11 Fun Things To Do In San Quintin, Mexico in 2024
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A hidden gem along Baja California’s Pacific Coast, San Quintin is a small town known for its agriculture, including the cultivation of tomatoes, strawberries, and other crops.
But don’t think San Quintin is just a quick pit stop on your Baja California itinerary: it boasts untouched beaches, stunning natural landmarks, and Punta Mazo Reserve, where you can climb volcanoes, ride an ATV, and camp along the beach. If you like adventure and want to explore one of Baja’s best-kept secrets, this article is for you.
Where is San Quintin, Mexico?
San Quintín is located on the west coast of the Baja California Peninsula in the municipality of Ensenada.
San Quintin Mexico Map
Best Things To Do In San Quintin, Mexico
1. Visit San Quintin beaches
What San Quintin lacks in infrastructure and amenities, it makes up in jaw-dropping landscapes. The town boasts some of the most beautiful, unspoiled beaches in Baja California where you can enjoy scenic views, surf, and ride an ATV.
Playa San Ramón and Playa Santa María are popular choices for relaxing, sunbathing, or taking a stroll along the coastline.
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Here are some of the best beaches in San Quintin:
- Punta Mazo: Punta Mazo is known for its beautiful coastal landscapes, and while it may not be as crowded as other surf spots, it can offer decent waves. This place works better for more experienced surfers.
- Bahía Falsa: This bay near San Quintín can occasionally provide surfable waves. The surfing conditions can vary, so it’s worth checking with locals or surf experts for the latest information.
- Playa San Ramón: This beach in San Quintín is known for its scenic beauty, and depending on the conditions, it might offer surfable waves.
- Playa Santa Maria: Another beach in the San Quintín area, Playa Santa Maria, may have surfable waves depending on the weather and ocean conditions.
➡️ I recommend brushing up on some Spanish ahead of your visit to San Quintin, as not everyone here speaks English. Apps like Duolingo and Babbel make it super easy to learn basic words and expressions.
2. Go bird watching
San Quintín is home to many types of birds thanks to the estuaries and coastal wetlands that provide shelter and food for many migratory species. You can enjoy bird watching in many areas of San Quintin, including Los Humedales, the protected wetlands of San Quintin.
3. Visit La Lobera
Another popular attraction near San Quintin is La Lobera, a natural sea cave about 1 hour north of San Quintin. La Lobera is a natural crater where seawater is forced through an opening in the rocks, creating a dramatic display of water shooting into the air.
This crater is a result of the ocean waves and tides interacting with the coastal topography. It’s a fun place to explore, and you will likely spot some sea lions resting on the rocks.
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4. Climb volcano at Punta Mazo
Visiting Punta Mazo Natural Reserve was one of my favorite things to do in San Quintin. This stunning area along the Bay of San Quintin (Bahia de San Quintin) is home to pristine beaches, rugged cliffs, and even a group of volcanoes!
I climbed Sudoeste volcano on my trip, and had a lot of fun. Wear good hiking shoes and a jacket because it can be windy at the top, if you want to climb it.
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Once you make it to the top, you will enjoy the incredible views of San Quintin Bay and surrounding beaches. The hike is relatively easy, but you should wear good hiking shoes and bring plenty of water.
It can also be windy at the top, so bring a good windbreaker.
I also suggest applying some sunscreen to avoid sunburn, especially if you are hiking during mid-day. Baja sun can be strong even on a cloudy day.
Do I need a 4X4 to get to Punta Mazo?
Punta Mazo is relatively remote and less developed, and to get here, you will need a 4X4 car. You can also drive a regular car to the nearest beach and then walk up to the reserve from there, which should take about 30 minutes.
📍Admission to Punta Mazo is free.
Although you won’t find any amenities in Punta Mazo, you will have a chance to enjoy the vast and untouched landscapes and lack of crowds. This remoteness is perfect for those seeking a quieter and more off-the-beaten-path experience.
5. Los Humedales
Los Humedales are the wetlands near San Quintin where you can go kayaking and spot many species of birds, who come here to rest and feed. It’s one of the most ecologically important places in Baja California, as the wetlands are considered the lungs of the entire Baja California Peninsula.
I also recommend visiting El Mirador Valle Volcanic, from where you can enjoy the panoramic view of the volcanoes and wetlands.
6. Check out Monte Ceniza Nature Reserve
Monte Ceniza is a natural reserve in San Quintín Bay. The main attraction of the area, Mirador Monte Ceniza is a viewpoint at the center of the nature reserve, which can be reached via a short trail. Once you reach the end of the trail, you will a bench where you can take a break. The area also provides nice views of the bay.
7. Try off-roading
Off-roading is one of the most popular things to do in San Quintin, with many travelers from the United States coming to San Quintin just for that.
San Quintin has plenty of dirt roads in the area, where you can enjoy the ATV ride. Many visitors come here to ride ATV in Punta Mazo which has several wide beaches with plenty of space.
8. Visit San Quintin Botanical Garden
San Quintin’s Botanical Garden is home to an impressive array of plants native to this part of Baja California. Located in the middle of the town, this place provides a quiet atmosphere for a relaxing walk while you can see Baja’s impressive flora on display.
9. Ride the waves
Surfing is another popular activity in San Quintin. Many beaches near San Quintin provide great surf conditions and unlike some of the most popular surfing mainstays, they have no crowds.
La Punta within Punta Mayo Reserve is a popular surfing area, and Punta San Jacinto.
10. Go camping
If you want to spend time in nature and recharge, consider camping in Punta Mayo or Ceniza Nature Reserve. While camping here is more primitive with limited amenities, it will give you a chance to disconnect and relax in the nature.
11. Try fresh produce
San Quintin is a big agriculture hub, and the area has thousands of hectares that are used to grow fruits and vegetables. You can try strawberries, blueberries and veggies that you can get in stores or from local vendors.
Best restaurants in San Quintin Mexico:
📍Restaurante Misión San Isabel – A popular Mexican restaurant off the main highway in San Quintin, Mision San Isabel offers traditional Mexican cuisine and decent options for vegans and vegetarians.
📍Restaurant Molino Viejo – One of the best-rated restaurants in San Quintin, Molino Viejo is a popular spot next to the Old Mill Hotel. The restaurant offers a spectacular view of volcanoes and plenty of great options on the menu that are very reasonably priced.
📍Restaurant Bar Jardines Baja – If you want great services, a fun atmosphere, and delicious food, visit this restaurant. This place is very popular with travelers who leave tons of great reviews.
📍Mahono Sushi – A perfect sushi joint in San Quintin where you can try Japanese specialties made from the local catch.
Best hotels in San Quintin, Mexico:
✅ Hotel La Villa De San Quintin – Located along the main highway in San Diego, this hotel offers a nice buffet breakfast, free parking, and Wi-Fi.
✅ Hotel Mision Santa Maria – One of the most popular hotels in San Quintin, Mission Santa Maria sits by the beach and boasts a nice onsite restaurant and a bar. All rooms have a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, and a coffee machine.
✅ Cabaña Riveroll – A perfect spot along the wetlands, these cute cabanas are great if you want to spend a night in nature and enjoy the tranquil setting as they are right next to the wetlands.
How to get to San Quintin Mexico:
Getting to San Quintín, Mexico, typically involves travel by car from the United States or taking a bus in Mexico, as there is no airport in the immediate vicinity. Here are the general ways to reach San Quintín:
✅ By car
From Tijuana: The distance between Tijuana and San Quintin is approximately 350 kilometers (about 217 miles) by road. Travel times can vary based on traffic, road conditions, and the chosen mode of transportation.
From Ensenada: If you’re coming from Ensenada, head south on Mexican Federal Highway 1. The drive takes about 2-3 hours, depending on the specific location in Ensenada and road conditions.
✅ By bus
Bus services operate between major cities in Baja California and San Quintín. You can take a bus from Tijuana or Ensenada to San Quintín. Buses are operated by companies like ABC Autobuses and others. Check the schedules and availability in advance.
✅ By car rental
Before traveling, it’s essential to check the current road conditions, especially if you’re planning to drive. Additionally, ensure that you have all necessary documents, including a valid passport if you’re crossing the border from the United States into Mexico.
Renting a car for your trip to San Quintin
Depending on what your travel plans are, you can rent your car in the United States or Mexico, after crossing the border. Since you will need to make your trip down south, you should rent your car either in Tijuana or Mexicali, which has plenty of car rental companies.
I rented a car in Tijuana and did a full loop around Baja California before arriving back. If you are not driving your own car, renting a car in Tijuana is a great idea, as it will allow you to drive south and make a loop around Baja California.
Where to rent a car for your trip to San Quintin
Many places in San Quintin require a 4X4 vehicle, as the town has very few paved roads outside the main highway. A good place to find car rentals for your trip to San Quintin is DiscoverCars, which offers tons of great deals on many types of vehicles.
I’ve booked my cars with DiscoverCars and always had a good experience, so I highly recommend their services.
Also, you should know that US car rental insurance is not valid for rental cars in Mexico. You can get Mexican car insurance from DiscoverCars ahead of your trip.
Is San Quintin Mexico safe?
While San Quintin is a quiet town that lives off agriculture and tourism. However, you should always exercise caution and follow basic safety rules. As with any other place, San Quintin is not perfectly safe, and you are responsible for your safety.
📍Check: Is Baja California safe?
Getting insurance for your trip to San Felipe
I recommend getting travel insurance for your trip to Baja California.
Safety Wing is perfect for long-term travelers who plan to stay in Belize for a couple of weeks. I’ve used Safety Wing insurance several times and always had a great experience with them.
What is San Quintin known for?
San Quintin is known for its oyster farms, agriculture industry, and superb outdoor opportunities. It also boasts an annual tomato festival that celebrates one of San Quintin’s top exports.
San Quintin weather
Located in Baja California, Mexico, generally experiences a Mediterranean-like climate with mild, wet winters when temperatures stay between 55 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit and warm, dry summers with temperatures ranging from around 70 to 85°F.
San Quintin Camping
There are several camp spots around San Quintin with some of the most popular ones located along the beach in Punta Mazo. You can also book your stay at Hotel and RV Park Rosa Evelyn, which has good amenities for camper vans.
Here are some tips for camping in San Quintin:
- Research Campsites: Look for established campgrounds or areas where camping is allowed. There may be paid campgrounds with facilities and more rustic, free camping options. Popular spots include El Rosario and Bahía de San Quintín.
- Permits and Regulations: Check local regulations regarding camping. Some areas may require permits or have specific rules to follow. Respect the environment and local communities.
- Weather Conditions: Baja California can have hot and dry weather, especially during the summer. Be prepared with sufficient water, sunscreen, and proper clothing. Check the weather forecast before your trip.
- Safety: Be aware of your surroundings and take safety precautions. Inform someone about your camping plans and expected return date. Have a first aid kit and basic survival supplies.
- Supplies and Provisions: Stock up on essential supplies, as some remote areas may not have nearby stores. Bring sufficient food, water, and camping gear. It’s also a good idea to have a reliable map or GPS.
- Respect the Environment: Practice Leave No Trace principles. Clean up after yourself, don’t disturb wildlife, and follow posted guidelines.
- Campfires: Check local regulations regarding campfires. In some areas, fires may be prohibited, especially during dry seasons. If allowed, use established fire rings and be responsible for fire safety.
- Wildlife: Be aware of local wildlife, such as snakes or insects, and take precautions. Store food securely to avoid attracting animals.
- Communication: Keep your phone charged and have a backup power source. While some areas may have cell coverage, it’s not guaranteed in more remote locations.
- Local Recommendations: If possible, ask locals or experienced travelers for recommendations on good camping spots and any specific tips for the San Quintín area.