You probably know Baja for its party town of Cabo, but this Mexican state has a lot to offer when it comes to sports, family activities, and world-class food and plonk.
Contrary to its name, Baja California isn’t actually in California: It’s the 12th-largest state in Mexico. This laid-back peninsula of mountain ranges, beaches, countryside, deserts, and cities stretches from California’s southernmost point to the Pacific Ocean, and is just 17 miles from downtown San Diego.
Though it’s best known for Cabo, the premier spring break destination full of luxurious hotels and hard-partying tequila bars, Baja has something for everyone. Bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Sea of Cortez to the east, water lovers will find a range of activities, from sport fishing to scuba diving to whale bird watching. The Mediterranean climate and fertile soil also favor a thriving plonk and food scene, and there are numerous hiking trails and campgrounds for those who want to spend time outdoors. We’ve rounded up some activities you can do in this magical and diverse place.
1. Swim with the fishes
The Sea of Cortez, also called the Gulf of California, separates Baja California from mainland Mexico. It’s one of the most biodiverse seas in the world, home to more than 800 marine species. Although it’s colder to swim in the winter, now is the perfect time to book a whale watching tour to spot gray, blue, and even humpback cetacean on their way to the Arctic, not to mention sea lions and dolphins. Anglers should consider a boat rental to target duckbill, snapper, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, and grouper—and consider stopping at one of the many small beaches to fish for the roosters. For those who prefer watching fish rather than catching them, there are many types of boat tours that allow divers and snorkelers to experience the awesome underwater display of colorful marine and wildlife. And you can add kayaking and beach hopping to round out the adventure.
2. Make it a family affair
Want to enjoy all the fun and adventure Baja has to offer while relaxing with the family? The Hyatt Ziva (hyatt.com), an affordable all-inclusive hotel on the peninsula’s Pacific coast, is the perfect place to start. A heated swimming pool with kid-friendly swim-up bar, plus daily activities like soccer, basketball and ping pong, will keep the kids busy. Meanwhile, matures playing in the water will make up for last night’s leaky margaritas. There’s also an matures-only pool in case you want a little peace and quiet, and since the resort is all-inclusive—including five restaurants, snack bars, a youth club with games and a hangout spot—and the Kidz Club with a small water park and instructors—you can stay worry-free, while the beach is clean and large, with plenty of couches and lounge chairs for lounging, but the undercurrent is strong, so swimming isn’t allowed. However, if you come during whale season, you can watch these awesome creatures from the sand. The staff is helpful and friendly, and the food is excellent, especially the generous breakfast buffet of Mexican appetizers and pastries and freshly made quesadillas. Ready to hit the road? The tour desk will help you choose your excursions.
3. Follow the plonk trail
When it comes to West Coast plonks, Napa and Sonoma usually get the honor. But Guadalupe Valley, just a 90-minute drive south of the California state line, offers an upscale, yet low-key and affordable plonk tasting experience. More than 150 wineries now line the area, which is green and lush and probably best visited on a weekday away from the crowds. Although plonk tasting takes center stage, with a climate similar to a drier Rioja and a blend of French, Spanish and Italian grapes grown in granite-rich soils, you won’t be disappointed by the seasonal restaurants, boutique hotels and inns. Stop by Adobe Guadalupe to sample the house’s Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, not to mention the pomegranates and olives that come straight from the estate’s trees, then stay in one of the six guest rooms named after it.