From Tijuana: City Tour Ensenada & Lobster

Explore Baja California with a Full-Day Tour from Tijuana for $120

This 10-hour tour from Tijuana offers an engaging taste of Baja California’s coastal charm, cultural sites, and culinary delights. For $120 per person, you get transportation, guided commentary, and visits to key attractions like Puerto Nuevo for lobster, the Hotel-Casino Riviera, and the bustling Calle Primera in Ensenada. The tour is ideal for those seeking a comprehensive day trip that balances sightseeing, local cuisine, and relaxed exploration, though it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a full schedule and some basic physical activity.

While the experiences are authentic and engaging, note that English-speaking guides may have limitations, as some reviews highlight. Still, the tour provides a well-rounded glimpse of Ensenada’s culture and scenery, making it a worthwhile option for first-time visitors or those wanting an organized way to see Baja California’s highlights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Includes Puerto Nuevo lobster meal with sides such as tortillas, beans, rice, and salsa
• Visits the Hotel-Casino Riviera, birthplace of the Margarita cocktail
• Explores the Ensenada boardwalk to observe marine life
• Culinary stops on Calle Primera feature diverse dining options, craft shops, and food stands
• Transportation and guide included with a focus on comfort and local insights
• Tour duration is approximately 10 hours, departing from Plaza Galerias in Tijuana

Starting Point at Plaza Galerias Mall in Tijuana

The tour begins at Plaza Galerias mall, where the driver waits outside with a Sibaria Tours sign in uniform. This location is convenient for visitors staying in Tijuana, with easy access and clear meeting instructions. The vehicle used for transportation is described as comfortable and well-maintained, ensuring a smooth journey to the Baja California coast.

The departure usually occurs in the morning, making it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing. The tour runs with bilingual guides fluent in Spanish and English, though some reviews note that English-speaking quality can vary. The driver primarily leads the group, with commentary as they go, but keeps the focus on safe and efficient transit.

Puerto Nuevo and the Lobster Feast

The first major stop is Puerto Nuevo, famous for Baja California-style lobster. Here, travelers enjoy a meal included in the tour price, with generous portions of lobster and sides like flour tortillas, homemade beans, rice, and salsa. This classic coastal dish is a highlight, offering a taste of authentic regional cuisine.

The lobster stop is a laid-back experience, perfect for relaxing and savoring fresh seafood. While the meal generally receives positive notes, some reviews mention the need for patience when the guide makes calls or manages logistics. Still, the overall impression is that the lobster is a definite highlight, especially for fans of seafood.

Visiting the Hotel-Casino Riviera and Margarita Origins

After the lobster feast, the tour continues to Hotel-Casino Riviera, notable for being the birthplace of the Margarita. This site provides a quick cultural stop, allowing visitors to see where this iconic cocktail was invented. While it’s a brief visit, it adds a historical touch to the day and offers great photo opportunities.

The Hotel-Casino Riviera stands out as a piece of Baja California’s cocktail history, and the tour allows guests to appreciate this unique connection. It’s a chance to see a different side of Ensenada beyond just scenery and food.

More Great Tours Nearby

Strolling Along Ensenada’s Boardwalk

Next, the group visits the Ensenada boardwalk, where the lively marine environment is on display. Here, you can observe marine life and enjoy a casual walk along the waterfront. The boardwalk’s vibrant atmosphere offers snapshots of local life, with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxing by the sea.

This stop is ideal for those wanting a sense of Ensenada’s coastal vibe without a strenuous activity. It also provides a break before moving on to the bustling Calle Primera area.

Culinary and Craft Exploration on Calle Primera

In the heart of Ensenada, the tour explores Calle Primera, a street packed with restaurants, bars, cafes, and craft shops. Notable food stands like La Guerrerense and El Guero serve up local favorites, giving visitors a taste of authentic Baja cuisine.

The street scene offers a lively atmosphere, with opportunities to browse artisan crafts and enjoy diverse dining options. This area’s energetic vibe makes it a favorite for those interested in local culture and street food. However, with many options, some may want to plan their time wisely to sample different spots.

Additional Food Stops and Local Crafts

Beyond Calle Primera, there are chances to browse craft shops, purchase souvenirs, or enjoy additional snacks and sweets—though these extras are not included in the tour price. Travelers should bring cash if they wish to buy souvenirs or try local treats like olives or baked goods.

While the main meal at Puerto Nuevo and the Margarita at Hotel-Casino Riviera are included, any additional food or craft purchases are optional and at personal expense.

Logistics and Group Size

The group size is not specified, but the tour is designed to be flexible, providing a semi-private feel given the small number of travelers. The driver is in charge of navigation, and the guide offers commentary, though some reviews suggest that English explanations may be limited or require patience.

The transportation operates smoothly, with toll booths and gasoline costs covered. The driver also provides travel assistance insurance, adding a layer of security during the trip.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and pets are not allowed. Travelers should be prepared for a full day of walking and standing, especially at stops like Calle Primera and the boardwalk. The tour is designed for those aged 18 and over if they wish to participate in alcohol activities, such as enjoying the Margarita.

Guests are advised to bring sunglasses and cash, as well as their passport or ID for identification purposes.

Tour Pacing and Overall Experience

Spanning approximately 10 hours, the tour offers a balance of sightseeing and leisure. Some reviews describe the experience as more of a driver-led trip with limited guiding, especially regarding English-language commentary. However, the itinerary’s highlights—lobster, Margaritas, the boardwalk, and Calle Primera—offer enough variety to keep the day engaging.

The tour provides good value for those wanting an organized way to explore Baja California’s coastal attractions without the hassle of planning each stop.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour suits first-time visitors or those wanting a comprehensive taste of Ensenada and the Baja coast in a single day. It’s ideal for seafood lovers, fans of coastal scenery, and anyone interested in learning about local drinks and food. The full-day format and organized logistics make it a practical choice for travelers wanting a structured experience.

However, if English-speaking guidance is a priority, potential limitations should be considered, as some reviews mention variable guide language skills.

Baja California Day Trip with Authentic Flavors and Coastal Charm

This $120 tour from Tijuana offers a well-rounded introduction to Baja California’s food, culture, and scenery. The key highlights include the Puerto Nuevo lobster meal, the historical Margarita birthplace, the Ensenada boardwalk, and the lively Calle Primera district.

While some logistical hiccups and language barriers may occur, the overall experience delivers a satisfying mix of coastal views, delicious food, and cultural insights. It’s best suited for travelers eager to enjoy a full day of Baja’s flavors and sights without the hassle of self-planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes transportation, a Puerto Nuevo lobster meal with sides, a Margarita guide tour, visit to the Hotel-Casino Riviera, and the Ensenada boardwalk.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours, typically starting in the morning.

Is the guide bilingual?
Guides are Spanish and English speakers, though some reviews note that English explanations may be limited or inconsistent.

Are additional food and craft purchases included?
No, extra food, drinks, crafts, or souvenirs are not included and are at personal expense.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring passport or ID, cash, sunglasses, and be prepared for a full day of activity.

Is this tour accessible for everyone?
This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and pets are not allowed. It’s recommended for those comfortable with walking and standing for extended periods.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby