Ensenada Cruises

Besides Cancun, Ensenada is the most popular and frequently visited port city in Mexico. Located on the Baja Peninsula, Ensenada is the busiest port on the west coast of Baja. This seaside community was discovered by Sebastian Vizcaino in 1602. Vizcaino immediately recognized the potential that this area possessed, not only in the sparkling blue waters, but the rich, fertile land as well. Exactly four hundred years later, people are still experiencing as much enjoyment from this seaside city as they did during Ensenada's earliest days. Almost everyday throughout the year cruise ships can be seen meandering in and out of Ensenada's harbor. These cruise ships deposit hundreds of eager vacationers onto Mexico's shores. For the day, this thriving city is theirs to explore before departing for other exotic locations such as Cancun and Acapulco.

An Abundance of Activities

Ensenada is exploding with outdoor and water related activities that are almost too numerous to count. During the summer months, fishing enthusiasts flock to Ensenada Local Fishermen Off the Coast of Ensenada in hopes of snagging tuna, yellowtail and halibut. For vacationers who want to admire the ocean life up close and personal, scuba diving is the only option and most divers must have a C card in order to participate. Some of the best surfing in Mexico can be found in this area. San Miguel will offer a thrill for experienced wave riders while the waves at Punta Banda Peninsula's beaches are best for the less experienced surfers. Families as well as those who are romantic at heart will enjoy horseback riding on the beach. Other outdoor recreational activities include the always popular golf and tennis.

Wonderful Vineyards

Vacationers whose palates truly appreciate fine wines will be thrilled with the vineyards of Ensenada. The Bodegas de Santo Tomas Winery is Baja California's oldest. The Scuba Diving in Ensenada grapes used to create some of Mexico's most delicious wines are crushed here. Tours and wine tastings are available to the public daily. Located directly across the street is La Esquina de Bodegas. Here, vacationers can purchase bottles of local wines to serve as a wonderful reminder of their time spent in Ensenada. The Fish Market in Ensenada provides loads of entertainment for passerby's and shoppers. The smell may be unpleasant but a chance to watch these captivating and amusing workers makes it well worth it. Hussong's Cantina has a little of something for everyone. If it's entertainment, tequila or local shopping you want, it can all be found here. This rowdy, but fun-filled establishment place has always been a major tourist attraction.

Something for Everyone

Admirers of architecture will appreciate the Riviera del Pacifico. Built in the 1930's with the intention of catering to the Hollywood elite, this structure was originally a gambling palace. Today the building is open to the public and offers excellent examples of unique tile work, murals and ceiling paintings. The building houses a museum, the city's cultural center and a library among other things. Ensenada is bursting with various different restaurants that are sure to please even the most discerning palates. Shopping is not top notch in Ensenada, but the shops, markets and independent vendors are interesting to explore. The Galeria de Perez is a wonderful place to purchase high-quality Sunset in Ensenada Mexican pottery. The Avenida Lopez Quijote is a waterfront street lined with various shops selling local and national art. A trip to Ensenada offers many exciting and new opportunities for vacationers to experience.