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About Ensenada

Ensenada was discovered on September 17th, 1542 by Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, a portuguese explorer sailing under a Spanish flag. Ensenada is the largest county in Mexico. It covers 52,000 square kilometers between two bodies of water. The Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez.

Location

Ensenada is located in Baja California on the longest peninsula in the world boasting 2,000 miles of nice relaxing beaches for all sports. Ensenada known as the "Cinderella of the Pacific" is the 3rd largest city in the state of Baja California located 60 miles south of San Diego - Tijuana International border crossing. Only a 1 hour drive, on one of the most beautifully viewed coastline highways in the world.

Population

The population of Ensenada is 400,000. The entire state, has a population of around 4 million. The people in Ensenada are known to be very friendly. The Ensenada society is comprised of many social clubs sports and religious organizations. There are also many different cultures from the U.S., Asia and Europe that came here in the 1920's and still reside here. More that 150,000 Americans have residences in Ensenada and surrounding communities.

Climate

The weather is similar to San Diego's Coastal Areas. Warm days, nice ocean breezes at night, and mountain valley climate in Guadalupe Valley wine country just 15 minutes Northeast of the city.

Flora

Cactus, La Cachanilla, and grapevines

Fauna

Cimarron sheep, puma, quail, rabbit

Money & Currency

Credit cards are accepted at most major restaurants and shops. English is spoken almost everywhere,in the main tourist areas. US dollars and Mexican pesos are the official currencies. Money can be exchanged in San Ysidro before crossing the border. . There are also many money exchange houses in Baja California, and also ATM machines at some gas stations at all banks and strategic locations in the tourist areas. The cost of goods in Ensenada is normally considered fair prices with "good bargains".

ATM's

Bancomer Bank - open 24 hours
Banamex Bank - open 24 hours
Santander/Serfin Bank - open 24 hours
Caminos y Puentes (toll roads) #011 52(646) 174-6081

Visas and Permits

Visas can be obtained at the Mexican consulate in Los Angeles or San Diego. IMPORTANT TRAVEL NOTICE: All travelers to and from the Americas (North South & Central), the Caribbean and Bermuda will soon be required to have a passport that establishes the bearer's identity and nationality to enter or re-enter the United States. The proposed timeline is as follows: On December 31, 2006: Requirement applied to all AIR AND SEA travel to and from Mexico and Canada. On December 31, 2007: Requirement extended to all air, sea and land (DRIVING/WALKING) to or from Mexico and Canada border crossing. For all other foreigners, a multiple entry visa from their country of origin is necessary in order to re-enter the United States. For more information visit the State Department's consular website travel.state.gov

General Consulates

Consulates are located in Tijuana for most countries including the USA. For more information dial 078. It is Important for visitors from other countries to secure information from their own consulates in relation to the consulates in Tijuana or California.

Getting to Ensenada

The best way to visit Ensenada is by Car, Tour Bus or Private Airplane.

By Car

In California, you can reach the San Ysidro border crossing trouble free driving South on the 5 and 805 freeways. Crossing into Mexico is controlled electronically. If you get a red light, you will go to secondary for a short inspection. If you get a green light you continue. For commercial buses the driver will need to present an authorized permit.

By Bus

Departing from San Diego:

"NEW" BUS SERVICE TO ENSENADA: Take the San Diego Trolley South to the last stop of San Ysidro... "Mexicoach" the big red bus departs from San Ysidro just to the right of the trolley stop in the circle. Buses leave every 30 minutes to Tijuana main terminal then every hour to Ensenada. Round trip hourly service to Ensenada starts at 6:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Round trip bus fare is $26.00 (one way $13.00). For information call 619 428-9517. Mexicoach's Ensenada terminal is located on Blvd. Costero in the Artisans Plaza next to the cruise ship terminal and one block from the main tourist area and only 3 blocks from the San Nicolas Hotel. Taxis are available to the hotel for a small nominal fee.

MEXICOACH IS OWNED AND OPERATED BY ABC LINES THE LARGEST BUS LINE IN MEXICO

Other Bus Options: Take the San Diego Trolley to the San Ysidro Border and walk across the Border. After crossing the border you will see to the right a small plaza and the bus terminal that houses many bus lines. ABC bus lines depart every hour from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. One way fare is $6.00 .

ABC buses arrive at the Central Terminal in Ensenada (Central Camionera) at Ave. Riveroll and Calle (street) 11. About 2 miles from the San Nicolas . Taxis are available in front of the terminal.

By Air

The Ensenada Military Airport is now open to Civilian Aircraft and International Entry.

Blue and White Taxis in Ensenada

Ave. Mexico #325 (646) 176-32-50
Ave. Ruiz & 6th (646) 178-32-06
Ave. Delante (646) 176-49-80

Yellow Cab

Ave. Miramar & 1st (646) 176-34-75

Tax System in Baja

The tax system is very similar as in the US, hotel refunds are issued by money orders or US checks.

Fox Studios Baja

Right after the Rosarito toll gate going south you will see the Fox Studios, home of the Titanic, and Master and Comandor, The Life & Death of Bobby "Z" sets. The San Nicolas Hotel is a favorite place to stay among US and Mexican movie companies.

Real Estate in Baja

With the well designed 4 lane divided coastal highway stretching from the border down to Ensenada. The growing town is becoming a hit spot to buy beach front property.

There are many vacation homes just past the last toll gate near San Miguel and El Sauzal and near downtown. Ensenada is being marked as Baja's "Jewel of the Pacific".

If you wish to verify the status of a property, ask the hotel for information on a Baja State Authorized Notary Public. Both buyer and seller will have to meet with the notary. You can verify with him or her on the property's legal status. It's not costly to verify and will eliminate further problems.

Important Numbers

Tourism Offices

Dial 078 for the tourism Office while in Baja.

Ensenada Convention and Visitors Bureau

Located at the entrance in Ensenada on the boulevard costero 011 52 (646) 178-3675/178-24-11

State Secretary of Tourism

011 52 (646) 172 -30 22 FAX: 01153 (646) 172 30 81 OR 078.

Ensenada Tourism Trust

011 52 (646) 178-85-78 FAX: 011 52 61 78 85 88 1800 210 9687

Federal Police

011 52 (646)176 13 11

Fire Department

011 52 (646) 177-13 25

Green Angels (Highway Roadside Assistance)

011 52 (646)176- 46 75
TO REPORT AN ACCIDENT ON THE TOLL ROAD call 1800 990 3900 (01) the Binational number in San Diego is (619)425-5880

Mayor of Ensenada

011 52 (646) 176 17 51

Red Cross

011 52 (646) 174- 53 35

Rescue (Rescate)

011 52 (646 176 80 30

State Police

011 52 (646) 172 30 72

Trans medic Ambulance

011 52 (646) 178- 14 00

US Consulate in Tijuana

011 52 (61) 81 74 00

A-1 Insurance

Located just before crossing the border.
(619) 428- 4714
FAX: (619) 690-6533
Most of the time insurance can be purchased over the phone.

Cellular Phone Service

Visit MAC de Ensenada 011 52 (646) 174 04 12 they would be happy to help you with any questions regarding any problems with your mobil and calling cards. They are located al 609 Boulevard Costero blvd- in front of Plaza Marina.

Mexican Postal System

The service is very good, there are also many private postal services directly connected to the US postal services.

Normal Business Hours

9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
(Night clubs are open until 3:00 a.m.)

Main Business Industries in Ensenada

Disabled Travelers

Ensenada caters well to disabled travelers with access ramps for wheel chairs in most public buildings. Assistance is usually required when boarding public transportation. This can be arranged when purchasing your ticket.

Gay and Lesbian Travelers

Baja Californians are generally fairly tolerant of homosexuality and are socially accepted in the community. The San Nicolas Hotel welcomes guests from all countries, religions and respects the individuality of the traveler.

Mexican Holidays

February 24th - Flag Day
May 1st - Labor Day
May 5th - Independence Day From France (Cinco De Mayo)
September 16th - Mexican Independence Day
November 20th - Mexican Revolution

El Malecon (The Boardwalk)

Home of several marinas and sports fishing outfits. You will see antique shops, food stands and ice cream along with rental stands for horse and carriage rides, golf carts and small wheeled vehicles for sightseeing. . If you look into the water near the fish market you might be able to see the large sea lion that likes to swim around in the water, the local people of the Ensenada call him Pancho.

The Fish Market or Mercado Negro

The fish market is located at the entrance of town at the harbor. It's a one of a kind experience; Baja California has a very organized fishing system with the entire peninsula. The fish camps that are on the coast are connected by a distribution system of trucks which pick up the daily catch, and take it to the nearest large local fish market. The fish and seafood are put on display for wholesale and retail to the tourists. The prices are generally reasonable.

Tipping and Bargaining

Tipping in restaurants is expected. Some restaurants will add the 15% to the bill. Others depend on the generosity of the tourist. Wages are very low in Mexico. Normally people work very hard to provide a fun and memorable experience and the traditional warmth of Mexico to Ensenada's guests and visitors. Some bargaining is expected in the shops of the main tourist area. You will find good deals and fun things on 1st Street and Ruiz. Check them out!

Major Tourist Events

January: Whale Watching Tours
February: Whale Watching Tours/ Mardi Gras festivities with parades and floats
March: Whale Watching Tours
April: Newport Beach to Ensenada International Sail Boat Regatta/ Rosarito to Ensenada Bicycle Ride
May: Blooming Vineyards Festival and The Tuna Festival ( Culinary Arts event)
June: Baja 500/ SCORE Off Road Race / Mushroom Festival Gastronomic event
July: International Volley Ball tournament / Spanish Paella Festival ( a Gastronomic event)
August: Wine Festival (La Vendimia) Wine Harvest time at all wineries. A 15 day celebration full of activities at individual wineries. 95% of all wineries in Mexico are located in Ensenada's Guadalupe Valley just 15 minutes from the San Nicolas
September: Rosarito to Ensenada bicycle ride / Hussong's International Chili Cook-Off , a Gastronomic event
October: San Diego to Ensenada International Sail Boat Regatta / International Surfing Championships
November: Baja 1000 SCORE off road races
December: Chocolate Dessert festival / Christmas and New Year's Festivities

Dining and Entertainment

Ensenada offers great International dining, including some of the best sea food in the region. Fresh fish, lobster and abalone are some of the specialties. There are also authentic Mexican dishes prepared from scratch by some of the most creative and dedicated chefs. The fine dining is especially well enjoyed with aromatic local wines of international acclaim produced from the grapevines in the wine country of Guadalupe Valley Northeast of Ensenada.

Local Restaurants

Punta Morro: Classic upscale dining overlooking the bay. (well known for their Caesar salad and delightful dishes created by one of the best chefs in Ensenada). Delicious Californian and European cuisine, not to mention that the restaurant has some of the best local wines on the wine list.

Las Fuentes: Casual / Upscale family dining. The Restaurant is located inside the San Nicolas Hotel. A great variety of Mexican and Californian cuisine. Open for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Best known for their outstanding Puerto Nuevo style lobster or lobster any style. Try the delicious Carne Asada or Filet Mignon and the Chef's Special salad with cilantro dressing.

El Rey Sol: Casual upscale. Award winning French restaurant known for their gourmet food. Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and excellent pastries. Located in the heart of the main tourist area on 1st Street and Blancarte.

Sanos: Casual / Upscale California / Mexican cuisine. This family style restaurant has a wide variety of cold and hot dishes! They are well known for their nice atmosphere and wine list. This restaurant is located on the main highway just before you enter Ensenada.

Casamar: Casual/ Upscale Seafood and Steak restaurant located in the main tourist area on Boulevard Costero. Beautiful nighttime view from their 2nd story.

Tsunami Sushi: Known as the best sushi in town! They also have the same restaurant in Tijuana. When the restaurant first opened one of the owners had previous experience working as a sushi chef at Sushi On The Rocks in San Diego!

La Tertulia: If you enjoy Art and listening to Spanish music, jazz and blues, this casual upscale restaurant might be just the place to enjoy your night out on the town! Located on Boulevard Costero in the main tourist area.

El Charro: If you are looking for roasted chicken on a rotisserie! We have the answer. Located on 1st Street in the main tourist area, this is the best place in town to get it! It's one of the most traditional Mexican restaurants in Ensenada with great atmosphere and reputation! You never know, you might run into a group of Mariachis!

La Finca: Casual /upscale. This is a spacious traditional Mexican restaurant with a lovely atmosphere, they caterer to large groups. This restaurant is located at the end of Boulevard Costero on the right hand side.

Mariscos Bahia Ensenada: A popular local seafood restaurant. This restaurant is located in the main tourist area on Riveroll near 1st Street.

Mahi-Mahi: Casual Seafood restaurant located down town just off of 1st Street and Ruiz. They are well known for their delicious fish tacos!

Cafe Pueblo: Casual/ Upscale. Located on Ruiz and corner of 1st Street. Known for their great nachos. pastas and appetizers. This restaurant is fun to go to and hang out with friends; service is provided outside as well as inside.

Merlot: An International restaurant located on Boulevard Costero just around the corner from Cinema Star Theatres and Plaza Marina.

The Best Taco Stands in Town

Tacos El Norteno: Located on 6th Street and Obregon.

Mac Taco: located towards the end of Boulevard Costero on the right.

Bars & Cocktails

Papas & Beer: The most visited Disco in town for the young at heart.

Hussong's Cantina: Experience the oldest and most traditional cantina in Ensenada owned by the Hussong family.

Bambu Lounge: This unique poolside lounge bar is located inside the San Nicolas Hotel. Feel at home while enjoying cocktails with your friends and at the same time enjoy all the Caliente Race & Sports Book action with 30 TV monitors to select. In House Betting is legal on all sports...

Aztec Bar: This underground night club located inside the San Nicolas Hotel is known as "A blast from the past!" It is one of Ensenada's oldest and well known clubs... Features a live band Fridays and Saturdays and current Disco music during intervals.

Notice...The laws in Mexico are similar to the U.S....Drinking in the streets is prohibited. Buying or taking drugs is an illegal Federal offense and by law subject to up to 5 years in jail. Please be prudent and be safe.

Outside Activities and Excursions

Horse Back Riding

Horse back riding is available at the South end of the Boulevard Costero. The hotel can provide you with further information.

Sports Fishing Centers

ergio's Sports Fishing Center on Ave.. Miramar From the U.S. 011 52 (646) 178 2185 Gordo's Sports Fishing 011 52 (646) 178- 2185.

Surf

SSan Miguel surf shop is the local place where you can find everything you need to catch that good wave! Located down town on 1st street and Ruiz Av. in the Plaza Hussongs

PLEASE CONTACT THE HOTEL FOR ANY OF THE FOLLOWING EXCURSIONS WE WILL BE MORE THAT HAPPY TO GUIDE YOU SO YOU CAN ENJOY YOUR ADVENTURE!

Wineries in Guadeloupe Valley

Ensenada is the heart of wine country in Mexico. Here are the listings for the local producers:

La Cetto: 011 52 (646) 155-2264 FAX (646) 155-2269

Cavas Valmar: 011 52 (646) 178-6405

Vina Liceaga: 011 52 (646) 184-0126

Monte Xanic: 011 52 (646) 177-1484

Chateau Camou: 011 52 (646) 176-0676

Most of these wineries offer tours 6 days a week. Don't forget the most popular 15 day wine festival of the year in mid August. If you have any additional questions please contact the hotel for more information.

Shopping on Downtown's 1st Street (Main Tourist Area)

Other Shopping

Office Depot, Costco-Price Club, Smart & Final, and Dori

Studio Pictures

If you need to get studio pictures taken Foto Bahia is highly recommended it's located on Ruiz street just right of 1st street

Dangers and Annoyances

Usual cautions should always be taken!
Driving to Ensenada from San Diego is really very simple, If you follow simple directions. And the Golden rule. WE WANT YOU TO BE SAFE, DON'T DRINK AND DRIVE! Just because you are away from home on vacation! Accidents can happen anywhere.

Hospitals

VTELMAR, hospital is located 800 yards from the San Nicolas, is one of the most modern hospitals in Mexico and they work closely with USA hospitals and Insurance Services.