Is Ensenada safe? (2025)
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Is Ensenada safe?
Yes, Ensenada is relatively safe if you exercise reasonable caution and stay around downtown. However, the senseless killing of three surfers south of the city has cast a dark shadow over travel safety in Ensenada and the entire Baja.
Located along the Pacific Coast of Mexico, Ensenada is a popular getaway for many Southern Californians who come here from San Diego, Los Angeles and beyond to enjoy the outdoors and eat delicious Baja fish tacos. It’s also a major destination for cruise ships.
While you will be relatively safe in downtown Ensenada or popular destinations like La Bufadora or Valle De Guadalupe, your safety in off-grid places is a whole different topic.
If you want to venture off the beaten path when visiting Ensenada, avoid remote areas where it could be difficult to get help, especially if you don’t speak Spanish.
I’ve never felt unsafe in Ensenada during my trips, but following the tragic events of May 2024, many people asked me if it was still safe to go there. That’s why decided to answer the most common questions I’ve been getting and wrote an extensive guide on how to visit Ensenada safely.
If you plan to visit this popular coastal city in Baja California, this article is for you.
Is Ensenada safe for American tourists?
Yes, as an American you are relatively safe in Ensenada if you exercise caution and don’t get involved with drugs and shady people. Avoid overconsuming alcohol at bars and restaurants, don’t flash your money, and stay around parts of town that are frequented by other travelers.
Is Ensenada safe for cruise passengers?
Yes, Ensenada is safe for cruise passengers. Join guided tours to visit popular destinations like Valle de Guadalupe, and La Bufadora or ride an ATV in the desert. When walking around Ensenada, avoid displaying valuable items like jewelry and cameras and dress in plain clothing to avoid unwanted attention.
Ensenada crime
While Ensenada has organized crime, it rarely affects tourists as most violence is between local groups that are involved in illegal activities. The most common types of crime that affect tourists in Ensenada are pickpocketing and property theft.
Stay around areas frequented by other travelers and avoid remote parts of town, especially at night to minimize your chances of risk.
Why visit Ensenada?
Ensenada is set along one of the most beautiful coastlines in Mexico. It boasts a year-round mild climate perfect for hiking, surfing, and whale watching. It’s also the birthplace of the famous Baja fish taco that you can try in many restaurants around the city. Finally, Ensenada is a gateway to Valle De Guadalupe, Mexico’s top-producing wine region.
✅ Read: Best time to visit Ensenada
14 Safety tips for Ensenada
1. Don’t camp in remote areas
Many travelers stop in Ensenada on the way to other destinations in Baja California. As you drive around, you will find plenty of space for camping in the desert🌵and along the coast 🌊
Although camping in the middle of nowhere sounds like a thrilling experience, it could also be dangerous if something happens and you need quick help. Being miles away from the nearest town might invite trouble, especially if you run into the wrong people, as happened in the tragic case of three surfers.
Public campgrounds in Ensenada have better security, electricity and water and on-site amenities like bathrooms and kitchens, which will make your stay more comfortable.
Popular campgrounds in Ensenada are Ramona Beach RV Park, Villarino RV Park, and Las Cañadas Campamento.
2. Always lock your car’s doors
Whether you are driving your car or RV to Ensenada, always lock your doors. Cars and RV’s with American and Canadian plates are easy to spot, and if you leave your doors open, there’s a risk someone could steal your belongings.
Additionally, never leave anything in plain sight, as it could lead to a car break-in. Always put your valuables in your trunk or under the seats.
3. Swim only where it’s safe
Ensenada is known for surfing, but it has no swimming beaches within city limits. There are several spots to the north and south of the city where you can get in the water, but you should always check weather conditions and see if there’s a lifeguard on duty before going for a swim.
🚩 If you see a red flag on the beach, heed the warning and stay out of the water.
4. Don’t walk on the beach at night
Walking on the beach after hours is not a good idea. As a foreign visitor, you would be an easy target if any shady characters (called malandros in Spanish) come along.
5. Avoid isolated areas
Stay away from isolated parts of the city, especially at night. If you travel to Ensenada alone, limit your activities to Zona Centro (Downtown Ensenada) and popular landmarks like La Bufadora or Valle De Guadalupe, popular with tourists.
6. Keep a close eye on your belongings
Always watch your belongings in public places. While tourists are not usually targets of crime in Ensenada, petty theft is more common. Whether you are in a restaurant or at the beach, don’t leave your things unattended.
I recommend buying a theft-proof bag for your trip, which comes in handy in crowded places like the Malecón or markets. That often attracts pick-pockets.
7. Wear plenty of sunscreen
If you plan to spend time outside, put on sunscreen 🌞 Baja’s sun is pretty strong and even on a cloudy day, you could end up with a mild sunburn.
I recommend a reef safe sunscreen 🪸 which will protect you and won’t bleach corals or hurt marine life if you decide to get in the water.
8. Stay vigilant at night
If you want to go out, stay in downtown Ensenada and stick to well-lit areas, travel in groups, and use reputable transportation. Be careful in bars and nightclubs, as they can attract criminals during late hours.
7. Be careful with street food
Ensenada is the birthplace of Baja fish tacos 🌮 and you can find tons of small food stands that sell the famous staple. While Ensenada does have some phenomenal tacos and other street food, always be careful about where you eat.
🚨If a place looks unclean and the food doesn’t appear to be freshly prepared, it’s better to go elsewhere.
Where to find the best street food in Ensenada 🌮
Tacos Fenix is a gem among Ensenada’s street food vendors, that serves mouthwatering fish and shrimp tacos, which you can garnish with zesty toppings and bold salsas.
El Paisa Tacos serves ridiculously good al pastor and asada tacos with homemade tortillas for $1 per piece.
Another popular restaurant in Ensenada is Birrieria La Guadalajara, where you can try authentic birria from Guadalajara, the cultural hub of Mexico’s Jalisco State.
If you are ever in doubt, you can always look up reviews on Google and Yelp, but you should always listen to your gut (no pun intended) and go elsewhere if something looks off.
The last thing you want is to end with food poisoning, which could ruin your entire trip 🤕
If you want to explore Baja’s rich cuisine on your trip, but not sure where to start, book a guided food tour 🌯 which will include stops at some of the best food stands and restaurants in town.
📍This popular food tour offers a great introduction to Ensenada’s food scene.
Best food tours in Ensenada
8. Don’t leave your food and drinks unattended
Never leave your food and drinks unattended. Whether you are in Ensenada or any other destination in Mexico, always finish your meal first before stepping away.
There have been cases of food and drinks spiked with drugs, and although statistically, it’s not likely to happen, you should never take a chance.
Did you know that Baja California is known for its craft beer?
This high rated craft beer tour 🍻 will give you an overview of Ensenada’s best breweries and offer a chance to sample the best Baja beer.
9. Don’t drink tap water
Tap water is not safe to drink in Mexico, including Ensenada and other parts of Baja California. ‼️ Always buy bottled water or get purified water at your hotel.
If you are satying in Ensenada for a few days, bring a refillable water bottle on your trip.
10. Stay away from drugs
One of the easiest ways to enjoy a safe trip to Ensenada is to avoid drugs, plain and simple.
11. Use ride shares instead of taxis
I’ve never used local taxis during my trips to Baja but was told by multiple people that Uber in Ensenada is a better alternative 👍
Uber is a good way to get to your hotel at night instead of walking which could be less safe. Avoid Uber drivers with low ratings and let your friends and family know about your plans.
Keep your conversations neutral with a driver and stay away from politics. If something feels off, end your ride, as long as you are in a safe area where you can get out and order another ride.
12. Drive during the day
The drive to Ensenada from San Diego is only 1,5 hours along Mexico’s Federal Highway, but it’s better to drive during the day. This rule is especially true if you want to drive south of Ensenada where the highway has 2 lanes and cell phone service can be spotty.
If you are not used to narrow, poorly lit highways, driving through rural Baja at night could feel uncomfortable, because you will share the road with a lot of trucks that often drive at high speeds.
13. Get your Spanish game on
Learning Spanish could be a game changer for your trip to Ensenada and other destinations to Baja, as you can talk to locals and ask them questions about directions or places to visit.
Although you can get away without Spanish in Tijuana or Cabo, where many locals speak English, once you start traveling around and visiting more remote areas, most people that you will come across will only speak Spanish..
Download Babbel or Duolingo on your phone before your trip, and start learning Spanish on the go.
14. Learn about Green Angles
The term “green angles” refers to the “Angeles Verdes” (Green Angels) in Mexico.
They are a government-operated roadside assistance service designed to help travelers on major highways and roads across the country, including Baja California.
Their roadside assistance is free, although tipping for their help is appreciated.
They assist with minor vehicle repairs, provide help in emergencies, and offer tourism advice. If your car breaks down, they can help with tire changes, battery jumps, or towing.
📲 Call the 078 hotline for immediate assistance.
Driving to Ensenada from San Diego: What to know
If you decide to drive to Ensenada from San Diego, you will need several documents to cross the border at San Ysidro.
Ensenada is 85 miles (137 km) south of San Diego, and the trip takes about 1.5-2 hours. Once you cross the border, you will drive along Mexico Federal Highway 1 (Carretera Federal 1), also known as the Tijuana-Ensenada Scenic Toll Road (Cuota Escénica Tijuana-Ensenada), which will take you straight to Ensenada.
Don’t forget to prepare your toll booth fare, which is around 200 Mexican Pesos and has to be paid in cash 💰
1. Valid driver’s license
Ensure your driver’s license and vehicle registration are current. Foreign driver’s licenses, including American driver’s licenses, are accepted in Mexico as long as they are in the Roman alphabet.
If your license is in a different language, you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP). You will need it whether you want to rent a car in Ensenada or take a road trip from San Diego to Ensenada.
2. A TIP Permit
Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit (TIP) is required for all vehicles traveling outside the Free Travel Zone in Mexico. You can get it online before your trip.
3. Mexican car insurance
Mexican car insurance is mandatory for all vehicles in the country.
This is very important to remember if you are driving from the U.S. to Mexico because the US car insurance is NOT valid in Mexico and will not protect you in case of an accident.
⚠️ Driving without valid Mexican car insurance is illegal in Baja and everywhere else in the country.
You need to get your Mexican car insurance before your trip to Mexico and can do it through Baja Bound, a leading company in the Baja California insurance market that offers covers for cars, trucks, motorcycles, RVs, and motorhomes.
I’ve used Baja Bound multiple times for my car and always had a good experience with them.
Where to stay in Ensenada
- Torre Lucerna Hotel Ensenada – A brand new hotel in Ensenada, Torre Lucerna has a spa and fitness center, outdoor pool, 2 restaurants, and a bar. Breakfast is served daily. Private parking is available on the property.
- Casa Asturias – a perfect budget stay in Ensenada, Casa Asturias has rooms with a closet, private bathrooms, and free breakfast. Private parking is available, and there’s also an outdoor pool on the property.
- City Express Plus by Marriott Ensenada – One of the best hotels in Ensenada, City Express offers breakfast, free parking, a gym, and a free shuttle to Tijuana Airport.
Safe things to do in Ensenada
1. Whale watching (December through April) 🐋
Taking a whale watching tour in Ensenada offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to witness the breathtaking migration of gray whales along the Baja California coast. You can take a boat tour with one of the companies along Ensenada Malecon for an up-close encounter with these majestic creatures.
2. Spot La Bufadora geyser 👀
La Bufadora is one of the world’s largest marine geysers and the only geyser in North America that shoots seawater high into the air, creating a spectacular show. The entrance to La Bufadora is free and you can also shop at local markets, savor Baja’s seafood at small food stands, and enjoy stunning coastal views.
If you are visiting Ensenada by cruise ship, and don’t have a rental car 🚙 book a guided trip to La Bufadora, which includes transportation and a licensed guide.
Best guided tours of La Bufadora
3. Sample Baja’s famous wine at Valle de Guadalupe 🍷
Valle De Guadalupe is one of Mexico’s main wine regions just outside Ensenada. It has world-class wineries, high-end restaurants, and beautiful vineyard landscapes, making it a must-visit for wine 🍇 and food lovers 🧀
Best guided tours of Valle de Guadalupe from Ensenada
4. Walk Ensenada Malecón ⛴️
If you are looking for free activities, take a walk along Ensenada’s scenic waterfront promenade, where you can enjoy ocean views, fresh seafood, and cultural landmarks like the giant Mexican flag and stop at the city’s “Mercado Negro” fish market.
5. Off-road in the Baja desert 🌵
Joining a guided ATV tour in the Baja desert is the best way to experience Baja’s rugged terrain away from the busy city. The desert trails around Ensenada offer adrenaline-pumping rides along desert hills, and scenic landscapes.
Best ATV tours in Ensenada
6. Learn local history at Ensenada Regional Museum
This museum features a variety of artifacts from the Baja History that provide an overview of the history, geology, and culture of the Baja California Peninsula. The museum is housed inside the former prison and its artifacts are located in the rooms, which served as prison sells in the past.
Common scams in Ensenada
1. Overpriced tours
Always check reviews before booking excursions, especially for whale watching or La Bufadora tours. If you want to book a tour with a specific operator, always make sure that the price you are getting matches the price listed online.
2. Inflated restaurant bills
Occasionally, extra charges might be added to your bill. Always review your receipt before paying. It’s not uncommon for some restaurants to include an automatic tip to your final bill.
3. Skimming devices on ATM’s
Use ATMs affiliated with major bans instead of street ATMs to avoid card skimming.
4. Overpriced taxis
Some unscrupulous taxi drivers overcharge tourists, especially at the Ensenada cruise port. I recommend Uber in Ensenada to avoid getting ripped off by taxi drivers.
5. Shortchanging
Vendors and taxi drivers may “accidentally” give incorrect change. Always count your change twice before walking away.
6. Counterfeit tequila
Some shops sell fake or low-quality tequila in fancy bottles at premium prices. Buy from reputable liquor stores or distilleries. If you are ever in doubt, check their reviews online.
Is Ensenada safe: FAQs
Is it safe to drive from San Diego to Ensenada?
Yes, it’s safe to drive from San Diego to Ensenada, especially if you take the Scenic Highway 1 (Carretera Transpeninsular). This toll road is well-maintained and commonly used by American tourists. Drive during daylight hours, follow traffic laws, and be aware of local travel advisories.
What is Ensenada known for?
Ensenada is known for its coastal scenery, fresh Baja-Med seafood, and outdoor activities. It’s home to La Bufadora, a natural marine geyser, whale watching and off-roading. The city is also a major cruise ship stop and a gateway to some of Mexico’s best wineries in Valle de Guadalupe.
Can you walk around Ensenada Mexico?
Yes, Ensenada is a very walkable city, especially in the downtown and Malecon, with shops, restaurants, bars, and markets. The Malecón (boardwalk) is a great place for a stroll, and the tourist areas are generally safe during the day. At night, it’s best to stick to well-lit, popular areas with visitors.
Why do cruise ships stop in Ensenada Mexico?
Cruise ships stop in Ensenada because it’s a convenient and scenic port with plenty of attractions for visitors. It offers duty-free shopping, local cuisine, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures like wine tours, whale watching, and ATV rides. Ensenada is also a popular stop for short Baja cruises from California.
Is Ensenada safe to live?
Ensenada is generally a safe place to live, but your safety greatly depends on the part of the city where you live. Ensenada has several areas popular with expats.
Is Ensenada safe: Final word
Ensenada is a beautiful coastal city that offers incredible food, stunning scenery, and rich culture.
While it’s generally safe for tourists, staying aware of your surroundings and taking basic precautions such as traveling during daylight, sticking to well-populated areas, and keeping valuables secure will help you a smooth and enjoyable visit.
Like any travel destination, it’s always a good idea to stay informed about current safety conditions and ask locals for advice. Ensenada can be a safe and unforgettable destination for your next adventure, with the right planning and precautions.
