Riviera del Pacífico: For a slice of Ensenada history, walk the grounds of the former Playa Ensenada Hotel and Casino, once run by American boxer Jack Dempsey, and now the city’s cultural center.

Valle de Guadalupe and the Ruta del Vino: Taste Mexico’s finest vintages at the growing number of boutique wineries in the rural Valle de Guadalupe along Mexico 3 between Ensenada and Tecate.

La Bufadora: One of the more touristy attractions in northern Baja, this blowhole is an easy excursion from Ensenada. Visitors congregate around the top of a cavern to watch spumes shoot 100 feet in the air.

Islas de Todos Santos: In winter, take a boat from Ensenada or San Miguel out to Islas de Todos Santos to watch surfers tackle waves that can measure three stories high.

Clamming Along Bahía San Quintín: Digging for giant pismo clams is a popular pastime among locals who live along this Pacific Ocean bay. Use your hands, or bring a pitchfork to harvest your catch of the day.