ensenada cruise port what to do

17 Best Things to Do in Ensenada on a Cruise [Port Guide]

Sharing is caring!

If you’re visiting Ensenada Mexico on a cruise, you’re in luck. Ensenada, known for its delectable cuisine, warm climate, and friendly locals, is a popular cruise stop for both Mexican Riviera cruises as well as Hawaiian cruise itineraries.

This coastal city is located about 80 miles from San Diego in the northern part of the Mexican state of Baja California. It is Baja California’s only deep water port.

In this post, I’ll share the best things to do in Ensenada on a cruise, including shore excursions and inexpensive or free activities. You’ll also learn everything you need to know about visiting the Ensenada cruise port for the day and get answers to commonly asked questions.

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ensenada Cruise Port  

Cruise ships dock at the Naval Cruise Terminal in Ensenada’s industrial area. The pier is located near the Malecon boardwalk avenue, putting you within a quick walk to the heart of the city.

Cruisers docking in Ensenada have the benefit of a massive 300-foot flagpole with a Mexican flag to give you bearings for navigating the town. You can’t miss it!

After you get off the ship, look for the flagpole. Take a right at the flagpole and then a left at the second intersection you come to, and you’ll be downtown on Avenida Lopez Mateos.

What Cruise Passengers Need to Know About Ensenada Cruise Port

Ensenada is located in Mexico, where the currency is the Mexican peso.

However, because it is a tourist destination, many vendors and small businesses will accept the United States dollar in small bills and debit or credit cards. There may be international transaction charge fees associated with debit or credit cards.

If you use USD instead of pesos, you might pay more overall because vendors have to exchange your dollars.

The official language spoken in Ensenada, Mexico is Spanish. However, many locals also speak English (at least enough to communicate with tourists).

Baja California, Mexico (including Ensenada) is in the Pacific Time Zone. The Eastern Time Zone is 3 hours ahead of Pacific Time Zone.

Ensenada weather is almost always delightful! During the hottest months (July and August), the average high is 84-85 degrees F, with lows in the upper 60s.

The rest of the year, high temperatures in Ensenada range from 68-69 degrees F (December through March) and the low to mid-70s (April-June, October-November). Lows can be as cool as the 50s in the wintertime but are comfortably in the 60s in the summer.

Many Ensenada attractions including excellent souvenir shopping, food and museums are within comfortable walking distance of the cruise ship terminal.

Taxis and Uber will be your best bet for getting around beyond Ensenada downtown. If you want to head to farther away excursions like La Bufadora, wineries and Las Canadas adventure park you can easily grab a taxi or Uber.

Pro Tip: Taxis are supposed to be metered, but it is smart to negotiate your fare before you start your ride.

Best Ensenada Shore Excursions

There are many shore excursions available in Ensenada. From wildlife viewing, to nature and history excursions, to food and drink stops, you’ll wish you had more time at this cruise port.

Here are some of the best Ensenada shore excursions .

1. History Museum of Ensenada

If you want to learn about the town’s rich history from prehistoric times, during U.S. prohibition and to current days, this a great place to visit. The museum is housed in the old Rivera Del Pacifico building, which is an architectural monument in itself. 

Spend time touring the building, museum and the gardens and imagine the ghosts of yesteryear who came here when it was a casino. It was reportedly associated with Al Capone, Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz. 

2. Mexican Wine Tasting

The first vineyards in Ensenada were planted in 1703. The wine industry has continued to grow since then. The city of Valle De Guadalupe, a little over 12 miles from downtown, now boasts over 75 wineries. 

The best way to experience wine country is to take a full-day wine tour. Most excursions include a tour of several vineyards, snacks and a visit to the wine museum. You can learn about the evolution of Mexican wine country and taste the often riper and darker fruit flavor of Mexican wine. 

3. Whale Watching Tour

Between the months of December and April, gray whales migrate from the cold waters of Alaska to the warm waters of Baja California to give birth to their calves. This makes for excellent whale watching experience for visitors to Ensenada. 

Whale watching excursions depart from Mercado Negro and travel around Isla Todos Santos. Along the way you might see dolphins, sea lions and other whales including humpbacks, sperm whales, finbacks, pilot whales and occasionally orcas. 

4. Adventure at Las Canadas Campamento

If you’re up for an active excursion, you’ll find plenty of adventure about 30 minutes south of downtown Ensenada. Las Canadas Campamento is a popular destination with a zipline canopy tour with five ziplines, multiple suspension bridges, and other activities, including swimming, biking, paddleboats, horseback riding, and ATV rentals.

You’ll need to book an excursion with transportation or take a taxi to get to Las Canadas. The canopy tour is an outstanding choice.

Related: What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise

5. Pai Pai Ecotourism Park

This excursion offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to touch and feed wild animals like big cats. Pai Pai offers 40 activities built around ecological and sustainable tourism. The biggest attractions here are wild animal feeding and interactions, but you can also participate in zip lining, tequila tasting, off-road Rzr driving, and Go-Kart Racing.

There are several different packages for animal experiences, so be sure you purchase the correct ticket for the animal experience you want to have. You can book a package from Pai Pai that includes transportation from the cruise terminal, but be prepared that it takes 35-40 minutes to get here.

6. Try Famous Local Dishes at La Guerrerense

Ensenada is known as the birthplace of fish tacos, so you won’t want to miss the chance to sample the famous local fare. There are food stands throughout Ensenada, but this street food stand, in particular, has the Anthony Bourdain seal of approval.

Try the sea urchin tostada, ceviche, and fish tacos for an unforgettable Ensenada experience.

7. Drink It Up at Hussong’s Cantina 

Hang out with locals and drink at Hussong’s, the oldest cantina in Baja, California. Open since 1882, this busy cantina is an affordable Ensenada favorite.

The bar serves large bags of peanuts to patrons, resulting in a unique peanut shell floor. Enjoy their famous margarita, listen to a Mexican band, or watch your favorite sporting event on the cantina’s big screens.

8. See the Power of Nature at La Bufadora 

One unique natural wonder in Ensenada is the world’s largest underwater blowhole.  La Bufadora is located on the Punta Banda Peninsula and spits water 100 feet in the air. 

There are excursions that include kayaking to La Bufadora or you can take a 45 minute bus or taxi ride from the cruise port. Be aware that you will have to pay to park or use the bathrooms here, but on the plus side there is a flea market onsite with food and souvenirs. 

9. Relax or Learn to Surf on Playa Hermosa

If the beach is on your priority list, one of the closest options to port is Malecon de Playa Hermosa. A short 9 minute taxi ride away, you’ll have a great time here snorkeling, learning how to surf, or just relaxing in the sun.

Food vendors walk the beach here and there are public bathrooms available as well as chairs and umbrellas for rent.

Related: 12 Tourist Scams that Cruisers Need to Know

10. Sample Superfood at Maya Cacao

If you love chocolate, come learn about the superfood for the ancient Mayans at the “Bean to Belly” workshop. For $35 for adults and $17.50 for children under 12 years, during this delicious excursion you can learn the history and origins of chocolate from cacao trees to beans to tasty treat. You’ll also get to make your own healthy dark chocolate drink. 

11. Horseback riding at Rancho Los Bandidos 

Experience a taste of what it is like to be a Mexican cowboy at Rancho Los Bandidos. This excursion has amazing reviews and is located a short 20 minute ride from the cruise port.

Your 1.5 hour long horseback ride will give you lovely views of the ocean and the rugged beauty of Baja, California. The guides are kind and informative, the horses are well cared for and helmets are included. Plus, this shorter excursion means you’ll have time to shop or sightsee before or after your horseback ride. 

12. Fish Tacos at Mercado de Mariscos/Mercado Negro 

Cruisers will not want to miss Ensenada’s fresh and tasty seafood at budget prices. Mercado de Mariscos (also called Ensenada Mercado Negro) is located next door to the large seafood market on the waterfront.

The market has multiple restaurants and street vendors serving up delicious mariscos including shrimp and fish tacos, ceviche, tostadas, whole fried fish and shrimp or mixed seafood cocktails. 

One fun element of this street market are the variety of tasty sauces, salsas and condiments on each table. If you love seafood you should definitely add this location to your Ensenada plan. 

Mercado Negro is about a 20 minute walk through downtown. If you are in a hurry grab a taxi or Uber, which will get you there in about 8 minutes. 

13. Golf by the ocean in Bajamar

Golfers will love the chance to play 9 or 18 holes at this gorgeous oceanside golf course dubbed “The Pebble Beach of Mexico.” Just a 40-minute taxi or Uber ride north of the cruise port, Bajamar is an inspiring place to spend a port day and get in a round of golf. 

14. Caracol Museum

Science lovers will enjoy visiting this unique natural history museum in the shape of a ship located at the harbor. The Caracol features exhibitions on earth, sea and art. Most of the exhibits are in Spanish but tour guides are great at offering English explanations and hands-on learning opportunities. Entrance fees to Caracol are inexpensive (less than $5 per person, around 60 pesos). 

Free Excursions in Ensenada

15. El Parque de la Bandera

As we mentioned earlier in this post, you can’t miss the giant Mexican Flag in Ensenada. The “Banderas Monumentales Project” flag pole is over 300 feet tall and the flag measures 50 meters (164 feet)  long by 28 meters (92 feet) wide.

The park surrounding the flag is a wonderful place to visit. It hosts a playground, a band shell with live music events and a giant fountain. After 8 p.m. the fountain dances to music (think a smaller version of the Bellagio show in Las Vegas). 

16. Downtown Ensenada

Enjoying the streets of downtown Ensenada is a great way to spend time in this port. You can enjoy the atmosphere and spend as many (or few!) pesos as you’d like. 

First Street Market: One block inland from the huge Mexican flag you’ll find First Street, a main shopping street in Ensenada. An outdoor market with street vendors selling Mexican cuisine and colorful souvenirs, the First Street Market is open every day from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

17. Plaza Civica Cultural Center

In Hispanic cultures, city plazas or town squares are a culturally significant place to gather. In the central area of Ensenada, the Plaza Civica Cultural Center has gorgeous ocean vistas and is a lovely place to people watch. 

A guided trip is a great option, where you can learn more about Mexico’s history as well as more information about three important figures honored in the plaza with golden busts: Benito Juarez, Miguel Hidalgo, and Venustiano Carranza. 

Ensenada Cruise Port Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit ensenada .

Weather wise the best time of year to visit Ensenada is Late May to mid-October. This will give you the most pleasant temperatures for outdoor excursions. 

How far is downtown Ensenada from the cruise port? 

The main downtown area of Ensenada is an easy 15 minute walk from the cruise port. There are many taxis near the port area if you want to catch a ride and save your legs for walking downtown. 

Popular Caribbean Cruise Port Guides

• 35 Best Things to Do in St. Maarten on a Cruise
• 23 Best Things to Do in St Thomas on a Cruise
• 16 Best Things To Do in San Juan Port
• 30 Best Things to Do in Cozumel on a Cruise
• 35+ Best Things to Do in Nassau
• 15 Best Things to Do in Bimini on a Cruise

Related & Popular Posts:

• 50 Must-have Cruise Essentials from Amazon
• 60 Cruise Packing Tips & Hacks All Cruisers Need to Know
• 50 Cheap Cruise Travel Hacks
• 30 Cruise Cabin Hacks Every Cruiser Needs to Know
• How to Pack Light for a Cruise
• 17 Free Things to do on a Cruise
• 17 Worst Cruise Ship Cabins to Avoid

Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner

Regular price: $27 now just $17.

Final Thoughts On Things to do in Ensenada Cruise Port

Ensenada is one of the best places to get a glimpse of the beautiful Mexican culture as well as eat tasty seafood tacos, drink refreshing margaritas and experience exciting excursions.

Have you been to Ensenada, Mexico? If so what do you enjoy most? Please let me know in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Cruise News
• Cruise Tips
• All Cruise Lines
• Carnival Cruise Line
• Celebrity Cruises
• Disney Cruise Line
• MSC Cruises
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Oceania Cruises
• Princess Cruises
• Royal Caribbean
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Videos
• Port Webcams

• Advertiser Disclosure

The Best Things to Do in Ensenada on a Cruise

23 of the best things to do in port, along with some recommendations for all travelers

If you’re looking for things to do in Ensenada, Mexico, you don’t have to go very far if you’re arriving by cruise ship.  It’s only a short walk from the cruise terminal to all kinds of local attractions.   Here are my top things to do in Ensenada.

You will spot the massive 300 foot flagpole with the Mexican flag waving proudly in the sea breeze as your ship nears the port.  This is one of the largest Mexican flags in the country, and some say it is THE largest.

Either way, it’s big, and a great reference point when navigating Ensenada.  Take a right at the flagpole and take a left after the 2nd intersection to go right into the downtown area.  The name of the main area of tourism along this stretch is called Avenida Lopez Mateos.

If you keep walking passed the flagpole you will find all kinds of shops and eateries along the Malecon (paved seawall along the coast).

What’s it like in Ensenada?

The landscape of Ensenada is full of mountains, valleys, and beaches.  The city has a calm and chill vibe, in my experience, while the market along the Malecon is vibrant and full of both tourists and locals looking to shop, find a place to eat, or just hang out on the weekends.

Disclaimer : This article contains affiliate links that may compensate us if a purchase is made through the link. Thank you for your support!

The Cruise Port of Ensenada

Ensenada is one of the busiest seaports in Mexico, and it’s also a popular cruise destination.  Being able to accommodate two cruise ships at once, the port offers easy access to all the things to do in the city, being very close to the action.

Called by some the “Cinderella of the Pacific”, Ensenada provides a warm climate, popular with California residents as a perfect vacation spot that’s only a short trip from home.

Located on the northern part of the Mexican state of Baja California, the coastal city is only about 80 miles from San Diego.

As one of the deepest ports along the Baja Peninsula, Ensenada is also a navy base and an important commercial fishing port for the region’s exports.

Many cruises to Hawaii out of the U.S. will also stop in Ensenada as the closest foreign port to California, and you will see Mexican Riviera cruises to this port as well as Cabo San Lucas , Mazatlan , and Puerto Vallarta .

Best things to do in Ensenada

From scenic coastal drives, lovely vineyards, and long-stretches of quiet beaches to savory street food and historic landmarks, a visit to Ensenada offers tons of variety for people looking for things to do and see… and taste.  Make sure you add some of these things to your itinerary when you visit Ensenada.

Check out some of the most popular attractions in Ensenada through our partners here .

Enjoy a free water show

It may not be the Bellagio fountains, but the free water show in Ensenada is fun to watch and totally free.  Parque De La Bandera is a popular park in Ensenada, Mexico and it’s only a 10 minute walk from the cruise port.  Just walk toward the gigantic 150 wide Mexican flag and you will find it.  The show features synchronized fountains that are illuminated with vibrant colors.

The spouts of water spray to the rhythm of the music, and at night it’s even more spectacular.  Although if arriving by cruise ship you will probably won’t be able to see it at night.  It’s a great way to spend an evening in Ensenada and take in the sights and sounds of the beautiful city if you are staying overnight, especially.

Shop along First Street Market

First Street Market in Ensenada is an outdoor market filled with vendors selling a variety of goods, including local handicrafts, jewelry, apparel, food, and souvenirs. The market is open every day from 9am to 8pm and provides a great destination for visitors looking to experience traditional Mexican culture. Shoppers can find unique items that are handmade by local artisans. Additionally, the market features numerous restaurants and cafes serving delicious Mexican cuisine.

Take a horse-drawn carriage tour

You will see these horse and buggy operators as soon as you walk into the city in Ensenada. There are several tour companies that offer these rides, allowing you to explore the city and its attractions from the comfort of a carriage that is usually covered. The rides usually last for about an hour and include stops at various points of interest. Some companies also offer private tours for those who want a more personalized experience.

If you’re planning on taking a horse-drawn carriage ride I would recommend doing it as one of the first things you do in Ensenada, as it gives you a good overlay of the city and what you will want to come back to later on.  Plus, it saves you from having to do all that walking and you’ll be in the shade the entire time.

Check out Mercado Negro

The Ensenada fish market, also known as Mercado Negro, is a popular seafood market located right off the main boardwalk of the Malecon. The market is known for its fresh seafood offerings, including a variety of fish, shellfish, and even octopus. You can buy seafood to take back or try it on the spot at one of the many street vendors. You can actually pick out the fish you want and have it prepared  fried up right there.

In addition to seafood, the market also offers a range of local products, including fresh produce, spices, and traditional Mexican food. The Mercado Negro is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, and it’s worth at least a walk-through so you can appreciate the smell.

Book an excursion in Ensenada through our partner here .

Visit Plaza Civica

Plaza Civica, also known as “plaza of the three heads” is a public square located in the center of the city.  The plaza was constructed in 1941 to honor three prominent figures from Mexico’s history: General Ignacio Zaragoza, Admiral Agustin de Iturbide and Don Jose Maria Morelos y Pavon. The plaza features a bronze sculpture of the three historical figures standing side by side atop a large stone column.

You can also find several benches, trees and lush gardens surrounding the plaza.  On any given day you can find people taking leisurely walks around the area or enjoying a meal at one of the many eateries. There are also often performances held in the plaza from local musicians or dancers. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax or simply want to soak up some of Enseada’s culture, Plaza Civica is definitely worth visiting.

Visit Rancho Los Bandidos

If taking a horseback adventure along the hills of Ensenada sounds like a perfect day to you, Rancho Los Bandidos has you covered.   Rancho Los Bandidos is a family-friendly ranch located about 20 minutes from the Ensenada cruise port.   The horses are kept in great condition and the tour operators try to pair horses and riders based on experience.  So even with zero horseback riding experience you should have no trouble at all.

Not only are the views from these mountain trails spectacular, but your guide will teach you a lot about the region along the way as well.  So while you can see the city, cruise port, and valley below as you ride along the meandering trail, you will learn some history from these local cowboys.  Once back at the ranch you will be treated with chips and salsa, and you can buy some souvenirs as well.

Try the incredible street food

“The best street food in the world.”  That’s what the late Anthony Bourdain thought of the food from one particular food cart in Ensenada.  La Guerrerense Carreta offers fish tacos, seafood tostadas, and all kinds of other offerings at it’s now famous location.  Every morning the fish is purchased fresh from the local fish market, and this food cart is a popular place to eat.  It’s a must-try if you’re a foodie of any type, and you can see for yourself if La Guerrerense Carreta lives up to it’s fame.

The owner of the food cart is Sabina Bandera, and she and her family have run the food cart for over 60 years.  The family also owns a restaurant nearby called Sabina Restaurante if you want to sit down and try some foods not offered at the cart.

Tacos Fenix is another food cart in Ensenada that has some great fish tacos.  This vendor lays claim to the original Baja style fish taco, so you might as well try both locations to which you like better.  Try some ceviche tostadas and experience true Baja cuisine.

Take a boat tour along the coast

Just take a walk along the Marina and you will find plenty of options for taking a boat tour along the coast of Ensenada.  Often you can find operators that charge as little as $3-$5 per person if you’re going on a charter with other people.  A private charter will cost more, but either way, exploring Ensenada by boat is a great, relaxing experience to get a feel for the area.   The fishing industry is a large part of the economy for the region and these boat operators know the area very well.  You can choose an informative, entertaining, or relaxing boat charter.  And if you have the time a sunset boat tour is pretty spectacular.

Hike El Salto Canyon

El Salto Canyon is an amazing natural geologic formation located about 45 minutes from Ensenada.  The hiking trails are quite rocky and uneven and may not be suitable for everyone, but if you are able to go on this excursion the views are well worth the visit.  And depending on the climate when you go you may find some beautiful waterfalls.  These are rain-fed waterfalls so you have a better chance of catching them during the rainy seasons.

It’s about a 20 minute hike to the El Salto Canyon and once there it’s a pretty amazing sight.  The canyon features stunningly beautiful views of the surrounding landscape, as well as a variety of unique flora and fauna that can be observed along the trails. There are several lookout points throughout the hike, giving you an opportunity to take in the sights and sounds of nature.   You can even spot King Birds and red tailed hawks.    This is definitely one of the most over-looked of the Ensenada attractions.

Visit Pai Pai Ecotourism Park

Less than an hour from Ensenada you will find the perfect place for animal and nature lovers.  And you may even get to pet a tiger cub.   Pai Pai Ecotourism Park is dedicated to preserving the local ecosystem and promoting sustainable tourism practices.  The park has a rescue program for animals in need and allows visitors to get up close and personal with exotic animals like tigers, leopards, and tigers.

You can purchases a package to spend time with one of three different age groups of these big cats: cubs, medium-sized cubs, and juveniles.  You will get to spend a few minutes interacting with these amazing cats, petting them, playing with them, and getting plenty of pictures.  If the cubs get too aggressive a handler is always right there to help, but you might get pawed at or nipped at a few times.

Not only are there snakes, lemurs, tigers, and llamas on the property.  You can also enjoy a zip line, bike on a tight wire, or jump on a trampoline.  The park even provides RZR tours along the hills of Ensenada.  With more than 40 activities available at the park, there are plenty of things for families to do.

Another ecological park you can visit is Cañon de Doña Petra Ecological Park .  This park is only a few miles away and while it doesn’t have as many wild animals and things to do, it offers some stunning views and natural trails to enjoy along the coastline.

Grab some lunch at Plaza Contenedores

Here’s something unique to check out in Ensenada.  This entire plaza is made from shipping containers and is full of wonderful restaurants.  And since it’s only a few minutes from downtown Ensenada it’s a place you can check out and still have plenty of time for other activities.

Plaza Contenedores is right on the beach, so as you eat your lunch you can soak in the gorgeous views along the coast.  The multi-level plaza offers everything from hamburgers and fish tacos to middle eastern food and pizza.  It’s a great option for a large group to eat since everyone can pick the restaurant of their choice and still sit together, kind of like a food court.

See the views from El Mirador overlook

Great for spectacular views of Ensenada and a good hiking workout, El Mirador is one of the best places to view the city and coastline.  Some people will hike El Mirador just so they can grab a photo, since the overlook allows you to see the entire city, cruise port, marina, and mountains all around the area.

Besides the beaches and Malecon in Ensenada, El Mirador viewpoint is one of the more popular things for tourists to experience.  You can hire a cab to bring you to the base of the overlook if you don’t want to walk it yourself.  The views at night are really great if you’re staying overnight in the city.

Visit the Riviera de Ensenada Cultural Center

Riviera de Ensenada Cultural Center is a great place to learn about the culture and history of the region.  It’s also one of the most beautiful buildings in the area.  The building had been a hotel and casino (Hotel Riviera del Pacifico) since the 1930’s but today is used for all kinds of things.  A tour of the grounds will have you marveling at how well-preserved the building is as you appreciate the artwork and carvings in the ceilings.

Besides visiting the Ensenada Museum of History in the building to learn more of the culture and past of the region,  you can also explore the beautiful grounds and take in the stunning views of the harbor and surrounding area.

The beautiful Spanish architecture, tiling, and stately archways around the facilities are the perfect setting for all kinds of events, including weddings.  There is also a bar called B ar Andaluz on the property that is one of two in the city that claim to be the birthplace of the original margarita.

Al Capone had made use of the casino in its heyday and you can still see the tunnels he would use to access the downtown area from the building.  Part of the tunnel has collapsed but you can still see a good part of it today.

Visit La Bufadora, a natural blowhole

La Bufadora, about an hour drive from Ensenada, is an amazing natural wonder that is a popular attraction in the area. This breathtaking blowhole is one of the largest blowholes in the world, spraying ocean water over 100 feet into the air.

As you approach La Bufadora, you’ll be greeted by the strong sea air and the sound of crashing waves. The sound of the blowhole alone is worth the visit, as it booms and bellows with each wave that rolls in. But when you finally see the actual blowhole, it’s a pretty amazing experience.

In addition to the blowhole, there’s plenty to see and do in the surrounding area.  In fact to get to the actual site you may have to walk through a gauntlet of vendors selling all kinds of souvenir items on the roadside.

And if you want some beach time, there is a great beach right at La Bufadora.

You can book a shore excursion to La Bufadora along with a city tour with our partners here .

Visit Ensenada’s Vineyards

Ensenada is home to some of Mexico’s most renowned vineyards and wineries. Visitors can explore the rich wine culture of this city by taking a tour of its many vineyards. Popular stops include La Escondida Vineyard, Monte Xanic Winery, Adobe Guadalupe Vineyards, Bodegas Las Nubes and La Cetto Winery. Each winery offers unique experiences that range from wine tastings and tours to sightseeing, dining and more. There are also a variety of activities available for visitors such as horseback riding through the vineyards, hot air ballooning over the valley or simply relaxing at one of the area’s many spas and resorts.

Valle de Guadalupe is one of the most popular destinations near Ensenada, Mexico. The valley, great for a day trip,  is home to lush vineyards, wineries, and many restaurants known for their fresh and local ingredients.  You can also explore the area’s hiking trails, mountain biking routes, or even go horseback riding.

The area around Valle de Guadalupe is full of activities for tourists looking for adventure or relaxation. For those seeking more active adventures, there are plenty of options including kayaking and snorkeling in Bahía de Todos Santos or exploring one of the many nearby beaches such as Playa Hermosa or Playa El Sauzalito.

Relax at the beaches of Ensenada

Ensenada is known for its great beaches, but not all of them are the same.  There is quite a variety of different types of beaches in the area to enjoy.  Some are better for surfing, others for snorkeling, and of course some have calmer waters great for just relaxing and cooling off.

• Playa Ensenada: This is the most popular beach in the area and is located close to the city center. It has a long boardwalk and is perfect for a relaxing beach day, with plenty of restaurants and bars nearby.
• Playa Hermosa: A quiet and secluded beach that is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing. This beach is closest to the cruise port, being only a few miles south of the downtown area.  Estero and San Miguel Beach are close by this beach as well.
• Playa Baja Beach : Surrounded by resorts, this is a family-friendly beach with plenty of access to modern amenities nearby. Not only is it a beautiful beach but you can engage in all kinds of water sports here as well like kayaking, snorkeling, and water-skiing.
• Playa En Rosarito : Located in a beach town and known for great surfing conditions and nightlife.  Playa En Rosarito is well over an hour from Ensenada to the north.
• Playa San Miguel : Another great surfing spot.  The water is shallow and clear but is quite rocky.  There are bathrooms on site.  This beach is very close to Ensenada.

All of these beaches offer stunning views and are a great place to relax, swim, and soak up the sun. Keep in mind that like most beaches in Mexico, they can get crowded on weekends and during peak tourist season.

Keep in mind that for some of these beaches you can take an Uber to get there, but for the way back you will have to walk a bit as the service doesn’t always reach out there.

Take a Surfing Lesson

As mentioned with some of the beaches above, there are many great spots for surfing in Ensenada.  Whether you’re a slightly experienced surfer or total beginner you can have a professional instructor teach you everything you need to know.

The excursion listed below is for surfing at Playa Hermosa and after some stretching and instructions will allow you to surf for about an hour.  All the equipment will be provided and Ensenada offers some great conditions for surfing.

Book your surfing lesson in Ensenada through our partner here.

Take a whale watching tour

Whale watching in Ensenada, Mexico is a popular activity for both tourists and locals. The city is located on the Pacific coast and is a prime location for watching gray whales during their annual migration. The best time to go whale watching in Ensenada is between December and April, when the gray whales are passing through on their way to their breeding grounds in Baja California. During this time, there are lots of whale watching tours available.   You might even spot some great white sharks while you’re out there.

Go on an ATV tour

ATV tours in Ensenada are a great way to explore the rugged terrain of the Baja California Peninsula. You can explore mountains, deserts, and beaches while enjoying breathtaking views of the Sea of Cortez. The tour usually starts with a briefing from experienced guides and then you can choose your own route through the desert. Tours usually last for two to three hours and you can choose to go for half day or full day trips. There are many ATV tour companies in Ensenada that offer different routes depending on your skill level and experience.

Visit the Todos Santos Island and see the lighthouse

Todos Santos Island is located just a few miles off the coast from Ensenada.  The island is home to a historic lighthouse, which stands out at the highest point of the island. The lighthouse was built in 1875 and offers visitors an incredible view of the Pacific Ocean and nearby islands. You can also explore nearby beaches and often catch some local wildlife on this secluded island.

Stop by Hussong’s Cantina

The building itself is a historical landmark in Ensenada.  Hussong’s Catina dates back to 1892 when it was first established and still lays claim to being the originator of the first margarita, a claim also made by the aforementioned B ar Andaluz.

Visit the Caracol Science Museum

The Caracol Science Museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from natural history to science and technology. You can explore hands-on activities, interactive displays, and educational films that help to explain the world around us. In addition to the permanent collections, the museum also offers various temporary exhibitions throughout the year.   This is a great stop for families on a cruise as it’s right across from the cruise terminal and has a lot of interactive displays that are great for kids.

Check out Museo Historico Regional

I already mentioned one history museum in the Riviera Cultural Center building, but this regional history museum is a great place for history buffs as well.   The building itself is an old jail with plenty of photo-ops of the old cells.  There is some artwork throughout and exhibits that show the examples of indigenous pottery and artifacts from the Kumiai and Pai Pai.

The old military garrison, then prison, and now museum is completely free to visit as well, so there’s another reason to put this Ensenada history museum on your to do list.

If you’ve been to Ensenada before, I’d love to hear from you.  How do you like to spend a trip to Ensenada?  Let us know in the comments below.

FAQ on Ensenada

Is ensenada walkable.

Yes and no. The city’s downtown area, in particular, is packed with restaurants, shops, and attractions that can easily be explored on foot. Additionally, Ensenada’s waterfront promenade offers a scenic walking route for visitors to enjoy.  But for many of the things on our list above you will need transportation.  I’ve visited Ensenada before without a car or taxi and just walked around and it was great, so it really depends on what you plan on doing during your stay.

How do you get around in Ensenada?

The most popular way to get around Ensenada is by car, taxi, or Uber. Public transportation is also available in the form of buses and trolleys. Bicycles are another option for getting around Ensenada, as the city has many dedicated bike lanes throughout the downtown area.  One fun way to get around in the city is to take a Tuk Tuk tour which is very affordable.

What are the best day trips from Ensenada?

1. Valle de Guadalupe: This scenic wine-producing region is a popular day trip from Ensenada. Visitors can enjoy tastings at some of the area’s many wineries, learn about the local wine-making process and explore the charming village of Santa Maria.

2. Todos Santos: Located about three hours away from Ensenada, this historic town is home to stunning beaches, art galleries and craft stores. Tourists can also visit La Bufadora, an impressive sea geyser located nearby.

3. San Felipe: This coastal town is located two hours north of Ensenada and offers visitors fun activities such as fishing, swimming and kayaking in its calm waters.

4. Tecate: Just over an hour drive from Ensenada lies Tecate, a small city known for its colonial architecture and hot springs. The surrounding countryside is perfect for hiking and biking.

5. El Sauzal: Located in the Valle de Guadalupe region, El Sauzal is a small town famous for its traditional Mexican restaurants serving delicious seafood dishes and homemade wines.

What is Ensenada known for?

• Wineries and vineyards – Ensenada is home to numerous wineries and vineyards, making it a popular destination for wine lovers.
• Scenic coastal drives – The scenic drive along the Pacific coast from Ensenada to Todos Santos is a popular activity for tourists and locals alike.
• Adventure activities – Ensenada offers a range of adventure activities, such as kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
• Great food – The city is known for its delicious street food, fresh seafood, and authentic Mexican dishes.
• Baja 1000 – Ensenada is the starting point of the Baja 1000, an off-road race that takes place in the Baja California peninsula.
• Beautiful beaches – Ensenada boasts some of the most beautiful and pristine beaches in Mexico, making it a popular destination for sun-seekers and beach-goers.

Learn the cruise secrets most people don't know and cruise like a boss. Check out Intelligent Cruiser here for a better cruise vacation. (Sponsored)

“I Left Without Them”: Parents Upset They Miss Their Cruise Ship, Blame Teenager

Carnival merging two cruise lines into one, ship or shore: 5 times you should stay on the cruise ship when in port, cruise line bringing back physical pre-cruise documents, related articles, 21 best things to do in mazatlan, mexico [ultimate guide], 35 top-rated things to do in puerto vallarta [ultimate guide], ultimate guide: top 33 things to do in cabo san lucas, mexico, recent popular posts.

Two brothers started Cruise Fever in 2011 when they decided they couldn't stop cruising so they might as well write about it. Do you have Cruise Fever too? Follow along on this incredible voyage!

© 2011-2024, Cruise Fever ®. All rights reserved

• Privacy Policy
• Cruise Newsletter

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

5 ½ Things To Do While In Port In Ensenada, Mexico

• Cruises and Sailing
• Destinations
• Mexico and Caribbean
• Shore Excursions
• Types of Travel

Over the years, Ensenada, Mexico, has become one of my favorite places to visit. I’ve arrived in Ensenada by land, cycling on the Rosarito-Ensenada bike ride, and by sea via cruise ship. The weather is pleasant year-round, but high winds between mid-January and mid-February could potentially disrupt your cruise itinerary or some shore excursions.

Ensenada lies about 67 miles south of the U.S.-Mexico border and 89 miles south of San Diego . The Port of Ensenada is one of Mexico’s most visited ports of call for major cruise lines. And as you would expect, there are many activities to keep all those cruise ship guests busy. Below are 5 ½ things to do while in port in Ensenada. Yep, 5 ½.

Whichever activities on this list you choose to participate in, you will be doing a fair amount of walking. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

The first three activities can be experienced without the need for any transportation other than your feet; they are just a few blocks from the port. The remaining ones require an organized tour  to reach. These will most likely be offered as shore excursions by whichever cruise line you sail with. Or, you can take a taxi on your own.

1. Centro Social, Cívico Y Cultural Riviera Del Pacifico De Ensenada

Your cruise ship will probably offer excursions that include a visit to Centro Social, Cívico Y Cultural Riviera del Pacifico . But it’s so close to the port that you may prefer to walk there yourself. At press time the entrance fee was $2 USD.

Centro Social, Cívico Y Cultural Riviera del Pacifico was formerly the Hotel Riviera del Pacifico. Its storied history involves Prohibition, Mexican businessmen and politicians, and Hollywood celebrities. After Prohibition ended, things went downhill for the hotel. It was restored beginning in 1978 and became Centro Social, Cívico Y Cultural Riviera del Pacifico. What survived are the beautiful tiles, murals, ballroom, chandeliers, woodwork, gardens, and casino room.

I recommend getting a guide so you can learn about the history behind the building and hear some stories that go with it. One of my favorite stories is how, during dances in the ballroom, boys and girls were able to arrange dates while still under the hawk-like watch of the chaperones. I also recommend a visit to the museum.

Fun Fact: Bar Andaluz at Riviera del Pacifico claims to have invented the margarita . See below for the other origin story.

2. Fish Taco Tasting

It is almost universally agreed that the fish taco as we know it today originated in Ensenada. What better place to create your own fish taco tour than Ensenada! The Ensenada-style fish taco contains battered and fried fish. Angel shark ( angelito ) is a commonly used fish because it holds up well during frying. Dogfish and Mako shark (my favorite) are also used. Cod, pollock, halibut, and whitefish are other options. It is topped with cabbage (sometimes lettuce), pico de gallo, sour cream or citrus/mayonnaise sauce, and served on a flour or corn tortilla. Variations on toppings, salsas, and other condiments help each stand establish its own unique, um , flavor, as does the type of fish used. I found one stand on Lázaro Cárdenas right outside the port that served manta ray tacos.

If you start at the corner of Avenida Adolfo López Mateos/Calle Primera and Castillo and work your way northwest along López Mateos, you’ll encounter any number of restaurants, cafés, and patio diners that serve fish tacos. You’ll find more shacks as you near Miramar. And it is these shacks that tend to serve the more authentic fish tacos, though the places you passed to get here do make very good ones.

My personal tour included La Guerrerense (their cart doesn’t sell fish tacos but their restaurant does), recognized by numerous international travel and food publications, a restaurant called Mariscos Playa Azul , and a final stop at a small stand simply called The Original Fish Tacos Ensenada, or Los Originales Tacos de Pescado de Ensenada .

Pro Tip: If you’re going to do a fish taco tasting, eat a light breakfast or skip breakfast altogether. The tacos may look small, but after visiting three or four or more places, you will be quite full. I was, and I have a huge appetite. Consider going a few blocks further up Avenida Adolfo López Mateos/Calle Primera to Avenida Ruíz. Turn right. Just before Calle Segunda is the famous Hussong’s Cantina . It is rumored the margarita was invented here in 1941. A (very strong) margarita from Hussong’s makes a historic and satisfying finish to your fish taco tasting tour.

3. Shopping

Shopping on Avenida Adolfo López Mateos/Calle Primera should not be missed. Small electronics, souvenirs, silver and turquoise jewelry (especially jewelry from Taxco, a city celebrated for its silver and turquoise), curios, and arts and crafts abound. Leather goods such as jackets, handbags, duffle bags, et cetera, are your best bargains.

Start out by walking northwest on López Mateos. You’ll see shops on both sides of the street. As you reach Miramar, you’ll notice more jewelry stores. Turn right on Miramar and you will encounter more clothing, electronics, and general stores. 

Pro Tip: Most of the vendors know or assume you arrived in Ensenada via cruise ship. So, although most will bargain, they will start with the higher tourist prices. The best way to get the better deals is to shop around. It may be as simple as going across the street to a competitor.

4. Wine Tasting Tour In Valle De Guadalupe

I was surprised to learn during one of my earlier visits that there were vineyards in the area. Located around 45 minutes north of Ensenada, Guadalupe Valley (V alle de Guadalupe ) is a booming wine-growing region, home to over 120 wineries. The region is said to rival that of California’s Sonoma and Napa Valleys . You can book a wine tasting tour through your cruise line.

You will likely be visiting two to four wineries depending on your tour. Most wineries are located along what is known as La Ruta del Vino , or “The Wine Route.” Some exceptional wineries can be found on dirt roads off the main highway. Be sure to look at the gorgeous surrounding valley on your way to the wineries. Our tour stopped at two wineries in Valle de Guadalupe: La Casa de Doña Lupe and pioneering area vintner L.A. Cetto . In addition to producing wine, Casa Doña Lupe makes sherry, tequila, and brandy. L.A. Cetto has a bullring on the property. From their estate, you have a beautiful, commanding view of the valley below.

These tours will usually either return you to the ship or drop you off downtown. Taxis from downtown back to port are plentiful but if you don’t mind walking a few blocks, you could save the cab fare and spend it on a souvenir.

Pro Tip: Buy your wine while you are visiting the winery. It is more expensive elsewhere. Check with your cruise line for their policy on bringing alcohol back on board.

5. Kayak To La Bufadora (“The Blowhole”)

La Bufadora, or The Blowhole, is one of the world’s largest marine blowholes. Seeing it from sea level in a kayak is a unique experience. Air and water become trapped in a cave underground. When a wave approaches, pressure in the cave builds. When the wave recedes, the pressure is released, blasting water up to 100 feet in the air.

From shore, you will paddle a short distance out to the blowhole. As you near the blowhole, you’ll bob up and down as each swell passes beneath your kayak. It is pretty humbling when you realize that each swell that lifted your kayak will soon crash against the rocks, resulting in that hundred-foot-tall spray and thunderous sound the blowhole is famous for. Most guides will set you up to take photos with the blowhole erupting at a safe distance behind you. Bring a waterproof camera. Note: Kayaking tours normally operate only during the summer months.

Pro Tip: Before you begin the tour, ask the guide or driver whether the tour will be stopping at Lidia’s. They will know about Lidia’s. If yes, you will be able to enjoy the remaining ½ thing to do…

And A Half: La Bufadora Up Close From The Lookout

From the parking lot, head down the paved road. You’ll find vendors lining both sides of the road selling a huge variety of souvenirs. Churro vendors will offer you samples fresh out of the fryer and point you to their stalls. The ones we liked best were sold by the last vendor on the right, at the bottom of Restaurant Blanquita. One vendor had giant clams topped with cilantro and onions, tomatoes, and cheese cooking on the barbie.

Continue walking down the pathway until you reach the viewpoint overlooking the blowhole. There will be a small crowd there where many will be taking selfies. Bide your time and you can get right up to the wall to take your own photos. Don’t stand too close or you’ll get wet.

Pro Tip: If you like fish tacos, you absolutely must stop at Lidia’s Tacos Grill, or Tacos Lidia. This formerly well-kept secret has long been out. Expect a crowd, but the line does move fast.

My next visit to Ensenada is already in the planning stages and will include an encore of a few of these activities.

Stan is a freelance writer based in Southern California. He has worked in the aviation industry for more than 30 years. Additionally, he co-edited a trade show newsletter and was a contributing writer for a local newspaper.

So far, Stan and his wife have traveled to four continents. He loves the Caribbean, having made well over a dozen trips to the region. When he’s not traveling, you’ll find Stan either on his bicycle, playing in a band, behind a camera, in front of a plate of food, or being a weekend warrior.

Stan’s dream is to travel the world. Follow along with him via his website Kanale Travels as he makes his dream come true, one trip at a time.

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Plan Your Trip

What To Do At Ensenada Cruise Port

Published: January 2, 2024

by Nikaniki Ballenger

• Travel Destinations
• Travel Guide
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Welcome to Ensenada, one of Mexico’s most popular cruise ports! Located along the Baja California Peninsula, this vibrant coastal city offers a stunning mix of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and exciting attractions. Whether you’re embarking on a short stopover or spending a few days exploring, Ensenada has something for everyone.

Ensenada is known for its breathtaking beaches, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque landscapes. The region boasts a Mediterranean-like climate, with mild winters and warm summers, making it an ideal destination year-round.

But what sets Ensenada apart from other cruise ports is the unique blend of Mexican charm and international flair. From lively street markets and colorful local festivals to upscale restaurants and boutique shopping, Ensenada offers a diverse range of experiences that will enchant and delight travelers.

As you step off your cruise ship and onto Ensenada’s shores, get ready to immerse yourself in a world of adventure and relaxation. This article will guide you through the top attractions, activities, dining options, shopping opportunities, and much more.

So sit back, grab a margarita, and let’s explore all the incredible things to do at the Ensenada cruise port!

Overview of Ensenada Cruise Port

Nestled on the western coast of Mexico, Ensenada is a vibrant cruise port that attracts thousands of visitors each year. Known for its stunning natural beauty and warm hospitality, Ensenada offers a wide range of amenities and services to ensure a memorable experience for cruise passengers.

The Ensenada cruise port is conveniently located in Baja California, just 70 miles south of the U.S.-Mexico border. It is a popular destination for both short getaways and longer voyages, with many ships making regular stops at this picturesque coastal city.

The port itself is modern and well-equipped, offering easy access to a variety of transportation options for exploring the city and its surroundings. From taxis and shuttles to rental cars and organized tours, getting around Ensenada is a breeze.

Ensenada’s cruise terminal is located right in the heart of the city, within walking distance of many popular attractions, shops, and restaurants. This makes it incredibly convenient for cruisers to step off the ship and immediately start their Ensenada adventures.

Upon arrival at the cruise port, passengers are greeted with a warm welcome from local vendors and tour operators, eager to showcase the best of what Ensenada has to offer. From guided city tours to excursions to nearby wineries and natural wonders, there are plenty of options to suit every interest.

For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, the cruise port’s location provides easy access to Ensenada’s vibrant downtown area. Here, you’ll find a plethora of shops selling Mexican handicrafts, jewelry, clothing, and souvenirs, as well as charming cafes and restaurants serving up delicious local cuisine.

Overall, the Ensenada cruise port offers a perfect blend of convenience, beauty, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re interested in relaxing on the beach, exploring the city’s rich history, or indulging in the vibrant food and nightlife scene, Ensenada has something for everyone.

Now that you have an overview of the Ensenada cruise port, let’s delve into the top attractions and activities that await you in this breathtaking Mexican destination!

Top Attractions in Ensenada

Ensenada boasts a plethora of attractions that showcase the region’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and vibrant spirit. From scenic beaches and breathtaking landscapes to historical landmarks and exciting entertainment, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this charming Mexican city.

One of the must-see attractions in Ensenada is the iconic La Bufadora. This natural blowhole is located on the Punta Banda Peninsula and is one of the largest marine geysers in the world. Visitors can witness the powerful spout of water shooting up to 100 feet in the air, resulting in a mesmerizing sight and a thrilling experience.

For a taste of Ensenada’s rich history, a visit to the Riviera del Pacifico Cultural Center is a must. Housed in a historic building that was once a casino, this center offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past. Explore the exhibits that showcase the region’s indigenous heritage, colonial influences, and local art and culture.

Ensenada is also renowned for its stunning beaches. Playa Hermosa, with its pristine golden sands and gentle waves, is a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Playa Todos Santos, also known as the “Surfer’s Beach,” attracts surf enthusiasts from around the world with its impressive waves.

No visit to Ensenada is complete without experiencing the vibrant downtown area. A stroll along the iconic Avenida López Mateos will lead you to charming shops, street vendors selling delicious Mexican street food, and lively bars and restaurants. Don’t forget to try the famed fish tacos, a local culinary specialty that has put Ensenada on the map.

Wine lovers will revel in a visit to the nearby Valle de Guadalupe, often referred to as the Napa Valley of Mexico. This picturesque wine region is home to over 120 wineries, offering tastings, tours, and gourmet dining experiences. Indulge in world-class wines while taking in the beautiful vineyard landscapes.

Adventure seekers can head to the Todos Santos Islands, located just off the coast of Ensenada. These islands are a paradise for snorkelers and scuba divers, with crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. Exploring the underwater world here is an unforgettable experience.

These are just a few of the top attractions Ensenada has to offer. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, this captivating city will leave you in awe of its beauty and charm.

Activities and Things to Do

Ensenada offers a diverse range of activities and things to do, catering to every interest and age group. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, here are some of the top activities that will make your visit to Ensenada unforgettable.

One of the most popular activities in Ensenada is whale-watching. Every winter, hundreds of gray whales migrate from Alaska to Baja California’s warm waters. Board a boat tour and witness these majestic creatures up close as they breach and play in the ocean.

For adrenaline junkies, a visit to the Las Cañadas Canopy Tour is a must. This thrilling zipline adventure takes you through the picturesque landscapes near Ensenada, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

If you’re a food lover, indulge in a culinary tour of Ensenada’s food scene. Explore the local markets, savor traditional Mexican dishes, and learn about the flavors and techniques that make Baja cuisine unique.

Those seeking relaxation can spend a day at one of Ensenada’s tranquil spas and wellness centers. Enjoy a soothing massage, rejuvenating facial, or therapeutic hot spring bath to unwind and rejuvenate your body and mind.

Ensenada is also a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, horseback riding, and off-road adventures are readily available in the region. Explore the stunning landscapes of the Sierra de San Pedro Mártir National Park or go horseback riding along the beautiful beaches.

Water sports enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Ensenada as well. From kayaking and paddleboarding to surfing and sport fishing, there are options for every level of experience. Consider a boat tour to experience the rugged and unspoiled beauty of the surrounding coastline.

For a cultural immersion experience, visit the Museo de Historia de Ensenada. Located in a historic building, this museum provides insights into Ensenada’s past through its exhibits on the indigenous peoples, colonization, and maritime history of the region.

Finally, don’t forget to explore the vibrant nightlife of Ensenada. From lively bars and clubs to live music venues and cultural performances, there are plenty of options to keep you entertained after the sun goes down.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, Ensenada offers an array of activities and things to do to suit every preference. Embrace the spirit of exploration and make the most of your time in this captivating Mexican city.

Shopping and Souvenirs

Ensenada is a shopper’s paradise, offering a wide range of shopping options to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for unique souvenirs, local handicrafts, or designer goods, Ensenada’s markets, boutiques, and shopping centers have you covered.

A must-visit shopping destination in Ensenada is the Mercado Negro (Black Market). Located near the waterfront, this bustling open-air market is a treasure trove of local products. Here, you’ll find a variety of fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables, and spices. Don’t forget to haggle with the vendors to get the best deals!

For those interested in Mexican handicrafts and traditional textiles, the Avenida López Mateos in downtown Ensenada is the place to go. Here, you’ll find numerous stores selling beautiful handwoven rugs, colorful pottery, leather goods, and intricate Huichol art. These items make for unique and authentic souvenirs to bring back home.

If you’re looking for high-end designer goods, head to Plaza Marina. This luxury shopping center boasts a collection of upscale boutiques offering clothing, accessories, jewelry, and cosmetics from renowned international brands.

Food lovers should visit the La Guerrerense seafood cart. This world-famous food cart is known for its delicious seafood tostadas and salsas. You can also purchase their homemade hot sauces and canned seafood products to take a taste of Ensenada’s flavors home with you.

Don’t forget to explore the local wineries and wine shops where you can find a variety of Baja California wines to bring back as a souvenir. The region is known for producing exceptional wines, so take the opportunity to taste and purchase some bottles to enjoy later.

For a unique shopping experience, visit the Papas and Beer store on Avenida López Mateos. This popular beach bar and nightclub also has a store where you can buy their branded merchandise, including t-shirts, hats, and shot glasses, as a fun memento of your time in Ensenada.

Whether you’re looking for traditional Mexican crafts, delicious local produce, or high-end fashion, Ensenada’s diverse shopping scene has something for everyone. Take the time to explore the markets, boutiques, and shopping centers, and you’re sure to find the perfect souvenirs to remember your trip to Ensenada.

Dining and Local Cuisine

Ensenada is a food lover’s paradise, with a vibrant culinary scene that highlights the flavors and diversity of Baja California’s cuisine. From mouthwatering street tacos to upscale seafood restaurants, there are plenty of dining options to satisfy every palate.

When it comes to local cuisine, one cannot miss trying the famous fish tacos. Ensenada is said to be the birthplace of this beloved dish. Head to street stands and local taquerias to indulge in the crispy batter-fried fish, topped with cabbage, salsa, and creamy sauces. It’s a true flavor explosion that showcases the region’s love for seafood.

Seafood enthusiasts will also delight in the fresh catch of the day. Ensenada’s coastal location means that local restaurants serve an array of delectable seafood dishes, from ceviche and shrimp cocktails to grilled fish and succulent lobster. Be sure to try the iconic dish called “pulpo al ajillo,” which is garlic-infused octopus.

Baja Med cuisine is another highlight of Ensenada’s dining scene. This culinary style combines Mexican, Mediterranean, and Asian influences, resulting in unique flavor profiles. Don’t miss out on trying mouthwatering dishes like grilled octopus, sea urchin tostadas, and roasted lamb tacos.

Ensenada is also known for its thriving wine industry. The region’s fertile valleys produce exceptional wines, particularly reds and whites. Many restaurants offer extensive wine lists featuring local labels, allowing you to pair your meal with the perfect bottle of Baja California wine.

If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, consider visiting one of Ensenada’s renowned food trucks. These mobile kitchens offer a variety of delicious street food options, such as mariscos (seafood dishes), birria (slow-cooked meat stew), and homemade salsas. It’s a great way to savor authentic flavors in a casual setting.

For those seeking a more upscale dining experience, Ensenada has numerous fine-dining establishments that showcase innovative culinary techniques and exquisite presentation. These restaurants often offer tasting menus with thoughtfully curated dishes that highlight the region’s local ingredients.

From street food delights to gourmet dining, Ensenada’s dining scene is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Embrace the opportunity to savor the rich flavors and unique culinary traditions of this gastronomic haven.

Excursions and Day Trips from Ensenada

While Ensenada itself offers a wealth of attractions and activities, there are also plenty of exciting excursions and day trips to be enjoyed in the surrounding areas. From wine country tours to natural wonders, these trips allow you to explore the diverse beauty of Baja California.

A popular day trip option from Ensenada is a visit to the Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico’s premier wine region often referred to as the “Napa Valley of Mexico.” Embark on a wine tasting tour and visit some of the region’s acclaimed wineries, where you can sample exquisite wines made from locally grown grapes. Pair your tastings with delectable cuisine at the wineries’ on-site restaurants.

For outdoor enthusiasts, a visit to the Sierra de San Pedro Mártir National Park is a must. Located about 2 hours from Ensenada, this majestic park offers breathtaking landscapes, hiking trails, and opportunities for stargazing. Reach the park’s highest peak, Picacho del Diablo, for stunning panoramic views.

If you’re in the mood for a coastal adventure, consider a boat trip to the Todos Santos Islands. These uninhabited islands are home to a rich diversity of marine life, making them a haven for snorkelers and scuba divers. Explore the vibrant underwater world and witness colorful coral reefs, playful sea lions, and a variety of fish species.

History buffs will enjoy a trip to the nearby town of Guadalupe. Here, you can visit the Guadalupe Mission, one of the oldest in the region, and delve into the rich colonial history and colonial architecture that defines the area. Take a stroll through the town’s charming streets and enjoy the local hospitality.

For a taste of adventure and natural beauty, take a drive along the breathtaking Baja Pacific Coastline. From stunning cliffside views to secluded beaches, this scenic drive offers the perfect opportunity to discover hidden gems and enjoy the natural wonders of the region.

Another popular excursion is to La Bufadora, a natural blowhole located just outside of Ensenada. Witness the powerful spout of water as it shoots up into the air, creating a mesmerizing sight. Browse the nearby market for souvenirs and try some local delicacies while enjoying the stunning coastal views.

These are just a few examples of the exciting excursions and day trips available from Ensenada. Whether you’re seeking wine tasting, nature exploration, or cultural immersion, the surrounding areas offer a multitude of opportunities to enhance your Ensenada experience.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Ensenada comes alive at night, offering a vibrant nightlife scene that caters to all tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for live music, dancing, or enjoying a relaxed evening with a craft cocktail, Ensenada has something for everyone.

One of the best ways to experience the nightlife in Ensenada is by exploring the lively downtown area. Avenida López Mateos is the main street where you’ll find a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants. Spend an evening hopping from one lively spot to another, enjoying the buzzing atmosphere and the energetic beats of live music.

For a taste of authentic Mexican music and entertainment, head to Hussong’s Cantina. Dating back to 1892, this historic bar is believed to be the birthplace of the margarita. Grab a stool at the bar, enjoy the lively mariachi music, and sip on a margarita or one of their famous tequila shots.

If you’re in the mood to dance the night away, Ensenada has several nightclubs that cater to different music genres. From Latin beats to electronic dance music, you’ll find venues that keep the party going late into the night.

For a more relaxed evening, consider visiting the Cultural Center Riviera del Pacifico. This historic building often hosts art exhibitions, live performances, and cultural events. Catch a theater production, enjoy a classical music concert, or witness a traditional dance performance.

Ensenada is also home to a thriving craft beer scene. Many breweries offer tasting rooms where you can sample a variety of locally brewed beers. Grab a pint or two, mingle with fellow beer enthusiasts, and enjoy the laid-back ambiance of these breweries.

If you prefer a more serene evening experience, take a sunset cruise along the Ensenada coastline. Watch as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden glow on the ocean. Some cruises offer live music and a fine dining experience, allowing you to enjoy a memorable night at sea.

Lastly, don’t miss out on the delicious food options available late into the night. Street vendors and food carts offer flavorful snacks and meals, ranging from tacos to elote (Mexican street corn). Indulge in these tasty treats as you explore the bustling nightlife scene.

From lively bars and nightclubs to cultural performances and waterfront cruises, Ensenada offers a diverse range of nighttime entertainment options. Whether you’re seeking a high-energy party scene or a relaxed evening sipping cocktails, the city has something to cater to every nightlife preference.

Practical Tips and Information

Before you embark on your Ensenada cruise port adventure, here are some practical tips and information to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:

• Ensure that you have a valid passport before traveling to Ensenada. It is also recommended to carry a photocopy of your passport in case of loss or theft.
• Check the visa requirements for your nationality to enter Mexico. Most visitors do not require a visa for short-term stays, but it’s always prudent to double-check.
• Ensenada’s currency is the Mexican Peso. It’s a good idea to exchange some currency before your arrival or withdraw cash from ATMs located in the city. Many establishments also accept credit cards.
• English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but it’s helpful to learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interactions and show respect to the local culture.
• Ensenada’s weather is typically mild, with warm summers and mild winters. Pack accordingly, keeping in mind that evenings can be cooler near the coast.
• Ensure you have appropriate travel insurance to cover any unexpected medical expenses or travel disruptions. Check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage in Mexico.
• Use caution when exploring unfamiliar areas, particularly at night. Stick to well-lit and populated areas, and be mindful of your belongings to avoid theft or pickpocketing.
• If you plan to drive in Ensenada or rent a car, familiarize yourself with local traffic laws and customs. Mexican roads may have different regulations than what you are accustomed to.
• Tap water in Ensenada is not recommended for drinking. Stick to bottled water or purify tap water using a water purification system.
• Plan your activities and excursions in advance, especially if you have limited time in Ensenada. This will ensure that you make the most of your visit and don’t miss out on any must-see attractions.
• Respect the local culture and customs. Ensenada is a welcoming city, and showing courtesy to the locals will make your experience more enjoyable.

By keeping these practical tips in mind, you can make the most of your time in Ensenada and have a memorable and worry-free experience in this beautiful Mexican port city.

Ensenada is a captivating cruise port that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and exciting activities. From its stunning beaches and vibrant downtown area to its rich history and gastronomic delights, Ensenada has something to offer every traveler.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a culinary journey, Ensenada provides a multitude of options to suit your interests. Explore the natural wonders of La Bufadora and the Todos Santos Islands, or indulge in the region’s renowned wine and seafood offerings. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting historical landmarks and partaking in traditional festivities.

The friendly locals, lively nightlife, and warm hospitality add to the charm of Ensenada, making it a destination that will leave a lasting impression. Whether you choose to spend a few hours or a few days in this enchanting city, you’re sure to create memories that will stay with you long after the cruise has ended.

As you plan your visit to Ensenada, remember to explore the top attractions, indulge in local cuisine, venture on exciting excursions, and soak up all that this wonderful destination has to offer. Take advantage of the practical tips provided to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Now, get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey as you step off your cruise ship and into the vibrant world of Ensenada. Embrace the beauty, flavors, and culture of this Mexican gem, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

• Cruise Tips
• Western Caribbean Ports
• Eastern Caribbean Ports
• Southern Caribbean Ports

Cruise Weather

• Attractions
• Central America
• New England
• South America
• All forecasts
• Satellite Maps
• Eastern forecasts
• Western forecasts
• Southern forecasts
• Hurricane season
• Monthly weather
• Air temperatures
• Water temperatures
• Rainfall by month

Ensenada Cruise Port Guide: Tips, Attractions, Weather

Ensenada cruise port is popular in part because it is convenient to reach for ships from San Diego. But it is mostly popular with short-term cruises.

Where is Ensenada? It is only 70 miles south of the U.S. border on the Baja California peninsula in Mexico and 81 miles south of San Diego. It also is 900 miles north of Cabo San Lucas, a major cruise port on the Mexican Riviera.

But unlike Cabo San Lucas, Ensenada is mostly popular with short-term cruises out of San Diego as well as Los Angeles. These shorter cruises may last only three to five days and visit just Ensenada or Ensenada and Catalina Island.

Seven-day cruises along the Mexican Riviera, the stretch of cruise ports along Mexico’s western coast, usually skip Ensenada and head for Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlán.

Quick Travel Tips

Attractions and shore excursions, walking around attractions, manzanillo cruise port map.

Cruise visitors will likely disembark at Cruiseport Village, which is a marina with shops, restaurants, plaza and craft market.

Avenida Lopez Mateos is the main tourist street of Ensenada. It is about a mile long between Avenida Ruiz and Avenida Blancarte with shops, restaurants and smaller points of interest.

Several streets also branch off the main featuring various variety shops, restaurants, etc. Trinkets to be bought in the area include crafts, postcards, beach gear and t-shirts to paintings.

Visitors who walk into town should look for Riviera del Pacifico, which is a little less than one mile north of Cruiseport Village. Riviera del Pacifico was a famous casino during the 1930s because of visiting Hollywood stars such as Lana Turner.

Shore Excursions

Cruise visitors can see Riviera del Pacifico on a guided city tour along with the photographic central plaza, the fish and seafood market and other city sites. These city excursions have a starting cost of $35 per person depending on the operator, sailing date and other factors.

A popular shore excursion is La Bufadora on the Punta Banda peninsula. La Bufadora is a blowhole that releases everything from small snorts of air to large spouts of seawater. Some of the water sprays can go as high as 20 feet depending on the swell. Prices start at $40 per person.

LasCañadas Camp is an extensive recreational facility 30 miles south of Ensenada. It offers tubing, a water park, zip lining, hanging bridges and more. This tour costs $100 or more per person depending on the program.

The area is also known for other water activities such as diving, surfing, fishing and kayaking. Land tours include exploring the area on horses and jeeps. Ensenada also is known for its wineries.

Prices for wine tours start at about $50 per person. Land adventure tours start at $70 and go higher depending on the length and type.

Grey Whale watching is a common attraction in Ensenada during the winter and spring. Every year Grey Whales come to the warm waters in the area to give birth to calves. The typical whale-watching excursion takes about four hours.

Shopping and Restaurants

Like many cruise ports, Ensenada has a bustling shopping and dining district for tourists. Here it is Avenida López Mateos, a tourist zone that is filled with many souvenir shops and handmade arts and crafts.

Ensenada is known for its food, especially the freshly caught seafood that tourists can see at the city’s famous fish market at the northern corner of the marina.

Quite a few wineries fill the area and are accessible via local shop offerings or a wine country route. There is even a local wine museum.

Beaches Near the Port

Ensenada has its share of beaches, but the best and most popular may require a taxi or other form of transportation to get there.

The most popular beach in the area is El Sauzal, located north of town. San Miguel beach, also north of Ensenada, is especially popular with surfers.

Two beaches lying south include El Faro and Baja Beach. El Faro is only eight miles from Ensenada and a convenient choice for cruise visitors. Others include:

• Estero Beach • La Misión • La Joya at Maneadero • Bahía de los Ángeles • Bahía de San Luis Gonzaga

Transportation

Some of the beaches and other popular attractions require transportation to reach them from the cruise docks if an excursion bus is not available.

Note that some taxis are metered and some are not. It is important to ask for the fare before getting in the cab and have exact change to pay for the trip.

Car rental companies in Ensenada include Hertz and Fiesta Rent a Car.

The city does not have a local bus system.

The best time to visit Ensenada is April through October during the dry season.

Ensenada’s climate is similar to San Diego. The summers are sunny with little rain and steady breezes. 

The fact that it lies along the northern part of Baja means that weather will not always be hot, especially during the winter. But unlike the Caribbean, the odds of rain are fairly low for most of the year.

As a result, Ensenada is a dry location with desert-like shore excursions for adventurous outdoor tourists while others can take advantage of the beaches, shopping, nightlife and restaurants.

Throughout the year, the city is one of the driest cruise ports on the Mexican Riviera. Rainfall averages about one to two inches a month from November through March and less than one inch from April through October.

It rains on average less than one day a month from June through August and about five to seven days a month from December through March.

Average high temperatures hover in the upper 60s Fahrenheit during the winter, mid to upper 70s during spring and fall, and the low 80s in the summer.

• Cruise Ports

Cruise to Baja: What To Do Near the Ensenada Cruise Port

A couple of weeks ago, we took a short weekend cruise to Baja California from Long Beach. There was only one port of call: Ensenada.

It was a total last minute purchase. We wanted some family bonding time before the school year started, and when my husband turned to me one night and said, “I wish we were back on a cruise ship,” I replied, “We can be.”

An hour later, we’d booked a three-night trip to Ensenada on Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas .

Before this, the only thing I knew about Ensenada was that I could drive there in two hours. It’s so close to where we live (in San Diego) that I wasn’t even sure I wanted to get off the ship when it docked there. Instead of disembarking in Ensenada, I figured I’d stay onboard to lay by the pool, take advantage of the shorter lines for the water slides, and enjoy some port-day discounts .

But when we arrived that morning, my husband suggested we take a walk around the town.

“Do you know what to do in Ensenada?” I asked.

“We’ll figure it out,” he said.

So here are some things we did with absolutely zero prior research or preparation.

Navigating the Ensenada Cruise Port

A walk through downtown ensenada, the best shop in downtown ensenada: cleopatro dog’s store, a snack and a stroll on the ensenada boardwalk, visiting the ensenada history museum (or trying to), cruise excursions in ensenada mexico, is ensenada worth visiting, what do you do in ensenada mexico.

Downtown Ensenada isn’t very far from the cruise port. However, I found it to be a bit trickier to navigate than some other cruise ports I’ve been to. There’s not a lot of clear signage, so we wound up meandering into the boarding area for the Carnival cruise ship that was docked beside us.

Once we whipped out Google Maps on our phones, though, we quickly found the exit gate. And from there, it was a pretty straight shot to downtown.

Here’s a little Ensenada cruise port map so you can get an idea of how close it is to the action:

There were a bunch of buses waiting at the port to drop people off downtown, but we avoided them because we wanted to explore (or rather, get lost) on our own. Plus, after all that soft-serve we ate on the pool deck, we decided we needed some exercise.

The easiest way to navigate Ensenada is to orient yourself to the giant flag of Mexico that’s fluttering over the city. And I mean giant . I have never seen a flag this big.

I later learned that it’s one of several banderas monumentales that are located in various spots around Mexico. They’re meant to inspire a sense of patriotism. It worked; I felt inspired and I’m not even a Mexican citizen.

So after you leave the cruise port, keep walking toward the flag. Turn right on Alvarado, and you’ll quickly arrive in the heart of downtown Ensenada.

I’ll be honest: it’s a bit of a tourist trap. Endless storefronts sell the same exact souvenirs. T-shirts and magnets and tchotchkes abound. If you’ve spent your whole life searching for a coffee mug printed with Spanish obscenities, no doubt you’ll find it here.

Then there were the pharmacies.

It’s no secret that you can get prescription drugs easily in Mexico, and Ensenada is cashing in on the “pharma-tourist” phenomenon. There was at least one pharmacy on every street, some of which appealed to children with statues of smiling superheroes.

This particular statue sparked a lengthy discussion with my nine-year-old son about erectile dysfunction. Always a fun topic of conversation when you’re on a cruise vacation. Family bonding time, you know?

There were a bunch of restaurants downtown, many of which looked excellent, but I was too busy hustling us past the aggressive pill pushers to stop and read any menus. I wish I had, though. Next time we go to Ensenada (and there will be a next time), I’m headed to La Guerrerense , a taco stand that came highly recommended by Anthony Bourdain.

So I know I’m not selling downtown Ensenada as family-friendly, but there were some highlights. Like Cleopatro Dog’s Store.

As you might guess, they sell stuff for dogs. Mostly, adorable outfits. Including serapes, which are the ultimate in adorable.

Now, I’m a dog-lover, so I definitely love me some cute doggy outfits. But this particular store was amazing because they used their proceeds to help rescue dogs. That’s what the sign in the window says, and the lovely woman behind the counter who helped us with our purchase explained it, too. (In Spanish. My husband translated.)

And I have a special affection for rescue dogs from Ensenada, since one of my pups was found on the street there. So of course I had to support this business, and bought my little chihuahua mixes some serapes.

Don’t they look cute?

After snagging our serapes, we headed back in the direction of the Mexican flag, toward the malecón. ( Malecón means boardwalk in Spanish.) On our way there, we passed by the Mercado de Mariscos, which is Baja California’s largest fish market.

Apparently, you can buy fresh fish here and they’ll cook it up for you at one of the nearby restaurants.

We didn’t do that, though. Instead, we walked down to the waterfront for a couple of cold Micheladas. I’m not entirely sure what was in this one, but most Micheladas are some combination of beer, Clamato, lime juice, and hot sauce.

That flaky stuff on the rim is tajin , a spicy Mexican seasoning flavored of chili and lime.

We also snacked on some sweet gorditas de nata that we bought at Serranos Panaderia, a bakery on the boardwalk. You could get your choice of filling; I got cream cheese, my husband got dulce de leche. Both were equally delicious.

As we strolled along, people-watching and enjoying the energy of the malecón, we kept walking in the direction of the giant flag. Eventually, we reached a park at the base of it, aptly named El Parque de la Bandera (translation: Flag Park).

There were some fountains here that children were splashing in. We also happened upon the Expo Nativa , a festival celebrating the native cultures of Baja California. Indigenous artisans were selling their wares, so I bought a gorgeous handmade necklace from Skoalap Cucapah .

My one regret is we never visited the Ensenada History Museum . Though it wasn’t for lack of trying.

It’s supposedly located in the Centro Social Civico y Cultural, which is right by the entrance to the cruise port. We ventured inside the open gates and walked around the grounds for a bit, taking in the sights.

Then we happened upon the entrance to the Ensenada History Museum. But we could never find the actual museum. Instead, we wandered around inside the cultural center like clueless tourists for about twenty minutes before giving up and heading back to the ship.

Maybe that Michelada was a little too strong. The inside was pretty, at least.

After a couple of hours of exploring the city, we were ready to get back on board, lay by the pool, and order a Goombay Smash . But if you’re looking for more interesting stuff to do in Ensenada, there are some options for cool family-friendly cruise excursions that we’re considering the next time we go to Baja (and there absolutely will be a next time).

• La Bufadora . This is an underwater cave on the beach that regularly sucks in sea water and shoots it back up, sort of like a geyser. If you stand too close to the edge, you apparently get soaked. It seems like the kind of thing I should see once, just to say I saw it.
• Rosarito Beach . I know a lot of people who are always driving down to Rosarito from San Diego for the long weekend. I’m never going to do that, but I hear the beach is beautiful, and I’d like to know what all the fuss is about. Also: fresh lobster.
• Valle de Guadelupe . Wine country in Baja is supposed to be fantastic, and they offer guided tours and wine tastings here. Yeah, I know it’s not family-friendly, but perhaps my husband and I will do this after my son is off to college. A mom can dream!

Yes, Ensenada is absolutely worth visiting. But it’s also worth doing a little research beforehand so you can make the most of your time there.

For my next trip to Ensenada, I plan to:

• Figure out how to get into this museum. The photos I’ve seen online look really cool, and I’d love to learn a little more about the history of the city.
• Eat some fish tacos. I regret not stopping at that Bourdain-approved taco stand.
• Stay away from the farmacias . Since I came home, Super Viagra has been haunting my dreams.

Have you been on a cruise with a port of call in Ensenada? If so, how did you spend your time in Baja?

Related Posts

What to Do in Seattle for One Day

How To Spend A Day In Miami After Your Cruise

Leave a comment cancel reply.

You must be logged in to post a comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

8 Best Ensenada Tours from the Cruise Port (Or Nearby)

Are you planning to go on a cruise with a stop in Ensenada? Do you want to see the best of this cute little town without the overcrowded and overpriced tours your cruise offers? I can help you out with the best Ensenada tours from the cruise port!

My husband Cecilio and I recently went on our first cruise to Ensenada. Most of the tours that the cruise offered were pricey with bad reviews from passengers.

Rather than booking through the cruise, I booked a private tour with a local tour company, heading to La Bufadora . We did what we wanted and didn’t wait around for 50 other fellow cruise passengers.

This list features the best Ensenada tours from the cruise port (or nearby) so that you can experience the town in a more intimate setting.

From nature-filled activities to food and tequila tastings, you’ll experience Ensenada authentically with local guides!

Disclaimer:  This post uses affiliate links, which means I make a commission if you book through this post. If you do decide to book using my links, thank you so much for your support!

Top 3 Picks: Ensenada Tours from the Cruise Port

1. private horseback and la bufadora shore excursion, 2. ford model t tour, 3. tacos, brews and views, 4. las cañadas canopy tour + bufadora private transport and ticket, 5. la bufadora geyser tour, 6. ensenada: wine tasting tour in valle de guadalupe, 7. mezcal, tequila & bajamed foodie tasting tour, 8. shore excursion couples massage, wrapping up the best ensenada tours from the cruise port, love what you read share the love and pin away.

#1 TOP PICK

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Private Horseback and La Bufadora Shore Excursion

✅ 4-5 hours ✅ Horseback riding on the beach ✅ Shopping + sightseeing

Ford Model T Tour

✅ 1-2 hours ✅ Private driver to Ensenada’s top attractions ✅ Roundtrip transportation from the cruise port

Tacos, Brews and Views Tour

✅ 3-4 hours ✅ Food and drinks over gorgeous views of Ensenada ✅ Roundtrip transportation near the cruise port

🌟 RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4-5 hours | 🐎 Check rates and availability

Pick-up location: Museo Caracol, Bahia Ensenada, 22880 Ensenada, B.C., Mexico (located right outside the port)

Picture yourself blissfully riding on a horse with the sound of the waves crashing on a sunny day.

That’s exactly what you will be doing on the Private Horseback and La Bufadora Shore Excursion . Your guide will drive you to a secluded beach away from the noisy, crowded areas. It’s just you, your group, and the horses against a serene backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.

After all, you’re always bumping into hordes of crowds on your cruise!

The horses you will ride on are well-trained, and your guide will ride a horse in front of you for your safety.

After riding the horses for about 60 minutes, your guide will take you to La Bufadora, one of the largest blowholes/marine geysers in the world. Near La Bufadora, there is a street full of shops and eateries. Since the vendors are pushing you to buy merchandise, your guide will help you with haggling (that’s if you want to buy anything).

Since this tour is about 4-5 hours long, you have a few hours to kill. You can either have your guide drop you off at Downtown Ensenada to walk around or back to the port.

Very nice excursion! The host was easy to communicate and the driver was on time to pick up and drop off us to the cruise terminal. He was also very nice and explain many things about Ensenada The horse riding experience was great and we enjoyed very much. Highly recommended! Changcheng_Z (Read more reviews)

🌟 RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1-2 hours | 🚗 Check rates and availability

Pick-up location: At the port

Getting around Ensenada can’t get any more unique than riding in a 1903 replica Ford Model T for your tour!

You’ll be able to stop by more attractions than you would with a cruise tour or DIY-ing your itinerary. After all, the car is tiny and can park in any small corner 😉

Because there’s limited seating, this is a private tour, which is perfect for solo travelers, couples, and small groups. Unfortunately, this tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Since the car is open-air, you will be able to feel the nice, cool breeze as you’re driving through the streets of Ensenada and passing by the sapphire-blue beaches.

Although the tour states that it’s roughly 1-2 hours long, reviewers who booked this tour said that it was very flexible and that the guide could adapt the itinerary according to your needs.

Some have said that they were able to extend the tour by adding a few stops or going horseback riding. Your wish is their command!

Your guide will take you to the Tequila Museum and a winery. The tequila tasting isn’t included in the tour, but is offered at a discount. Wine tasting and bottles aren’t included in the winery either.

If you don’t drink, your guide will drive you to alternative attractions and more food stops; you can never have enough sizzling street tacos!

Our driver was very knowledgeable and took us to interesting spots. We got to sample margaritas, wine, and local street tacos. We did not feel rushed and he was able to drop us off where we wanted to. It was a good way to sample the city as we were traveling with a child. Would recommend! Jenny_H (Read more reviews)

🌟 RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4-5 hours | 🌮 Check rates and availability

Pick-up location: Ensenada Excursions and Tours, Lázaro Cárdenas s/n, Zona Centro, 22800 Ensenada, B.C., Mexico (or you can get picked up at the port)

Foodies and/or beer enthusiasts will go nuts over the Tacos, Brews and Views tour!

Your guide will pick you up from the port and take you to 2 award-winning eateries, including La Guerrerense Carreta , voted the “Best Street Food Cart” in the world. Famous chefs like Anthony Bourdain and Andrew Zimmern were patrons.

Right across the street La Guerrerense Carreta is Sabina Restaurant , the sister restaurant. Cecilio and I had lunch there, and I had 3 of the most mouth-watering tacos I’ve eaten in my life (aside from the street tacos in Playa del Carmen during our honeymoon) along with a refreshing berry margarita. Cecilio ordered Anthony Bourdain’s signature dish, which was a seafood platter made with sea snails, scallops, lime, onions, and house sauce.

If you’re not yet full from everything you eat during this tour, I recommend a stop at Sabina Restaurant for lunch right before you return to the cruise!

After your stop at La Guerrerense Carreta, you’ll head to Tacos Fenix , known as the birthplace of the shrimp and fried fish tacos popular all over Baja California and San Diego.

After you get your fill of tacos, your guide will drive you to 4 breweries near the port, where you can enjoy sips of craft beer with stunning views of the ocean.

While the food and drink aren’t included in the tour, they are much more affordable than if you were to order the same thing in the USA (your dollar goes far in Mexico, after all). And you’re already saving a lot of money by not booking a tour through your cruise.

Just make sure you skip breakfast on the cruise; you need to come hungry for the freshest seafood and tacos in Mexico!

I can go on & on about this tour!!! We LOVED the ceviche!! We LOVED the tacos!! The tequila tour & beer spots were AWESOME & we had the BEST tour guy ever, Noe!!! Definitely a must do if you’re in Ensenada!! Dorian_H (Read more reviews)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Las Cañadas Campamento (@lascanadascampamento)

🌟 RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: All day (and flexible) | ⛰️ Check rates and availability

If you want to try it all—nature, thrill-seeking activities, food, and shopping—then this tour is for you.

This private tour is perfect for families and couples. You will start off with a trip to La Bufadora to see how high the water can spout (up to 100 feet!). It’s also a great place to go shopping for souvenirs or try some of the margarita and pina colada samples from the vendors.

This tour includes a ticket to Las Cañadas Campamento , Ensenada’s very own adventure park. This makes it convenient since you can skip the line, and since you are on a cruise, you don’t have time to waste.

You will get to go on an exciting canopy tour, consisting of 5 zip lines of various lengths and 5 suspension bridges to walk through. Much more fun than the ziplines and ropes courses that Royal Caribbean and Carnival offer!

And of course, your tour will end with some delicious tacos. Can’t leave Ensenada without those!

Everything about our excursion was excellent. Oscar, our driver, was so friendly and kind. The canopy zip line tour was awesome, my whole family had a blast! I would definitely do this again. A Tripadvisor reviewer (Read more reviews)

🌟 RATING: 4.7/5 | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours | 🌊 Check rates and availability

Pick-up location: Riviera del Pacifico, Boulevard Lazaro Cardenas 1421, Ensenada, Ensenada Municipality 22880, B.C., Mexico

The La Bufadora Geyser Tour is the one that Cecilio and I went on during our Ensenada stop on our cruise. We met with Eugenia at Riviera del Pacifico, which is just down the street from the port.

It’s a private tour where you’re taken to La Bufadora. Your guide (Eugenia in our case) will give you in-depth knowledge about Ensenada as a city and its historical roots.

Once you head to La Bufadora, your guide will introduce you to some of the local artisans selling hand-crafted sculptures and paintings at the market. If you are going to go shopping, I suggest you support these artisans instead of the vendors selling fake Gucci purses and cheap trinkets.

After you walk by the shops, you’ll see where La Bufadora spouts water. Your guide will give you free time for about an hour until you meet up at the parking lot, where they drive you back to Riviera del Pacifico, where you can try a margarita from Bar Andaluz , the birthplace of beloved Mexican cocktail.

This trip with Eugenia and Luigi was wonderful. They were so pleasant, welcoming and knowledgeable. We loved hearing their stories and their accounts of the local history. Eugenia was so pleasant to introduce to local artists and her friends along the way. We found this special. Luigi gave a great account along the way and took such amazing pictures of us along the way. We found the tour with both of them lovely and will cherish the memories!! Katie (Read more reviews)

🌟 RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours | 🍷 Check rates and availability

Pick-up location: Ventana al Mar Prol. Castillo, Zona Centro, 22800 Ensenada, B.C., Mexico (right outside the port near the Mexico flagpole)

If your idea of a perfect day consists of frolicking through the grape-filled vineyards and comparing each sip of wine that passes through your lips, you’re in for a treat with this tour !

Valle de Guadalupe is the Napa or Tuscany of Mexico making its way into the wine world. And you will get to be a part of it by trying some of the finest sips. Most of the wine in Mexico is produced there.

This tour guides you through Valle de Guadalupe’s rich history, with roots from the Kumeyaay tribe. You’ll get a chance to visit a museum before you hit the wineries.

Unlike most of the wine tours in Valle de Guadalupe, this tour includes a tasting consisting of 5 varieties: 1 white, 1 rosé, and 3 reds. If you want to do a 2nd or 3rd tasting, you’ll have to pay for it.

You can also go ziplining, ATV riding, hiking, or wandering through a lavender field in this tour if you choose for an extra fee. This isn’t your typical wine tour!

🌟 RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🍸 Check rates and availability

Wine or beer not your thing? Maybe you’re more of a liquor gal (or guy). In that case, you ought to go on the Mezcal, Tequila, BajaMed foodie Tasting Tour !

This tour includes three samples of mezcal and three samples of tequila for you to sample, alongside fresh ceviche to go along with the drinks. Your guide, who has in-depth knowledge of Mexico’s 2 most popular liquors, will talk about how they were made. They will also teach you how to distinguish the two.

Since the tour is only 3 hours, you have extra free time before going back to your cruise. I suggest having some tacos at Sabina Restaurant in Downtown Ensenada or trying to OG margarita at Bar Andaluz.

This tour is wheelchair accessible, from the transportation to the surfaces you walk on.

The host was very knowledgeable, interesting, and friendly. The tequilas and mezcals, and ceviche were high quality. Glad we did this excursion. 👍🏻 Brian_E (Read more reviews)

🌟 RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2+ hours | 💆🏻‍♀️ Check rates and availability

Although all cruises offer massages in their spa, they come at a hefty price. I’m talking, $400 for a 60-minute couples massage. Ouch!

If you still want to pamper yourself without the hefty price tag, consider going on the Shore Excursion Couples Massage . It’s a lot less expensive, and you can choose to do just the massage or add another tour on top, like horseback riding, ziplining, visiting La Bufadora, or wine tasting.

Yes, all with the same tour operator, Ensenada Massage ! They are your one-stop shop as one of the best Ensenada tours from the cruise port. It’s the perfect way to end your

Though it says it’s a couples massage, you could bring your mom or your friend if they are on the cruise with you.

You can customize your massage however way you want with hot stones and CBD oil. You can even add on a facial! All these extra services come at an extra cost.

You can also choose the type of massage you want, such as Swedish, Lomi Lomi, or deep tissue.

The team at Ensenada Massage will pick you up at the port and make sure you come back to your cruise on time.

Whether you’re looking to spend a leisurely day or want to experience the fun activities that will give your body some TLC after, you need to add this massage as a part of your itinerary in Ensenada.

The massage was amazing… safe, clean, professional. Then Oscar, our driver was amazing and took us on our tasting tours. Rachel_W (Read more reviews)

You don’t need to book an excursion through your cruise to have a fun time in Ensenada. Not only are these tours mentioned above more affordable, your guides will meet you at the port or nearby. They will also make sure that you are back in time before the ship sails.

That is also why I made sure that the tours are 6 hours or less, so you are not rushing to board back to the ship. You’ll also be able to explore Ensenada on your own for a bit!

If you want to explore the best of Ensenada in a short time, I highly recommend the Ford Model T Tour . Your guide will drive you to some of the coolest stops, but if you want to stop to do some activities (like horseback riding), they will be happy to wait for you.

If you have your sights set on La Bufadora, the 2nd largest blowhole in the world, book the La Bufadora Geyser Tour or add a tour along with the Shore Excursion Couples Massage .

But no matter what you choose, your tour guides will go above and beyond to make sure you have a fantastic time in Ensenada, filled with joyous memories (and delicious food!).

Not sure which cruise to go on for your next vacation? Check out my honest review of Carnival Radiance !

Hannah Padilla

Hannah is a travel writer, graphic designer, and the founder/editor of Hannah on Horizon. She is based in Sacramento, California, living with her husband and two adorable dogs. She shares tips on how to experience luxury travel on any budget, and how to maximize time at each trip or destination, no matter what your budget or amount of vacation time at work. She enjoys making you feel like you have visited each destination with her through her storytelling and informative writing style.

27 Best Things to Do in Ensenada: Complete Guide

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of those links, I may earn a commission at zero cost for you. Please see my disclaimer policy here, and my privacy policy here.

Wondering what are the best things to do in Ensenada? Look no further. I just came back from an epic road trip to Ensenada and in this post, I am going to tell you all about this exciting city!

In this article, I’ll cover 27 of the top things to do in Ensenada that you don’t want to miss, ranging from must-see attractions to off-the-beaten-path gems that you won’t find in your typical travel guide.

Ensenada is an underrated city on the Pacific coast of Baja California (Norte) that offers a variety of attractions and activities for travelers of all ages and interests.

Whether you want to explore the stunning scenery, learn about the rich culture, enjoy the lively nightlife, savor the local flavors, or something else, you’ll find no shortage of amazing things to do in Ensenada that will make your trip memorable. 

 What Are The Best Things To Do In Ensenada?

 1. shop for local arts and crafts at avenida lopez mateos.

Avenida Lopez Mateos is the main tourist street in Ensenada that runs parallel to the waterfront. Here you will find many shops that sell souvenirs, clothing, jewelry, leather goods, cigars, and more.

You can also find some of Ensenada’s best restaurants and bars that serve delicious local cuisine and drinks. 

Probably the best shop to discover the local arts and crafts here is Bazar Casa Ramirez, which, as of writing this article, is also the #1 shopping destination in Ensenada on TripAdvisor.

This two-story store offers a stunning collection of festive items that showcase the creativity and diversity of Mexican artisans.

You can find everything from folk art, silver jewelry, crosses, and mirrors to pottery, textiles, masks, and sculptures. Each piece is hand-made and imported from different regions of Mexico.

On these streets, I also loved trying the delicious cafes, bakeries, and restaurants.

2. Discover The Rich History Of Ensenada: Museo De Historia and Regional Historical Museum

Those looking for a cultural and historical experience in Ensenada should not miss the Museo de Historia de Ensenada and the Regional Historical Museum in the city.

These museums will take you on a journey through the past of this beautiful city and its surroundings, from prehistoric times to the modern era.

At the Museo de Historia, visitors can see artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that bring Ensenada’s history to life.

The exhibits cover the history of the area, from its pre-Hispanic origins to its role in the Mexican War of Independence, as well as its development as a center of fishing, agriculture, and tourism.

The Regional Historical Museum is housed in a beautiful neoclassical building that was once the municipal jail. One of the most interesting features of this museum is the old prison cells where paintings by former inmates are preserved on the walls.

The museum also offers an exhibit of “Peoples and Cultures of Mesoamerica” and colonial and indigenous collections related to Ensenada’s past. 

3. Wander Around Plaza Civica For Some Historical Facts, Street Food, And Souvenirs

Plaza Civica is home to three giant bronze heads of Mexican heroes: Benito Juarez, Miguel Hidalgo, and Venustiano Carranza.

You can learn more about their roles in the Mexican Revolution and independence movement from the plaques below each statue.

It is also a great spot to enjoy some local cuisine and shop for handicrafts. There are many vendors selling tacos, ceviche, churros, and other delicious snacks along the sidewalks.

You can also browse through stalls offering pottery, jewelry, clothing, and souvenirs. Don’t forget to haggle for a good price!

4. Ride A Horse At Rancho Los Bandidos

Riding a horse at Rancho Los Bandidos is a fun and relaxing way to explore the scenic beauty of Ensenada.

The ranch offers guided horseback tours through the hills and valleys of Ensenada. You can choose from different trails and durations, depending on your skill level and preference.

This family-owned ranch has been offering horseback riding tours of the area since 1991 and has a variety of horses for all levels of riders.

You can enjoy the scenic views of the mountains, valleys, and the ocean as you ride along well-maintained trails with friendly and experienced guides.

5. Discover The Second-Largest Marine Geyser In The World: La Bufadora

La Bufadora is a blowhole and tourist attraction located on the Punta Banda Peninsula in Baja California, Mexico. It is one of Ensenada’s most impressive tourist attractions, being located about 21.7 miles (35 kilometers) south of the city.

Along the way, you can enjoy the scenic drive along the Pacific coast and stop at various viewpoints to admire the views.

Once you reach La Bufadora, you will find a lively place with souvenir shops, food stalls, and other services. 

If you’re not up for driving there (which I recommend), you can also join a tour that includes transportation and a local guide who will show you around this amazing place. 

6. Hike Through The El Salto Canyon And See The Waterfall

Adventure seekers who are visiting Ensenada should not miss this one. The hike is challenging but rewarding. You will need to use ropes, and boulders, and scramble over rocks to reach the bottom of the canyon. 

The trail is not marked and can be slippery, so make sure you wear good shoes, gloves, sunscreen, and insect repellent. You will also need to pay a small fee to enter the area.

Once you get to the canyon floor, you can enjoy the scenery and relax by the waterfall. You can also camp there if you want to spend more time exploring. The El Salto Canyon and Waterfall is a hidden gem that will make you feel like you are in another world.

Disclaimer. I didn’t have time for this hike, but since I read it was a great hiking experience I still wanted to include it in the post for you to learn about it.

You can contact them and learn more or just drive to the campground where you can also set up your own tent and spend the night.

 7. Visit Rosarito Beach

Rosarito Beach is a popular destination for tourists who want to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf of the Pacific Ocean.

The Beach offers a variety of activities and attractions for all ages and interests. You can relax on the beach, go surfing, kayaking, or fishing, explore the local culture and cuisine, or visit nearby attractions, like the Fox Studios Baja (where the Titanic was filmed).

Rosarito Beach is also known for its nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. You can find various options to suit your mood and taste, from live music and dancing to karaoke and comedy shows.

Whether you want to party with your friends, meet new people, or just relax and have a good time, this will be a spot you’ll surely enjoy.

 8. Stroll Along Ensenada’s Waterfront Marina: El Malecón Ventana Al Mar

A stroll along the Malecón is a must-do activity for visitors to Ensenada. This half-mile boardwalk offers stunning views of the harbor, where you can watch sea lions lounging on the rocks, boats sailing by, and the sun setting over the ocean.

Being a popular tourist attraction, the boardwalk is also lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it the perfect place to grab a bite to eat or a souvenir to take home.

As you walk, you can watch the boats come and go from the marina, and catch a glimpse of local fishermen bringing in their catch of the day. 

In addition to the stunning views and bustling atmosphere, El Malecón Ventana al Mar is also a great place to experience local culture.

You can often find street performers and musicians entertaining crowds, and there are plenty of opportunities to try traditional Mexican snacks and drinks. 

If you are in luck, as I was, you can see the fountains dancing around the huge Mexican Flag towering over the Marina.

PRO TIP – You can ask one of the fishermen by the pier to take you on a brief tour along the bay to admire the coastline and the cute sea lions swimming around. It only costs 500 pesos, for 1 hour and they will do it even for one person.

9. Hike the challenging trail in Cañon de Doña Petra Ecological Park

Cañon de Doña Petra Park is located just 15 minutes away from downtown Ensenada and offers one of the best opportunities for hiking enthusiasts. The challenging trail here is 13.3 miles (21.4 kilometers) long and takes about six hours to complete.

If you’re looking for a challenging hike while you’re in the area, you can’t miss this one. The trail is rated as moderate to hard, with some steep and rocky slopes that require poles.

You will encounter different microclimates along the way, from desert landscapes to oak forests.

The dense vegetation in some areas provides shade and coolness on hot days.

Before embarking on the trail, make sure to bring plenty of water, and sunscreen, and wear sturdy shoes.

It’s also a good idea to bring a snack or two to keep your energy levels up. With the right preparation, hiking this trail will be an unforgettable experience.

If you are traveling solo I would hire a local guide as it’s not very smart to be in the wilderness on your own. Also watch out for rattlesnakes, especially in the summer.

 10. Visit the Caracol Museo de Ciencias (Caracol Science Museum)

The Caracol Science Museum is dedicated to promoting the natural wonders of Baja California and the scientific research that studies this beautiful peninsula.

The museum is divided into three main galleries: Sala del Cielo y Planetario (Sky and Planetarium Room), Sala de la Tierra (Earth Room), and Sala del Mar (Sea Room) where you can learn about astronomy, biodiversity, and oceanography respectively. 

In the planetarium room, visitors can immerse themselves in a 360-degree view of the night sky.

It’s a truly awe-inspiring experience that will leave you feeling connected to the vast expanse of the cosmos. 

11. Taste The Original Margarita at Baja California’s Oldest Cantina: Hussong’s

Hussong’s Cantina is a legendary bar that was established in 1892 by John Hussong, a German immigrant who came to Ensenada during the gold rush.

His bar, as it stands today, is among the top of Ensenada’s tourist attractions.

It is the oldest and most famous bar in all of Baja California. And for good reason, it is reputedly the birthplace of the margarita, the iconic cocktail made with tequila, lime, and orange liqueur. 

According to the story, bartender Don Carlos Orozco named the drink in 1941 after Margarita Henkel, the daughter of a German diplomat who was visiting the bar at the same time as Don Carlos was experimenting with a new drink.

The drink was received very well, and on the same day, it was named after Margarita Henkel.

12. Discover The Art of Chocolate-Making at Maya Cacao

Who doesn’t love chocolate? But not a lot of people know that the Mayans played a significant role in the history of chocolate as we know it today.

They revered chocolate and it was an important part of their culture and belief system.

Maya Cacao is a place where you can experience the ancient art of chocolate-making as practiced by the Maya civilization.

You can taste cacao beans from colorful pods, grind them with stone tools, and enjoy a traditional dark chocolate drink that was reserved for the elite Mayas.

You can also participate in a workshop where you will learn about Mayan culture, and make your own chocolate (following the authentic recipe of the Mayans).

13. Relax in The Uncrowded, Clean Beaches of Playa Hermosa

If you’ve ever been to a beach in a tourist destination that’s known for its beaches, you know a lot of those beaches can get very crowded. 

Playa Hermosa (meaning “Beautiful Beach” in Spanish) is different. It is one of the best-kept secrets in Baja California, offering uncrowded, clean, and serene shores for you to enjoy.

Best of all, it’s easily one of the top free things to do in Ensenada.

Whether you want to sunbathe on the soft sand, swim in the clear water, surf the gentle waves, or explore the pristine beach, you can do all that (and more) in peace.

14. Try Deep-Sea Fishing

Ensenada is renowned for its diverse marine life, including yellowtail, tuna, dorado, and more.

As such, it is also a great place to go deep-sea fishing, suitable for all levels of experience, from beginners to experts.

You can choose from different types of boats and equipment depending on your preferences and budget.

You can also hire a professional guide or captain who will help you find the best spots and techniques for catching fish.

With experienced and knowledgeable local guides, you can explore the deep blue waters of the Pacific Ocean and test your angling skills against some of the most challenging game fish in the world.

You can either keep your catch or release it back into the water.

You can find a lot of fishing boat tours on the Malecon.

15. Take A Boat Trip Around The Bay

One of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of Ensenada is to take a boat trip around the bay.

If you’re not into fishing, you can choose other options, such as a whale-watching tour or a sunset cruise. However keep in mind that for whale watching Ensenada, is not the best destination as you will find closer whale encounters in other spots located in Baja California Sur.

However, taking a boat trip in Ensenada is still a cool thing to do to watch the sea lions and birds, over the Pacific coastline.

16. Try The Food From The Famous La Guerrerense Food Cart

La Guerrerense is a humble street stand that has been serving fresh and delicious ceviche and tostadas for over 40 years and has earned the praise of celebrities like Anthony Bourdain and Mark Wiens.

You can choose from various toppings, such as sea urchin, octopus, clam, scallop, abalone, shrimp, and more, and spice them up with their homemade salsas. 

But it’s not just the food that makes La Guerrerense special; it’s the experience. The food cart is located in a bustling street market, where locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy the lively atmosphere and mouth-watering dishes. 

The service is fast and friendly, and the owner, Sabina Bandera, is always ready to greet you with a smile.

The experience is so good that some reviewers have called this the “best food cart in the world.” Whether that title is true or not you will tell me.

To be honest, I didn’t try that one, but I found another incredible food cart that I recommend. See below.

17. Eat Your Way Around Ensenada

Besides the iconic places that everybody knows, you will find a lot of food carts in Ensenada that offer equally delicious seafood. I have tried a few of them and here below are my favorites:

El Güero is where I had the most delicious seafood tostada in my life! I am serious. The food cart itself is a must-see, so well organized and clean and the guys dressed up in yellow and blue uniforms. Adorable.

The seafood looks extremely fresh and the way they serve it is incredibly professional. It’s more expensive than a regular street food cart but you pay what you are getting.

Also, the amount of seafood that you get is giant. It makes a full meal.

La Floresta Taqueria – Try the delicious shrimp and fish tacos in this historical taqueria downtown.

18. Learn How To Scuba Dive, Snorkel, and Other Water Activities

Ensenada is a water lover’s paradise, with plenty of options to suit your preferences and budget. Whether you want to dive deep or float on top, you will find an adventure that will make your trip unforgettable. 

For those who prefer to stay on the surface, snorkeling is a great way to discover Ensenada’s diverse aquatic world. Snorkeling tours take you to the best spots to view schools of tropical fish, playful sea lions, and other underwater creatures.

If you want more adventurous water activity, try kayaking or paddleboarding along the rugged coastline.

Looking for something a bit more daring? Try scuba diving. You can choose from several dive sites, such as Campo Kennedy, Arbolitos Coves, and more, where you can see colorful sea life, shipwrecks, and even great white sharks.

You can find dive shops in downtown Ensenada. Keep in mind that in winter the water can be very cold. So it’s advisable to wait for the summer for these activities.

19. Ride the Desert Nest Zipline in El Sauzal

If you are looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure, you should try the Desert Nest Zipline. This zipline course is located in El Sauzal, about 15 minutes north of downtown Ensenada.

You will soar over the desert landscape and enjoy panoramic views of the landscape and the mountains.

The zipline course is divided into 5 lines, the longest of which is 5,100 meters! The Desert Nest Zipline is safe, fun, and suitable for all ages.

The staff is friendly, and professional, and will go above and beyond to make sure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience.

20. Enjoy The Nightlife In Various Bars and Clubs

If you love the nightlife you will love Ensenada even more. The city is also known for its live music scene, with many bars and clubs featuring local musicians and DJs.

The city is also known for its live music scene, with many bars and clubs featuring local musicians and DJs. They each have their vibe and atmosphere, so you’ll never be short of things to do in Ensenada at night.

In addition to the venues themselves, the atmosphere in Ensenada’s nightlife is unmatched. The city’s friendly locals and visitors create a welcoming and inclusive vibe that makes it easy to meet new people and make new friends.

Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, you’re sure to have a great time exploring Ensenada’s nightlife scene. Just take precautions and stay safe.

21. Taste The Local Craft Beer

Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or simply looking for a new and delicious drink to try, Ensenada’s craft beer scene is worth exploring. 

Ensenada’s local craft beer is characterized by its use of locally sourced ingredients and innovative brewing techniques. Many of the beers are made with local fruits, herbs, and spices, giving them a distinct and refreshing taste. 

The city’s brewers are also known for experimenting with new brewing styles and flavors, meaning that there is always something new and exciting to try.

Best of all, there are a growing number of microbreweries and taprooms in the city that offer a wide variety of unique and flavorful beers.

22. Rent A Car And Take a Day Trip Through the Valle de Guadalupe Wine Route

Valle de Guadalupe region, located about 40 minutes drive from Ensenada, is home to over 120 wineries that produce some of the best Mexican wines.

It is easily one of the best places to visit in Ensenada. Even if you’re not a fan of wine, you shouldn’t miss out on exploring this region.

You can explore the diverse and beautiful landscapes of the valley, taste different varieties of wines, learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy delicious meals at local restaurants.

There are both small micro wineries and large commercial ones in the area, and you will find something to suit your taste and budget. 

The vineyards are surrounded by rolling hills and scenic vistas, providing a picturesque backdrop for your wine-tasting adventure.

I stayed in the Valle de Guadalupe for two nights in the beautiful B&B Casa Mayoral , and I suggest you do that too, for the best experience.

However, it’s possible to visit in one day as it’s only 30 30-minute drive from Ensenada.

If you don’t feel like driving there are great tours offered from Ensenada where they take you to visit different wineries and lavender fields.

23. Watch The Sunset From The Ensenada Mirador

Right above the main road Calle Primera, at 10 minutes winding road, you will get to the mirador of Ensenada where you can enjoy spectacular views over the city and the port.

The sunset is on the other side but you will still be able to enjoy the city in a spectacular light. Perfect for stunning pictures.

Recommended Guided Tours in Ensenada

24. las cañadas canopy tour in ensenada.

This tour lets you experience the thrill of flying in five zip lines, two of them about 500 meters long and crossing multiple hanging bridges, each with a unique challenge.

You will enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains, forest, and lake as you soar through the air and test your balance and courage.

Don’t worry about the safety aspect, though. The tour is very safe and suitable for all ages. You can take part in the activities here as long as you are at least 50 inches tall and can fit the safety harness.

The grounds also have swimming pools, the biggest children’s water park in the whole state, ATV rentals, paddle boats, camping, and more.

25. La Bufadora Tour in Baja California

As we’ve already covered in #5 on this list, La Bufadora is the largest sea geyser in North America and one of the most spectacular natural attractions in Mexico.

The drive to La Bufadora is quite scenic, where you can enjoy the views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged cliffs.

You might also have a chance to stop at a local market, where you can find a variety of souvenirs, crafts, snacks, and drinks.

But, of course, the main highlight of the tour is witnessing the amazing power of La Bufadora, which shoots water out of a sea cave more than 100 feet into the air with a roar. The water spray creates a rainbow effect that adds to the beauty of the spectacle.

The best time to visit La Bufadora is when the tide is high and the waves are strong, as this makes the geyser even more impressive.

If you don’t feel like driving on your own you are in luck because you can find a lot of affordable tours some of which combine different activities so you can squeeze more attractions in one day.

More Highly Rated Tours To La Bufadora

26. guadalupe valley wine route tour in baja california.

Want to tour the Guadalupe Valley but aren’t up for renting a car and taking the drive? No problem! This tour will take you to the best spots along the wine route in Guadalupe.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, which means you just have to book the tour and hop on the bus; the company will do the rest.

Along the tour, you’ll visit four different wineries, each with its style and personality.

And you will have the opportunity to taste a variety of wines , from reds and whites to roses and sparkling wines. You will also learn about the winemaking process and the characteristics of each wine.

Other Tours To The Valle de Guadalupe

27. horseback riding.

Horseback riding is a great activity for people of all ages and skill levels, and it allows you to explore the scenic coastline and estuary of Ensenada at your own pace (and in a very fun way).

These tours take riders on scenic routes through the countryside, vineyards, and coastal areas, offering stunning views of the landscape.

There are many companies offering horseback riding tours in Ensenada in a variety of different places.

28. ATV Off-Road Adventure in the Valle de Guadalupe

Want to ride on a powerful and easy-to-use ATV through the scenic backcountry of the wine region, passing by vineyards, hills, and valleys? Say no more!

Tons of tours in Ensenada will take you on a wild ride through the region’s most beautiful natural areas, including valleys, hills, and vineyards.

Many tours include stops at local landmarks and points of interest, providing visitors with a unique glimpse into the history and culture of Ensenada.

Food and beverage options are also available (though not always with every tour), with many tours including wine tastings and local cuisine.

29. Lavender Field Tour

At Aires de Lavanda farm in Valle de Guadalupe, you can take a guided tour of the lavender fields and learn about the cultivation, harvesting, and distillation of this fragrant herb. The farm is one of the hidden gems in Ensenada.

You will also get to sample some natural cosmetic products made from lavender, such as soap, lotion, and oil.

You can even make your bouquet or sachet of lavender to take home with you. The tour lasts about an hour and includes a refreshing lemonade drink and a lavender dessert.

When is The Best Month To Go to Ensenada?

The best month to go to Ensenada depends on personal preferences and interests. Generally, the peak season in Ensenada is during the summer months of June through August when the weather is warm and many festivals and events are happening.

However, as you can guess, prices for accommodations and activities will be high during this time.

For those looking to avoid crowds and save money, the shoulder seasons of March through May and September through November offer a good balance between good weather and slightly lower prices.

You’ll still enjoy many of Ensenada’s attractions and festivals during these times, with fewer crowds and more affordable accommodations and activities.

If you want to maximize your savings, visit during the winter months of December through February, when temperatures can be cooler and rain is more common.

However, you’ll find great deals on accommodations and activities during this time.

I was there in February and I loved the cool weather, and most of all I loved that I didn’t see any snakes around.

In the summer it is most likely that you see rattlesnakes around your hotel room, easily. I know I freaked out when I learned about it. Just make sure you close your hotel room door and window and you’ll be fine.

Where to Stay in Ensenada

When I visited Ensenada I stayed in an Airbnb on the main coastal road which was away from the busy downtown and I loved it. But I had a car.

If you don’t have a car I would recommend staying Downtown so that you will be at walking distance of shops and restaurants and the main attractions.

In my Where to Stay in Ensenada post, I will share all the best hotels and home rentals that I have specially selected based on location and guest rating.

Here I am sharing a few options as well.

Hotel Villa Fontana Inn – budget-friendly hotel in downtown Ensenada

Casa Asturias – luxury hotel in downtown Ensenada

City Plus Ensenada – Mid-range hotel on the beach just outside Ensenada

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you spend a day in ensenada.

Ensenada is a beautiful coastal city that offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors. Above, I’ve listed just 27 of them, but that list is far from exhaustive.

There’s an endless array of possibilities on how you can go about spending a day in the city. 

You can try delicious Mexican food in one of the countless restaurants in the city, spend a day learning about the history of the region in the Riviera Cultural Center, take a drive to La Bufadora, try horseback riding, visit Valle de Guadalupe and enjoy world-class wines, enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Ensenada in one of its many bars, casinos, and clubs, and the list goes on and on.

When it comes to having fun in Ensenada, the sky is the limit.

Is Ensenada Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! I had very low expectations and I have to say that I was quite impressed by all the things Ensenada has to offer, especially the food. Soo good!!

is a city that’s packed with fun opportunities for visitors of all ages and backgrounds.

From stunning beaches and vineyards to outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone in Ensenada.

Where is Ensenada Located?

Ensenada is located in the Baja California State of Mexico only 64 miles (107 km) south of Tijuana .

Is Ensenada Walkable?

Generally, yes. But it also depends on what you want to do/see here and where you’re staying.

Ensenada is a walkable city if you are staying near the port or the downtown area, where you can find many things to do and see within walking distance. 

However, if you want to enjoy more of Ensenada’s attractions like Hermosa Beach, or if you want to go all the way to La Bufadora, you need to take a taxi or a bus to get to some of the places that are farther away from the port.

Can You Swim in Ensenada?

Yes, you can swim in Ensenada, but it’s important to be aware of the conditions and take necessary precautions.

Ensenada has several beaches that are safe for swimming, like Playa Hermosa, Playa Estero, and Playa Baja.

However, some beaches may have strong currents or rough surf, so it’s important to pay attention to warning signs and be cautious when entering the water.

With proper precautions and awareness, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable swimming experience.

Are Ensenada Beaches Clean?

Ensenada has several beaches that are clean and well-maintained, offering visitors a safe and enjoyable swimming experience.

Playa Hermosa and Playa Baja are two of the most popular and well-known beaches in Ensenada and are known for their clean and clear waters.

However, generally speaking, the more popular and crowded beaches tend to be less clean than the less frequented ones.

This is because they receive more visitors who may leave behind trash, debris or pollution.

This does not mean that these beaches are unsafe or unhealthy.

They still have their charm and appeal, and many people enjoy them for their convenience and amenities.

Do I Need Pesos in Ensenada?

Yes, I highly recommend that you carry pesos when traveling to Ensenada.

While some businesses may accept US dollars, the exchange rate they’ll provide you is not favorable and you will end up overpaying (by at least 10%). 

Additionally, many businesses, notably the smaller ones, only accept pesos.

Visitors can exchange their currency for pesos at banks or exchange houses in Ensenada, or withdraw pesos from ATMs using a debit card (this approach is not recommended as the ATMs will charge you extra).

Overall, having pesos on hand will make your trip to Ensenada smoother and more enjoyable.

Is Ensenada Safe for Tourists?

Yes, Ensenada is generally a safe destination for tourists. Thousands of tourists visit Ensenada each year without any unpleasant incidents.

However, that doesn’t mean you can throw caution to the wind when you’re here. So be aware of your surroundings.

Like any popular tourist destination, Ensenada has its share of petty crime.

While you’re in the city, please take common sense precautions such as avoiding walking alone at night, not flashing expensive jewelry or electronics, and keeping valuables out of sight.

With just a little bit of caution, you’ll have a very enjoyable trip to Ensenada.

Is Driving to Ensenada from San Diego Safe?

Yes, driving to Ensenada from San Diego is generally safe, but you should do prior research on the driving conditions and take necessary precautions. 

The route from San Diego to Ensenada is heavily traveled.

However, traffic can be heavy during peak tourist season, and you should be prepared for long wait times at the border during this time. 

It’s also important to have proper documentation, including a valid passport and valid driver’s license, when crossing the border.

Additionally, visitors should be aware of local driving laws and customs, such as the use of turn signals and the requirement to have Mexico-specific liability insurance . 

You can also check out Baja Bound Mexican Insurance , one of the most popular car insurance for US travelers to Baja.

How Far is Ensenada From the US Border?

Ensenada is around 70 miles (110 kilometers) from the US border.

What Food is Ensenada Known For?

Ensenada is famous for its seafood and wine, as well as its fusion of Mexican and Asian cuisines.

One of the most iconic foods of Ensenada is the Baja-style taco , which consists of crispy fried fish or shrimp wrapped in a soft corn tortilla and topped with shredded cabbage, salsa, and crema.

You can find these delicious tacos at street stalls, markets, and restaurants all over the city.

Another popular food of Ensenada is ceviche , which is raw fish or shellfish marinated in lime juice, onion, cilantro, and chilies. Ceviche can be served on a tostada, in a cup, or on a plate with crackers or chips.

If you are a fan of spicy food, you should try Aguachile, which is a version of ceviche with a green chili sauce that covers the shrimp or scallop.

Ensenada’s cuisine also has a strong influence on Chinese food, which can be seen in dishes like Camarones enchiladas.

This is a dish of pan-fried shrimp cooked in olive oil with garlic, Pequin pepper, and salt. It is usually eaten with rice or in a taco.

Why Do Cruise Ships Go To Ensenada?

Cruise ships visit Ensenada for several reasons. First, Ensenada is a popular port of call for cruises departing from California, offering a convenient and accessible stop along the coast of Mexico. 

Additionally, Ensenada is known for its scenic coastline, picturesque harbor, and vibrant culture, making it an attractive destination for cruise passengers. 

The city is also home to several popular tourist attractions, including wineries, beaches, and historic sites, providing visitors with a variety of activities and experiences to choose from. 

Finally, Ensenada is a gateway to other popular destinations in Baja California, such as the Valle de Guadalupe wine region and La Bufadora, a natural blowhole attraction.

Overall, Ensenada’s combination of accessibility, natural beauty, and cultural attractions make it an ideal destination for cruise ships.

Things To Do in Ensenada: Final Thoughts

As you may have realized by now, Ensenada is a gem of a destination, offering visitors a wealth of activities, attractions, and experiences to enjoy.

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor adventure, food, and drink, or simply soaking up the sun on a beautiful beach, this city has you covered. There’s no shortage of fun things to do in Ensenada.

From exploring museums and historical sites to hiking through canyons and sampling local wines, the city and its surrounding areas are full of unique and memorable experiences.

You can easily spend a week or more exploring all the attractions and activities that this beautiful city has to offer.

I hope this guide has helped you plan your trip to this pretty city of Baja California.

Isabella is traveler and animal lover, a former tourism professional with an multinational background that lead her to Mexico, that she can proudly call home. After seven years in Cancun where she's still a resident, she took a bold leap, leaving her fancy job to embrace a nomadic lifestyle. She traveled all over Mexico, from Baja California to Ciudad Juarez, Oaxaca, Chiapas Hidalgo exploring and living like a local. Isabella founded Let's Travel to Mexico to help travelers plan their own trip on and off the beaten path in this beautiful land that she loves so dearly.

• River Cruises
• Alaska Cruise Tours
• Last Minute Deals
• Group Travel Tours
• Group Travel Insurance
• Online Registration
• Passport Help
• Travel Insurance
• Shore Excursions
• Port Directions
• Buy Foreign Currency
• Resource Center
• Meet the Team
• About CruiseExperts.com
• The Expert Advantage
• Ask The Experts - FAQ
• Testimonials
• Best Price Guarantee

Read Our Other Great Blogs view

Exclusive cruise offers - mexico.

• view all sailings

What to Do in Ensenada on a Cruise

Written by The CruiseExperts team . Posted in Mexico

Got a port stop in Ensenada? You’re in for a treat!

Ensenada is a fun port where you can enjoy the flavor of Mexico, it’s history, and culture. Enjoy a variety of activities suitable for the family, the history lover, the adventurer, and the wine connoisseur. This pretty city on the Baja California peninsula has much to offer the visitor. You can fill your day with local activities or venture out on a tour to see the mountains or visit the wineries. Here at CruiseExperts.com, we want to be sure you know what to do in Ensenada on a cruise , so we put together a few suggestions we think you’ll enjoy.

Click here to browse all our Mexico sailings. Happy Traveler Comment I started the week singing in my Senior Choir and one of my members cornered me and said, "I know you know Hawaii better than anyone. I want to take some friends there....who do you recommend?" I told her I would hook her up with my California connection and the very best travel agent in America and gave her your phone number! — Betty D.

The Malecón

There are so many things to do in Ensenada while on cruise . When you leave the terminal, the first thing you will notice is the Malecón, a wide walkway along the oceanfront where you’ll find tourist attractions, shops, and restaurants. Among the popular seafood dishes the area is known for is fish/prawn tacos. You may choose to start your day on the Malecón or wait till the end of your visit if you plan to make purchases you’ll have to carry.

Deep Sea Sport Fishing

If fishing is your sport, you’ll enjoy an adventure with possible catches of marlin, tuna, barracuda, and other deep sea species. While on your deep sea excursion, you may spot dolphins and gray whale. You could wind up in a photograph with a catch that will be the envy of all your friends.

Pages: 1 2 3 Next Page

Our team of cruise consultants and support staff, based in Central California, counts nearly a century of combined talent, knowledge, and enthusiasm in the travel industry. We’re not just another internet upstart; our seasoned team has gained the trust and business of thousands of satisfied cruise and land vacation customers from all over the country since 1995. We ARE the original Cruise Experts.

Tags: ensenada cruise port , things to do in ensenada while on cruise , what to do in ensenada on a cruise

Read Our Other Great Blogs

Popular cruise lines.

• Azamara Club Cruises
• Carnival Cruise Lines
• Celebrity Cruises
• Costa Cruise
• Cunard Line
• Disney Cruise Line
• Holland America Line
• MSC Cruises
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Oceania Cruises
• Princess Cruises
• Royal Caribbean Cruise Line

Popular Luxury Cruises

• Crystal Cruises
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
• SeaDream Yacht Club
• Star Clippers
• Windstar Cruises

Popular River Cruises

• Ama Waterways
• Avalon River Cruises
• Uniworld River Cruises
• Viking River Cruises

Best Cruise Deals and Discounts sorted by the Best Cruise Lines

If you've cruised before you probably have a favorite cruise line. Here at CruiseExperts.com we make it easy for you to sort through the cruise line of your choice for the best cruises at the best discounts on your favorite cruise line. Choose from the best cruise lines in the world including Carnival, Princess, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Holland America, Celebrity, Crystal, Azamara, Oceania, Viking, Avalon, and Disney. You can be confident that you'll get the cheapest cruise price possible with concierge like service from our cruise experts here at CruiseExperts.com. Just click on your favorite cruise line below:

• Disney Cruise
• Viking Ocean Cruises

Best Cruise Deals and Discounts sorted by your dream destination

Sometimes it's all about the destination and that is certainly true of cruise destinations. The cruise port you depart from and the amazing cruise ports you visit define your experience as much as what cruise line or cruise ship you sail on. At CruiseExperts.com we understand that and have sorted these cruises by the places you'll visit on your cruise vacation. So whether it's a cruise to Alaska, a Caribbean cruise, cruises to Hawaii, a cruise to the Bahamas or Bermuda or a cruise to Mexico you'll find it easily with the help of our destination wizard. Maybe you're looking for a cruise vacation that's just a little different like a Panama Canal cruise, a Transatlantic cruise, cruises to Europe, a Tahiti cruise with a tour of the South Pacific, a down under adventure with an Australia / New Zealand cruise or even a fall foliage cruise through Canada and New England. Whatever “floats your boat” get started by clicking on your dream destination below.

• Alaska Cruises
• Bermuda Cruises
• Europe Cruises
• Australia/New Zealand Cruises
• Caribbean Cruises
• Mexico Cruises
• Tahiti Cruises
• Hawaii Cruises
• Panama Canal Cruises
• Canada/New England Cruises
• Bahamas Cruises
• Transatlantic Cruises
• South Pacific Cruises

Last Minute Cruises can sometimes be the cheapest cruise deal.

Sometimes, but not always, the cheapest cruise deal is a Last Minute Cruise. You won't get a wide selection of stateroom categories or a chance to select your stateroom location but if your schedule is flexible you just might find a cheap cruise price on a last minute cruise. Last minute cruises are cruises leaving in the next 90 days. The cruise line really wants to fill those last few staterooms and sometimes will offer them at a discount cruise price in exchange for you giving up your right to a full selection of cabin categories or deck locations. CruiseExperts.com makes it easy for you to poke around and see what's available in last minute cruise deals. View our Last Minute Cruise Deals by clicking here and give it a try. This is one of our most popular website features.

Cruise From Home and relax

Everyone knows that a cruise vacation is one of the most relaxing, hassle free vacations you can take. Imagine if you also didn't have to worry about traveling to start your vacation but could just drive up to a port near your home and get onboard your luxury cruise ship. Here at CruiseExperts.com we've made it easy to see which cruises start close to home. Get started with our Home Port widget by clicking on your home port below.

• Cruises from Galveston
• Cruises from New York
• Cruises from Charleston
• Cruises from Mobile
• Cruises from San Juan, PR
• Cruises from Vancouver
• Cruises from Baltimore
• Cruises from New Orleans
• Cruises from Los Angeles
• Cruises from Port Canaveral
• Cruises from Seward
• Cruises from Bayonne/C. Liberty
• Cruises from Ft. Lauderdale
• Cruises from Tampa
• Cruises from San Francisco
• Cruises from Anchorage
• Cruises from Miami
• Cruises from Boston
• Cruises from San Diego
• Cruises from Seattle
• Cruises from Whittier

Connect with CruiseExperts.com

Don't overpay for your cruise.

• Alaska Cruisetours
• Exclusive Cruise Offers
• Group Travel
• Online Regisration
• Ask the Experts – FAQ
• Best Price Gaurantee

Celebrity Blog

• Choosing a Cruise
• Planning / Booking A Cruise
• Preparing For Your Cruise
• Special Occasions
• What To Expect On A Cruise
• Australia, New Zealand & the Pacific
• Central America
• East Coast & Bermuda
• Mexican Riviera
• South America & Antarctica
• Destinations

14 Best Things to Do in Ensenada

By Kerry Spencer

Last updated: June 29th, 2022

• Find a Cruise

Nestled on a crescent-shaped bay facing the Pacific Ocean, Ensenada is just 80 miles south of San Diego, located at the top of Mexico’s laid-back Baja California peninsula. With desert mountains sprinkled with cactus and palm trees to one side and the bold, sapphire blue of the ocean to the other, there are plenty of things to do in Ensenada for adventure-seeking travelers.

This once-sleepy surf city is also buzzing with cultural attractions and boasts a burgeoning food and drink scene, featuring a raft of craft breweries, local wineries, and zingy street food. From whale watching and snorkeling with tropical fish to taco and tequila tasting, there are plenty of Ensenada attractions to keep you busy on your next Mexican vacation.

Discover the Geological Wonder of La Bufadora

La Bufadora

One of the best things to do in Ensenada is to visit La Bufadora, an unabating marine geyser that shoots up to 100 feet into the air through a narrow passage in the coastal rocks. La Bufadora geyser is considered one of the largest on the planet, and this rugged section of Baja California boasts some of the most striking views of the Pacific coastline.

If you don’t fancy getting wet, pack a lightweight waterproof jacket to wear, although the spray can feel lovely and cooling, especially on a hot day. There are plenty of facilities at La Bufadora, including bathrooms, food outlets, and souvenir vendors.

Tag on a visit to Arbolitos Cove, a pristine inlet lying a short drive south of La Bufadora, for more spectacular views of the jagged coastline. Inhale the fresh ocean air and dramatic panoramas as you hike around the grassy cove.

Sip on Local Wines

Guadalupe Valley

Just outside of Ensenada, the Calafia Valley Wine Country in Guadalupe Valley echoes Napa Valley. The region is home to a burgeoning wine-making industry, aided by the warm, Mediterranean-like climate.

Casa Doña Lupe Winery and the neighboring L.A. CETTO are two of the most prestigious wine and brandy producers in the region. Witness their sublime vineyard settings of neat rows of vines interspersed with the occasional palm tree during a tour and tasting.

Sip fruity Cabernet Sauvignon, intense Petite Sirah, aromatic Tempranillo, and citrusy Chenin Blanc during your tasting. L.A. CETTO also has a tasting room, La Cava, in Ensenada itself, where you can also try the wines.

Guadalupe Valley’s Cavas Valmar and Bodegas de Santo Tomas, the oldest winery in Ensenada, are also worthy stops for tours, tastings, and to pick up a souvenir bottle or two to take home.

Surf From Hermosa Beach

Hermosa Beach

Ensenada is home to some spectacular, pristine beaches. The closest to central Ensenada is Hermosa, located next to the city’s boardwalk, where you’ll find large thatched parasols and a surf school, Surf & Sup, which offers two-hour private and group surf lessons.

Take a Road Trip to Rosarito Beach

Rosarito Beach, roughly an hour’s drive north of Ensenada, is worth a visit for the journey alone. You’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the dazzling Pacific Ocean as you drive the Tijuana-Ensenada highway.

Rosarito Beach

There’s plenty of space on Rosarito’s family-friendly foreshore to spread out under the sun. Rustic food and drink vendors are located on the beach and the town’s array of cafes, bars, and restaurants lie directly behind the strip.

If you’re a fan of diving, Rosarito also boasts the 125-acre Underwater Park, featuring the wreck of a sunken ship. Plans are in place to add to this sub-aquatic attraction, including the creation of a ship cemetery and a sculpture garden.

On the route back to Ensenada, look out for Castillo del Diablo—Devil’s Castle—just off the highway in Alisitos. This off-beat attraction is a controversial, six-story mansion adorned with creepy statues, including a towering red devil with horns and ugly gargoyles, built right on the beach.

Join a Tequila Tasting

Of all the things to do in Ensenada, quaffing tequila on a fun and educational tasting is one of the best. Learn about the process of making this iconic Mezcal drink, made from the piña (heart) of Mexico’s blue agave plant that Mexico is known for .

Whether you prefer your tequila neat, on the rocks, or shaken in a Margarita cocktail, the best way of exploring this hugely popular Mexican drink is on a tasting at one of the city’s tasting rooms.

Take a Boat Ride to Todos Santos Island

Todos Santos Island

Ensenada’s attractions don’t get much better than Todos Santos Island, lying roughly 12 miles off the coast in the Pacific Ocean. Hopping on a boat at Ensenada Pier to reach the island will give you the perfect chance to spot local marine life, including dolphins and whales breaching the ocean’s surface.

Gray whales migrate south, to the waters around Baja California, during winter. It’s also possible to witness humpback, sperm, minke, and pilot whales.

One of the best things to do in Ensenada is to snorkel off Todos Santos Island. Dive into the Pacific with a local guide who will be able to advise on the best spots for spotting the unique rock formations, plants, and marine life that lie below the surface.

Keep your eyes peeled for the region’s bright, tangerine-colored garibaldi fish, seals, and sea lions. Don’t forget to pack a swimsuit and water-resistant sunscreen.

Read: Where to Go Whale Watching in Mexico  

Sample Local Street Food

Ceviche tostadas

From trucks serving tangy ceviches to hole-in-the-wall joints offering chili-infused fish tacos, the Pacific Ocean is the greatest influence on Ensenada’s street food scene. One of the best things to do in Ensenada is to taste your way around the city, starting at the Mercado Negro (fish market), near the pier.

You’ll see rows of fresh-off-the-boat lobsters, and a variety of whole fish, clams, oysters, and shrimps piled high in crates as you get your first taste of a delicious fish taco.

Just a short 10-minute walk from the market is La Guerrerense restaurant, with the giant, garnet-colored octopus tentacles painted on the walls offering a clue as to what’s on the menu.

La Guerrerense specializes in ceviche tostadas, with a range of fillings available, from sea urchin and octopus to clam and white fish with mango.

Take a seat outside and snack on a selection of tasty tacos with a Mexican craft beer. Look out for the photo on display of the restaurant’s owner, Sabina Bandera, proudly posing with the late chef Anthony Bourdain, who visited the restaurant in 2012.

Another popular spot is El Nuevo Jalisciense, an unassuming restaurant serving some of the region’s best lip-smacking delicacies, including tempura-battered fish and shrimp tacos.

Once you’ve worked your way through the local street food, stop at a local microbrewery to sample one of Ensenada’s amber-hued beers. There are a couple of independent breweries with tasting rooms, including Wendlandt in El Sauzal.

Go Horseback Riding

Playa Hermosa

Horseback riding is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Ensenada. Choose to hone your horseback riding skills on a soul-soothing beach ride or on dusty desert tracks.

On Playa Hermosa, enjoy a one-hour slow and steady ride as your horse trots along the sand and through shallow waves. Or opt for a two-hour jaunt among the hilly vineyards surrounding Ensenada. If you choose a vineyard horseback excursion, look out for a ride that includes a visit to a working ranch for a more authentic experience.

Shop for Local Crafts

Avenida Lopez Mateos

Head to Ensenada’s vibrant Avenida Lopez Mateos, just a short walk from the waterfront, if you’re in the market to shop for souvenirs. Leather goods, ceramics, jewelry, handwoven blankets, and ponchos are among the typical mix of goods you’ll find.

Avenida Primera, packed with cocktail bars, cafes, and taco joints, is fun for crafts, colorful clothes, and accessories.

Ride a Segway Along the Malecón

One of the best things to do in Ensenada is to hire a segway and ride along the city’s waterfront malecón (boardwalk). Breeze past the billowing Mexican flag, supposedly the tallest in the country, and feel the fresh ocean air on your face as you glide along the stretch of All Saints Bay.

Taco, tequila, and ice-cream stalls are dotted on the waterfront near the marina, along with plenty of benches.

Visit the Riviera Pacific Cultural Center

Riviera Pacific Cultural Center Photo by Adam Jones on Flickr, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

This Ensenada attraction is a must-visit to learn about Mexican culture and traditions . The whitewashed, waterfront Riviera Pacific Cultural Center is set inside the former Hotel Riviera del Pacífico.

Opened in 1930, the hotel gained notoriety right away—towards the end of the Prohibition era—when thirsty North Americans would venture south of the border into Mexico to purchase and consume alcohol. According to local folklore, the Margarita cocktail was invented at the hotel—though several places also lay claim to inventing this world-famous tequila concoction.

Explore Ensenada History Museum, housed within the cultural center, to learn about the indigenous groups of Baja California, including the Kumiai people. The Cultural Center also offers a lively program of music and folkloric shows that take place within the grassy grounds. Settle in for a traditional Mariachi performance—it’s one of the best places to witness authentic Mexican music and dancing in Ensenada.

Strap in for a Guided Off-Road Adventure in Guadalupe Valley

The vast Guadalupe Valley may be better known for its wineries, but the Baja hinterland is also popular with off-road activities. Try an exhilarating ride in an open-sided buggy to experience some of the region’s slippery, sand-silt terrain, while soaking up sublime vineyard views.

You’ll be driven through the spectacular landscape by a guide, passing through olive and pine groves, cacti, and ripening grapes, as you hurtle along in your four-wheeler.

If you prefer to get behind the wheel yourself, opt for a heart-thumping ATV (all terrain vehicle) ride in the Guadalupe Valley. Once you’ve finished your off-road adventure, stop by one of the Valley’s wineries to sample the local grapes.

Hike El Salto Canyon

El Salto Canyon

Roughly 21 miles north of Ensenada, next to the village of Santa Rosa, lies the extraordinary El Salto Canyon. The off-the-beaten-track El Salto, which translates as “The Jump”, is made up of deep black-rock canyons—with some of the lower mountainous zones carpeted in green forests—hulking boulders, a rain-fed waterfall, and plunge pool.

​There are numerous routes to choose from, from moderate rambles to tough tracks that are only suitable for experienced and skilled climbers. The good news is the waterfall and plunge pool are easy to reach if you don’t plan on hiking far.

Red-tailed hawk

The routes afford astonishing views of Guadalupe Valley’s vast landscape. Look out for the local wildlife such as red-tailed hawks and spiny lizards, which thrive in El Salto’s environment.

The area is popular with campers—particularly those on climbing vacations—with a few sites dotted around the area. There’s also a convenience store, though it’s best to go prepared, with plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and solid footwear.

After a hearty hike, stop for a well-earned lunch at the nearby La Estancia de Santa Rosa.

Kayak in the Pacific Ocean

Kayaking in Ensenada

Head to the nearest beach and it shouldn’t take you long to find a watersports vendor, with kayaking one of the most popular Ensenada attractions. You can either take off independently or with a guide.

If you’re inexperienced in the water, opt for the latter to enjoy a scenic paddle along the coast. Swimwear, a towel, a small dry bag, a sun hat, and sunscreen are all essentials for a day spent on the beach and in the water.

Explore these thrilling Ensenada attractions and more of the Pacific coast on a luxury cruise to the Mexican Riviera . Browse itineraries on our website and start planning your next exciting vacation now.

Kerry Spencer

Kerry Spencer has been writing about travel for 15 years. A former magazine editor and the UK editor of Cruise Critic, she lives in London, where she now writes for a number of print and online publications, including Imagine Cruising, Cruise Critic, and Selling Travel, among others.

Related Articles

Puerto Vallarta Vs. Cabo: Which Should You Visit?

16 Best Spots for Snorkeling in Mexico

14 of the Best Beaches in Cabo San Lucas

What Is Mexico Known For?

Puerto Vallarta’s Zona Romantica: What to See & Do

11 Best Things to Do in Mazatlán

When Is the Best Time to Visit Santorini?

Insider’s Guide to Fira, Greece

11 Best Places to Go Snorkeling in Key West

An Insider’s Guide to Messina, Italy

30 Best Things to Do in Mykonos

22 Unforgettable Things to Do in Juneau

Free Vacation Planning Services

CALL US 888-751-7804

Sign Up for Special Offers

• First Name *
• Last Name *
• Email Address *
• Country * Country Afghanistan Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Brazil Brunei Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Colombia Comoros Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Costa Rica Côte d'Ivoire Croatia Cuba Curaçao Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic East Timor Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Polynesia Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Greece Greenland Grenada Guam Guatemala Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati North Korea South Korea Kosovo Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macedonia Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Mauritania Mauritius Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestine, State of Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Romania Russia Rwanda Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Sint Maarten Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Sudan, South Suriname Swaziland Sweden Switzerland Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Togo Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Vatican City Venezuela Vietnam Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, U.S. Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe

STAY IN THE KNOW

Thank you for subscribing.

See you on board soon.

WHATSINPORT.COM: YOUR CRUISE GUIDE TO 1200 PORTS OF CALL

Interactive world cruise map, home | cruise ships | port expenses | hints and tips, ensenada mexico cruise port guide.

Cruise ships dock in an industrial harbor, right by the world's largest Mexican flag, hoisted on an enormous flagpole on Ensenada's Malecon.

Ensenada's cruise dock features a market with numerous vendors. In addition to souvenirs, there's a pharmacy and liquor store.

The cruise ship pier is within easy walking distance of Avenida Lopez Mateos, the main tourist zone for shopping and dining. Alternatively, taxis and shuttles (3$ per person round trip) are available at the dock to take passengers on the short ride downtown.

Printable map to take along on your cruise.

Cruise calendar for this port.

Watch a destination video .

Live Nautical Chart with Wikipedia Markers

Port Location on Google Maps

Monthly Climate Averages for Ensenada Mexico

Sightseeing:

Ensenada, one of Mexico's most successful cities, has grown from a sleepy fishing village to become a popular beach resort. This oft-visited Baja destination is a multi-faceted jewel. Among its most popular locations are the waterfront promenade, the fashionable shops of Avenida Primera, and the winery of Bodega Santo Tomas, founded by the Dominicans in 1888. La Bufadora, a natural sea geyser located nearby, puts on a highly dramatic show.

Ensenada, the third largest city in Baja California, boasts a protected harbor and modern port facilities, making it Baja California's leading seaport. In 1602, Sebastián Vizcaíno sailed into the bay and was so taken by its beauty that he named it Ensenada de Todos Los Santos (inlet of all the saints). The scenic setting, beautiful beaches, numerous boutiques and restaurants, vast accommodations and excellent fishing make Ensenada one of the leading resort and commercial centers on the Baja peninsula.

Tours Excursions Transportation:

If you want to go to some wineries, consider a ship tour because Guadalupe Valley is about 1/2 hour away.

It pays to compare your cruise line tours here .

Nearby Places:

La Bufadora is the largest blowhole in the world, often shooting upwards more than 100 feet above sea level. $15 per person tour to La Bufadora - you can buy this excursion at the bus station in town)

Shopping and Food

The currency of Mexico is the peso (MXN). The symbol for pesos is the same as for US dollars, which can be slightly confusing. Prices in dollars (in tourist areas) are labeled "US$" or sport an S with a double stroke. There is about 17 peso to 1US$.

US dollars are widely accepted in the far north and in tourist locales elsewhere.

Credit cards are not as widely accepted as in Europe or the USA. Some companies make an extra charge of around 5% on such transactions.

Currency Converter

Communication:

Spanish is the main language. English is largely spoken in border cities with the United States as well as tourist destinations.

Cafes which offer free WiFi for customers in Ensenada are generally pretty cheap, running from $10 to $50 pesos per hour

Opening Hours and Holidays:

Mon-Sun 1000/1100-2000/2200 (big towns and cities); Mon-Fri 0900-1400/1600 (rest of the country).

Holidays in Mexico

Help us to keep this page up to date: Mail us your suggestions

Thank you for printing this article! Please don’t forget to come back to whatsinport.com for new and updated port guides.

Home | Privacy Policy

• CruiseMapper
• Cruise Ports
• Hawaii - Mexico - Panama Canal Cruise Ports

Ensenada (Baja California Mexico)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Hawaii - Mexico - Panama Canal

Local Time 2024-06-08 06:23

Port Ensenada cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Ensenada, Baja California Mexico. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Ensenada is a port city in Baja Mexico, ranked 3rd-largest in the Mexican state Baja California Sur. The city covers a total area of 61 km2 (24 mi2) and has population around 0,52 million. It is located approx 125 km (78 mi) south of San Diego (CA USA) .

Ensenada is one of the first settlements established in the Californias. It has emerged as an aerospace center and later was developed as premier cruise ship travel destination. There is a nearby area (to the north-east) where wine grapes are grown. In 1703 were planted the first vineyards in the region (at San Ignacio Mission).

The municipality's main agricultural zones are three - Guadalupe-Calafia (to the north), Ojos Negros (to the east) and San Quintin (to the south). The region's main crops are grapes, olives, wheat, alfalfa, tomato, asparagus, green onions, broccoli.

In 2023, for the first time, Ensenada Port surpassed the 1 millionth cruise tourist mark.

Port Ensenada

Port Ensenada (locode MXESE) is on the coastline of Bahia de Todos Santos (inlet of the Pacific Ocean, on the peninsula's Gold Coast).

Ensenada is an important fishing, tourist and commercial (cargo/ containership ) port. It is also home to a Mexican navy base (serving the country's Pacific Naval Force / RN-2 region), Airport, military airfield (doubling as airport for entry into Mexico).

Port Ensenada has a major influence on the region's economy as it is Baja California's (and the Peninsula's) only deep-water port. The port is directly linked to several marine shipping routes connecting Baja California with La Paz , Manzanillo , Mazatlan , Acapulco , Lazaro Cardenas (Mexico's largest seaport), San Diego , Long Beach and Los Angeles , Puerto Quetzal , Valparaiso-Santiago , Yokohama Japan , Hong Kong China .

The Port's largest revenues are from cruise shipping/dockings, followed by commercial fishing. The most economically important fisheries are tuna, shrimp, lobster, abalone, sea urchin, sardine, mackerel, seaweed. Most of the catches are exported to East Asia (Japan and China). The local tuna farming industry exports the meat almost exclusively to Japan.

The Port has commercial, industrial and passenger (ferry and cruise) terminals. The Bahia de Todos Santos coast has numerous boat and yacht marinas. Smaller cruise vessels (including superyachts and pleasure craft) may also dock at the marinas Baja Fiesta, Cruiseport Village, Coral and Baja Naval. There also dock commercial and sportfishing boats.

Ensenada is often included in USA-based cruise itineraries (including to Hawaii) as nearest to USA foreign port. This is done in order the ships to comply with the US cabotage laws (restricting coastwise trade and passengers / goods transportation within the USA).

A "shore excursion" option from Ensenada is the bus tour to Valle de Guadalupe (approx 20 km / 12 mi north of the city). Valle de Guadalupe is increasingly popular among tourists for its wines and Baja Med (fusion) cuisine that combines traditional Mexican-Mediterranean-Asian food specialties.

Ensenada cruise terminal

Cruise ships to Ensenada dock at the Naval cruise terminal, located in the port's industrial area. The pier is located near the Malecon boardwalk avenue - famous with its enormous Mexican flag. On the terminal, there is a market with numerous shops (including for hand-made souvenirs, conveniencies, pharmacy, store for tobaccos and liquors). There is a taxi rank and a small parking area (also used by tour buses). Shuttle bus service between the terminal and the city is at extra charge.

The cruise ship terminal is located near Avenida Lopez Mateos (Ensenada's tourist area) with its numerous shops, bars and dining venues.

New Carnival cruise terminal

On February 10, 2018, Carnival Cruise Line revealed the company's multi-million-dollar Ensenada port development project. The news was announced at the re-opening ceremony for the Long Beach Cruise Terminal (Los Angeles). Currently, Ensenada is visited mainly on Carnival's short cruises (3-day and 4-day itineraries) leaving roundtrip from Long Beach.

The new port project will provide Carnival cruise passengers with unique dining and retail shopping experiences and attractions. Details on the port development are yet to be revealed.

Carnival Radiance rescues 25 stranded individuals off Mexican coast

Carnival Radiance successfully responded to a USCG/Coast Guard distress call, rescuing 25 individuals stranded on a small boat off the Pacific coast...

HAL-Holland America unveils 2025-2026 Mexico and Pacific Coast seasons

HAL-Holland America Line has launched its Mexico and Pacific Coast seasons for 2025-2026, offering extended visits to distinctive ports such as...

HAL-Holland America opens bookings for 2025-2026 Panama Canal and Hawaii cruises

HAL-Holland America Line, renowned for its premium and destination-focused voyages, has commenced bookings for its 2025-2026 Panama Canal and Hawaii...

CCL-Carnival Cruise Line marks milestones as Amber Cove and Ensenada welcome 1 Millionth guests

CCL-Carnival Cruise Line, with its lively Fun Ships attracting guests from the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, as well as California, has played a pivotal...

CCL-Carnival adding new West Coast cruise to kick off Firenze’s debut in Long Beach CA

CCL-Carnival Cruise Line is expanding its offerings on the West Coast, introducing a new cruise to mark the debut of Carnival Firenze in Long Beach...

CCL-Carnival opens new deployment from Long Beach CA

CCL-Carnival Cruise Line, maintaining its position as a leader in West Coast cruising, has opened bookings for future sailings departing from Long...

CCL's ship Carnival Legend cruises from San Francisco to Alaska and Mexico in 2025

CCL-Carnival Cruise Line is set to introduce a lineup of cruise offerings from San Francisco CA in 2025. Carnival Legend, with a passenger capacity...

Multiple cruise ships change itineraries to avoid Hurricane Hilary

Multiple cruise ships have adjusted their routes to avoid Hurricane Hilary as it approached Mexico's Baja California peninsula on Sunday, August 20th...

Princess Cruises reveals first-ever Magic Castle Conjurer's Cruise aboard Discovery Princess

Princess Cruises has unveiled an unprecedented experience, the Magic Castle Conjurer's Cruise, a captivating and enchanting week-long voyage aboard...

CCL-Carnival Cruise Line to bring 3,5M tourists to Mexico in 2024

CCL-Carnival Cruise Line celebrated Cinco de Mayo by announcing that it anticipates 3+ million guests to embark on its ships to travel to Mexican...

•   show more news

Ensenada - user reviews and comments

• Cruise Destinations
• Ensenada-Cruises

Ensenada, Mexico

• Carnival Firenze
• Carnival Legend
• Carnival Panorama
• Carnival Radiance

* Coming Soon

• Things To Do
• Past Guest Photos

Thanks to its stunning coastline, Ensenada will give you plenty of postcard-worthy moments…, and it couldn’t be easier to get there. Escape to Mexico’s original seaside getaway with Carnival cruises to Ensenada. Once a favorite hideaway for high-rolling Hollywood stars, Ensenada is now one of Mexico’s most popular ports of call. You can sightsee, shop or kayak at Punta Banda… but the true pleasures of this festive city are culinary. That’s why a cruise to Ensenada, Mexico should top every foodie’s wish list. Have your fill of fresh oysters and sip a rich Baja merlot. Soak up the richness of the local culture as you enjoy the journey.

• Try unique Baja cuisine in Ensenada, the region's seafood and culinary capital.
• Shop for silver jewelry and handmade pottery on Avenida López Mateos.
• Watch the sea spout at La Bufadora burst from the rocks on Punta Banda.

Things to do in Ensenada

Gotta see ensenada.

We have a few ideas for you.

* Taxes, fees, and port expenses are additional per person.

TAG & THEY’RE IT!

Hashtag your cruise photos #carnival and #ensenada — you may see them right here.

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Cruise Etiquette: How To Get the Most Out of Shore Excursions

By Scott Laird

Cruising is an efficient means of travel, allowing you to tick off multiple bucket-list destinations in one fell swoop. However, that means you might only spend about 8 hours in each port (although more and more cruises are staying in ports overnight .)

To make the most of their limited time on the ground, many passengers book cruise shore excursions : multi-hour tours and activities organized specifically for cruise passengers at the port of call. Typical cruise line excursions have long featured bus tours—with stops for shopping and photo opps—but have recently grown to include a diverse range of activities for all types of travelers.

Active passengers can go on a fishing excursion in Alaska (and some cruise lines, like Princess and Holland America , cook and serve the fish they catch), while the culinary-minded might learn how to grind cacao beans into chocolate and pair it with wine in Cozumel. Relaxation seekers might choose a day trip to an all-inclusive resort in Roatán, Honduras where they can lay on the beach, sipping drinks from the open bar–that is, if they’d rather not go ziplining or play a round of golf, also excursions offered in Roatán.

Of course, passengers can always go off on their own–but new-to-cruisers should note that not all ports are convenient for self-exploration, particularly if the cruise terminal is far from local attractions.

There are two ways cruise passengers can book shore excursions: directly through the cruise line or with independent tour operators based at the port. Below, we break down the pros and cons of each option, when paying for a shore excursion makes sense, plus other expert tips on how cruise-goers can best organize their time on shore.

When to book your shore excursions through the cruise line

Cruise lines have entire teams dedicated to selecting a diverse array of high-quality shore excursions vetted to ensure they meet the line’s defined standards. But cruise lines are also known to add markups to their excursions—many of which tour operators also sell directly to travelers at a lower cost.

The main benefit of booking a shore excursion directly through the cruise line is convenience. Cruise line-offered excursions are charged directly to shipboard accounts, can typically be changed or canceled up to a day prior to the excursion, and offer a seamless experience: passengers are escorted off the ship when the excursion is ready to depart, and tour leaders on shore maintain contact with the shore excursion team onboard the ship to communicate any changes or delays.

Anxious travelers have good reason to fear delays on shore; passengers on private excursions who don’t board by the ship by the “all aboard” time can be left behind at the pier. But when the cruise line arranges the excursion, the ship won’t depart until the group returns. Earlier this year, staff on a NCL ship refused to board late-returning passengers, stranding them on a remote island in West Africa. The group of ten passengers who missed their ship were on a private excursion, a fact that NCL pointed to as a reason for initially refusing to reimburse any of the expenses they incurred to rejoin the ship at a later port.

Condé Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialist Tom Baker , president of CruiseCenter, says that cruise lines play on passengers’ fear of missing the ship to sell their own excursions at higher costs. Approximately 40% of Baker’s clients elect to book private excursions instead of cruise line offered excursions, he says, adding that he’s never had a passenger on those tours miss the ship.

But in some ports, booking a group excursion through the cruise line is the best option. Many big-ship cruises, especially in the Mediterranean , dock in ports that are located several hours away from popular tourist sites.For example, passengers on ships docking in Civitavecchia (for Rome ) or Le Havre (for Paris ) will find themselves a 1.5 to 3 hour drive away from their respective cities—meaning if you try to make the lengthy trip on your own, there's a higher chance of missing the cruise ship’s departure time. Even some coastal cities, like Barcelona and Marseille, have sprawling industrial ports that may appear close to the main attractions, but in reality, they are not quite walkable or easily accessible from the ship.

On a recent cruise aboard the new Sun Princess , an excursion to Florence proved to be an all-day affair. The ship was docked 2 hours away from Florence in the port town of La Spezia; our tour bus greeted us immediately upon disembarking, ready to whisk us off to Pisa and Florence . It was a fulfilling, jam-packed day, with several hours spent in the bus watching the Tuscan countryside. But, pulling off this carefully planed itinerary required precision—we arrived back to the port just before the lines were cast off for departure. Any delay would have compromised a timely return to the ship, and knowing that the ship would have waited certainly provided me with peace of mind.

However, most cruise ports don’t require such lengthy transit times. For example, port calls on smaller Caribbean islands where the excursion lengths are just a fraction of the ship’s overall time in port, the need for precision arrivals and departures is simply less necessary.

First time cruisers who are still getting adjusted to the rhythm of cruise travel may benefit from booking a shore excursion through the cruise line at the first port in order to get accustomed to the process. A trusted travel advisor can be invaluable in figuring out which ports are better for structured tours, and which walkable ports are best for exploring on foot.

How to plan a personalized shore excursion

A main complaint surrounding cruise line shore excursions is that, due to their size (the average excursion group on a large ship is around 30-50 people), the tours don’t feel personalized and can often be held up by stragglers. On larger ships, there’s a definite “mass travel” experience: passengers are given color coded stickers to wear before being herded into a public area, where they’re escorted off the ship to rows of waiting buses. For independent-minded travelers, this alone can be off-putting.

By Jessica Chapel

By Emily Pennington

By Charlie Hobbs

By Kaitlin Menza

However, the size—and type—of shore excursions vary by cruise line. Just as expedition cruises , river cruises , and luxury small ship lines offer different experiences at sea compared to large ship brands, the same goes for the shoreside experience. Before booking, you can check to see the specific excursions that will be offered on your voyage on the cruise line’s website.

While you can expect intimate excursion groups on small ships, some larger cruise lines also offer more personalized alternatives. Celebrity Cruise passengers can book tailored excursions through the line’s Private Journeys program; and Oceania Cruises also offers Oceania Exclusive excursions, which limits groups to 16 passengers.

For those seeking a highly-personalized experience on shore, another option is to book a private excursion with a tour operator or through a travel specialist. Top cruise specialists like Mary Jean Tully can tap a network of trusted guides in each port to tailor shore excursions to her guests’ preferences.

“We always encourage people to do something privately whenever possible,” Tully says, adding that she recommends booking a private car instead of a bus tour if flexibility is what you're after, as they can stop on a moment’s notice if travelers see something of interest.

Regardless of the type of shore excursion booked, don’t forget to take identification, cash, and most importantly, contact information for the cruise line’s port agent—they’re the local contact who can alert the ship if any emergencies or delays arise on shore. Cruise lines typically publish the port agent’s contact details in the daily program; some even hand out cards with the information or display it on monitors so passengers can take pictures with their smartphones.

In any case, the most important thing to ensure a successful shore excursion is to make it back to the ship on time, to look forward to enjoying the next day in the next port.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

• Favorites & Watchlist Find a Cruise Cruise Deals Cruise Ships Destinations Manage My Cruise​ FAQ Perfect Day at CocoCay Weekend Cruises Crown & Anchor Society Cruising Guides Gift Cards Contact Us Royal Caribbean Group
• Back to Main Menu
• Search Cruises " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-2-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruises" target="_self"> Search Cruises
• Cruise Deals
• Weekend Cruises
• Last Minute Cruises
• Family Cruises​
• 2024-2025 Cruises
• All Cruise Ships " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-4-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-ships" target="_self"> All Cruise Ships
• Cruise Dining
• Onboard Activities
• Cruise Rooms
• The Cruise Experience
• All Cruise Destinations " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-5-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-destinations" target="_self"> All Cruise Destinations
• Cruise Ports
• Shore Excursions
• Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Caribbean Cruises
• Bahamas Cruises​
• Alaska Cruises
• European Cruises​
• Mediterranean Cruises​
• Royal Destinations
• Cruise Planner
• Make a Payment
• Check-In for My Cruise
• Beverage Packages​
• Shore Excursions​
• Update Guest Information
• Book a Flight
• Dining Packages​
• Royal Gifts
• Required Travel Documents
• Transportation
• Book a Hotel
• Redeem Cruise Credit
• All FAQs " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-7-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/faq" target="_self"> All FAQs
• Boarding Requirements
• Future Cruise Credit​
• Travel Documents​
• Check-in​ & Boarding Pass
• Transportation​
• Perfect Day at CocoCay​
• Post-Cruise Inquiries
• Royal Caribbean
• Celebrity Cruises

SCORE BIG SAVINGS ON

Last minute cruises, seas the day with an impromptu vacay.

SAIL LAST MINUTE DEALS FROM YOUR BACKYARD

Ditch the everyday. Score a last minute cruise deal on that gamechanging getaway you’ve been eyeing — because adventure is always a good idea.

{{error.text}} {{error.link.label}}

CRUISE FROM CLOSE TO HOME

With our bold last minute cruise deals, there’s never been a better time – or price – to enjoy an epic adventure. Make every moment count with a quick getaway to some of the world’s most incredible destinations — all sailing from a port near you.

CRUISES FROM

STARTING FROM 

CAPE LIBERTY

MUST-SEE DESTINATIONS

Amp up your vacation with limited time deals on amazing bucket list adventures. Island hop throughout the Caribbean’s world-famous beaches. Venture into Baja wine country in Mexico. Or kayak along gigantic glaciers and dramatic fjords in Alaska. Breathtaking destinations around the globe are yours for the taking on these last minute cruises, right now.

THE BAHAMAS

THE CARIBBEAN

JOIN THE COUNTDOWN

YOUR LAST MINUTE VACATION GOT MORE INTERESTING

Block your calendar for adventure — stat. From temple trekking in Cozumel to whale watching in Ensenada . Or lounging in the first Overwater Cabanas in The Bahamas at our private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay. With these unbeatable last minute cruise deals an incredible vacation is just a click away.

MAKE IT SHORT AND SWEET

You don’t need a lot of days off to enjoy a thrilling vacation. Explore captivating tropical shores on a weekend getaway to the Caribbean’s top spots — at our best prices ever. Like our gamechanging private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay where you can conquer the tallest waterslide in North America, one minute and lounge in the first overwater Cabanas in The Bahamas, the next.

EXPLORE SHORT CRUISE DEALS

LINGER A LITTLE LONGER

Venture further and save even more when you level up on deeper discovery with exciting weeklong itineraries to thrilling destinations. From snorkeling the azure waters of beautiful St. Thomas to dog sledding across massive glaciers in Alaska, chase the thrill of adventure on a weeklong vacay that brings on the bold.

EXPLORE WEEKLONG CRUISE DEALS

GET ROYALS DEALS, SIGN UP

Sign up to receive information about our special offers and deals. You can unsubscribe at any time. For more details about how we use your information, view our Privacy Policy .

YOU DESERVE A GETAWAY

EXPLORE OUR CRUISE DEALS

YOUR VACATION BUCKET LIST WON'T CHECK ITSELF

Ditch the everyday. Score a last minute cruise deal on that gamechanging getaway you’ve been eyeing — because adventure is always a good idea. 

PERFECT DAY AT COCOCAY

STARTING FROM

CARIBBEAN CRUISES

jamaica CRUISES

COZUMEL & CANCUN

explore more

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

My Personas

Code: ∅.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

10 Best Cruises to Hawaii — From Luxury Sailings to Expedition Ships

A cruise around the 50th state is an excellent way to see as much of the islands as possible in a limited amount of time.

Courtesy of Viking Cruises

The islands of Hawaii are popular with families, couples, retirees, groups of friends, and anyone who enjoys warm weather, tropical scenery, and the 50th state's "Aloha" spirit. Each island offers a different climate, landscape, and style, and even on the same island, there are significant variations depending on location. On Oahu, for example, there's bustling Honolulu on the south shore and the more secluded surfing paradise of the North Shore . On the Big Island, the Hilo and Puna regions on the east coast are wet and heavily forested, whereas the Kailua-Kona region on the west coast tends to be much drier.

Visitors to Hawaii, especially first-timers, want to experience as much of the islands as possible, and a cruise is a great way to accomplish that, according to Pam Jacobs , travel advisor at Travel Store in Palos Verdes Estates, California. “People love the inter-island cruises because all meals are included, so it’s an economical as well as convenient way to see the islands. You unpack once and avoid getting in and out of airports and checking in and out of hotels. It’s the best way to island hop.”

Families and travelers with limited time enjoy the seven-day Norwegian Cruise Lines Honolulu to Honolulu round trip cruises, while retirees may opt for a longer cruise from the West Coast with more days at sea. You can embark from several ports on the West Coast, including San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Seattle. “Many Hawaiʻi cruises are part of longer voyages to the South Pacific, Australia, or around the world,” says Jacobs, a cruise and train travel specialist.

“The shore excursions on the cruises are the same things a tourist would do on land — go to a luau, play golf, visit an attraction like the Arizona Memorial, or just relax on the beach — and it’s all arranged for you,” according to Jacobs. One more bit of advice from our cruise expert: “Always arrive a day before your cruise to be sure you’re there and ready. You’ll have time to explore and relax before boarding.”

Below are some of the best cruises to see Hawaiʻi . Dates, prices, amenities, and itineraries vary, so choosing a cruise requires some planning and research. That's always part of the fun, so hopefully this list will inspire you to get started.

Holland America: 17-day Circle Hawaii - Round Trip from San Diego

Courtesy of Holland America

This cruise on the 1,432-passenger Zaandam departs from San Diego and spends five days at sea before arriving in Honolulu at 8 a.m. Optional activities include a trip to Pearl Harbor, a hike on Diamond Head, a road trip around Oahu, an evening at the Polynesian Cultural Center, and a day on Waikiki Beach. After an overnight sail to Kauai, the ship docks at Nawiliwili Harbor. Guests can take a Wailua River cruise to the Fern Grotto , a tour of a coffee plantation, or a trip to Waimea Canyon, the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Maui is the next island on the itinerary, and guests can choose a drive to Haleakala Crater , a snorkel adventure aboard the new Reef Explorer, or a drive to Maui’s Upcountry or rainforest. The final two stops, Hilo and Kona, are on the Big Island. In Kona, there’s an optional Atlantis submarine trip to explore coral gardens or a catamaran cruise. Options include visits to Volcanoes National Park and in Hilo, guests can tour Rainbow Falls or go for a zipline adventure. After four days at sea, you'll stop in Ensenada, Mexico, before returning to San Diego.

Royal Caribbean: 9-night Hawaii Cruise - Vancouver to Oahu

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean Cruises

This trip aboard the 4,180-passenger Ovation of the Seas offers guests much to do during days at sea, with a rock climbing wall, FlowRider surf simulator, and Northstar, a 360-degree observation capsule 300 feet above sea level. “For travelers who have the time for these days at sea, the activities on the ship are a big part of the fun,” according to Jacobs. After departing Vancouver , British Columbia, the ship spends four days at sea before it arrives in Honolulu for a day of exploring Oʻahu with a visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center or Waikiki Beach. The ship crosses the International Date Line with a day at sea and then passes the beautiful Napali Coast of Kauai, famous for its dramatic cliffs rising from the ocean. The final stop is Oahu, and passengers spend as much time as they want exploring Honolulu, Waikiki Beach, or the rest of the island before heading home.

Norwegian Cruise Line: 7-Day Hawaii Inter-Island Cruise from Honolulu

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruises

Spend a week exploring four of Hawaii's islands on this cruise aboard the 2,186-passenger Pride of America , the only ship sailing to four Hawaiian islands in seven days year-round. “These Norwegian Cruise Line trips are a dependable way to see the islands with their convenient weekly departures,” Jacobs says. “You can see the other islands and spend some time in Oahu before or after your cruise.” Onboard activities include basketball, volleyball, video games, theater, hot tubs, spa, and shopping. Departing Honolulu on Saturday evening, the ship heads to Kahului, Maui for two days with options like a drive on the Road to Hana, a catamaran cruise to Molokini for snorkeling with sea turtles, a tour to Haleakala Crater, and more. Next is a day in Hilo on the Big Island, where guests can see a volcano, rain forest, waterfalls, or a lush botanical garden. On the other side of the island in Kona, snorkeling, fishing, cruising in a catamaran, and a reef tour are among optional activities. On Kauai , passengers can enjoy a traditional luau, hike through a rainforest, go kayaking, or take in Waimea Canyon . The cruise ends the following Saturday back in Honolulu, where passengers can explore the city, nearby Pearl Harbor , or Oahu's North Shore.

UnCruise Adventures: Hawaiian Seascapes

Courtesy of UnCruise

“The UnCruise expedition-style cruises focus on the destinations rather than the ship,” according to Pam Jacobs. “The experience is immersive, eco-friendly, and there’s always great camaraderie with the small groups.” This seven-night cruise aboard the 36-guest Safari Explorer begins in Kona, on the Big Island, with a champagne welcome from the captain. The following two days feature a hike up the slopes of Hualalai with a naturalist guide, night snorkeling among Giant Pacific Manta rays, and plenty of opportunities for swimming or kayaking. On day four in Maui, guests can stroll through historic Lahaina, snorkel among coral and sea turtles, or kayak in a marine sanctuary. Lanai is the next island, where guests can paddleboard or kayak past 1,000-foot-high sea cliffs, go snorkeling, take a bike excursion, or visit the quaint Lanai Culture and Heritage Center. On Molokai, guests can learn how taro is cultivated and turned into poi , or they can hike to a spectacular waterfall in Halawa Valley . At the Molokai Museum, a lesson on the island's history is followed by a pa'ina (feast), complete with traditional music. Passengers disembark the following day at Kaunakakai , where they can either transfer to Molokai Airport or extend their stay.

Princess Cruises: 16-day Hawaiian Islands - Round Trip from San Francisco

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

This cruise aboard the 3,080-passenger Ruby Princess departs San Francisco in the late afternoon. Swimming pools, hot tubs, miniature golf, Discovery at Sea programs, movies, dancing, and shows ensure plenty to do during the four days at sea on the way to Hawaii. Shipboard programs for youths, teens, and families provide something for everyone. On the Big Island, guests can zipline through the rainforest or visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park . Next is Oahu, where activities include a tour of Pearl Harbor, snorkeling in Hanauma Bay, and a tour of the only royal palace in the United States . On Kauai, there are hiking , snorkeling, and kayaking adventures. On Maui, guests can sail on a catamaran, Zodiac, or submarine. After four days at sea, passengers have a day to explore Ensenada, Mexico , on the Baja California peninsula, before the Ruby Princess sails back to San Francisco.

Celebrity Cruises: 13-night Hawaii Cruise - Vancouver to Oahu

Steve Dunlop/Celebrity Cruises

This cruise on the luxurious, 2,918-passenger Celebrity Edge departs Vancouver and stops for the day in historic Astoria, Oregon, before continuing onto Hawaii. During the six days at sea, passengers can play blackjack in the casino, take a yoga class in the fitness center, or enjoy cocktails while hovering over the ocean on the Magic Carpet . In Hilo, on day eight, guests can explore waterfalls, volcanoes, wineries, and gardens on the lush coast of the Big Island. The ship cruises to Kona on the other side of the island for another two days of snorkeling or other onshore activities and then spends a day passing the Napali Coast of Kauai, where steep cliffs rise from the ocean and sea caves and waterfalls can be seen from the ship. After another day of cruising, the final stop is Honolulu, where guests are free to enjoy Oahu at their leisure before heading back to the mainland.

Disney Cruise Line: 10-night Hawaiian Cruise from Vancouver Ending in Honolulu

David Murphey/Disney Cruises

With an itinerary that includes both Maui and Mickey, this cruise aboard the 875-stateroom Disney Wonder is perfect for families and Disney lovers alike. Departing from Vancouver, you’ll spend the next six nights at sea, with entertainment ranging from Broadway-style musicals with Disney characters to a Marvel-themed superhero academy in the Oceaneer Club for kids. The first stop is Nawiliwili on the island of Kauaʻi, where guests can visit Waimea Canyon State Park, called “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” or explore a restored sugar plantation in Old Koloa Town. The next stop is Kahului, Maui, where you can spend a day at the beach, the Maui Arts & Cultural Center, or Botanical Gardens. In Hilo on the “Big Island” of Hawaiʻi,” guests can tour Mauna Kea Observatory or see active volcanoes at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park . The ship arrives in Honolulu for disembarkation, and passengers can transfer to the airport or extend their stay.

Viking Cruises: Hawaiian Islands Sojourn - Round Trip from Los Angeles

This 17-day voyage from Los Angeles takes place aboard the Viking Neptune , an all-veranda small ship that carries a maximum of 928 guests. After five days at sea, the first stop is the Big Island, where guests can view Kilauea by helicopter, visit waterfalls, or explore Hilo Bay by kayak. The next port is Oahu, where guests can tour by helicopter, hike Diamond Head, attend a luau, or more. On Kauai, excursions range from an ATV tour of the island to snorkeling along the South Shore. On day 10 in Maui, highlights include Haleakala National Park, snorkeling, and a visit to Maui Ocean Center. The ship then sails to Ensenada, Mexico, where passengers can indulge in wine tastings, e-bike tours, and ATV adventures in the Guadalupe Valley. The Viking Neptune returns to Los Angeles the next day.

Carnival Journeys: 15-day Hawaii Journey from Seattle

This cruise aboard the 2,124-passenger Carnival Spirit spends five days at sea after departing from Seattle. Pickleball, casino games, parties, comedy club, and the WaterWorks, the ship’s onboard waterpark, provide plenty to do. In Honolulu, on day seven, guests can spend the day on Waikiki Beach, visit the Polynesian Cultural Center and the USS Arizona Memorial, or attend a traditional luau. The next day in Maui offers a chance to snorkel or head to the top of Mt. Haleakala. In Kauai, an optional helicopter tour takes guests over Waimea Canyon or the Napali Coast, and the next port is Hilo, on the slopes of volcanic Mauna Loa. After two days at sea, the ship visits Victoria, British Columbia, before returning to Seattle.

Related Articles

• Vacation Rentals
• Restaurants
• Things to do
• Things to Do
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Find the best cruise for you

Featured cruise deals, cruising guide, why take a cruise vacation.

If you have a place on your bucket list, chances are, a cruise will get you there – provided the destination is along a coastline or inland waterway. Cruises cover the world, taking millions of passengers each year to regions such as the Caribbean, the Bahamas, Alaska, Europe, the Mediterranean and even Antarctica. Cruising offers a tremendous value, with trips that include your lodging, meals and entertainment – all rolled into one. Some luxury cruise lines even offer fully inclusive vacations, which cover drinks and tours ashore. And best of all, cruising means seeing the world conveniently after unpacking only once.

Cruises also provide a wonderful option for families, with many ships offering things like waterslides, mini-golf courses and fun clubs for kids, tweens and teens. While most are free, nursery programs can cost extra. Planning is easy: Pick your destination and the right ship (and line) for your travel style. The cruise line makes it simple, offering packages to help you save on extras like alcohol, shore tours or even airfare.

Travelers say they choose to cruise because cruising often costs less per night when compared with land vacations at a hotel, where they'll have to book -- and pay for -- every extra.

What are Tips for Finding Cheap Cruises?

If you're a flexible traveler, you'll have a better chance of finding cheap cruises. Take a cruise that doesn't sail over the summer or holidays, when prices are highest. Book an inside cabin, or take your chances with a "guarantee cabin," ideal for passengers who aren't picky about their stateroom location but really want the lowest price available. Book cabins on lower decks, which often come with lower prices than those rooms on higher floors – that is staterooms over suites.

Cruise brands such as Carnival Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International offer rates that might drop as low as $75 per person per night -- and sometimes even lower.

If you want a real bargain, consider a transatlantic or repositioning cruise. These cruises are one-way or open-jaw trips, that start in one port and finish at another. You can score a deal sailing from Florida to Europe, for example, or even from New York to Florida. Just be aware, you'll probably have to pay a bit more for airfare to return.

What are Tips to Finding Last-Minute Cruise Deals?

While being flexible date wise will always get you the best last-minute cruise deals, it's particularly helpful if you live near a cruise port and can quickly drive there. That way you'll probably be able to jump on those deals that might pop up just a week or two before the ship is scheduled to sail.

Or if you don't have flexibility with either departure dates or embarkation locations, be willing to compromise on exact destinations. This will allow you to find a wider range of last-minute deals traveling to locations in their off-season or so-called shoulder season.

Do plenty of research and know what your ideal cruise is and costs on average, so both are already on your radar. When you see it drop, pounce! (Many cruise lines update pricing several times per day, so preparation is crucial.)

Best cruises in 2024

There's truly a cruise style and ship for everyone, and that has never been more the case than in 2024, as vessels continue to come in an array of sizes – from riverboats and expedition vessels to the largest-ever mega ships. And it's not an exaggeration to say some are loaded with so many activities that you couldn't possibly enjoy them all in a single sailing.

Families will find plenty of options and activities onboard big ships, which have transformed cruising, making the vessels as exciting as the destinations themselves. The Caribbean is always a great option for families, offering lots of sunshine, great beaches and culture. Alaska, famous for its incredible vistas and abundant wildlife, is also a solid family cruise option. Consider cruise brands such as Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line, MSC Cruises and even Celebrity Cruises and Holland America Line for a great multi-generational voyage.

Or on the smaller side, by comparison, river cruising remains a hot ticket item this year, with exciting routes that send eager guests down the Danube or Rhine rivers in Europe or to lesser-frequented locations, like the Mekong River in Cambodia or Vietnam, or soon the Magdalena River in Colombia. Popular river cruises embark in timeless cities like Amsterdam, Budapest and Lisbon. River cruise lines to consider encompass Viking, AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, Emerald Cruises, Tauck, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises and Riverside Luxury Cruises, as well as American Cruise Lines for a domestic alternative.

If you're an adventurer at heart, an expedition cruise might be best for you. These voyages, often onboard small ships (only a few hundred passengers tops), offer an intimate experience that brings passengers right up next to glaciers, whales, penguins and iguanas. Ships visit tiny spots all over the world – from pole to pole – including the Arctic, Alaska, Australia, Greenland, the Galapagos and, of course, Antarctica. Passengers will spend their time zodiacing, kayaking, hiking, biking and exploring with expert guides and knowledgeable naturalists. Expedition travelers love cruise lines such as Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic, UnCruise Adventures, Silversea, HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions), Ponant and Quark Expeditions, as well as an ever-expanding list that now even extends to Seabourn and Viking.

But for the most decadent form of travel, luxury cruises offer all-inclusive experiences onboard small to median-sized ships (usually under a thousand passengers) with perks like butlers, high-end amenities and personalized, intuitive service, not to mention the finest dining at sea. Ships often feature luxury touches like marble and crystal decor, intimate spaces and beautiful spas. Because luxury ships tend to be on the smaller size, they can often reach off-the-beaten-path destinations bigger ships simply cannot access -- ports like St. Tropez or Guadeloupe. If you're looking for a luxury cruise, consider Crystal, Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Silversea, Explora Journeys, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and upcoming Four Seasons Yachts.

Cruises by style

• Luxury Cruises
• Cruise Deals
• Family Cruises
• Last Minute Cruises
• River Cruises

Find other cruise vacations in popular destinations

• Cozumel Cruises
• Seattle Cruises
• San Francisco Cruises
• Los Angeles Cruises
• Fort Lauderdale Cruises
• Baltimore Cruises
• Boston Cruises
• Aruba Cruises
• New Orleans Cruises
• New York City Cruises
• Galveston Cruises
• Ensenada Cruises
• Miami Cruises
• Cruises from Florida
• Cruises from Seattle
• Cruises from San Francisco
• Cruises from Los Angeles
• Cruises from Fort Lauderdale
• Cruises from Tampa
• Cruises from Baltimore
• Cruises from Boston
• Cruises from New Orleans
• Cruises from New York City
• Cruises from San Diego
• Cruises from Galveston
• Cruises from Miami
• Princess Cruises
• Holland America Line
• Carnival Cruise Line
• Disney Cruise Line
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Celebrity Cruises
• Royal Caribbean International
• MSC Cruises
• Viking Ocean Cruises
• Oceania Cruises

Find cruise vacation on popular cruise ships View all

• Adventure of the Seas
• Allure of the Seas
• Anthem of the Seas
• Enchantment of the Seas
• Freedom of the Seas
• Harmony of the Seas
• Liberty of the Seas
• Mariner of the Seas
• Oasis of the Seas
• Carnival Breeze
• Carnival Conquest
• Carnival Dream
• Carnival Elation
• Carnival Glory
• Carnival Liberty
• Carnival Magic
• Carnival Sunshine
• Carnival Valor
• Carnival Vista
• Regal Princess
• Royal Princess
• Ruby Princess
• Celebrity Equinox
• Disney Dream
• MSC Seaside
• Norwegian Bliss
• Norwegian Breakaway
• Norwegian Escape
• Norwegian Getaway

What documents do you need for a cruise? From passports to printouts, here’s what to take

Boarding a cruise ship isn't like boarding a city bus or hopping on the subway. Because cruises involve international travel, you won't be allowed to sail if you don't have all the proper cruise documents and identification. That means you'll want to know exactly what to take with you and, once you have a list, double- and triple-check it to ensure you haven't forgotten anything.

The check-in process can be intimidating if you haven't gone through it before. You might wonder what, exactly, cruise documents are, which ones you need and how you obtain them.

Gear up for a successful and stress-free embarkation day, and make sure you have all the necessary items on hand and ready to go with this guide.

For more cruise news, guides and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

What are cruise documents?

Necessary cruise documents include acceptable official forms of identification, proof of your booking number and boarding information, and confirmation that you aren't ill. You must present these upon arrival at the port.

Only after port officials check and verify each of these at the terminal will you be permitted to board your ship.

At a time when eco-friendliness is top of mind and nearly every traveler has a mobile phone, it's easy to rely on apps to keep everything in one spot and avoid wasting paper. However, what would happen if your phone was lost, stolen or broken during your travels? For that reason, I always advise printing hard copies of anything you might need in a pinch, using as little paper as possible.

Pack all necessary travel documents in your carry-on luggage so you have them on hand when needed.

Documents needed for cruisers to board a ship

Identification.

For most cruises, you'll need a passport book that's valid for at least six months from the day your sailing ends. In some cases, you can use a passport card instead of a passport book , but that will only work if you plan to reenter the U.S. via your ship from Mexico, Canada, Bermuda or the Caribbean.

Similarly, if your cruise is a closed-loop voyage (one that begins and ends in the same U.S. port and visits destinations in the Western Hemisphere, with a few exceptions), you can embark using an original birth certificate and a driver's license if your cruise line allows it.

However, neither a passport card nor the combination of a birth certificate and license will allow you to fly to a foreign country or return to the U.S. from a foreign country by air. If you must fly to a foreign port for embarkation or if something unforeseen happens on your sailing and you need to cut your cruise short and fly home from a foreign port, you will need a passport book for identification.

Additionally, if you are a U.S. permanent resident, you must carry your green card. You can use it instead of a passport on closed-loop sailings, but carrying a passport from your country of citizenship is highly recommended. Also note that if your green card is expired, you likely will not be allowed back into the U.S. You are responsible for contacting the embassies in the places you'll be visiting to make sure there is no additional paperwork required.

Boarding passes

Similar to what you'd need for a flight, a cruise boarding pass is the document that shows you've checked in for your sailing, set up an onboard charge account for purchases and chosen a boarding time . It also includes relevant information like your name, booking number and cabin number.

Most cruise lines now have mobile apps that allow you to check in prior to arriving at the terminal and pull up your boarding passes electronically. If you don't plan on using the app, come prepared with a printed copy of your boarding pass; having one will speed up the check-in process on boarding day.

If you arrive without a boarding pass, don't worry. In a pinch, the check-in desk can look up your reservation in the system when you arrive, but it will add to the time you spend in the terminal before boarding your ship and beginning your vacation.

Health information

For years, cruise lines have required passengers to fill out health forms before boarding in an effort to prevent the spread of norovirus on board . Following the COVID-19 pandemic, lines have expanded health screenings to include questions about coronavirus symptoms.

Some cruise lines will ask you to complete a paper form at the terminal on embarkation day, while others will allow you to complete it a few hours before you arrive. If you fill it out in advance, whether or not you'll need to print out confirmation depends on your cruise line and if the form is completed online or through a mobile app.

Additionally, check to see if any of the destinations you're visiting require specific inoculations for entry; if so, carry proof that you've received them.

Visas and other destination-specific documents

Depending on the destinations your cruise is visiting, you might be required to obtain visas or other documents that grant you permission to enter and stay in a specific country or region. As a passenger, it's your responsibility to know when you need to apply for a visa, how much it will cost you and how much time you need to allow for processing.

Sometimes your cruise line will take care of visa procurement on passengers' behalf and cover any associated fees. Check the official websites of the countries on your itinerary to see what's required, and contact your cruise line directly to ask if it can take care of applying for you. Keep all required documents with you for your trip.

Cruise line luggage tags

If you're planning to leave luggage with porters when you arrive at the terminal, make sure you print out the paper luggage tags — one per bag — provided by your cruise line when you receive your check-in documents. The tags are prefilled with information like your name and cabin number, so the ship's crew knows where to deliver your belongings after suitcases are loaded onto the vessel by the porters.

If you're driving to your embarkation port, you can attach the tags before you leave home. If you're flying in, I suggest packing a small roll of duct tape in your bag and attaching the tags after you land so they aren't accidentally ripped off during transit.

Permission to travel

If you're pregnant, most cruise lines require you to disclose that and provide a note from your doctor verifying your due date and that you're fit to travel. No cruise line will allow you to sail if you are more than 24 weeks along before the conclusion of the voyage.

In a similar vein, if you're planning to travel with someone else's kids and they won't have a parent or guardian on the cruise, you will also need a notarized letter granting you permission to take them out of the country and consent to medical care on their behalf in the event of an emergency. You might also want to have a similar letter handy for your own children if you will be traveling with them alone and their last name does not match yours.

Useful information to carry while cruising

Other travel information

If you're flying in for your cruise, flying home after or staying at a hotel before or after your sailing, it's not a bad idea to have information like airport and hotel addresses, flight numbers, confirmation numbers and boarding passes printed for reference (and as a backup if you lose your phone or charger).

Emergency contacts

In case something goes wrong while traveling, you'll want to carry a printed list of emergency contacts and their phone numbers, as well as contact information for your doctor, credit card companies and bank, and the local embassies or consulates for the countries you're visiting.

Having these easily accessible ensures you'll know what to do if you have an emergency, lose your passport or find a hold on your travel funds.

Travel insurance information

For me, travel insurance isn't negotiable; it's a necessity. With how overbooked flights and hotels can be these days, I like the peace of mind that comes with knowing I'm covered if something goes wrong.

If you've purchased travel insurance for your cruise , you should print out and carry the policy card listing your policy number and the phone number of the insurance company. If your trip is interrupted or canceled or you experience a medical emergency, you'll have the key information handy so you can get help immediately.

Photocopies of important documents

Although you should always take steps to protect your personal documents and only take them out with you when necessary, you also want to be prepared in case your wallet or passport is stolen or misplaced.

Make photocopies of the information page of your passport or passport card, the front and back of your driver's license and birth certificate (if using them for a closed-loop voyage), and the front and back of each credit card. Keep them in a safe place, separate from the originals, when in transit and in your hotel room or cruise cabin safe when you get to your destination.

These copies won't replace the real things, but they could help to speed up the process if you have to procure replacements.

Bottom line

Cruise documents provide the verification you'll need to board your vessel on embarkation day. They include identification, boarding passes, health forms and any required visas, which you should always keep handy in your carry-on bag or personal item.

You'll need to keep track of several documents, but if you plan ahead and follow the list above, you should have no problem ensuring you have everything you'll need for a successful and seamless boarding experience.

Have more cruise questions? TPG has answers:

• More banned items: What not to pack for a cruise
• Man overboard: Why do people fall off cruise ships?
• What is baked Alaska, and why is it paraded around cruise ships?
• What are the largest cruise ships in the world?
• What is a gentleman host on a cruise?
• What is the Jones Act and how does it affect cruise ships?
• What is a lido deck on a cruise ship?
• What's a cruise cabin guarantee and will it save you money?
• What's the difference between a cruise concierge and a butler?

The 8 best Hawaii cruises in 2024 and 2025

C ruising the Hawaiian Islands offers U.S. travelers an immersive South Pacific escape with all the comforts of home. In fact, the Aloha State is in many ways an ideal cruise destination. It has year-round sunny weather, four main islands featuring varied topographies — including sandy beaches, cascading waterfalls, volcanic mountains and vibrant green valleys — and a wide array of land- and water-based activities.

The main caveat? Hawaii cruise options are somewhat limited — just a fraction of what's available in the Caribbean — and many itineraries involve multiday crossings from the West Coast. Only one cruise line offers Hawaii itineraries throughout the year; most others visit during specific months or when repositioning ships in spring and fall.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Looking for the Hawaiian Islands sailing that's right for you? Here's a look at the eight best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler.

Norwegian Cruise Line's 7-night Inter-island Hawaii

For travelers who want more aloha time than the typical eight-hour port call allows, Norwegian Cruise Line has a solution. Its 2,186-passenger Pride of America lets vacationers sample four Hawaiian islands over seven days, with overnights in Maui and Kauai, plus port calls on both Hilo and Kona on the island of Hawaii. In total, this itinerary offers nearly 100 hours of shore time.

Pride of America sails round-trip from Honolulu every Saturday year-round. As a U.S.-flagged ship, it's the only large vessel permitted to sail this way. Not only do you skip the long Pacific crossing that most cruise ships do to reach Hawaii, but passports are not required for U.S. citizens, and you can tack on pre- or post-cruise stays on Oahu.

The overnights on Maui and Kauai also mean it's possible to try several of Hawaii's signature experiences that most port calls don't allow. Passengers can catch dusk or dawn from atop Maui's massive 10,023-foot dormant volcano with sunrise and sunset excursions to the Haleakala Crater. And with the ship in port all night on Kauai, guests who want to enjoy traditional Hawaiian cuisine, music and hula performances can book the Luau Kalamaku for a fun evening out.

Pride of America, which has been cruising Hawaii since 2005, doesn't have the onboard thrills (race track, virtual-reality gaming, waterslides) of Norwegian's newer ships , but that's okay because the islands, not the ship, are your main destination. Its American-themed decor celebrates U.S. cities in a vibrant, and at times, kitschy way, but a 2021 refurbishment left its cabins and public spaces feeling refreshed.

Many of Norwegian's specialty dining venues (which incur a surcharge) are on board, including Cagney's Steakhouse, Le Bistro (here, it's Jefferson's Bistro), Moderno Churrascaria and Teppanyaki.

Who should go: Anyone seeking a convenient way to island-hop — and see a lot of Hawaii — by making the most of the generous shore time with a combination of independent exploration and shore excursions. Most sailings attract couples ages 50 and older, although summer and holiday sailings have plenty of families on board.

Related: Best time to cruise Hawaii

UnCruise Adventures' 7-night Hawaiian Seascapes

Cruisers seeking a less traditional, more carefree Hawaii experience can have it from November to April aboard UnCruise Adventures ' 36-passenger Safari Explorer. The seven-night Hawaiian Seascapes itinerary, which begins either on Molokai or the island of Hawaii, is an unconventional one designed for those who enjoy going off the beaten path in an intimate and more authentic setting. U.S. passports aren't required to sail.

UnCruise visits four islands — Maui and Lanai plus Molokai and Hawaii — and focuses on not only their striking landscapes and underwater beauty but also the cultural traditions, cuisine and music of the Hawaiian people. On Molokai, where there's not a single traffic light and the lifestyle is slow-paced, passengers get a chance to "talk story" with locals and enjoy a pa'ina (feast) and evening jam session. Lanai activities range from snorkel, paddleboard and kayak excursions to off-road adventures exploring the privately owned island's dramatic sea cliffs, red rock formations and vast fields once filled with Dole pineapples.

Most UnCruise sailings are during Maui's humpback whale season, so sightings while cruising off the coast of Maui are possible. You might also catch glimpses of dolphins and sea turtles. A "Captain's Choice" day is a wild card determined by the weather, marine life in the area and other factors, while the final two days are spent exploring the Big Island of Hawaii — including a hike up Hualalai volcano and a skiff ride along the rugged coast.

Constructed in 1998, Safari Explorer was designed with adventure itineraries in mind (in summer the U.S.-flagged ship repositions to Alaska). Its size allows it to navigate areas larger ships can't reach, which in Hawaii means bays and coves ideal for snorkeling or watersports.

With such a small number of passengers aboard, guests get to know each other — and Safari Explorer's friendly and knowledgeable crew — quite well. Passengers come together over meals featuring locally sourced ingredients, and as all UnCruise fares include unlimited wines, spirits and microbrews, shipmates can raise a glass without worrying who's buying a round. It all lends itself to an exclusive yet utterly relaxed week of cruising.

Who should go: The ship's laid-back onboard vibe paired with its land- and water-based activities make the Hawaiian Seascapes itinerary ideal for active travelers seeking a nature-focused itinerary — although cruise fares (which start around $5,900 per person) are among the priciest for a Hawaii cruise.

Related: Why it's easier to meet new people on a smaller cruise ship

Holland America's 17-night Circle Hawaii

Travelers who have more than two weeks to spare and who prefer to arrive in Hawaii via ship rather than an airplane can do so on Holland America 's 17-night Circle Hawaii itinerary. They'd better also love sea days because crossing the Pacific from San Diego or Vancouver to Honolulu and back requires 10 days.

That means passengers enjoy five or six days in Hawaii on Kauai, Oahu, Maui and the island of Hawaii. Some itineraries stay in select ports overnight. Cruises departing from San Diego also call on Ensenada, Mexico. With either departure port, passports will be required.

The itinerary is offered in 2024 and 2025 on the 2,650-passenger Koningsdam and 1,432-passenger Zaandam.

Travelers with more time on their hands can also visit Hawaii as part of longer Pacific island cruises with Holland America. Koningsdam will sail a 35-night Hawaii, Tahiti & Marquesas itinerary in 2025 that combines visits to four Hawaiian islands with calls on five islands in French Polynesia and Fanning Island, Kiribati (and 20 sea days).

Related: Holland America unveils epic cruise to Hawaii and Alaska for 2025

Zaandam will also sail 51- to 56-night Tales of the South Pacific itineraries that visit multiple islands in Hawaii and French Polynesia along with ports in the Cook Islands, American Samoa and Fiji.

Holland America is popular with cruisers ages 60 and older, many of them retired, who have time to enjoy longer itineraries on ships that offer good value with a focus on culinary and musical enjoyment. Two of Koningsdam's most popular venues are its live entertainment area with three venues — B.B. King's Blues Club (for Memphis-style rhythm and blues), Billboard Onboard (for chart-topping hits played by a live pianist) and Rolling Stone Rock Room (for a live band playing classic rock), and World Stage, a theater with a 270-degree screen used for both special BBC Earth in Concert and theatrical productions.

Onboard specialty dining options (at an added cost) include Pinnacle Grill for steaks and seafood, Tamarind for Pan-Asian cuisine and Rudi's Sel de Mer for French Brasserie specialties and seafood.

Who should go: Mature travelers who prefer not to fly and who enjoy a more traditional cruise experience. They should also love sea days as much (or even more so) than port exploration.

Related: 16 mistakes cruisers make on cruise ship sea days

Princess Cruises' 15- or 16-night Hawaiian Islands

Princess Cruises is also a good option for longer sailings. The cruise line offers numerous round-trip itineraries to Hawaii from Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego in the fall and winter.

The majority of sailings are aboard the 3,080-passenger Crown Princess and Ruby Princess from San Francisco, and the 2,600-passenger Grand Princess and 3,080-passenger Emerald Princess from Los Angeles.

Ships are in port for nine to 11 hours in Hawaii (Hilo), Kauai and Maui and for 16 hours in Oahu. Itineraries include a stop in Ensenada, Mexico (so passports are required), plus nine or 10 sea days.

The ships feature many of Princess' popular dining venues, including Alfredo's Pizzeria (a sit-down venue serving personal-size pizzas), Crown Grill for steaks and Sabatini's Italian Trattoria. There's plenty of outdoor space for soaking up the sun — including an adults-only sun deck — and a dazzling Piazza for enjoying cocktails, gelato and pop-up street performers.

Fans of Princess' Movies Under the Stars poolside screenings (with free popcorn) and Discovery at SEA enrichment programming will have ample time to enjoy these perks on a Hawaii sailing.

Who should go: These sailings will appeal to couples or groups of friends who prefer to have a wide choice of sailing dates, can take the time to enjoy a leisurely Pacific crossing and appreciate Princess' focus on quality cuisine and a sun deck designed for relaxation rather than thrills.

Related: Best Hawaii cruise shore excursions

Celebrity's 9- to 12-night Hawaii Cruise

Travelers seeking modern interior decor on a ship designed with couples in mind can visit Hawaii aboard Celebrity Cruises ' 2,852-passenger Celebrity Solstice or 2,918-passenger Celebrity Edge on itineraries ranging from nine to 13 nights — but only if the timing is right. That's because the line offers only two sailings per ship each year (in spring and fall) as the ships reposition between Alaska and destinations in the Pacific. The itineraries are one-way (Vancouver to Honolulu or vice versa) with passports required.

These cruises call on three ports on two islands: Honolulu (Oahu) and Hilo and Kona (Hawaii), with one or two overnights in port and 10 hours ashore on one-day visits. All include five days in a row at sea. Since the itineraries either begin or end in Honolulu, there's also a chance for some pre- or post-cruise exploration.

Sea days offer opportunities to enjoy the chic, grown-up ambience and amenities aboard these ships. Each vessel offers multiple complimentary and extra-fee specialty restaurants. Celebrity Solstice features Tuscan Grille for Italian specialties and steak and Murano for modern French cuisine, while Celebrity Edge offers the whimsical Le Petit Chef and the international Eden Restaurant.

Celebrity's signature Martini Bar and many other onboard watering holes keep the grown-up vibe going day and night. Choose cruise fares that include alcohol and Wi-Fi, or pay a lower rate and pay for your drinks as you go.

Who should go: The slightly shorter one-way sailings and the ships' contemporary ambience make these itineraries ideal for couples and groups of friends seeking a relaxing escape — especially Gen Xers in their 40s and 50s, who are Celebrity's target market.

Related: 6 national parks you can reach by cruise ship (and 2 are in Hawaii)

Carnival's 14- or 15-night Hawaii from Los Angeles

If fun is your cruise mantra, the "Fun Ship" brand Carnival Cruise Line offers a handful of round-trip sailings to Hawaii from Los Angeles (Long Beach) aboard the 2,984-passenger Carnival Radiance. Like other roundtrips from the West Coast, these itineraries spend just five days in Hawaii, offering eight to 14 hours of shore time in ports on four islands: Maui, Kauai, Oahu and Hawaii. Along with enjoying eight sea days, guests will also call on Ensenada, Mexico, so passports are required.

Carnival Radiance first sailed under that name in 2021, but it's not a new ship. Before an epic makeover, it sailed for the cruise line as Carnival Victory. Ship features include many of Carnival's signature complimentary and extra-fee dining venues, including Guy's Burger Joint and Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse, BlueIguana Cantina, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse and Bonsai Sushi Express.

Additional guest favorite destinations on board include the RedFrog Pub, Alchemy Bar and WaterWorks aquapark. Expect high-voltage theater shows from Playlist Productions at night and poolside interactive contests by day.

Who should go: Socially inclined cruisers who love Carnival's emphasis on onboard fun and can appreciate a colorful ship with a lively ambience and lots of day and evening activities.

Related: Best Hawaii cruise tips for getting the most from your island-hopping trip

Royal Caribbean's 9- to 13-night Hawaii Cruises

A megaship cruise experience to Hawaii is available, too — with pricing that's quite affordable. Royal Caribbean cruises there on two vessels in one of its newer classes of ships: the 4,180-passenger Quantum of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas.

All are one-way cruises just before or after the Alaska cruise season (so late April or early October) between Oahu and Vancouver (or vice versa). The ships call on two Hawaiian islands and spend four or five days in a row at sea. Passports are required since these itineraries begin or end in Vancouver.

Ovation of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas feature a mix of thrills for all ages. These include RipCord by iFly simulated sky diving, FlowRider simulated surfing, bumper car racing in the SeaPlex indoor activity complex and the North Star sightseeing capsule, which ascends 300 feet above the top deck for 360-degree views.

Both ships also offer 14 dining venues, including the innovative Wonderland, Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver and kid-favorite Dog House, as well as bar options that include Schooner Bar for by-request piano tunes, Boleros for mojitos and merengue and Bionic Bar for drinks poured by robotic bartenders. Entertainment includes live cover bands in the Music Hall and multimedia music and dance performances in Two70.

Who should go: Cruisers who love a big ship with a wide array of dining choices, all kinds of evening entertainment and plenty of exciting activities to pass the time on sea days. Quantum-class ships are great for families, but the sail dates might not work for those with school-age kids.

Related: Do you need a passport for a cruise?

Viking's 16-night Hawaiian Islands Sojourn

For a guaranteed adults-only sailing in a relaxed, boutique-style setting, upscale cruise line Viking also offers round-trip Hawaii cruises from Los Angeles in late 2024 and early 2025 on its 930-passenger Viking Neptune.

What sets Viking apart from most of the other lines offering Hawaii cruises is that it includes a free shore excursion in every port. These include a highlights tour of Honolulu and Pearl Harbor on Oahu and a visit to a scenic waterfall and the Kilohana sugar plantation on Kauai. Additional excursions can be booked at an extra charge.

The 16-night Hawaiian Islands Sojourn sailings visit four islands — Hawaii (Hilo), Oahu, Kauai and Maui — and like other round-trip sailings from the West Coast include 10 sea days and a call on Ensenada, Mexico, so passports are required.

Viking Neptune will also do 32-night Grand Hawaii and Polynesia sailings round-trip from Los Angeles in late 2024 and early 2025 that visit four islands in Hawaii and four in French Polynesia.

The ship, which debuted in 2022, features sleek Scandinavian-inspired decor, a soothing spa with a complimentary thermal area, an aft infinity pool and hot tub, a panoramic Explorer's Lounge and five onboard restaurants. Specialty restaurant Manfredi's serves an extensive menu of Italian specialties, while The Chef's Table offers rotating five-course themed menus, including Asian, French and California-inspired.

In addition to the free shore excursions, pricing includes complimentary wine or beer with lunch and dinner, specialty dining at no extra charge, crew gratuities and transfers.

Who should go: Couples who prefer the quieter ambience of a ship that doesn't allow anyone under 18 onboard, doesn't have a casino and offers presentations by regional experts that enhance immersion into local culture. Viking cruisers are generally over age 55.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.