The first time we ever took a cruise to Mexico we stopped in Ensenada. Just a couple hours south of San Diego but a world away. Actually, we didn't know if it that was true because we didn't get off the ship. And the next trip we stayed on the ship, and then the next. Yep, we were fearful American tourists who never stepped foot on shore. But then one of our crew member friends was celebrating his birthday in Ensenada and invited us to go along. Only then did we venture out.
Fast forward to now. How many times do we stay on the ship when it docks in Ensenada? Like, never. We've found lots to do - and found our fears about safety were unfounded.
If you want to venture out a bit either by car, bus, or taxi you can visit:
- A winery? In Ensenada? The nearby valleys of San Vicente, Santo Tomas, and Guadalupe produce 90% of Mexico 's wines.
- La Bufadora, The Blowhole. The spout of ocean water is created when waves and air are pulled into an underwater cave and spit back out.
- Hussong's Cantina is Baja's oldest bar still in use. It's also where the margarita was invented in 1941.
- The Malecon is a nice waterfront walkway. The Malecon starts just past the ship's secure areas. We frequently see families out and about walking and sitting and playing with their kids along The Malecon. (We enjoy watching locals with their families.) You'll also see Mexico's second largest flag there. (Although you can easily see the flag from the ship - it is huge.)
- Mercado de Mariscos - Fish Market. Northern Baja California 's largest seafood market, you can find all kinds of small and large fish here. Don't be surprised if you see a fisherman bringing a shark to market - using a wheelbarrow.
Fish tacos in Ensenada is our top pick for what to do in Ensenada.
