Exploring Ensenada: A Guide For Boat Dockers

When your boat docks in Ensenada, Mexico, there is plenty to see and do. The city is known as the 'Pearl of the Pacific' and is a vibrant, sun-soaked destination with a rich history and culture. The downtown area is just a short walk from the cruise port, and there you can explore shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks. If you're looking for a more relaxed day, there are beaches nearby, as well as a bustling seafood market. For those interested in the local culture, a visit to the Museo de Historia and the Riviera Cultural Center is a must. And if you're feeling adventurous, there are plenty of outdoor activities to choose from, such as kayaking, horseback riding, and ATV tours.

Explore the town's vibrant craft beer scene

When your boat docks in Ensenada, you'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to craft beer. The city has a vibrant and thriving craft beer scene, with new brewers opening for the summer tourist season and several established breweries already in full operation.

One of the pioneers of Ensenada's craft beer scene is Wendlandt Cerveceria, which was started by owner and brewmaster Eugenio Romero-Wendlandt, who began brewing 20-gallon batches for himself and his friends. Demand for his "hoppy, West Coast-style beers" grew, and in 2011 he opened a small place. Wendlandt now produces 150 gallons of beer a week, and its Vaquita Marina pale ale is light-bodied, easy-drinking and citrusy. The brewery is located in a wide-open courtyard with impressive stainless steel tanks and wooden tables for large groups.

Another award-winning craft brewer is AguaMala, which means "bad water" in Spanish and is also the name of a jellyfish that floats offshore in the Pacific. Founder and brewmaster Nathaniel Schmidt constructed the brewery using large metal shipping containers, with no signage on the road. Look for a mural of Our Lady of Guadalupe on the ocean side, just two blocks south of the Solarius Hotel. The taproom/restaurant is a local hangout, and the beer selection is imaginative, with names like Sirena Pilsner and Chubasco (Summer Storm).

Also worth checking out is Cerveceria Transpeninsular, a two-story restaurant and brewery that serves American fare alongside its beers. At the Ensenada Beer Fest, Reino Alfa from the state of Sonora and Bosiger Brewery from Tijuana stood out, offering well-made and delicious beers.

So, whether you're looking for creative brews, a local hangout, or a taste of something more old-school, Ensenada's craft beer scene has something for everyone.

Visit the Cultural Centre of Ensenada (CEARTE)

The Cultural Centre of Ensenada (CEARTE) is a great place to visit when your boat docks in Ensenada. Here's a guide to help you plan your visit:

About CEARTE

The State Center of the Arts – Ensenada (CEARTE) was established in 2007 to address the requests made by painters and artists for a suitable space to showcase their work and engage with their audiences. It is located on Blvd. Lázaro Cárdenas 1430, in the Col. Ensenada Centro neighbourhood, and is open from Monday to Saturday, 8 am to 8 pm, and on Sundays from 12 pm to 7 pm. The centre is easily accessible and offers facilities like lavatories, a ramp, and stroller and baby carrier access.

Exhibitions and Galleries

CEARTE features exhibitions, galleries, and performances by local artists. It is a great place to learn about the local customs and culture of Ensenada. You can explore various art forms, including paintings, sculptures, and other visual arts. The centre also hosts interactive activities and classes, making it an excellent place for visitors of all ages to engage with the local arts and culture.

Other Attractions Nearby

While visiting CEARTE, you can also explore other nearby attractions. The Riviera Cultural Center of Ensenada, located on Blvd. Lázaro Cárdenas, is a short distance away. This cultural centre aims to preserve the cultural, historical, artistic, archaeological, and architectural heritage of the state. It offers children's activities and houses the Ensenada Museum of History and the Temporary Exhibitions Room.

Ensenada also offers a variety of other experiences, such as winery tours, beach relaxation, and shopping for souvenirs. You can visit the Mercado Negro (Black Market), a bustling seafood market, or explore Avenida López Mateos, known as Calle Primera, for local crafts, souvenirs, and traditional Mexican goods.

Shop for souvenirs at the Mercado Negro (Black Market)

When your boat docks in Ensenada, one of the best places to shop for souvenirs is Mercado Negro, also known as the Black Market. This bustling seafood market offers an array of fresh seafood and local dishes for you to sample and purchase. Despite its intriguing name, rest assured that you won't encounter any legal issues when buying from this market.

Mercado Negro is conveniently located near the Port of Ensenada, making it an ideal spot to explore before or after your cruise. It is situated in the Zona Centro area of Ensenada, just a short walk from the waterfront and the Ensenada Cruise Port.

At Mercado Negro, you'll find a variety of local vendors and restaurants serving up delicious seafood dishes. The market is well-known for its fish tacos, which are considered by many to be the best in the area. You can also enjoy seafood cocktails, ceviche, tostadas, crab, squid, and fried fish platters. The restaurants here are very reasonably priced, so you won't break the bank while indulging in these culinary delights.

In addition to the seafood offerings, Mercado Negro also features vendors selling crafts and souvenirs. You can browse for unique items to commemorate your trip, such as handmade name bands and Mexican jumping beans. The prices are very affordable, and you can even try your hand at bargaining to score an even better deal.

To make the most of your visit to Mercado Negro, follow these tips:

• Stick to the main roads when walking to the market from the cruise ship terminal.
• Practice your haggling skills to get the best prices on souvenirs.
• Sample the seafood dishes at the various restaurants to find your favorite.
• Enjoy the lively atmosphere and friendly service.
• Take a short walk to the nearby Ensenada Boardwalk for panoramic views of the Port and incredible sunrises and sunsets.

Take a walk along the Malecon (boardwalk)

The Malecon (boardwalk) in Ensenada, Mexico, offers a vibrant and captivating experience for visitors. Here's a detailed guide to make the most of your walk along this lively waterfront:

Plaza Civica and La Plaza de Las Tres Cabezas:

Begin your walk at the expansive Plaza Civica, where you'll be greeted by the stunning sight of gigantic golden heads. The locals call this area La Plaza de Las Tres Cabezas (Three Heads Plaza), honouring three prominent figures from Mexico's historic past: Venustiano Carranza, Miguel Hidalgo, and Benito Juárez. These golden busts provide a striking display of Mexican pride and offer insight into the country's rich history.

Taco Stands and Seafood Delights:

As you continue your walk, you'll be tempted by numerous taco stands and seafood offerings. The air is filled with the mouthwatering smell of fresh seafood being prepared by skilled local cooks. Don't be afraid to try something new, like shrimp tacos or tostadas, as all the stands offer the catch of the day. You can also explore the open barn-like market, Mercado de Mariscos, where fishermen enthusiastically hawk their catch of the day. Playfully select from the beautiful displays of shrimp, yellowtail, and smoked red snapper while enjoying the lively atmosphere.

Dining and Entertainment:

On the far side of the market, you'll find rustic dining options right on the Malecon. Enjoy your seafood lunch or margaritas while watching the boats dock and the fishermen bring in their catch. Listen to the lively quibbling over market prices and join in the family-like atmosphere. Mariachis and other musicians will also serenade you with traditional Mexican songs for a few pesos, completing your cultural experience.

Shopping and Exploration:

In addition to the culinary delights, the Malecon also offers a variety of shopping options. You'll find bright-coloured booths selling souvenirs, including handcrafted items and traditional Mexican goods. Take your time to explore the unique offerings and interact with the local vendors. The boardwalk also has shops, bars, and restaurants, providing a diverse range of experiences.

Remember to practice common-sense precautions, such as staying in well-lit and populated areas, being mindful of your belongings, and avoiding displaying valuables openly. With its combination of delicious food, cultural insights, and shopping opportunities, a walk along the Malecon in Ensenada is sure to be a memorable part of your visit to Mexico.

Sample local Mexican cuisine, such as fish tacos and ceviche

When your boat docks in Ensenada, one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local culture is by sampling the town's famous cuisine. Ensenada is known for its delicious seafood and street food, with local specialties like fish tacos, ceviche, and tostadas. Here is a guide to help you sample these culinary delights:

Fish Tacos

The Baja-style fish taco is a signature dish of Ensenada, invented in this very town. For an authentic experience, head to the local fish taco stands, where you can watch your tacos being prepared right before your eyes. Eating fish tacos on the streets of Ensenada is not just a culinary delight but also a great way to interact with locals and visitors alike, all enjoying a food experience born in this charming fishing village.

Ceviche

Ensenada is also renowned for its fresh ceviche, often served with tostadas. One of the best places to sample this local delicacy is at the Mercado Negro Fish Market, also known as the "Black Market." Despite its intriguing name, you don't have to worry about any legal issues when buying from this bustling seafood market. Many restaurants in the area source their ingredients from the Mercado Negro, so you know you're getting an authentic taste of Ensenada.

In addition to these signature dishes, Ensenada offers a variety of other culinary delights. From street-side taco stands to beachfront restaurants, you'll find an array of options to tantalize your taste buds. Remember to practice basic safety guidelines, especially when visiting crowded areas and tourist hotspots.

So, when your boat docks in Ensenada, be sure to explore the town's culinary offerings. By sampling the local Mexican cuisine, you'll not only satisfy your taste buds but also gain a deeper appreciation for the culture and history of this charming seaside town.

Frequently asked questions