Playas de Rosarito Travel Guide

Discover everything you need to know about Playas de Rosarito in Baja California, Mexico. From cultural and natural attractions to food, lodging, and transportation, this guide has it all.


Introduction to Playas de Rosarito

Located in Baja California, Mexico, Playas de Rosarito is a vibrant coastal town renowned for its pristine beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and wide range of attractions. Whether you’re a solo traveler seeking adventure or a family looking to relax and unwind, Playas de Rosarito has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Playas de Rosarito

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Rosarito Art Fest: A popular annual event that celebrates local artists and their work.
  • Rosarito Beach Hotel: A historic landmark known for its stunning architecture and luxurious accommodations.
  • Casa de la Cultura: A cultural center that showcases and promotes local art, music, and dance.

Natural Attractions of Playas de Rosarito: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Playas de Rosarito Beach: A beautiful stretch of sandy beach with crystal-clear waters and excellent surfing conditions.
  • Las Rocas Resort & Spa: A stunning oceanfront resort that boasts breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
  • Puerto Nuevo: A charming fishing village famous for its delicious lobster dishes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Playas de Rosarito

  • Los Osos Trail: A scenic route that offers panoramic views of the ocean and the surrounding mountains.
  • Rancho Montes de Oro: A popular trail that takes hikers through lush green canyons and past impressive rock formations.

Best Things to Do in Playas de Rosarito: Activities and Tours

  • Whale Watching Tours: A chance to see majestic whales up close and personal.
  • Horseback Riding on the Beach: An unforgettable experience that lets you explore the stunning coastline on horseback.
  • ATV Tours: An exciting way to explore the rugged terrain and breathtaking landscapes of Baja California.

Week-Long Itinerary for Playas de Rosarito

Day Activities
Day 1 Relax at the Beach
Day 2 Hike the Los Osos Trail
Day 3 Take a Whale Watching Tour
Day 4 Visit Puerto Nuevo for Lobster Lunch
Day 5 Go Horseback Riding on the Beach
Day 6 Explore Rosarito’s Art and Culture Scene
Day 7 Enjoy ATV Tours in the Mountains

Food and Drink Scene of Playas de Rosarito

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster Tacos: A local favorite, these tacos are filled with fresh lobster meat and topped with salsa and avocado.
  • Fish Tacos: Another popular dish, these tacos are made with fresh, locally-caught fish and served with a variety of toppings.
  • Carne Asada: A delicious dish made with grilled steak, served with rice, beans, and tortillas.

Local Beverages

  • Margaritas: A classic Mexican cocktail made with tequila, lime juice, and triple sec.
  • Micheladas: A refreshing beer cocktail made with lime juice, tomato juice, and spices.
  • Mexican Craft Beer: Playas de Rosarito is known for its excellent craft beer scene, with many local breweries offering a wide range of beers.

Where to Stay in Playas de Rosarito: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Rosarito Beach Hotel: A historic landmark known for its stunning architecture and luxurious accommodations.
  • Las Rocas Resort & Spa: A stunning oceanfront resort that boasts breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
  • Rosarito Inn: A cozy and affordable hotel located in the heart of Playas de Rosarito.

What to Buy in Playas de Rosarito: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade Crafts: Playas de Rosarito is home to many talented artisans who create beautiful handmade crafts such as pottery, textiles, and jewelry.
  • Mexican Candy and Snacks: Take home some of the local flavors and indulge in some sweet treats and savory snacks.
  • Local Wine: Baja California is known for its excellent wine, so be sure to pick up a bottle or two to enjoy or share with friends and family back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Playas de Rosarito

Playas de Rosarito is an incredibly welcoming and friendly town, with locals eager to share their culture and traditions with visitors. Here are some customs to keep in mind:

  • Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of local customs and traditions, such as greeting elderly people first and removing your shoes before entering someone’s home.
  • Learn Some Spanish: While many locals speak English, it’s always appreciated when visitors make an effort to communicate in Spanish.
  • Be Friendly and Open-Minded: Playas de Rosarito is full of friendly and welcoming people, so don’t be shy to strike up a conversation or ask for recommendations.

Best Time to Visit Playas de Rosarito

The best time to visit Playas de Rosarito is from May to October, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the water is perfect for swimming and surfing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Playas de Rosarito

Do:

  • Try Local Cuisine: Playas de Rosarito is famous for its delicious seafood and local wine, so be sure to indulge in some of the local flavors.
  • Explore the Outdoors: With its stunning natural scenery, Playas de Rosarito is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Experience Local Culture: Take advantage of the town’s many cultural attractions, such as museums and art festivals.

Don’t:

  • Leave Valuables Unattended: While Playas de Rosarito is a safe town, it’s always a good idea to keep your valuables close by and locked away.
  • Throw Trash on the Beach: Help keep Playas de Rosarito’s beaches clean by disposing of your trash properly.
  • Disrespect Local Culture: Always be respectful of local customs and traditions, and ask permission before taking pictures of people or religious sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Playas de Rosarito

Playas de Rosarito is generally a safe town, but visitors should still take precautions to ensure their safety:

  • Avoid Traveling Alone at Night: Stick to well-lit areas and avoid walking alone at night.
  • Use Trusted Transportation: Only take taxis or ride-sharing services from trusted sources.
  • Be Mindful of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings and be aware of any suspicious activity.

Health in Playas de Rosarito

Visitors to Playas de Rosarito should take standard precautions to ensure their health and well-being:

  • Drink Bottled Water: It’s recommended that visitors drink bottled water rather than tap water.
  • Protect Yourself from the Sun: With its sunny weather, it’s important to protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen and a hat.
  • Pack Medications and First Aid Kit: Bring any necessary medications and a first aid kit in case of emergencies.

Getting to Playas de Rosarito: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Playas de Rosarito

The closest airport to Playas de Rosarito is Tijuana International Airport, located approximately 25 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Playas de Rosarito

Many visitors arrive in Playas de Rosarito by bus, with two main bus stations in the town:

  • Central Camionera de Playas: A popular bus station that connects Playas de Rosarito with nearby cities such as Tijuana and Ensenada.
  • Hotel Festival Plaza: Another popular bus station located in the heart of Playas de Rosarito.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Playas de Rosarito by car, with major highways such as the Tijuana-Ensenada Scenic Road running through the town.

How to Get Around in Playas de Rosarito

There are many transportation options to get around in Playas de Rosarito:

  • Taxis: Taxis are widely available and are typically affordable, but it’s important to negotiate the fare in advance.
  • Rented Cars: Many visitors choose to rent cars to explore the town and surrounding areas.
  • Buses: Buses are a popular and affordable way to get around Playas de Rosarito and connect with nearby towns and cities.

Where to Go Next from Playas de Rosarito: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Ensenada: Located just over an hour’s drive away, Ensenada is a vibrant coastal town known for its stunning beaches, excellent seafood, and vineyards.
  • Tijuana: Just a short drive away, Tijuana is a bustling city with a unique culture, delicious food, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
  • Valle de Guadalupe: Located approximately two hours from Playas de Rosarito, this wine region is famous for its vineyards, delicious food, and stunning scenery.

Conclusion

From beautiful beaches and outdoor adventures to cultural attractions and delicious food, Playas de Rosarito has something for everyone. With this comprehensive guide, visitors can make the most of their trip and experience all that this vibrant town has to offer.

Rosarito Beach Rosarito Beach