Ensenada is a fantastic destination for those looking to explore Mexico’s vibrant beverage scene. This port city offers a mix of high-end wine tastings, lively beachside bars, and quirky vegan-friendly spots. What makes these tours special is their local flavor and personalized experiences. For example, the Valle de Guadalupe winery and brewery tours let you customize your day among some of Mexico’s best vineyards, while the Beach and Bar Experience offers a laid-back day soaking up sun and sipping cocktails right by the ocean. If you’re into a more conscious choice, the No Meat, Just Heat Vegan Bar Hop combines plant-based eats with innovative drinks, curated for quality and hospitality. These options show just how diverse Ensenada’s drinking scene can be, catering to wine lovers, beach bums, and health-conscious travelers alike.
Quick Overview
Our list features three top-rated drinking experiences: a private Valle de Guadalupe winery and brewery tour that covers the best spots in the region, a Beach and Bar Experience perfect for relaxing in the sun, and a Vegan Bar Hop focused on plant-based eats and drinks. Each offers a different way to enjoy Ensenada’s local libations, whether you prefer tasting world-class wines, lounging with a cocktail, or exploring vegan-friendly venues. Read on to find out which one suits your style.
1. Valle de Guadalupe winery and brewery tours
At number one, the Valle de Guadalupe winery and brewery tours stands out for its personalized approach. This private experience from Tijuana costs around $450 for your group of up to 12 people and lasts roughly 10 hours. The beauty of this tour is the flexibility: you can choose which wineries and restaurants to visit, from artisanal producers to renowned brands, and combine it with scenic viewpoints and local eats. You won’t be stuck on a rigid schedule; instead, your guide — Alfredo or Ricardo, who are praised for their friendliness and knowledge — will tailor the day to your preferences.
What makes this tour truly special is the ability to craft your own itinerary. Whether you want to focus on tasting crisp whites, bold reds, or exploring the boutique breweries, you can make the most of your time in the Guadalupe Valley. Many reviews highlight the fun, safety, and ease of being driven around in a clean, comfortable van. Guests also appreciate the insider tips and spontaneous stops, like a last-minute taco break in Tijuana. The value is high considering the private, customizable nature of the tour and its inclusion of top wineries and eateries.
Bottom line: If you appreciate flexibility and personalized attention, this private tour offers a rich, relaxed way to explore Mexico’s premier wine region. It’s best suited for groups wanting a tailored, stress-free day with excellent local insights.
2. Ensenada: Beach and Bar Experience
Number two on our list is the Ensenada: Beach and Bar Experience, a shorter, more casual outing priced at $169 per person and lasting about 2.5 hours. This tour is perfect if you’re craving a quick escape to the ocean, with the highlight being a refreshing margarita on the beach at Fracc Zona Playitas. It’s all about relaxation: soaking up the sun, feeling the ocean breeze, and watching kids splash in the waves while you unwind on the sand.
Transportation is included, making it easy to get from Ensenada to the beach. It’s an uncomplicated way to enjoy Mexico’s coastal vibe without the commitment of a full-day tour. This experience appeals to travelers who want a straightforward, fun break from sightseeing, combining good drinks with some well-deserved downtime.
While it doesn’t offer the depth of a wine tour, it hits the mark for those wanting a relaxed day on the sand with a classic cocktail in hand. If your idea of a good day involves less planning and more lounging, this is a solid choice.
Bottom line: Ideal for beach lovers seeking a quick, warm, and breezy escape with excellent views, casual drinks, and family-friendly fun.
$169 per person
3. No Meat, Just Heat Ensenada Vegan Bar Hop
Tied for third, the No Meat, Just Heat Vegan Bar Hop is a curated experience priced at $106 per person, lasting about 2 to 3 hours. This tour is unique because every stop has been carefully vetted for food safety, customer service, and quality. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy plant-based cuisine paired with inventive cocktails. The journey begins at Plaza Contenedores, where you can indulge in delicious vegan dishes like mushroom-based creations while hearing the soothing sound of waves.
From there, the tour moves to Ensenada’s top bars and wineries, with a tailored tasting experience that can include everything from bold wines to craft beers and colorful cocktails. This is more than just a bar crawl; it’s a thoughtful blend of vegan eats, high standards, and local stories. Many reviews note the warm hospitality and excellent food presentation, making it a safe and enjoyable option for health-conscious travelers or those wanting to explore Ensenada’s vibrant beverage scene from a different angle.
This tour is best suited for those who care about sustainability, health, and quality over quantity. Since it’s a curated experience, it guarantees a high standard of food and drink, but it may not be ideal for those seeking a large group or wild party atmosphere.
Bottom line: Perfect for vegans, health-conscious travelers, and anyone who appreciates carefully curated food and drink in a relaxed setting.
$106.00 per person
How to Choose
Choosing between these tours depends on what kind of experience you’re after. If you want a personalized, in-depth exploration of Mexico’s premier wine region, the Valle de Guadalupe winery and brewery tour is your best bet. For a quick, relaxing beach day with a margarita, the Beach and Bar Experience hits the spot. And if you’re into plant-based food and creative cocktails, the Vegan Bar Hop offers a curated, high-quality tasting journey.
Think about your priorities: a full-day wine adventure or a short beach break? Budget more time or prefer a quick outing? Booking early is wise, especially for the private wine tours, which tend to fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Ensenada offers a surprisingly wide range of drinking tours, whether you’re into sophisticated wine tastings, casual beachside drinks, or health-focused bar hopping. For a comprehensive day among top wineries, the private Valle de Guadalupe winery and brewery tours is hard to beat, especially if you value flexibility and personalized service. If you want a laid-back day in the sun, the Beach and Bar Experience will give you that relaxing coastal vibe. And for those seeking a plant-based twist, the Vegan Bar Hop provides a thoughtful, tasty exploration of Ensenada’s best vegan-friendly spots.
No matter which tour you pick, booking ahead will ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences. Ensenada’s diverse drinking scene makes it easier than ever to enjoy good drinks and great company — just plan your day and raise your glass.