Ensenada, Mexico: Vacations and travel info

Description

Ensenada is the most important port in Baja California because of its strategic position on the Pacific Coast, 68 miles south of the US/Mexico border. It is the only commercial port in the state; hence it is a very important gateway for foreign imports into the country. It also plays an important role in the tourism sector, with Ensenada's cruise terminal being the second most popular port of call in Mexico for cruise ships from around the world.

The tourism infrastructure of Ensenada includes a fantastic variety of accommodation, golf courses, spas, bars and restaurants, along with a continuous schedule of cultural activities, impressive natural attractions and beautiful beaches. While visiting the area you should definitely try and make time to go whale watching, visit the vineyards and also sample the delicious regional cuisine. All this and more adds up to make a very appealing destination for a fabulous vacation.

The main entrance to the city is the Lazaro Cardenas Boulevard, also known as Boulevard Costero, where most of the port's tourist activities are concentrated. Here you will find all kinds of restaurants, night clubs and shopping options as well as an excellent variety of hotels for every budget.

History

The incredible cave paintings found throughout the area take us back a few thousand years in time, in fact there is evidence of a human presence in the area as far back as 8000 BC. This beautiful bay was first discovered in 1542 by a Portuguese explorer who originally named it ''San Mateo'', and later in 1602 changed the name to ''Ensenada de Todos los Santos'' (Inlet of All Saints). This name was chosen because of its geographical location and also it was on November 1st, All Saints Day, when the explorer reached land, a prominent National festival.

Because of the strong influence of both the Jesuit and especially the Dominican order, during colonial times, numerous missions were built throughout Ensenada with the main objective of reinforcing the authority of the Spanish Crown, particularly in areas where power had not already been consolidated.

By the end of the 18th Century gold was discovered in the area, which dramatically increased the growth and development of the city. However by the beginning of the 19th Century, all the gold had been mined and Ensenada reverted back to the quiet village atmosphere of days gone by.

Lots to discover

Ensenada, the largest municipality in Mexico, features a natural reserve that is home to a vast biodiversity and an abundance of wildlife. Its latitude, the same as the Mediterranean, means that the climate is temperate and mild almost all year round. If you are an adventurer and a lover of the great outdoors, then you are going to really enjoy all the national parks and eco-touristic activities on offer in and around Ensenada.

The beaches that make up Ensenada's spectacular coastline are ideal for outdoor pursuits such as diving, surfing and kayaking. Known as some of the most tranquil in the north Pacific zone, these beaches are also popular venues for important international surfing competitions, fishing tournaments and regattas.

With a rather serene atmosphere, this gorgeous destination has a very interesting cultural calendar, full of recreational activities and numerous gastronomic events all year round. Ensenada is undoubtedly an ideal location to enjoy a wonderful vacation.