8 Things To Do In Rosarito: Your Next San Diego Road Trip

When I first moved to San Diego, of course I was aware that Mexico was within driving distance,  but I was only really aware of Tijuana. It wasn’t until a few months in that my eyes were opened up to the beach town of Rosarito, the lobster haven of Puerto Nuevo and the wine loving mountain towns of Ensenada. So if you’re here because you’re looking for reasons to visit these lesser known towns in Mexico or for things to do in Rosarito, you’ve come to the right place.

Stay in a Place that Should Cost A Lot More

Mexico is cheap and in Rosarito you won’t find any big resorts like you would in Cancun or Playa del Carmen. Rosarito is more “Mexico” than the resort towns you usually visit, which are pretty much American colonies. Here’s a place I stayed in Rosarito, which is right on the beach with 3 bedrooms and costs only 134/night. Book using this link to get a $40 credit.

Take Advantage of the Beach

Heading to the beach is probably on the top of your list of things to do in Rosarito. Of course you could take in the normal beach activities like sunbathing, surfing and swimming. Only this time you’ll be fending off a few of the locals that would like to braid your hair, sell you jewelry, or give you henna tattoos. It may sound annoying, but after a few margaritas, you’ll be wanting those braids, that jewelry, and those henna tattoos.

Rent an ATV

Thats right, you can rent an ATV or even ride horses right on the beach. There is no need for exercise in Rosarito.

Eat Your Weight in Seafood

It’s no surprise that eating is at the top of our list of things to do in Rosarito. Puerto Nuevo is known as lobster row, and you could sit down for a gigantic lobster feast for a lot cheaper than you would in San Diego.

If you’re heading to Nuevo, visit Popotla, a fish market with beachfront dining. This is the kind of place where you can point, pay and eat a number of items including crab, clams, lobster, and whatever other seafood you may be craving.

And Then Fill Up On Tacos

The last time I was leaving Mexico and preparing for the 4 hour traffic line, we made a pit stop at Tacos Manuel. Tacos Manuel may just look like a simple roadside shack, but the tacos are unreal. Stop for a few on your way out. I guarantee they are better than whatever garbage you’ll end up buying in the traffic line. Don’t get the Tostilocos. Just don’t. 

PS. I’ve also heard great things about Tacos El Yaqui and El Sabroso Taco Shop.

Party at Papas and Beer

If you’ve heard of Rosarito, you’ve heard of Papas and Beer. It’s an enormous bar right on the beach of Rosarito with all you can drink wristbands and cheesy on stage contests. It’s a great time, just don’t go sober and don’t try to ride a horse back to your Airbnb like I did. Club Iggy’s is also a popular party location with a pool.

Do Your Christmas Shopping

Shopping through the crazy maze of Mexican merchants isn’t only great for the Mexican economy, it’s great for your wallet. I picked up a ton of souvineers there for 3x less than I would have paid in the states. If you’re into home decor, this place has all the pottery, ceramic skulls, leather and art that you could possibly need. If not, hey there’s also Cuban cigars, tons of leather, and various pharmaceuticals available.

Head to the Mountains for Wine Tasting

There’s a number of large upscale wineries in nearby in Ensenada that I highly recommend visiting. Not only are the views fantastic, but Ensenada is one of the oldest wine producing regions in the Americas. It’s best to find a local driver or tour (which is pretty affordable considering it’s Mexico).

Have anything to add to our list of things to do in Rosarito? Leave a comment below!