Baja California

Mexico
Mexico
Experience the sea and the sunshine in Mexico’s north-westernmost state. Find miles of coastline, surf breaks, wineries and some of the best fish tacos around.

Located in the northern half of the peninsula with which it shares its name, Baja California Norte is flanked by pristine waters: the Pacific on the west and the Gulf of California on the east. Discover beaches, coves and surf breaks, explore tiny villages and monumental canyons, and experience the hum and excitement of dynamic cities.

Mexicali is the state’s capital city and sits snugly against the Californian border. The city has an intriguing cultural fusion and a rich Chinese heritage, as well as a fantastic local arts scene and culinary traditions.

Head for the bustling border town of Tijuana, which is just a 30-minute drive from San Diego. Wander the old downtown area, Zona Centro and stroll down the famous Avenida Revolución tourist strip.

Nearby beaches include Rosarito and Ensenada. Ride between the two beach cities during the bi-annual cycling event in April and September. Celebrate the end of the 50-mile (80-kilometer) ride with a glass of wine from the vineyards of the surrounding winemaking countryside. More wineries can be found in the towns of Valle de Guadalupe, La Joya and Tecate. Taste delicious fresh seafood in Puerto Nuevo, a beach community on the Pacific Coast that is famous for its lobsters.

For a luxurious resort-style vacation, head to San Felipe. This former fishing village has a pretty waterfront and stunning Sea of Cortez beaches. Guadalupe Island off the peninsula’s coast promises pristine, marine life-filled waters, ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving excursions.

Explore Sierra de San Pedro Mártir National Park to hike and camp amid the Baja Californian wilderness. Here, breathtaking mountain vistas dominate the scene and condors can be seen slowly circling above the summits. Sail to the pristine beaches of Isla Partida and surrounding islands of the San Lorenzo Marine Archipelago National Park.

Reach Baja California Norte by flying into international airports in Mexicali and Tijuana. There are six border crossings between the U.S. and Baja California, with buses passing between them several times a day. Visit Tijuana in October to sample the delicious dishes on offer at the annual Baja California Culinary Festival.

Popular cities in Baja California

Tijuana which includes street scenes and a city
Tijuana
Known for Dining, Bars and Entertainment
This Mexican border town is home to a lively tourist district, burgeoning cultural scene and great beaches. Caesar salad was invented here.

Reasons to visit

  • Centro Cultural Tijuana
  • Rosarito Beach
  • Hidalgo Market
The Valle De Los Gigantes (Valley of the Giants) features the world's largest forest of cardón cacti, the tallest growing cactus in the world. The massive cardóns are only found in Baja California and Sonora, Mexico, and are capable of growing to heights of well over 60 feet and can weigh up to 25 tons. These slow growing plants also have an equally impressive lifespan, often reaching ages of up to 300 years. Valle De Los Gigantes is a short drive south of San Felipe, Mexico, an easy day trip into the desert.
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San Felipe
Known for Beaches, Dining and Sea
Get away to San Felipe! Enjoy the beaches, local cuisine, and marina.

Reasons to visit

  • Playa San Felipe
  • South Beach
Ensenada which includes a garden
Ensenada
Known for Dining, Sea and Relaxing
The port city in the Mexican state of Baja California is known for its wine-producing region, water sports, wildlife and beautiful scenery.

Reasons to visit

  • Avenida Adolfo Lopez Mateos
Blowhole in Ensenada
Cabo Punta Banda
Known for Nature and Natural parks
Trip time! Discover the natural setting in Cabo Punta Banda.

Reasons to visit

  • La Bufadora Overlook
Mexicali
Mexicali
Known for Dining, Entertainment and Live music
Get away to Mexicali! Enjoy the local cuisine, entertainment, and sports.
Valle de Guadalupe
Valle de Guadalupe
Known for Dining, Wineries and Relaxing
Trip time! Discover the wineries, local cuisine, and horseback riding in secluded Valle de Guadalupe.