It’s no surprise that Baja California is hosting the 2025 Tianguis Turístico (Tourism Tianguis), an event designed to promote the diversity of destinations and experiences Mexico has to offer, given the state’s cultural, natural and culinary richness.
In fact, on the second day of the event, Baja California’s significance as the leading wine producer in Mexico was emphasized, accounting for 70% of the nation’s wine production. In this context, the Provino Baja California Committee also announced the 35th edition of the Fiestas de la Vendimia, which will take place in Ensenada from July 30 to August 24.
The centerpiece of the celebration will be the Wine Showcase, set for August 1 at the Centro Cultural Riviera, where 80 wineries will present over 160 different labels. Additional events will include the 25th Paella Contest, wine-pairing dinners, workshops, tastings, and even grape stomping experiences.
The Tianguis is ongoing and will continue until May 1, with open access to the public for everyone to explore Baja California’s amazing attractions. This major event will conclude on May 3 with a free concert from Nortec and the Baja California Orchestra, promising a night to remember.
Among the various stands at the Tianguis, Baja California’s distinguishes itself for presenting some of the most iconic spots in the region. Each of the state’s seven municipalities offers something unique, and this guide will lead you through them all.
Tijuana: Urban Culture, Gastronomy, and Art at the Border
Tijuana is Mexico’s gateway from the United States — a city of opportunities for the entire country. Modern, multicultural, and creative, it has become a gastronomic and artistic symbol of northern Mexico. Here, local traditions blend with global influences, and every street has its own story.
Highlights worth visiting:
- Tijuana Cultural Center (CECUT): The city’s cultural icon, offering museums, an IMAX cinema, theater performances, and year-round events.
- Revolución Avenue: This historic avenue combines shops, bars, art galleries, and murals.
- Tijuana Beaches and the Border Wall: Walk along the boardwalk, surf, or watch the sun set over the Pacific. The border wall itself is covered in artistic expressions.
- Urban gastronomy: Tijuana is famous for its street tacos, high-end cuisine, and lively food scene that combines tradition and innovation.
- Art and nightlife: The city boasts several murals, galleries, and cultural spaces, as well as a lively nightlife scene that never rests.
- The Flower Route: A colorful trail filled with vibrant blooms and natural scents, offering stunning landscapes of daisies, sunflowers, and several rare plants.
Must-try dishes in Tijuana:
The vibrant cuisine of Baja California shines in dishes like carne asada, adobada or birria tacos, grilled octopus, and the classic Caesar salad.
Ensenada: Between the Ocean and the Vineyards
Whether you’re looking for peace or adventure, Ensenada has it all. With scenic coastlines, a strong winemaking tradition, and a restaurant scene that has placed Mexico on the global culinary map, this port city perfectly combines the Pacific charm with the sophistication of the Valle de Guadalupe.
Places and activities you shouldn’t miss:
- Valle de Guadalupe: Mexico’s premier wine region, home to boutique wineries, tastings, and farm-to-table experiences.
- La Bufadora: A marine geyser that shoots water high into the air, one of only a few in the world.
- Plaza Santo Tomás: A historic viticultural center that tells the story of Baja’s wine tradition.
- Internationally acclaimed restaurants: Many Ensenada chefs have earned accolades for turning local seafood and produce into world-class dishes.
- San Miguel Beach: A famous surfing destination, known for its consistent right-hand point break waves.
- Hot Air Balloon Flights: Globos Baja offers a unique hot air balloon experience over the Valle de Guadalupe, designed for those seeking more than just a ride. With certified pilots and strict safety protocols, the company ensures a safe, transformative, and visually stunning journey.
Must-try dishes in Ensenada:
Dive into Ensenada’s flavors with fish tacos, sea urchin and clam tostadas, fish ceviche, chocolata clams, and the classic shrimp cocktail.
Mexicali: History, Desert, and Multiculturalism
As the state capital, Mexicali surprises visitors with its thriving, diverse culture amid the desert. A city with a strong Chinese influence and a modern urban life, it offers rich contrasts and hidden gems.
Top places to visit:
- La Chinesca: Mexico’s largest Chinatown, home to historic tunnels and fascinating cultural heritage.
- Laguna Salada: A dry lake that transforms into a surreal landscape after rainfall.
- Cuervitos Dunes: Ideal for sandboarding, off-roading, and sunset views over the desert.
- Historic Center Museums: Educational and cultural spaces such as Sol del Niño Museum and the UABC Museum.
Playas de Rosarito: Sun, Surf, and Flavor
Rosarito’s relaxed beach town vibe and proximity to the U.S. border make it a favorite weekend getaway. But beyond its beaches, it offers even more for curious travelers.
Highlights:
- Rosarito Beach: Ideal for surfing, horseback riding, and shoreline walks.
- Coastal Trails: Scenic hiking and cycling routes that explore the coastline’s beauty.
- Tourist Boulevard: A vibrant corridor packed with art, stores, restaurants, and bars.
- Medano Route: A unique eco-tourism experience, including visits to local farms and flower fields, as well as horseback rides.
Must-try dishes in Rosarito:
Puerto Nuevo lobster, carne asada tacos, fresh seafood from Popotla, and zarandeado fish.
Tecate: Tradition, Mountains, and Relaxation
Don’t miss Tecate, Baja California’s only Pueblo Mágico (Magic Town) and one of the most charming places in northern Mexico. Its mild climate, laid-back vibe, and rich traditions offer a perfect escape.
Highlights:
- Cuchumá Mountain: A sacred Kumiai site, ideal for hiking and meditating.
- Train Ride from Tijuana to Tecate: Take in the scenic views of both municipalities along the way. For travel dates, visit Admicarga’s official website.
- Traditional Artisan Bread: Tecate’s bakeries are famous for their handcrafted breads.
- Ranches and Spas: Retreats offering holistic wellness and nature focused activities.
- Farm-to-Table Cuisine: Restaurants here grow their own produce, ensuring fresh, authentic flavors.
Top places to eat in Tecate:
Start your day with breakfast at La Cabaña del Abuelo, indulge in fine dining at Michelin-recommended Restaurante Amores, enjoy organic meals at El Cafecito Tres Estrellas, and savor innovative dishes at Restaurante Lugar de Nos.
San Felipe: Sand, Sea, and Nature
Located on the shores of the Sea of Cortez, San Felipe offers warm waters, sweeping desert views, and a perfect setting for both rest and adventure. This town is famous for its impressive low tides and the striking contrast between its crystal-clear waters and the sand hills that surround it.
Top sights and experiences:
- Valley of the Giants: Home to towering cardón cacti, some of the tallest in the world.
- San Luis Gonzaga Bay: A tranquil spot for camping, fishing, or admiring the sea’s calm beauty.
- Sea of Cortez Beaches: Shallow, warm waters ideal for swimming.
- Fresh Seafood: Enjoy freshly caught seafood prepared with traditional flavors.
- San Felipe Port: Embark on a sport fishing trip or hop on a scenic panga tour.
San Quintín: Biodiversity and Adventure
San Quintín is a hidden paradise for ecotourism enthusiasts. Its volcanic landscapes, wetlands, and rich biodiversity make it one of Baja California’s natural gems.
Don’t miss:
- Winding Wetlands: Vital ecosystems for migratory birds, perfect for wildlife observation.
- San Quintín Oyster Farms: Visit sustainable farms and savor some of the freshest oysters on the Pacific coast.
- Sierra de San Pedro Mártir: A majestic national park, home to California condors.
- Bahía de los Ángeles: Known for crystal-clear waters and perfect for close encounters with whale sharks.
- Hiking Trails and Dormant Volcanoes: Discover remote trails and dormant volcanoes that reveal the region’s ancient geological past.
- El Rosario: Visit La Lobera, a striking coastal crater that serves as a natural habitat for sea lions.
- Cataviña: Discover the natural and archaeological richness of this region, beginning with cave paintings and rock shelters left by ancient cultures.
Every municipality in Baja California opens the door to a different kind of adventure. From the modern pulse of Tijuana to the pristine landscapes of San Quintín, the state is a rich mosaic for travelers eager to explore Mexico from the north.
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