This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Ensenada.
The cosmopolitan beach city of Ensenada is located only 125km south of San Diego, along Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula. Known as “The Cinderella of the Pacific,” Ensenada has become a well-frequented cruise ship destination, important wine region, and aerospace centre.
Tucked into a small mountain range along the coastline of Bahía de Todos Santos, Ensenada’s climate is mild all year round, making this a perfect choice for tourists looking to enjoy warm weather on a beautiful Mexican beach. Hostels and hotels can be found throughout Ensenada, with some exclusive resorts for guests looking for more upscale accommodations. The hotels and hostels here are varied, providing tourists with the opportunity to find accommodation that will suit any budget or travel plan.
Just off the coast of the city, tourists can visit one of the world’s best spots for observing the great white shark – Guadalupe Island. The waters around Ensenada are home to a wide variety of aquatic mammals, like the California sea lion, the grey whale, and the Guadalupe fur seal. On land, visitors can keep an eye out for coyotes, bobcats, otters, and squirrels.
Sailing, windsurfing, hiking, surfing, and swimming are popular activities among locals and travelers alike, but there is a lot more to do in Ensenada than just enjoy the beaches. With wineries, historical tours, museums, and even the Ensenada Carnaval each year, there is plenty to take in during your stay here.
Getting to Ensenada is easy, with regular buses running between Ensenada and Tijuana, where the nearest airport is located. The city is a short drive from the United States border, and the port in Ensenada is usually packed with cruise ships. Most of Ensenada’s tourist attractions in town can be accessed by foot, so a car isn’t necessary if you’re staying in a hostel or hotel within the city.
Written by local enthusiast for Ensenada hostels
Jakob Lombardi