Baja California
A Blend of Coastal Beauty and Wine Country Charm
There’s something about Baja that just pulls you back. Between the vineyards in Valle de Guadalupe, ocean views at Cuatro Cuatros, and late nights at Casa Frida, it’s the perfect mix of calm and chaos. We loved it so much, we came back for our mini-moon.
Wine, Views, and a Little Bit of Chaos
If you ever invite me to a birthday trip to Mexico, just know the answer is an immediate yes. A group of us made the quick 90-minute trip from San Diego to Ensenada with a party bus, music, drinks, and zero responsibility for driving - the only right way to do wine country.
Our first stop was Cuatro Cuatros, where the views (and drinks) truly hit different. We sipped wine at Bar Bura as the sun set, ate seafood and charcuterie, and just let the day unfold.
From there, the night carried us to Casa Frida in Valle de Guadalupe - colorful, vibrant, and somehow both a winery and a full-blown party. We ordered bottles of wine, mezcal cocktails, too much food, and ended up dancing until we couldn’t feel our feet.
Returning for Our Mini-Moon
We loved Baja so much we came back months later for our mini-moon. Valle de Guadalupe felt completely different in the best way - slower, softer, and a little more romantic. We spent our days wandering through vineyards, eating long lunches under olive trees, and sipping wine with no plans at all.
A Lobster Stop to Set the Tone
We first stopped for lunch in Puerto Nuevo (aka Lobster Village) mostly because it’s known for its lobster. We settled into a rooftop bar where the hostess pulled us in with: four lobster tails, rice and beans, and a margarita for $20. Say less. From there we drove down to Rosarito and stopped at Los Portales de García - a beautiful cliffside restaurant overlooking the ocean. We watched the sunset there, sipped amazing drinks, ate even better food, and then continued on to Valle de Guadalupe for the rest of the weekend.
Our Mini-Moon in Valle de Guadalupe
The rest of the weekend was everything we needed - slow mornings, long lunches, and some of the best food I’ve ever had in my life. Valle de Guadalupe is such a hidden gem for food lovers. We did everything from casual wine tastings to Michelin-star dinners and even a 14-course meal that felt more like an experience than dinner.
One morning, we went horseback riding along the beach and when we weren’t eating or sipping wine, we were poolside. One afternoon, Zak surprised us with a two-hour four-hand massage (yes - two masseuses each) overlooking the vineyards. It ended with chocolates and a bottle of wine by the pool, which honestly felt like the most perfect version of “mini-moon mode.”
Baja has this way of balancing it all - indulgence and calm, energy and ease. It was the ultimate mix of great food, amazing drinks, and pure relaxation.
Now that you've heard my Ensenada story, keep reading for my top tips and recommendations!
Travel Tips
Getting There: Drive or take a party bus. Ensenada is about 90 minutes from San Diego (border wait times vary). If you’re planning to drink, booking a party bus or private driver is the way to go.
Dress for the Weather: It can get windy and chilly in the evening, so bring a light jacket
Carry Cash for Tips: Some spots take cards, but cash is preferred.
Safety: Ensenada and Valle de Guadalupe are generally safe, but always be aware of your surroundings.
Download Google Maps Offline: Cell service can be spotty
Accommodations
El Cielo Resort - A peaceful vineyard escape in the heart of Valle de Guadalupe. The rooms are set up like small villas with just a few other suites in each building, making it feel more private.
Fun & Unique Experiences
Spa Day - We booked a two-hour couples massage at Serrano Valle Massage, set right in the vineyards - it ended with wine and chocolates by the pool and felt like pure bliss.
Horseback Riding - We did a sunrise ride along the beach, but there are also incredible options that take you through the vineyards for a more local experience.
Wine Tours - Because obviously - it’s wine country!
Restaurants and Food Picks
Baja is a foodie’s dream! A mix of world-class restaurants, boutique wineries, and open-air kitchens set among the vines. Every meal feels like an experience, blending local flavors with that laid-back Baja charm.
Breakfast & Brunch
La Cocina de Doña Esthela - A Michelin-starred gem serving homemade Baja comfort food that feels like a warm hug.
Dinner & Nightlife
Fauna - home of the 14-course Fauna Feast (HIGHLY recommend!), serving creative Baja dishes in a stunning open-air setting.
Latitud 32 - Baja-meets-Mediterranean cuisine with relaxed vineyard views.
Los Portales de García - cliffside dining in Rosarito with fresh seafood and sunset views.
Salvia Blanca - Mexican-Mediterranean fusion dishes
Casa Frida - Vibrant winery-meets-nightclub. It’s a collection of wine bars, cocktail lounges, rooftop patios, and an underground speakeasy.
Wineries
Cuatro Cuatros/Bar Bura - Oceanfront bar perched on a cliff with insane views of the Pacific. They produce all their own wines!
Bloodlust - Dark, vibey, and full of character — think creative bites, great cocktails, and a little edge.
Bruma - Modern, earthy, and effortlessly cool, with incredible food, wine, and views to match.
