While Baja Sur may be heating up, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Baja this summer farther north. Here are a few of our favorite ways to stay cool and still enjoy some of the best things the peninsula has to offer.
Swim and Splash at the Balnearios
Swimming at the balnearios (swimming spots) in Northern Baja California is a refreshing way to experience the region’s warm climate and diverse landscapes. These local water parks are popular among families and travelers looking to relax, cool off, and enjoy a casual day outdoors. Some balnearios may feature waterslides, picnic areas, and shaded cabanas, and some even have camping or overnight accommodations. Whether you’re soaking in mineral-rich hot springs or splashing around in a pool with waterslides, these balnearios offer a relaxing, low-key experience that reflects Baja’s blend of natural beauty and local charm. In the Tecate region, try Albercas Tanama or Rancho El Chaparral. In Tijuana, Albercas el Vergel is a popular waterpark. And just south of Ensenada, Las Cañadas is a beloved family-favorite with no end of entertaining activities.
Eat and Drink by the Ocean in Rosarito
There are so many places in the greater Rosarito region where you can enjoy a delicious seafood meal with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Rosarito is a coastal haven renowned for its vibrant seafood scene, blending traditional flavors with innovative culinary techniques. A standout experience is indulging in a meal in the iconic lobster village, Puerto Nuevo. Here you’ll enjoy Puerto Nuevo-style lobster—deep-fried and served with rice, beans, and handmade flour tortillas. The nearby fishing village of Popotla offers adventurous travelers the chance to enjoy fresh seafood dishes right on the beach while watching the fishing boats unloading their catch of the day. Other establishments to try in the area include Encanto Restaurant where diners enjoy delicious meals with a breathtaking views, or the casual Colectivo Surf Tasting Room where patrons can enjoy a local craft beer by the ocean. Or keep it simple and just enjoy one of Baja’s famous fish tacos from any of the local seafood or taco spots in town.
Camp in the Mountains
Camping in Baja California’s Sierra de San Pedro Mártir or Sierra Juárez offers a breathtaking escape into some of Mexico’s most rugged and scenic highlands. The Sierra de San Pedro Mártir, home to towering pine forests, granite peaks, and the country’s largest optical observatory, provides cool, clear air and incredible stargazing—thanks to its remote location and high elevation. Wildlife such as bighorn sheep and even California condors make it a haven for nature lovers. Meanwhile, the Sierra Juárez offers similar alpine terrain with expansive vistas, hidden waterfalls, and access to quiet, lesser-known campgrounds perfect for backcountry exploration. Both sierras allow campers to experience a dramatic contrast from Baja’s desert coastlines, with crisp mountain nights, serene trails, and a sense of solitude that makes every trip unforgettable.
Surf one of the World Surf Reserves
Ensenada enjoys a vibrant surfing culture and is a designated world surf reserve (one of 13 around the world). With its nearby Killers at Islas de Todos Santos, and dozens of other great spots, surfers have been heading to the area since the 1940s. Ensenada is a great home base for surfers who want to check out the action at various beaches as the region has breaks for surfers of all levels. Surf shops are plentiful here and have boards available to rent. Greater Ensenada has several renowned surfing spots, such as San Miguel Beach, California Trailer Park, Stacks and 3 M’s (Tres Emes in Spanish), which are located on the north coast of the city. Todos Santos Island is a small island located west of Ensenada (about two hours by boat) and a world-famous surfing spot for big waves. For those looking to learn or improve their surfing skills, Surf Ensenada offers 2-hour surf lessons, which include a personal instructor, surfboard, and wetsuits.
Ride Horses Like a Real Vaquero
Horseback riding at a ranch in Northern Baja California offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty. Whether you’re galloping through the pine-speckled mountains or meandering through the oak-studded hills near Valle de Guadalupe, the experience connects you deeply with the land and its traditions. Local ranches, many family-owned for generations, provide guided trail rides suited for all experience levels, often accompanied by stories of Baja’s ranchero heritage. Riders can explore coastal bluffs, desert landscapes, and even vineyard trails while enjoying panoramic views and the calming rhythm of the horse beneath them. It’s an ideal way to slow down, unplug, and appreciate the natural charm and rural heart of Northern Baja. We love Rancho Meling in the foothills of the Sierra de San Pedro Mártir, Rancho La Bellota just outside of Tecate, and Rancho El Topo in the Sierra de Juarez.