Thirty-five minutes from the U.S. border, the coastal city of Rosarito lies on the Pacific Ocean in the Mexican state of Baja California. Its proximity to San Diego, California, and Tijuana make it a popular destination for visitors. Though set in the foothills of the Peninsular Ranges, Rosarito enjoys a more uniform terrain than other locations on the peninsula. Its wide range of activities and city life makes it an attractive destination for many holiday seekers crossing the border into Mexico.
Geography of Rosarito, Baja California
Situated among the foothills of the region’s Peninsular Ranges, Rosarito boasts both the charms of the sea and the surrounding desert. Because its terrain is more even than other regional cities, Rosarito boasts incredible off-roading topography that is popular with tourists. Its beaches are noted for their extraordinary scenery and the waters off the coast are rich with sport fish, whales, and other ocean life. As one of the Baja Peninsula’s most naturally scenic landscapes, it attracts many eco-lovers and sun-seeking travelers each year.
The climate is sometimes compared to a Mediterranean climate. Its waters are full of marine life—most notably sport fish and migrating whales.
The History of Rosarito
The region of Rosarito Beach, like much of the peninsula, was home to hunting and gathering peoples thousands of years ago. Their semi-nomadic life slowly gave way to a semi-agricultural one. Later, tribes were known to practice a semi-nomadic way of life with agriculture. Little is known about the earliest Mesoamerican people to roam here as hunters and gathers. The Spanish discovered the peninsula in 1535; however, they would not colonize the region for some centuries later. This is due to its rugged terrain, lack of adequate freshwater supplies, and hostile Native Americans who oppose Spanish subjugation. It would take centuries before the missionaries took firm root in the peninsula and still longer for the indigenous people to assimilate.
In 1825, the first ranch finally sprouted up in Rosarito. After many decades of settlement, Rosarito was finally officially established in 1885. Though it remained a suburb of Tijuana for most of the twentieth century, it finally gained city status in its own right in 1995. The development resulted in high-rise hotels and a plethora of tourist venues that attract throngs from far and wide.
Tourism
Rosarito is one of Baja California’s most popular destinations. It’s an easy drive from the border for tourists who comes to Rosarito for its attractive beaches, warm climate, and pleasant atmosphere. Activities like sport fishing, whale watching, off-roading, camping, kayaking, and scuba are famous in Rosarito. From luxury resorts to RV parks, Rosarito boasts a wide array of accommodations for all tastes and budgets. In fact, its more than twenty-five resorts are adept and showing visitors Rosarito’s brand of Mexican fun. From the ocean to the city’s shops and cultural venues, there are many things to love about this northern Mexican city.
Things to See and Do in Rosarito
Puerto Nuevo
This traditional lobster village is one of the most popular stops for people visiting Rosarito and Baja North in general. Famous for fresh lobster doused in butter and fried. There is no better place on the peninsula to experience such fine food paired with such simple and authentically Mexican hospitality. Click here for more information on visiting Puerto Nuevo.
Christ of the Sacred Heart
This statue of Christ is a notable landmark on a hill to the south of the city.
El Museo at Festival Plaza
If you ever want to learn about Rattlesnake Tequila or even try some, come here. Find out about the region’s tequila history and taste some authentic and locally made brew.
Horseback Riding
Enjoy the beaches of Rosarito on horseback. You’ll love the freedom you feel as the sea breeze spurs on you and your horse from one coastal stretch to the next. The hills and coastal regions are ideal for riding horses. Many tourists set aside time to ride through one of the local stables.
ATV Rental
Off-roading is incredibly popular in Rosarito. Rentals require drivers to be at least eighteen years of age. Rosarito attracts many off-roading enthusiasts. You’ll love blasting in and around sand dunes on rented vehicles or your own.
Water Sport
Swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, and even surfing are popular pastimes on the long Rosarito stretch of coast.
Sport Fishing
Many people come to experience the exciting sport fishing scene. Charter a boar or fish right from the Rosarito Pier.
Shopping
A lot shopping venues particularly along Juarez Boulevard. Many tourists enjoy shopping the city for its stores of ceramics, jewelry, and leather goods.
The Rosarito Beach Hotel
As one of the most iconic hotels of the Baja Peninsula, the hotel is well worth checking out. The hotel sponsors various arts and cultural events and is a hub for city entertainment. This Art Deco-era hotel was built in 1925. It is one of the most iconic hotels on the Baha Peninsula and hosts a wide array of events throughout the year.
The Boardwalk
Leading from the Rosarito Beach Hotel toward the sea, this boardwalk is the perfect place to enjoy an ocean view. Come at sunset and take some postcard-worthy photos.
Rosarito-Ensenada Bike Ride
This ride, scheduled in May of this year, will be as exciting to ride as previous trips; in fact, it may be more exciting than usual since part of the road connecting Rosarito and Ensenada collapsed. Bikers will simply have to take the detour which still promises plenty of fun. Click here to learn more about this exciting bicycle event.
Benito Juárez Boulevard
This two-mile stretch is the main boulevard of the city. Visitors should check out the tequila shops as well as the great souvenirs that can be found at bargain prices.
Surfing Near Rosarito
Surfing is popular on the beaches in and around Rosarito. If you don’t surf, it’s enjoyable to kick back on the beach and watch the surfers in action. Click here to learn more about Surfing in Baja.
Beach Volleyball
The beaches are truly the hot spot of the city and the beach volleyball action gets even hotter when crowds come to cheer on the players.
Spa Treatment
Rosarito has a plethora of spas that attract vacationers who come to town for some rest and rejuvenation. Book a treatment at a world-class spa the next time you’re in town.
Eat
Rosarito has a myriad of delicious eateries, but fresh fish tacos are always in season! Enjoy some regional specialties while vacationing in Rosarito.
Watch the Whales
Many whale-watching excursions are launched out of Rosarito. Witness the enchanting whale migration is an eco-activity you’ll likely never forget. Click here to learn more about whale watching in Baja California.
Golf
The Real del Mar attracts sun-loving golfers to Rosarito Beach. Enjoy the weather as you golf during your Rosarito holiday.
Dance Rosarito
The club scene in Rosarito is particularly hopping. Check out the clubs near the beach for a fun-filled evening of dancing and live music.
Para-Sailing
For some of the best views of the sea, head skyward! Para-sailing has become a popular activity among visitors to Rosarito.
Snorkeling
Like many of the Baja Peninsula’s beaches, snorkeling is a popular pastime. Explore the shallows as you soak up the Mexican sun.
Soak Up the Culture
Visit the town’s historical museum or experience the life of the cafes to appreciate some of the city’s local culture and customs. The region has a long history and many visitors enjoy learning about the Baja Peninsula of the past.
Xploration
Formerly owned by Fox Studios, this venue was the scene of movies like Titanic and Master and Commander. Explore the studio and learn how these sea-going films were made.
Beachcomb Rosarito
Every beach has its own character and its own particular charms. The best way to get to know Rosarito’s beaches is to explore each one.
Once you experience Rosarito’s many charms, chances are you’ll want to visit again and again. Its convenient proximity to the U.S. and many attractions make it one of Baja California’s most popular resort towns.
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