Top Things to do in Ensenada
10 Things to do in Ensenada That You Shouldn't Miss
In Ensenada, only 80 miles south of San Diego, travelers can get a taste of Mexican food, culture and nightlife. Californians flock to this beautiful seaport town, one of the largest on the Baja peninsula, for rest, relaxation and excellent outdoor recreation activities. From surfing and sea kayaking to horseback riding and mountain biking, even the most discerning sportsperson will be impressed. Ensenada's nightlife is also a big draw. Papas and Beer and Hussong's Cantina serve up an on-going party atmosphere and lots of tequila, while nearby vineyards offer wine tasting in a more traditional and serene setting. Nature enthusiasts are wowed by the sight of gray whales and the underwater cave that randomly squirts water at onlookers. Whatever your interests, enchanting Ensenada will not disappoint.
Restaurants in Ensenada
1. Rancho Los Bandidos
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 49 reviews
Reviewed By TravelCre8or
By far the best horseback riding experience I have ever had. Everyone in my group agreed that this was the highlight of our four day trip in Ensenada.
2. Bodegas de Santo Tomas
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 186 reviews
Founded in 1888, Baja's oldest winery continues in the Santo Tomas Mission's wine-making tradition and offers visitors samples of wines, breads and cheeses.
Reviewed By lawperry - Kennesaw, United States
I went to this winery as part of my shore excursion when sailing on the carnival imagination out of long beach. This one of the oldest wineries in this country and i learned tons of great facts and history like Al Capone being supplied liquor from here during prohibition. I personally did not like the wines but a lot of people took home multiple bottles.
3. Rivera del Pacifico
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 68 reviews
Once a casino, this graceful white building is now an architectural monument and features tours of its voluptuous interiors.
Reviewed By mini - Fremont, United States
We enjoyed going to Rivera del Pacfico and taking a tour. We also saw a very good entertainment show. There was Mexican dancing, singing, and an amazing 80 year old plus who did rope tricks. Rivera del Pacifico was a former hotel and a favorite to stay at by many Hollywood entertainers and people like William Hearst. We also were given our choice of beverage - Mexican Coca-Cola, Pino Colado, or a Margarita. Vendors were also there selling their wares.
4. El Salto Canyon & Waterfall
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 32 reviews
Reviewed By X2548MUkatieb - San Diego, United States
Hop around a few boulders, and splash in collecting pools as you hunt down some waterfalls. My husband and I found this spot while exploring the wine region in Valle de Guadalupe, so we certainly weren't prepared to hike (okay...we were wearing sandals, so we did it barefoot). It was a magical addition to a day. We passed several camping spots on the way into the canyon that we are sure to try soon. They even had tire swings on a few of the mature trees that made me feel like I was 7 years old again :)
5. El Parque de la Bandera
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 46 reviews
Reviewed By bucketlisttravellers - Sydney, Australia
The highlight of this park is a water feature that starts up at night time. The water fountains start up at random times and positions every couple of minutes, accompanied by lights and music. The most fun is to be had watching brave souls walk into the fountain area, essentially playing 'chicken' with the fountain, only to be drenched when the fountains burst up right from around them.
6. Casa Pedro Domecq
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 15 reviews
Reviewed By ives007 - Mexico City, Mexico
Domecq had to do a huge comeback, and they did, the visit its really worth it, the place is beautiful and the designed experiences are awesome, two thumbs up for you new tour!
7. Cultural Center of Ensenada
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 128 reviews
Housed in an old casino, this center contains space to be rented out for public events, but also has a natural history museum that can be seen for US$1.
Reviewed By Perkadventures - Banning, United States
Great place to visit - may be hard for some people because of the stairs up and down. You have to pay around $6 US for 2 to see. Takes about 1+ hours and gives the history of the area to include pictures of the early missions, either in ruins or still operating. Spend some time to see and understand, very interesting the history of more than Ensenda Within walking distance of the Cruise port - head out to main road and go right across street.
8. First Street
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 335 reviews
This street is lined with shops selling curio, with many items costing under $5.
Reviewed By LBSurfer - Scottsdale, United States
Amazing bars, restaurants & shopping. Very vibrant & entertaining w good deals on shopping. We stayed at the end of 1st & were walking distance to the action. Very near place to visit day or night
9. La Bufadora
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1,542 reviews
Roughly translated as "the snorter," this underwater cave regularly sucks in sea water and spits it out the cave's top drenching visitors to the site.
Reviewed By CatNap369
Such a natural wonder, that I was really disappointed to see how thronged with touristy shops and the tourist gauntlet that you have to go through to even reach La Bufadora. However, it was worth the journey. It impressed us all.
10. Vinedo Cuatro Cuatros
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 66 reviews
Reviewed By 658evelynf - Los Angeles, United States
RESERVATIONS A MUST IF YOU WANT TO GO UP THE MOUNTAIN TO THERE CUTE RESTAURANT but you can chance it and try! Absolutely loved the place and service. It’s a must when your in Ensenada/Valle de Guadalupe. Great wine tasting, great food and an amazing view! The service was great. They charge you a certain amount to go to the restaurant but that money is put towards food and drinks which is so so worth it!!
