Things to See and Do in Baja California
El Valle de Guadalupe – The Baja California Wine Country
The Valle of Guadalupe is an increasingly popular tourist destination in Baja California, Mexico. Previously it had little renown on the international radar because of its out-of-the-way location. However, the rich winemaking and culinary scene have made it a must-go vacation spot for any wine connoisseur.
Baja California has lived and breathed wine tourism since the 1990s, with the local winemaker’s association even hosting The Grape Harvest Fiesta there annually. Come during the celebration to enjoy wine-tasting sessions, concerts, exquisite Mexican cuisine, and, of course, sample the luxurious Baja California wines.
As the most celebrated wine region of the country, Guadalupe Valley is the heart of Mexico’s wine industry. The land and climate of particular wine-making regions like Guadalupe Valley ideally nurture the growth of such grapes that produce red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, and Ruby Cabernet and white wines like Sauvignon Blanc, Palomino, Chenin Blanc, and Saint Emilion. Yet, experts assert that the region’s success isn’t only due to its excellent climate for growing grapes; its winemakers’ innovative techniques and drive are also part of the area’s formula for excellence in wine. Just fifteen minutes from Ensenada, Guadalupe Valley is easily one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. Many tourists also visit the valley through the mountainous town of Tecate. Beginning in the early twentieth century, farmers and winemakers began to transform this paradise-like region into a world-class wine-producing region. More than twenty official wineries now make their home in Guadalupe Valley.
With so many wineries to choose from and an ever-growing number of first-rate restaurants and hotels, you’re missing out if you don’t make Baja California your next vacation spot!
To help you start planning your trip, here are some of the best wineries and hotels in the Valle de Guadalupe. You can also download the Valle de Guadalupe map or read another article on Baja’s famous and delightful wine country.
- Xecue Vinicola was founded in 1999 by Jose Luis Hernandez and Alberta Ceja, who have 35 years of winemaking experience. They’ve used their expertise in agricultural engineering and food-based biochemistry to provide a truly unique experience to their customers. While there, you can expect to enjoy your choice of quality wine, freshly baked bread, assorted cheeses, and friendly service. For more information, see their website here.
- Casa Magoni’s founder, Camillo Magoni, has worked on his vineyard for over 50 years to cultivate only the finest fruits. His studies in Italy on winemaking have allowed him to provide only the most exceptional wines to his customers. Casa Magoni itself is built around crafting a relaxed atmosphere perfect for an evening of wine tasting by yourself or with company. The friendly staff offers your choice of wine in addition to a plate of assorted cheeses, almonds, cranberries, and bread accompanied by olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar. From there, you may sit indoors or on their patio, where they occasionally provide live music. Visit the website for more photos and to contact this special vineyard.
- Monte Xanic is the best place to experience good Baja California wine and a bit of history, Mexico’s first boutique winery. It was founded in 1987 by five partners with a simple goal in mind: to create the best wine possible no matter the cost. This achievement was done when it was assumed that foreign wines were superior to domestic ones, but Monte Xanic quickly built a reputation for quality. Their wines would go on to be served to dignitaries and high-ranking business people, with the revitalization of Mexico’s winemaking industry being credited to its success. Today, their wines are still considered top-quality, and their wineries are a significant draw for tourists. They offer guided tours of their vineyards and play a large part in the annual harvest celebrations. Find more information at their website here.
- Monte Xanic is the best place to experience good Baja California wine and a bit of history, Mexico’s first boutique winery. It was founded in 1987 by five partners with a simple goal in mind: to create the best wine possible no matter the cost. This achievement was done when it was assumed that foreign wines were superior to domestic ones, but Monte Xanic quickly built a reputation for quality. Their wines would go on to be served to dignitaries and high-ranking business people, with the revitalization of Mexico’s winemaking industry being credited to its success. Today, their wines are still considered top-quality, and their wineries are a significant draw for tourists. They offer guided tours of their vineyards and play a large part in the annual harvest celebrations. Find more information at their website here.
- Trevista Vineyards was founded by the husband-and-wife team, James and Hilda Pacheco Taylor. It’s a smaller winery and vineyard, but this is designed to focus on customers as individuals and craft a more memorable experience. They offer several Tempranillo vintages and pair them with homemade tapas-style appetizers crafted to match the wine perfectly. Click here for Trevista website.
- L.A. Cetto is one of the oldest wineries Mexico, and unsurprisingly one of its best. This winery offers regular wine-tasting events and tours. When visiting Ensenada, this is the one winery that wine-lovers should not miss. For more information, look at their website here.
- Adobe Guadalupe is located in the Guadalupe Valley, and also has an inn, making it a popular tourist destination. Pairing delectable wine with gourmet cuisine is at the heart of this winery experience. Click here to visit their website.
- Bodegas de Santo Tomas is situated in the Santo Tomas Valley. This unique winery offers tours, but also boasts a special wine-tasting room along with an art gallery. Click here for their website.
- Chateau Camou was founded in 1995 in the center of Guadalupe Valley. This winery has old-world grafts that have become some of the most excellent grapes of the region. This winery is a popular choice because it provides elegant wine tastings and tours. Click here for the website.
- La Casa de Doña Lupe has a cottage setting. Its earthy enchantment stems from its commitment to organically produced grapes and other foods like honey, cheese, and herbs. Click here to visit their website.
Spas in Baja
With beaches and oceans of activities, Baja also boasts some of the country’s most magnificent spas. If you are looking for a peaceful retreat for rejuvenating the body, mind, and spirit, consider Baja California for a relaxing vacation. The following resorts are well known for their fine service and unforgettable treatments.
Rancho La Puerta, in Tecate, is a family-founded and operated Baja spa that has been rejuvenating visitors for over 65 years. The spa is located around 3,000 acres of breathtaking mountains and meadowlands. Many have dubbed this resort as among the first “eco” spas. Guests stroll the various gardens that surround each facility and the healing treatments are found not only within the retreat itself but in the surrounding lands that have been sacred to Native Americans. The space is an aromatic sanctuary that makes use of its healing plants for many of its soothing treatments. You’ll also enjoy delectable fresh cuisine during your stay and you may also opt to participate in a wide array of activities like hiking, swimming, or evening lectures.
La Rocas Resort & Spa, in Rosarito Beach, is located within thirty minutes of Tijuana, so it is no wonder that it is a popular Baja spa and resort among vacationers. It’s beautiful seaside location in Rosarito is complemented by a glorious holistic therapy. Treatments make use of local ingredients like seaweed, jojoba oil, sea salt, and other herbal blends that awaken and rejuvenate the skin. Many guests enjoy beauty treatments in the relaxing salon that features a magnificent view of the ocean. Couples massages are also popular pastimes at this renowned spa.
Sante et Beaute Spa boasts an enchanting environment that will enhance your spa treatments with tranquility and beautiful surroundings. All spa treatments are delivered by expertly trained spa technicians who specialize in ancient and contemporary therapeutic and beauty treatments. The spa features state-of-the-art equipment used to achieve their healthful treatments. Visitors will find that the facility is the perfect place to lose their cares, tension, and stress. You can even begin or end your spa session with a visit to the spa’s renowned fitness center to enjoy an energizing workout. The spa offers affordable pricing for innovative skin treatments like microdermabrasion, oxygen therapy, radiofrequency, and Lumi facials to name just a few. You’ll be able to select a skin treatment that reduces fine lines, removes acne scars, or deeply cleanses for restorative beauty. Sante is just minutes south of San Diego in Tijuana.
Golfing in Baja
There are few areas in the world with golf courses more beautiful than those in Baja California. But as every golfer knows, a beautiful golf course is nothing without challenging holes, a solid layout, and a great overall feel. Luckily, many of the courses in Baja have these characteristics as well. Whether you’re looking to pay big money for an amazing round of golf at a championship course or you don’t mind playing on something a little bit rough around the edges (but with a much smaller price tag), Baja Mexico has you covered. So remember your clubs on your next trip, force yourself up off of the beach, and head down to the nearest golf course – you definitely won’t be disappointed.
Because they are all situated on portions of Baja’s gorgeous coastline, many of the world-class golf courses in Baja offer spectacular views that truly are second to none in the world. Imagine teeing off onto a long and tricky dog-leg left with a perfect view of the Pacific on your side – a whale might even pass by as you swing your club. That’s only part of what you get when you go golfing in Baja. Many of the best courses even incorporate natural elements of the coastline into course. Baja Mar is a good example of this. The course’s superb signature hole, number 5, is a 185-yard par 3 shot over a menacing cove.
Many golfers claim that Baja Mar is the absolute best course in the entire country. In fact, it is widely known as “Pebble Beach South of the Border.” With 27 holes in total, the course offers a little something for everyone. Golfers of all skill levels and abilities will be happy after a round at Baja Mar. Better yet, they have one of the most extensively stocked pro shops in all of Mexico – if you forgot something important at home, then this is the place to pick it up.
Baja California also offers a number of golf courses that are perfect for those on a budget. While they’re definitely not of the same quality as the top courses, these resorts offer high-quality golfing that won’t break the bank.
If you’re visiting Baja and are hoping to grab a round or two on the links, you won’t be disappointed. The peninsula is full of golf courses that suit players of all skill levels, abilities, and preferences. Many of the best golf courses are even located in the northern part of Baja and are easy to get to on a day trip from San Diego.
Top Courses
- Baja Mar
- El Dorado Golf Course (in Los Cabos)
- Real del Mar (in Ensenada)
- Club Campestre (in Tijuana)
Bargain Courses
- The Villas de Cortez Golf Course
- A variety of par 3 golf courses
- Miniature golf establishments can be found throughout the Baja region for the amateurs and less serious golfers in your travel crew.
Kayaking Baja
When you imagine a trip to Baja Mexico, kayaking is probably not the first thing that comes to mind. Though it is not nearly as popular of a vacation activity as soaking up the sun on the beach, fishing, or surfing, sea kayaking is becoming increasingly popular among tourists in the Baja area. Because of the warm year-round temperatures, a kayaking trip to Baja Mexico can be set up for almost any time of the year. However, the balmy temperatures and warm waters present October through May make it the most popular time for kayakers. The Sea of Cortez (Gulf of California) is one of the best kayaking spots, although the other side of the peninsula, is also highly acclaimed.
Kayaking in the Sea of Cortez is an experience unlike any other in the world. It is a wonderful way to reach rocky outcroppings, small islands, and hard-to-reach beaches that most tourists don’t even think about. It is also a great way to see more of the local plant and animal life – and there’s a lot of it. The Sea of Cortez is one of the most biologically diverse places in the world and kayaking lets you get up close and personal with much of the life that calls it home.
Experienced kayakers will feel confident in planning their own excursions in the waters around the Baja Peninsula. It is a relatively safe area to kayak in and the only real worry are the sudden high winds (colloquially known as El Norte). However, if you’ve kayaked in rough conditions before and use your common sense of safety, you should be totally fine while kayaking in Baja.
If you’re new to kayaking, you’re still in luck. Baja is a great place for beginners as well. A number of guided kayaking operations are available. Most offer both single kayaks and double kayaks so that you can learn at your own pace. Many visitors even chose to embark on guided kayaking tours of the surrounding area. Some of these tours last five, six, or even ten days. It’s a completely unique way to see the secrets of Baja and fit a fair share of adventure into your vacation as well.
Kayaking in Baja is still an under-the-radar activity but it is quickly becoming more popular. Whether you want to spend a few hours on the water or a full week trekking along the coast, Baja has you covered.
Surfing in Baja
Baja’s beaches are for more than just sunbathing or snorkeling. If you have experience surfing, you should know that the Todos Santos Islands is famous for its big waves. For more information about surfing in Baja, check out these pages:
Exploring Nature: Plants and Animals in Baja
Mexico’s Baja Peninsula is chock-full of amazing plant and animal life. It is one of the most biologically diverse regions on the entire planet. Though most people visit Mexico to indulge in sandy beaches, extremely surfable waves, excellent restaurants, or world-class fishing, plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities are available for those who love nature. For those who are in Mexico for other reasons, just knowing a bit more about the region’s plant and animal life can make your vacation that much more enjoyable.
Birds
Baja is home to more than one hundred species of birds. However, the area is very popular for its seabirds. Because Baja is so warm all year, many types of birds migrate there in the winter for better weather. Brown pelicans, blue-footed boobies, cormorants, turkey vultures, royal terns, frigate birds, and osprey are only a handful of the most well-known bird species that populate the area.
For a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, head on one of the many tours offered to the Midriff Islands, just off the Baja peninsula’s eastern shore in the Sea of Cortez. Thousands of birds go about their daily lives in total isolation, far away from human encroachment.
If you are on the West coast of Baja, check out the Coronado Islands! These islands are full of wildlife that attracts eco-tourists, partially because they are uninhabited by humans. If you want hands-on experiences, the islands also have great kayaking and snorkeling!
Fish
Both the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean are home to more types of fish than can be counted. Because of its calmer waters, most nature tourists head to the Sea of Cortez to see fish. Cabrilla, leopard grouper, spotted bay bass, white sea bass, halibut, barracuda, lingcod, sailfish, yellowtail, roosterfish, and marlin are only a few types of fish that are known to be abundant in the area.
There are a variety of snorkeling opportunities, and many of the colorful fish that you can see are similar to those that you can find in tropical waters.
Fishing in Baja is a hit because even the most inexperienced fishermen are nearly guaranteed a catch. (You don’t even have to worry about disrupting the ecological balance. Many tour groups offer catch and release fishing programs so that you can get a feel for the fishing lifestyle without taking away from nature.)
Check out San Felipe if you want a gorgeous place to fish! Located on the Sea of Cortez, this beautiful beach city is known for its camping, restaurants, and hotels.
Whale Watching
There are so many fun activities in Baja that many tourists overlook whale watching. These people are missing out! Whale watching is one of Baja’s absolute best attractions, and the expertise of several tour groups practically guarantees that you will see whales during winter excursions.
Baja California is well known for whale watching hundreds of people flock to the area yearly to see the whales and their young. However, there are so many other things to do that many people who only have a casual interest in whales will often opt out of a whale watching tour. You shouldn’t! Even if you don’t have a passionate interest in whales, a whale-watching trip in Baja California is worth it. Tours are cheap, absolutely amazing, and only take half of a day at most. It’s the chance of a lifetime. They’re amazing creatures that are quickly becoming endangered. Who knows when they won’t be around any longer? A whale-watching adventure is a great way to see them before they are gone and to learn a thing or two about how to keep them around long into the future.
Check out this Baja whale watching tour!
Why Whales Migrate Through Baja
Baja is such a great whale-watching destination because of its warm and calm waters. Because the water is so peaceful, many species of whales migrate to them during the winter to rear their young. If you are lucky enough to go on a tour from January to April, you might just see whales actually giving birth! During those months, many types of whales swim into the shallower and gentler lagoons and bays to have their young.
All of the species of whales that frequent the ocean around the Baja Peninsula are amazing, but the most popular – the crowd favorite, if you will – is the gray whale. Reaching lengths of over 50 feet and weighing more than 35 tons, gray whales are truly extraordinary animals. They also are very friendly and will oftentimes come close to ships. Best of all, over 10,000 gray whales migrate to the Baja area each year, so you are pretty much bound to see a pod if you arrive in the winter months.
Other Ocean Life
- Insider Tips.
Before you drive your boat to Mexico, get your watercraft insurance. The dock master will require it!
Other Land Life
Though much of Baja California has harsh desert-like conditions, a wide variety of animals other than birds call the area home. Jackrabbits, mice, squirrels, coyotes, mountain lions, foxes, desert bighorn sheep, and deer are all mammals that a keen traveler can spot. A number of turtles, snakes, and lizards can also be found in Baja. They include the desert iguana, coast-horned lizard, leatherback turtle, loggerhead turtle, green turtle, western blind snake, western diamondback, and the yellow-bellied sea snake.
Desert Plants
Many visitors to Baja don’t really consider how absolutely amazing it is that plant life is able to survive – and even thrive – in such unforgiving desert conditions! Even if a nature walk isn’t high on your list of vacation activities, it is interesting to be able to identify the most common species of desert plants that you will see, even around town. Over 100 species of Cacti, 19 types of agave, a number of palm trees, ironwood trees, conifers, mimosas, and wild figs are all found in the region.
Vacationing in Baja Mexico shouldn’t only be about relaxing and sitting on the beach. Simply being able to identify a few of the most common plant and animal species can make your travels that much more enjoyable. Plus, you’ll have more interesting stories to tell your friends back home. Whether you’re a nature lover or just want to see a few animals when you can, Baja Mexico is one of the best places on Earth for it.
Animal Sanctuaries of Baja
If straying off the beaten path isn’t really your style, you should know that Mexico has many zoos throughout the country and the animal sanctuaries of Baja boast an extraordinary array of wildlife. Many of the region’s representative wildlife can be viewed in the peninsula’s zoos and aquariums. Whether you are looking for family-friendly outings while traveling in Baja California or you simply wish to encounter some amazing creatures include them in your travel plans. Some options include:
El Serpentario De La Paz is in Baja Sur’s capital city of La Paz. El Serpentario is best known for its resident reptilian population. However, the venue also focuses on amphibians. Within walking distance of the sea, the zoo allows visitors to make eye contact with tortoises, rattlesnakes, and even alligators. It’s a must-visit attraction if you are visiting the beautiful La Paz located on the Sea of Cortez.
The Tijuana Zoo is home to jaguars, bears, pumas, and a myriad of other animals. While the zoo is not as large as its famous cousin to the north, the San Diego Zoo, the Tijuana Zoo has more than 500 animals. The zoo is a splendid attraction to enjoy during the day when visiting Tijuana.
Santiago Zoo is less than forty miles north of San Jose Del Cabo. The Santiago zoo makes a fine day trip for anyone wanting to break up their beach vacation with something different. The zoo collects animals that are native to the region. The wonderfully crafted exhibits of this zoo are a delight to see. They give visitors an intriguing picture of the peninsula’s natural habitats. With gardens full of mango trees and cacti, the zoo is a refreshing attraction that will please visitors of all ages.
Other Must-Sees for Nature Lovers
Parque Nacional Constitucion in the Sierra de Juarez range is near the city of Ensenada. This beautiful woodland area is famous for its pine trees and wildlife.
Sierra de San Francisco Caves are under the protection of the UNESCO World Heritage Site designation. They feature prehistoric cave paintings were crafted by indigenous peoples in the region thousands of years ago.
The Baja Peninsula is, of course, home to beautiful beaches and incredible terrain. It’s easy to forget that the setting also features zoos and animal reserves when the sun and sea beckon. However, these attractions afford something out of the ordinary that everyone can enjoy. Set aside a morning or afternoon to visit any of these venues if you happen to be in Baja. You won’t be disappointed; on the contrary, viewing these creatures will likely be an unforgettable experience.
Events in Baja
There is always some event happening in Baja. The question is, what are you in the mood for? Whether you love to kick back and relax on the beach with a good book, explore ancient Mayan ruins, or just party the night away, you can do it all in Baja. Filled with great things to see and do, Baja features a wide variety of activities for visitors of all ages and interests.
Here are some of the highlights of Baja, including the goings-on in Tijuana, Ensenada, and Rosarito.
Off-Road Races
Several times a year SCORE puts on off-road races in Baja. Check these articles and see if you can catch one!
Craft Beer Adventures
Water Sports Galore
The Baja peninsula is right on the water, and that is good news for fans of adventure sports. From kiteboarding to waterskiing, from surfing, scuba diving to deep-sea fishing, you can enjoy some wet and wild adventure no matter when you visit.
You don’t even need to bring your own gear, although you can if you wish. There are plenty of local outfitters who can provide everything you need, from fishing tackle to surfboards.
Tijuana Toy Run
The Tijuana Toy Run takes place in December every year for the children of Tijuana. Get your bike ready, put on your helmet and strap a few gifts to the luggage rack because San Diego Harley Davidson and the Solo Angeles are firing up everyone for the kids. Read more about this annual run here.
Rosarito Ensenada Bike Ride
The famous Rosarito Ensenada Bike ride takes place twice per year. As far as Baja Events go, this is a must-try.
Rosarito’s Baja Beach Fest
The Baja summer season is the ideal getaway for beach lovers. While it’s always a good idea to head south of the border to enjoy the state’s glorious beaches and seemingly endless sunshine, summer promises a wealth of festivals and beachside events like Baja Beach Fest.
The Baja Beach Fest is a live music festival known for its Latin and Reggae performances. The fest attracts throngs of music lovers to the shores of the Pacific. There are loads of vendors at the fest that sell a wide array of food and drink. To get in, you’ll need a ticket and will have to present your ID or passport. Tickets and VIP tickets sell out quickly so be sure to reserve your spot as soon as possible.
Spring Break in Baja
For more things to do in Baja during spring break, visit:
Fishing Tournaments in Baja
For information about fishing tournaments in Baja, visit:
No matter what you plan to enjoy in Baja, make sure to remember your Baja Insurance. Your US or Canadian Insurance is not valid in Mexico and as of Jan 2019, it is a federal law to carry at least minimum liability from a Mexican company. Check out MexInsurance® where the program is online, quick and easy. Get your Baja Insurance Quote here.
IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT CAMPECHE
Campeche has an area of 22,365 square miles. It is one of Mexico’s least populous states, with a population is 836,866 people. Its largest city is also its capital—San Francisco de Campeche. Oil production accounts for more than half of the state’s economy. The industry boomed in the seventies when oil was discovered in the Gulf in the shallow waters of the state. Mining and other industry are also important to Campeche. In some sections of the state where the land is amenable, agriculture and raising livestock are also important to some communities.
