¡Hola! Hey there, all you adventure-seekers from Los Angeles, San Diego, and beyond! Get ready to fall in love with the lively Ensenada, Mexico – a gem right on the beautiful Baja California coast. We've got thunderous La Bufadora, mouthwatering street food, and electrifying nights on Calle Primera all lined up for you. Have a quick read as we uncover the best of Ensenada, making it the ultimate spot for your próximo (next) coastal getaway. And yes, the GSS magazine is family and vegetarian-friendly, so read along.

DOWNTOWN ENSENADA

Downtown Ensenada: Where Culture Meets Shopping

Downtown Ensenada is a cultural hub teeming with shopping opportunities. Consider a stay at one of the hotels in the area. We stayed at the Holiday Inn which was wonderful.

As you wander through downtown Ensenada, you'll be surrounded by a vibrant array of colorful shops, inviting cafes, and lively street art that reflects the city's rich culture.

For shopping enthusiasts, downtown Ensenada offers a paradise of artisanal crafts and stylish boutiques, perfect for finding unique souvenirs.

One standout attraction in downtown Ensenada is Ventana al Mar Park, a family-friendly destination with an interactive fountain that dances to music and vibrant lights, providing a perfect spot for kids to cool off while parents soak in the atmosphere.

Waterside Outdoor Amphitheater: Evening Magic

Experience the enchantment of an evening performance at the waterside amphitheater, heightened by the sea breeze. Keep an eye out for local events during your visit to immerse yourself in Ensenada's rich culture.

MARINE GEYSER

La Bufadora: A Natural Marvel for the Whole Family

La Bufadora, a breathtaking natural wonder, promises an unforgettable experience for your family. To beat the crowds and enjoy the best views of the marine geyser, plan an early visit. Ensure you wear comfortable footwear for exploring the rocky cliffs and protect yourself from the sun's rays with sunscreen and a hat. There are a few parking lots in the area which offer parking for a fee. There are also bathrooms you can use for a fee so make sure you have cash.

Savoring Street Food Near La Bufadora

After the mesmerizing La Bufadora, indulge your taste buds with local street food offerings. Look for vendors with bustling lines – a surefire sign of deliciousness. Try the zesty grilled corn, known as elotes, with a splash of lime, and don't hold back on adding extra salsa to your tacos.

NIGHT LIFE

Calle Primera: Nightlife and Local Vibes

For a fantastic evening filled with youthful energy, head to Calle Primera. While you will find older individuals and couples, the predominant age group here is around 18 to 35 years old. Some people come to dance, while others come for drinks. We even spotted a group taking tequila shots, usually in sets of 10, with lots of cheering. It's a lively place to enjoy live music at various bars and clubs. Keep in mind that it can get quite loud, so if you're looking for a quiet conversation spot, this might not be the best choice.

When you're here, don't miss:

• Hussong's - Oldest and best known cantina, established in 1892. If you're lucky, you'll find a table to enjoy some margaritas.
• FYI - the second Hussong's opened in Las Vegas in 2010.
• Also, FYI: Hussong's is reputedly the place where the Margarita was created in October 1941 by bartender Don Carlos Orozco

• Papas & Beer - to catch a game or to dance! However, it's not an ideal spot for dinner, especially if you have kids in tow. They also have another location in Rosarito.

ADVENTURE

Las Cañadas Adventure: Thrills Amidst Nature

Las Cañadas, near Ensenada, Mexico, is a favorite spot for outdoor fun with 70 acres of green space. . This big natural area has lots to do in a beautiful setting. When visiting Las Cañadas, plan a full day of adventure for the family.

You can try zip-lining here, zooming through the trees and enjoying awesome views. There are also boating experiences, hiking trails, places to camp, and chances to watch birds or go horseback riding. It's a great place for people who love being outdoors.

They even have an ATV track which is a dirt road for a true off-road adventure! You can rent an ATV on the premises.

VIATOR EXPERIENCES

If you would rather join a tour group, these Viator experiences are good options:

Private Horseback and La Bufadora shore Excursion

Horseback riding in Punta Banda, pass by the Mexican town of Rodolfo Sanchez Taboada and then two hours at La Bufadora where you see the geyser, shop, eat and drink!

The Bufadora Private Tour

This one is good if you don't have a car. The tour takes you to the geyser and back to your hotel. It is a small group tour which also drives you around the city and gives you time to shop for souvenirs.

Horseback Riding on the Beach from Ensenada

Head straight to the meeting point and enjoy the thrill of riding horses along the shore. This one may work well for cruise travelers who dock at Ensenada. Description and direction to meet are in the link.

Las Canadas Ecopark and Bufadora Private Tour

Stops at Las Canadas campamento with optional zip lines and hanging bridges, La Bufadora, and Mirador Playa Hermosa. Good for the entire family, you’ll get to enjoy a variety of treats including the beach, museums, the city hall, a shopping mall, and enjoy the agriculture of the region. Optional zip lines are on offer too, pina coladas, churros and tequila tasting.

Tacos, Brews and Views Tour with Street Photography Option

This is a great tour for those who want to sample some authentic Mexican food as well as beer. They are cruise-line friendly. They take you to La Guerrerense Carreta, voted "Best Street Food Cart" in the world as well as Tacos Fenix (Fish & Shrimp), the birth place of the Baja style fish and shrimp taco, as well as nice breweries - Pacific Brews, Transpeninsular, Wendlandt Brew Pub and Lucky Irish Pub 4 Beergarden (great views!).

FOOD

Discovering the local food scene in downtown Ensenada is a must for newcomers to Mexican cuisine. Whether you're savoring delicious offerings from street-side taco stands or treating yourself to fresh seafood at upscale restaurants, there's a delightful culinary experience awaiting every palate. And, of course, don't miss the chance to pair your meal with a Mexican beer or a refreshing margarita to complete the experience. And yes, there is always something for vegetarians!

That said, your first stop should always be a grocery store!

Soriana is a famous supermarket in Mexico, including Ensenada. It's a place where you can buy all sorts of groceries and household items. Whether you're a local or a tourist, Soriana is a handy place to get what you need while you're in Ensenada.

Gorditas and Street Food: A Culinary Adventure

While meandering through the vibrant streets of downtown Ensenada in Mexico, be sure not to miss the opportunity to indulge in gorditas. These delectable creations are a culinary essential, offering a range of choices to please diverse palates, including those in search of vegetarian and sweet temptations.

Gorditas, at their core, are robust, handcrafted tortillas that cradle an assortment of mouthwatering fillings. For the herbivores among us, there are gorditas bursting with flavors like creamy cheese, hearty beans, fire-roasted vegetables, or even a fusion of these delectable ingredients. They promise a palate-pleasing and wholly satisfying experience without the need for meat.

For those whose cravings lean toward the sweeter side, sweet gorditas are readily available. These delectable treats typically harbor treasures like velvety caramel, rich chocolate, or luscious sweetened condensed milk, crafting a dessert-like indulgence that's nothing short of delightful.

Fresh Tortillas on the Street: A Photo-Worthy Experience

Tortillas serve as the foundation for numerous iconic Mexican dishes like tacos, quesadillas, enchiladas, and more. Tortillas are thin, round, and unleavened flatbreads made primarily from corn or wheat flour. Their history traces back thousands of years to indigenous Mesoamerican civilizations, where corn was a staple crop. This ancient food has been a dietary staple for generations, sustaining and nourishing communities throughout Mexican history.

The process of making tortillas involves mixing corn masa (dough) with water and forming small balls that are then pressed flat and cooked on a griddle. When they're made fresh, you can truly taste the difference – they're warm, soft, and wonderfully aromatic. Watching skilled locals prepare these tortillas right on the street is not just a culinary experience but a cultural one as well.

Exploring Street Vendors and Corn Tamales

While meandering through Ensenada's streets or between towns, keep an eye out for vendors offering tamales. These portable delights make for a perfect on-the-go snack between sightseeing stops. We found our experience on the way to Ensenada on the road side of a pretty busy freeway.

Planta Restaurant: Fine dining with vegetarian options and a View

Delight your palate at the Planta Restaurant! Opt for a table by the ocean to savor coastal views, especially during sunset. The chef is incredible, every item is amazing! We ordered the mushroom risotto, freshly made pasta and a tortilla soup.

There are other vegan spots, just look up Happy Cow.net.

Popular Spots to Eat near Downtown

If you are looking for authentic meat and seafood options, there are plenty!

Here are some to explore:

La Guerrerense: This iconic street cart consistently receives rave reviews for its seafood tostadas, ceviche, and salsas. It's a must-visit for an authentic and delicious taste of Ensenada. It's been around since 1960s, is owned by Sabina Bandera and some say it's the best seafood in Mexico. Today, they have locations in Ensenada, Tijuana and Mexico City.

Muelle 3: Known for its fantastic seafood and breathtaking waterfront views, Muelle 3 offers a variety of fresh and flavorful dishes. The ceviche and grilled fish are especially popular.

Taqueria El Trailero: Renowned for its carne asada tacos and a wide selection of salsas, Taqueria El Trailero is a popular spot for authentic street food. It's beloved by both locals and visitors.

Tacos Fenix: Known for its mouthwatering tacos al pastor, Tacos Fenix is a beloved food truck where you can savor the delicious combination of marinated pork and pineapple

El Rey Sol: A classic French-Mexican fusion restaurant with a rich history. It's an ideal choice for those seeking a touch of elegance in their dining experience.

Don't fancy reading? Watch this video for a quick overview.

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