arranged from the airport to your hotel or other destinations. This is a convenient option if you prefer not to drive or use public transportation.

Many of the towns and cities in Baja California are walkable, especially the downtown areas. Walking can be a pleasant way to explore and soak in the local atmosphere.

There are several airports in Baja California, including in Tijuana, La Paz, and Los Cabos. Domestic flights can be a quick way to travel long distances within the peninsula.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency$ MXN

Time zoneUTC-6

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 065; Fire: 068; Police: 060

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type B

Voltage120 V

Things to know about Baja California, Mexico as a first time visitor

1

Baja California operates on Pacific Standard Time.

2

The official language is Spanish, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

3

The currency is the Mexican Peso, but US dollars are often accepted in tourist areas.

4

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors.

5

Tipping is customary in Mexico, with 10-15% being the standard at restaurants.

6

Baja California is known for its hot, dry climate. Summer temperatures can reach up to 100°F (38°C), while winter temperatures can drop to around 50°F (10°C).

7

Sunscreen is a must, as the sun can be quite strong, especially in the summer months.

8

Tap water is not generally safe to drink. It's recommended to drink bottled water.

9

Public transportation is readily available and includes buses, taxis, and Uber.

10

It's important to respect local customs and traditions. This includes dressing modestly in religious sites and being aware of siesta times.

11

Travel insurance is highly recommended for any unexpected incidents or medical emergencies.

12

It's recommended to keep a copy of your passport and important documents in a safe place.

13

The voltage in Mexico is 127V and the frequency is 60 Hz. If your devices use different voltage or plug type, you'll need a converter or adapter.

14

Mexico has a zero-tolerance policy towards drugs. Possession of even small amounts can lead to imprisonment.

15

Baja California is generally safe, but like any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying expensive items.

16

The emergency number in Mexico is 911, which can be dialed for police, fire, or medical emergencies.

17

It's recommended to check the latest travel advisories before your trip.

18

If you plan on driving, you'll need to obtain Mexican car insurance as US policies are not valid.

19

Seafood is a staple in Baja California. Be sure to try local specialties like fish tacos and ceviche.

20

Baja California is in the Pacific Time Zone and does not observe daylight saving time.

Basic Spanish to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hola

oh-la

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Adiós

ah-dee-os

Leaving someone

Please

Por favor

por fa-vor

Asking for something

Thank you

Gracias

gra-see-as

Showing appreciation

Yes

see

Agreeing with someone

No

No

no

Disagreeing with someone

Excuse me

Perdón

per-don

Getting someone's attention

I'm sorry

Lo siento

lo see-en-to

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

¿Hablas inglés?

ab-las in-gles

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

No entiendo

no en-tee-en-do

When you don't understand what's being said

Where is the bathroom?

¿Dónde está el baño?

don-de es-ta el ban-yo

Asking for the bathroom

How much does it cost?

¿Cuánto cuesta?

quan-to cues-ta

Asking the price of something

I would like...

Me gustaría...

me gus-ta-ria

Expressing a desire for something

Help

Ayuda

a-yu-da

In need of assistance

Water

Agua

a-gua

Asking for water

Food

Comida

co-mi-da

Talking about food

Beer

Cerveza

cer-ve-za

Ordering a beer

Wine

Vino

vee-no

Ordering wine

Check, please

La cuenta, por favor

la quen-ta, por fa-vor

Asking for the bill

Where is...?

¿Dónde está...?

don-de es-ta

Asking for directions

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Swimwear

  • Beach cover-up

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sandals

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Sunglasses

  • Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • After-sun lotion or aloe vera

  • Insect repellent

  • Prescription medications

  • First-aid kit

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash (Mexican Pesos)

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations

  • Emergency contact information

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Power adapter (if needed)

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snacks for travel

  • Books or magazines for leisure reading

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Beach bag

  • Beach towel

  • Travel-sized laundry detergent packets

  • Plastic bags for dirty clothes or wet swimwear

Weather Conditions

When planning a trip to Baja California, Mexico, it's important to consider the region's weather patterns to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Baja California experiences a Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. During the summer months, from June to August, temperatures can reach highs of around 90°F (32°C), so it's advisable to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sunblock, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Despite the heat, it's also a good idea to carry a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings, as temperatures can drop to around 60°F (15°C). In the winter months, from December to February, temperatures range from highs of 70°F (21°C) during the day to lows of 50°F (10°C) at night. Therefore, it's recommended to pack layers, including a warm jacket or coat for the cooler evenings and early mornings. Rainfall is relatively low in Baja California, but the region does experience occasional showers, particularly in the winter months. Therefore, it's a good idea to pack a lightweight, waterproof jacket or umbrella. Regardless of the time of year, it's important to stay hydrated, especially if you plan on partaking in outdoor activities such as hiking or sightseeing. The sun can be quite strong, so always carry water with you. Lastly, keep an eye on the local weather forecast during your stay. Baja California can occasionally experience tropical storms, particularly during the hurricane season from June to November. While these are relatively rare, it's always best to be prepared and plan your activities accordingly.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

24° / 8°

January is the coldest month in Baja California, but it's still relatively warm with temperatures ranging from 8 to 24 degrees Celsius. It's a great time for whale watching.

February

25° / 9°

February sees a slight increase in temperature, ranging from 9 to 25 degrees Celsius. The weather is pleasant and perfect for outdoor activities.

March

27° / 11°

March marks the beginning of spring with temperatures ranging from 11 to 27 degrees Celsius. It's a great time for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of Baja California.

April

29° / 13°

April is a warm month with temperatures ranging from 13 to 29 degrees Celsius. This is a perfect time for beach activities and water sports.

May

31° / 15°

May sees a further increase in temperature, ranging from 15 to 31 degrees Celsius. The weather is perfect for sunbathing and enjoying the beautiful beaches.

June

34° / 18°

June is the start of the summer season with temperatures ranging from 18 to 34 degrees Celsius. It's a great time for swimming and snorkeling.

July

38° / 22°

July is the hottest month in Baja California with temperatures ranging from 22 to 38 degrees Celsius. It's a perfect time for enjoying the vibrant nightlife of the region.

August

38° / 22°

August continues the hot summer trend with temperatures ranging from 22 to 38 degrees Celsius. This is a great time for fishing and boating.

September

37° / 21°

September sees a slight decrease in temperature, ranging from 21 to 37 degrees Celsius. The weather is still warm enough for beach activities.

October

33° / 17°

October marks the beginning of fall with temperatures ranging from 17 to 33 degrees Celsius. It's a great time for sightseeing and exploring the local culture.

November

28° / 12°

November sees a further decrease in temperature, ranging from 12 to 28 degrees Celsius. The weather is pleasant and perfect for outdoor activities.

December

25° / 9°

December is a cool month with temperatures ranging from 9 to 25 degrees Celsius. It's a great time for enjoying the festive season in Baja California.

Did you know?

Did you know that Baja California is the northernmost and westernmost of the 32 Federal Entities of Mexico?

1 of 10

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