For many students and families, Spring Break in Mexico is the perfect time to let loose and relax a bit before the stress of finals and graduation. Mexico offers all the makings of a quintessential Spring Break getaway.
From pristine beaches to stunning mountain cities and budget-friendly lodgings, you’ll find everything you possibly need for a great stay. We have put together a guide to help you and your favorite people find the perfect spot.
We have broken it all down for you. For each of our favorite destinations you will find:
It’s not hard to find a perfect Spring Break getaway that is accessible by car. There are several great places for every type of traveler to be discovered in Baja and Sonora.
Would you rather…
Mexico is an enchanting destination that comes to life in the spring as visitors happily converge on its most revered tourist locations!
Spring Break Venues in Rocky Point are not hard to find. It’s one of Mexico’s most famous Spring Break destinations since it is so easily drivable — a little over five hours from San Diego, California, and about three and a half hours from Phoenix, Arizona.
Local Vibe. Known in Mexico as Puerto Peñasco, Rocky Point has exciting things for vacationers to see and do. Its sunny climate and tranquil position on the Sea of Cortez provide its natural splendor, while its many entertainment venues, clubs, and restaurants add a vibrant element to this memorable desert city.
Al Capone’s. While decidedly American in terms of its pizza and beer cuisine, Al Capone’s is a great place to top off a fun day. Its wide beer selection is popular throughout Rocky Point and its exciting atmosphere makes it popular with Spring Breakers.
JJ’s Cantina. Both historic and comfortable, this restaurant and bar is popular with locals and American visitors alike. The Mexican cantina atmosphere is filled with live music and events like chili cook-offs and fishing derbies. JJ’s is one of the city’s most popular nightlife venues.
Rosey’s. This restaurant is a favorite place for great food at affordable prices. Known for its large menu and excellent service, Rosey’s is a fun restaurant to grab a meal after an action-filled day in Rocky Point.
Playa Mirador. This illustrious beach is a favorite Spring Break destination. The beachside parties stretch late into the night on this beach and the music from coastal clubs and discos spills out onto the sands. The seaside vistas are particularly appealing and many simply love to sunbathe or stroll along the coast. Rentals of jet skis and kayaks are also available. Volleyball games and crowds of youthful sun-lovers make this one of the most vibrant of Mexico’s springtime beaches.
Sandy Beach. With its nearby hotels and resorts, Sandy Beach is an internationally famous Rocky Point beach. As a hub for tourism, there are also spas, restaurants, shops, and cafes situated near the beach. Golf is popular near the beach and the water sports are famed throughout the city.
Sportfishing. Sportfishing is a major industry in Rocky Point so tourists have many options. It’s typically no problem to charter a boat captained by a pro. You might want to go along with other fisherman or charter a boat for your private party. Fishing licenses are easy to procure and you’ll need one when fishing out on a boat or even from the shore which requires a different type of permit. Permits can be obtained in the US at the Mexican consulate, at border crossings, or once you reach Rocky Point.
Whales visit the Sea of Cortez in winter—usually mid-February, but they hang out until sometime in May. So, fishing during the spring is always exciting as it may offer glimpses of gray whales. Otherwise, there are a number of sportfish that are typically caught during Spring Break Rocky Point fishing time of year. By March, fishermen shouldn’t be surprised to hook grouper, triggerfish, red snapper, pinto bass, rock bass, and yellowtail. In April, expect catches of triggerfish, grouper, sea bass, rock bass, red snapper, and even sea trout. May affords plentiful catches of corvina, pompano, triggerfish, red snapper, rock bass, sea trout, yellowtail, and pinto bass. The mackerel generally doesn’t come in season until June.
Other Activities: snorkeling, scuba, sailing, jet-skiing, kayaking, world-class golf, off-roading, horseback riding, and hiking
Marina Pinacate. This exciting resort on Sandy Beach is a favorite upscale resort in Rocky Point. It is near popular bars and restaurants, with views of the sea and luxurious amenities, the Marina Pinacate boasts comfortable and spacious condo rentals that are ideal for groups wanting a beachfront holiday.
Baja Hotel. More affordable than the city’s resorts and luxury hotels, the Baja Hotel is at both the airport and Sea of Cortez. The hotel’s rooms provide glimpses of the sea or mountains and tend to be popular among vacationers arriving for Spring Break. The hotel features a pool and swim-up bar along with a restaurant. It’s a great place to consider staying for Spring Break.
Manny’s Beach Club. Open during peak seasons like Spring Break or on weekends, Manny’s is a well-known and favorite place to party in Rocky Point. You can find it in the Malecon area of the city. The club is popular with Spring Breakers who love to dance and drink after the sun goes down.
Club Elixir. This popular nightclub has a relaxing atmosphere where people can hang out over drinks and has a dance floor that is always bumping. A terrace and local bands give the club remarkable energy that vacationers love.
Photo Ops. The desert scenery is famous for its incredible beauty and many eco-travelers enjoy visiting the region surrounding Rocky Point.
Rosarito Beach is a premier location to enjoy Spring Break—Mexican style! Breathtaking scenery and warm hospitality, Rosarito is also easy to reach by car when driving down from the States. Resorts, spas, restaurants, and famous Rosarito Beach are all awaiting your arrival less than an hour from San Diego. It’s just a short drive (20 minutes) south of Tijuana. The city is a popular Spring Break getaway with several exciting clubs and hotels to suit every budget and style.
Local Vibe. Located just an hour away from San Diego, this gorgeous beach town is a convenient jaunt from the border. Rosarito offers both luxury and affordable accommodations for tourists who flock there for Spring Break. Surfing, snorkeling, whale watching, fishing, sailing, beach volleyball, sunbathing, horseback riding—there is so much to do in Rosarito and Spring Break is the perfect time to visit when the social scene is in full bloom!
Photo Ops. For great Instagram shots, don’t miss taking a few pics at the Rosarito Beach Hotel, built in the 1920’s with an amazing infinity pool and historic mansion. For colorful shots, check out Festival Plaza and the nearby murals that are popping up along Rosarito’s streets.
Rosarito’s Beaches. For a volleyball game or just a stretch to stroll for a Mexican sunset, check out any of the Rosarito beaches. There are great surfing beaches as well as places in the area for scuba, snorkeling, and kayaking. For the less active, Rosarito offers plenty of beaches that are ideal for sunbathing or simply hanging out with friends. The beaches are a major draw for the city’s social scene.
Horseback Riding. Ride along the coast or an area surrounding the city and soak up the Mexican sun.
Rosarito’s Beaches. For a volleyball game or just a stretch to stroll for a Mexican sunset, check out any of the Rosarito beaches. There are great surfing beaches as well as places in the area for scuba, snorkeling, and kayaking. For the less active, Rosarito offers plenty of beaches that are ideal for sunbathing or simply hanging out with friends. The beaches are a major draw for the city’s social scene.
Off-Roading. The Baja Peninsula is famous for its off-roading fun. Plenty of rentals are available, but during Spring Break the demand is high. So, be sure to reserve a rental as soon as you slate it in your itinerary!
Shopping. Check out the popular market for artisan-made goods near the Festival Plaza Hotel, famous shops, and boutiques in the city, or the colorful markets and stores of Rosarito Beach.
Puerto Nuevo. Rosarito is a popular travel destination so it’s filled with incredible places to dine and have a good time. When looking for langostos (lobster), drive fifteen minutes south to the coastal village of Puerto Nuevo. Enjoy lobster prepared in the Puerto Nuevo style over drinks while enjoying the incredible ocean views.
Rock and Roll Taco. Great music and tacos—what more could you want for Spring Break aside from the sunny beaches?! This club is a favorite hangout for people and they are famous for their great food. When you want a nightclub that also boasts great cuisine, consider Rock and Roll Taco.
El Patio. For a traditional Mexican lunch, discover the great food at El Patio. They also have breakfast and it’s the perfect place to start your Rosarito day. Fill up on their Mexican-style omelets before heading to the beaches.
Azteca Restaurant. Located at the Rosarito Beach Hotel, it boasts a luxurious atmosphere and is the perfect place to splurge on a fantastic meal. They feature both traditional and regional Baja fare.
Charly’s Place. A local favorite that is a great place to grab a delicious meal while on-the-go, have lunch during a shopping day, or pop in for a late afternoon meal before heading out to Rosarito’s clubs. The shrimp quesadillas are a favorite!
Papa’s & Beer. One of the biggest clubs on the Baja Peninsula, this venue has nine bars, a state-of-the-art sound system, a volleyball court, and more. This club is a major Rosarito attraction.
Club Animale. When looking to party near the beach, this coastal club offers both an indoor and outdoor experience. Various bars, dancing, and plenty of music make this a popular Rosarito club.
Club Maya. For an upscale night on the town, consider Club Maya and its phenomenal setting. The club is known for its hypnotic Latin music grooved to by throngs of vacationers and travelers searching for the perfect Rosarito nightlife experience. The temple-like décor adds an exotic feel to the atmosphere and the drinks are some of the best in the city.
Make Reservations early! Rosarito Beach boasts many elegant and even budget-friendly accommodations. Inns, bed and breakfasts, hotels, and villa rentals can easily be procured; however, these preferred places often fill up for peak periods like Spring Break so it is important to book as far in advance as possible.
If you are traveling alone… Many inexpensive hotels provide security guards which is a good safety option for those traveling on their own.
Rosarito Beach Hotel. One of the most famous places to stay in Rosarito Beach is the famed Rosarito Beach Hotel. Its resort-like atmosphere is luxurious and it offers various packages for groups. From its fine restaurants to its spa, the Rosarito Beach Hotel is an extraordinary place to stay.
Posada Don Luis Hotel. For Spring Breakers who want a very budget-friendly place to stay, consider the Posada Don Luis Hotel which boasts comfortable rooms, a pool, with a reputation as a service-oriented hotel.
Ensenada makes an excellent choice for tourists who want to experience a bit of everything. Ensenada has a vibrant nightlife, pristine beaches, beautiful spas, wine tastings, and delicious food.
Local Vibe. This Pacific coast city has long been attracting holiday seekers with its stunning beaches and tourist-friendly amenities. A major cruise ship port, Ensenada is filled with incredible shopping venues, amazing restaurants, and beautiful scenery.
Photo Ops. Gorgeous scenery, unsurpassed sunrises, sunsets over the Pacific—There’s a lot of natural beauty to take in and capture here.
Be sure to take some time to enjoy the surfing scene in Ensenada. The breaks command respect and simply watching the waves roll in is a treat. Seeing surfers tear it up is an added bonus.
El Pinacte. You can choose to explore the city of Ensenada or relax on its beaches and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere. For a more adventurous experience, though, head over to El Pinacate. El Pinacate is an intriguing volcanic region with amazing sand dunes and dramatic landscapes.
San Jorge Island. Cruise over to San Jorge Island for some scuba diving and snorkeling fun. There are also lots of options for other nature activities.
Killers. Some of the world’s best surfing is off the coast of Ensenada. These monster waves are favorites among expert surfers. Surfers typically hire a boat in Ensenada’s harbor to take them out to the islands and to Killers.
Even if your skills aren’t up for the big waves at El Martillo, it is worth taking the ferry out to the island just to witness the action. It really is an unbelievable experience. If you have serious surfing experience under your belt, then there is hardly a better place to spend a day with your surfboard. (See Islas de Todos Santos — El Martillo — Killers for more information).
Mahi. We aren’t talking just talking about the fish here. Although you can get that here, too. We are recommending a restaurant, Mahi, that is popular with locals and tourists alike. It won’t disappoint. Delicious, reasonably priced with a nice patio.
Tacos Castillo Fish & Shrimp Tacos. A hip food truck with fish and shrimp tacos about 5-6 blocks off of the Malecón. True to street food tradition, the line is often long but well worth the wait.
Hussong’s Cantina. A historic (The sign above the door says it opened in 1892!) western saloon-style watering hole that is known for its tequila, margaritas, mariachi, and authenticity. Even when the streets of Ensenada are bare, Hussong’s is packed. They are very strict about checking ID; come prepared!
Lodging. Whether you want luxury or simply want to camp near the beach, Ensenada has it. There is everything from RV parks as well as world-class resorts to consider.
The Gateway to the Sea of Cortez, San Felipe is a beautiful seaside city of Baja California. While the state is often well known for its Pacific Coast tourist cities and towns, San Felipe demonstrates how the Sea of Cortez is an amazing destination for enjoying Spring Break on glorious Mexican beaches.
Local Vibe. If clubs dotted along the coast sounds like fun to you, think more seriously about getting in the car or hopping on a plane to make the worthwhile trek to this city. San Felipe is famous for its Spring Break crowds and events. Each year the city looks forward to the throngs who visit for fun in the sun and all manner of water sport.
San Felipe boasts an enchanting air that makes any holiday a memorable one. If you plan to get away for Spring Break, you should consider a visit to this haven full of natural and cultural attractions.
If you’re looking for resorts or hotels filled with people and other sun-seekers, San Felipe has that party atmosphere many Spring Breakers are looking for as well.
Things to do. Spring breakers enjoy hanging out on the beaches all day to soak up the sun, swim, snorkel, sail, or play volleyball. At night, Spring Breakers migrate to dance and enjoy Mexico’s bounty of specialty cocktails at the clubs and bars around the city.
Yet this area also boasts many pristine beaches and nearby settings that offer a peaceful sanctuary—a respite from the rest of the world. Explore the hills and dunes of the beaches or simply stroll along the breathtaking sea.
You’ll also discover that San Felipe has excellent sport fishing to offer and tours that will acquaint visitors with the best the city has to offer in terms of natural attractions.
Other popular things to do around the city include kayaking, scuba diving, off-roading, horseback riding, visiting the shops, and beach combing to name a few. Many of the hotels and resorts also offer fine dining experiences and spas.
Lodging. With renowned accommodations as well as plenty of places to camp or park an RV near the beach, San Felipe is a great place to find a place to suit your style and budget.
RV Parks. There are more than 100 RV-friendly parks throughout Baja California.
Quieter, but just as beautiful as Cabo, San Jose del Cabo offers a relaxing vacation experience. You will find colonial sights, amazing water sports, and plenty of high-end hotels and resorts. If your idea of Spring Break is more about basking on a pristine beach than throwing back cheap beers, this is it. A different flavor of Spring Break in Baja.
“Cabo” is one of the most dazzling regions of the Baja Peninsula. Situated at the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula, Cabo attracts everyone from celebrities to families to college kids. With the Pacific Ocean to its west and the Sea of Cortez to the east, it’s not surprising that sport fishing is
immensely popular during the spring season. Cabo has majestic sea views and world-class hotels and resorts. This tourist town boasts a relaxed atmosphere that is perfect for sun-seekers from all over the globe. If you venture to Cabo, consider chartering a boat to visit El Arco. Also be sure to lounge on the beaches and enjoy fresh seafood. From spa treatments to horseback riding, Cabo San Lucas takes Spring Break in Baja to a different level.
The capital of Baja Sur, La Paz, brims with amazing attractions by land and sea. Lounge on beautiful Balandro Beach or charter a boat to check out the wildlife at Isla Espiritu Santo. Explore the cultural attractions of the city and enjoy the views of its beautiful beaches. La Paz won’t disappoint you.
Just an hour north of Cabo, Todos Santos is a surfing destination that is growing in popularity among vacationers. Not as modern or commercialized as many locations in Baja, but charming, it has a little mountain and a lot of seas. Relax in its calm atmosphere and spend your vacation enjoying waters sports.
People travelling to Mexico seem to fall into one of the following safety camps. Which describes you?
Terrified. The first group are those travelers who are terrified. They have latched on to the worst stories and urban legends that involve vacation tragedies and are certain they will be kidnapped by bandits and never return home.
Invincible. The next camp of Spring Breakers tends to overcompensate for the terrified travelers. They are the invincible ones. They throw all caution to the wind bragging about how they can do whatever they want because everyone is just so kind (or they are so tough) that no one would mess with them.
Our Recommendation — Join the Common-Sense Crew — Read “How to Avoid Legal Hassles & Stay Safe in Mexico on Your Spring Break Trip” below
Ironically, it’s these people that tend to be the safest. They do the smart, common-sense things they would
Northern Mexico knows how to show Spring Breakers a magnificent time. Mexico boasts charming locales and glorious beaches. Yet, like anywhere, travelers must be vigilant about safety. To enhance your stay in Mexico’s sun-drenched cities, be sure to keep these tips in mind during your stay in Mexico.
Travel and Stay in Groups. There seems always to be greater protections in groups. College students, in particular, should embark on their
Spring Break travels together as much as possible. A lone student and especially a lone female may be more likely to be approached or regarded as an easy crime victim. Remaining in a group enhances safety and allows each group member to look out for the others. As a member of a group, individuals are likely to feel less vulnerable and more apt to enjoy their stay in a foreign country. Just because students travel in groups, however, doesn’t mean they should throw caution to the wind and ignore the possibility of crime. Remaining vigilant and in control is an important part of overall safety.
Have Fun but Follow Mexico’s Laws. It’s true you can drink at 18 in Mexico. But if you drive with ANY alcohol on your breath, it is illegal. Just as in the U.S. and many other countries, drunk driving in Mexico is a criminal offense. If you get in an accident while under the influence, your car insurance company will not cover the damages. The national limit for blood-alcohol level is 0.8, although, in some states like Hidalgo, Jalisco, Michoacán, Tamaulipas, Veracruz, Chihuahua, the limit is even lower. Foreigners with drunk driving convictions in the last ten years may even be denied entry to Mexico. Please, drink responsibly.
Be Informed. The U.S. State Department proactively warns travelers of dangerous regions in Mexico as well as other foreign nations. Drug violence, in particular, affects some parts of Mexico. Be sure to understand where these unsafe areas are and avoid traveling to them just as you would in your own home state.
Keep Your Documents and Important Information in Order. Before traveling to Mexico, be sure to copy your passport and leave it with a trusted family member or friend at home. If you lose your passport, this person can help facilitate the replacement process. On that note, be sure to keep the number of the U.S. Consulate on you in the event of this or some other emergency. Also, keep your travel documents, itinerary, MexInsurance®, and passport secure; do not leave them out for hotel staff to peruse. Many high-end hotels can also be helpful to guests in the event of an emergency. Note: Effective January 23, 2007, ALL persons traveling by air or land to the United States must present a valid passport. In lieu of a passport, an Alien Registration Card, form I-551, Air NEXUS card, or U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Document is acceptable. American citizens can visit http://travel.state.gov or call 1-877-4USA-PPT (1-877-487-2778) for information on applying for a U.S. passport. Please see Mexico’s Country Specific Information for complete entry requirements. Get more information on entry requirements here.
Keep Multiple Forms of Money. While it’s always helpful to have some cash on hand, it can become a serious problem in the event of theft.
Instead, diversify your money with travelers’ checks, bank cards, credit cards, and even Mexican currency. Never leave your purse or wallet unattended while at the beach, club, or restaurant. Also, never let anyone see that you have a significant amount of cash on you to avoid becoming a target for theft.
Blend In. If you look like a tourist, you may look attractive to a pickpocket. Try not to dress too flashy or too revealing. Don’t wear a camera around your neck while walking the city streets and don’t peruse your city map within a crowded square. By appearing as if you know where you are going, you aren’t likely to stand out to thieves.
Remember Stranger Danger. Often, students on Spring Break will meet locals or other travelers on Mexico’s sunny beaches or vibrant clubs.
The temptation to join newly met people and head off to other venues or private parties can be great. It’s important to remain in public settings like clubs or restaurants when meeting someone new. It is not a safe idea to be alone with a brand-new acquaintance, to drive in their car, or attend an unknown or non-public venue.
Travel Safe Highways. Be sure to plan your travel itinerary so you know where you are going when you drive into Mexico. Northern
Mexico is large and contains many remote tracts. You don’t want to get lost in the desert and break down with no help in sight. Try to drive on highways where Green Angels are present; Mexico’s Green Angels are funded by Mexico’s Secretary of Tourism and patrol such highways to help travelers in the event of car problems. With a MexInsurance® auto policy, you also have roadside assistance. Don’t hesitate to use it if needed.
Share Your Itinerary Before You Travel; Keep in Contact When You Travel. Be sure your family and trusted friends at home know about your travel plans and have numbers to reach you at hotels, spas, or resorts. If you should suddenly change plans, take time to call home or even send a quick text message alerting your family you’ve decided to take a special day trip, extend your trip, or change your airline. Even if your itinerary does not change, it is a good idea to call or text home periodically to assure family members of your safety and inform them of your whereabouts. Keeping your family informed adds to your overall safety in the event of an emergency.
Use our Border Crossing Checklist (Northbound and Southbound) to make your crossing as painless as possible.
Unless you go beyond the free zone, you’ll just need Mexican Car Insurance (it’s the law). Beyond free-zone you’ll also have to get a TIP (Temporary Import Permit). Read more about that here.
The short answer is…it’s complicated. Here are some of the most important, but confusing, facts about legal cannabis use in Mexico:
Follow the “How to File Claim” instructions. These instructions came in an email when you purchased your policy and are available to download. Your Mexican Car Insurance packet should be printed and put in your glove box. No matter if it’s just a flat tire, or your car breaks down – call the claims hotline! They will send someone out to help you. The same goes for an accident, don’t panic. The insurance company will send legal representation to assist you. The police will be patient for your representative to arrive.
They should contact the closest U.S. Consulate, U.S. Consular Agency, or the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City. U.S. consular officials in Mexico can visit detained American citizens in prison, provide information about the Mexican legal system, and furnish a list of Mexican attorneys, among other assistance. U.S. Consular officials cannot arrange for Mexican officials to release detained American citizens. Keep those numbers handy!
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