It’s safe to say that Ensenada is not a backpacker destination, but that doesn’t make it ALL bad. Â It definitely has good night life and a lot of shopping. Â Also, if you’ve been on the road for a while, you might just enjoy the break.
So what makes Ensenada so famous? Â Well, it happens to be a popular stop on the cruise circuit. Â So you could easily find yourself here one day pulling up to it’s marina. Â If that happens, here are some of the most notable things to see and do.
Marina/Malecon:
The marina area along the Malecon is a great place to take a stroll. Â There is a pedestrian pathway that has shops and restaurants lined up along it. Â There is also a park with a number of statues and places to relax.
Ave Adolfo Lopez Mateos/Primera Street:
This is the main tourist area in Ensenada. Â You’ll find it, don’t worry. Â In fact its hard to miss. Â If you don’t arrive by cruise ship, just drive or walk west toward the water and you’ll run right into it. Â It’s full of shops, bars and restaurants and feels a bit like it was made just for gringos arriving by cruise ship.
The “Real” Ensenada:
You’re in Mexico! Â You might as well get out and see it. Â Just go a few streets inland and you’ll find yourself in a much more “authentic” area. Â The prices drop, the food gets better and the dynamic changes drastically.
Out-door Activities:
The Baja peninsula is known for its outdoor activities, and Ensenada is no exception. Â Just walk around and you’ll run into places offering all sorts of tours and activities. Â Here are some of the most popular activities:
- Hiking
- Diving
- Snorkeling
- Kayaking
- Horseback Riding
- Surfing
- Fishing
Beaches:
Ensenada may not have excellent beaches in the city itself but there are many really good ones within a short drive. Â In fact, Ensenda is known around the world for its great surfing. Â Here are a few of the most popular spots.
- San Miguel Beach
- Baja Beach
- Estero Beach
- El Faro Beach
