Ensenada is a favorite stop for many cruise travelers heading to Mexico’s Pacific coast. What makes it stand out are its diverse options: you can unwind with a couples massage, explore the rugged coastline by kayak, or indulge in wine tasting in the Valle de Guadalupe. We particularly like the Shore Excursion: Ensenada Massage with Add-Ons & Custom Drop-Off for its personalized relaxing experience, and the Kayak Adventure to La Bufadora Blowhole for a dynamic water-based adventure. The variety in tours means there’s something for all, whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or local flavor.
Below, we’ve broken down the best shore excursions in Ensenada into ten options, each with a unique appeal. From short, budget-friendly trips to full-day explorations, this list helps you find the perfect match for your interests and time constraints.
1. Shore Excursion: Ensenada Massage with Add-Ons & Custom Drop-Off
For those craving some serious relaxation, this couples massage offers a seamless experience. Starting with a smooth transfer from the cruise port or downtown, you’ll be whisked to a dedicated massage center. The real draw here is the ability to personalize your treatment—whether you want hot stones, a facial, CBD oil, or aromatherapy, they can customize the session just for you. The massages can be deep tissue, Swedish, or reflexology, with options to extend the appointment or add extra treatments.
What makes this tour stand out is the emphasis on comfort and personalized care, plus the convenience of door-to-door service. The reviews reinforce its quality, with many travelers describing it as “top notch” and “amazing,” and appreciating the seamless communication and friendly staff. It’s ideal for couples looking to unwind after a morning of sightseeing or shopping.
Bottom Line: This is a high-value, relaxing escape that’s perfect if you want to skip the busy tourist spots and indulge in self-care. It’s affordable at $75 per person for roughly two hours, especially considering the flexibility to tailor your treatments.
2. Kayak Adventure to La Bufadora Blowhole – Private Shore Excursion
If you’re craving an active, close-up experience of Ensenada’s most famous natural attraction, kayaking to La Bufadora is a must. This tour includes a guided paddle along the coast, giving you an up-close view of the ocean’s power as the geyser shoots water over 100 feet into the air. The kayak adventure can be tailored to your comfort level—choose the calm estuary for a relaxed paddle or venture into the open waters for a more vigorous experience.
What makes this tour special is its combination of physical activity and natural spectacle. Reviewers mention the friendly guides and the opportunity to get close to the famous blowhole, making it ideal for adventure lovers and families with kids who are comfortable in the water. After paddling, you can explore La Bufadora’s lively flea market and sample some of Ensenada’s best tacos.
Value: For $144, it’s a bit pricier but offers a memorable, hands-on experience that combines nature and activity. It’s best suited for those who enjoy outdoor sports and want a more unique perspective of Ensenada.
Bottom Line: Kayaking to La Bufadora offers a lively, memorable connection with the coast. Perfect for active travelers willing to get a little wet in exchange for front-row views.
3. Private Horseback Beach + Bufadora Shore Excursion
Looking for a personalized adventure? This private horseback ride near La Bufadora combines the thrill of riding along the beach with exploring mountain trails to Echo Canyon. The tour includes a hassle-free transfer from Ensenada, making logistics smooth. The ride is suitable for all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced riders, and you can choose your route—beach or mountain trail.
The highlight is the intimate experience, with your own guide ensuring personalized attention. After riding, you’ll have free time for shopping, tasting tequila, or enjoying the scenery. The stop at La Bufadora allows for a couple of hours to browse the flea market and enjoy local eats, including tacos and artisan cheeses. Some tours include an optional massage, which can be booked beforehand for added relaxation.
Reviews praise the professionalism of guides like Jose Luis and the “great experience” of riding along the beach. The tour is perfect for families, couples, or groups seeking a relaxed, exclusive experience.
Value: At $117 per person for 4-5 hours, this is a good deal for an all-inclusive, private experience that combines nature, culture, and local flavors.
Bottom Line: If you want an exclusive, flexible tour that combines equestrian fun with sightseeing, this horseback ride is a top choice.
4. ATV Off Road Adventure Shore Excursion Optional Taco Stop
For adrenaline junkies, this ATV Off Road Adventure hits the mark. It takes you through Las Canadas Park’s rugged tracks, surrounded by lush jungle scenery. You’ll enjoy about an hour of quad biking, which is a great way to see a different side of Ensenada—more wild and less touristy.
The tour includes a stop at a street food stand where you can refuel with tasty tacos, adding a local flavor to your adventure. The guide will drop you off at your cruise ship or any preferred downtown location afterward. It’s geared toward all ages 16 and over, making it suitable for families with teens or solo travelers seeking high-energy fun.
Reviewers love the mix of scenic views, dirt, and dust, noting the guide’s friendly service and the fun of riding through the landscape. The tour costs $119 and offers excellent value for those after an active experience.
Bottom Line: This excursion is best for adventure seekers who love off-road driving and want to combine it with local street food.
5. Ensenada Shore Excursion: Blowhole and La Bufadora Tour with Horseback Riding
This full-day tour combines some of Ensenada’s top sights: horseback riding, La Bufadora, and downtown shopping. Starting with a ride along the beach, you’ll then visit La Bufadora, where the blowhole shoots water over 100 feet into the air—a spectacular sight. Afterward, you’ll have time to browse the local market, pick up souvenirs, and taste local tequila.
This trip offers a balanced mix of outdoor activities, natural wonders, and cultural browsing. The horseback ride is on the beach, and the entire day is carefully scheduled to maximize your sightseeing time. The reviews highlight the professionalism of guides like Jose Luis and the fun of riding near the coast.
Value: At $168, it’s a longer, more comprehensive experience that offers good value for a full day of activities, especially for those wanting a well-rounded tour.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting an all-in-one day of outdoor fun, scenic views, and shopping.
6. Shore Excursion Ensenada: Tuk Tuk and Horseback Beach Ride
This lively tour combines a tuk tuk ride through Ensenada with a horseback ride along Playa Hermosa Beach. It’s ideal for those who want to see the city in style and enjoy some local flavor. The tuk tuk, a motorized rickshaw, whisks you past landmarks like the Cathedral de la Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe and the bustling flea market.
The highlight is the 40-minute horseback ride on the beach, giving you a chance to connect with the ocean in a fun and relaxed way. The tour includes alcoholic beverages, making it especially popular for adult travelers. The guide is friendly and knowledgeable, making sure you see the best sights without feeling rushed.
Reviewers love the fun of riding in a tuk tuk and the easy pace of the trip. It’s perfect for those who want a quick, lively overview of Ensenada combined with some beach riding.
Value: At $160.63, it’s a bit more expensive but offers a unique city and beach experience in just two hours.
Bottom Line: A fun, casual tour for those wanting a quick, energetic way to see Ensenada, with the bonus of a beach horseback ride.
$160.63 per person
7. Ensenada Shore Excursion: Wine and Cheese Tour with Lunch in Ojos Negros Valley
For wine lovers, this half-day tour offers the joy of tasting regional wines and cheeses. You’ll visit the San Rafael winery, where you can sample three wines while learning about local winemaking. Then, a stop at Rancho Ramonetti’s cheese cave allows you to taste six artisan cheeses paired with bread, fruits, and olive oil.
The tour includes a relaxed lunch with a glass of wine at Rancho Ramonetti, adding a culinary touch to your day. Reviewers mention the quiet vineyards and the high quality of the tastings, describing it as “like visiting Napa 50 years ago.” The tour costs $235 per person, making it a good choice for those who want to enjoy a more refined, tasting-focused experience.
Value: The price reflects the quality of tastings, lunch, and private transport. It’s most suited for travelers seeking a leisurely, gourmet experience.
Bottom Line: This is perfect for wine and cheese enthusiasts wanting a scenic, uncrowded taste of Baja’s viticulture.
8. Ensenada Shore Excursion: Entre Santos and El Cielo Winery Tours with Lunch
This longer, private wine tour takes you to two wineries in Valle de Guadalupe, including Entre Santos and El Cielo. The tour features seven wine tastings and a gourmet lunch at a winery restaurant, making it ideal for those wanting an immersive experience. You’ll learn about the wine-making process from grape to glass, then enjoy the scenic vineyards.
The guide is known for personalized service, and reviews highlight the friendly, engaging atmosphere. The tour is best suited for wine aficionados with a few hours to spare, as it lasts around six hours. The cost is $166 per person, which includes tastings, lunch, and transport.
Bottom Line: This trip offers a comprehensive wine experience for dedicated enthusiasts who value in-depth tasting and a scenic drive through Baja’s wine country.
$166.00 per person
9. Ensenada Shore Excursion: City Tour & La Bufadora
This shorter, more economical tour combines a quick city overview with a visit to La Bufadora. Starting with a drive through downtown Ensenada, you then visit the famous blowhole, which shoots water over 100 feet into the air. The tour includes free time for shopping and exploring the market afterward.
It’s a straightforward option for those with limited time but still wanting to see La Bufadora and enjoy some local browsing. The reviews are mixed but note that your guide will handle all logistics, making it a hassle-free choice. It’s priced at $81, making it a budget-friendly way to see one of Ensenada’s top sights.
Value: Good for travelers on a tight schedule who want a quick taste of Ensenada’s natural and cultural sights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a brief, worry-free visit that hits the highlights without breaking the bank.
$81.00 per person
10. Pvt Wine Tastings + Cheese Store + Massage Shore Excursion
This private, personalized tour combines wine tasting, a stop at a cheese and jam shop, and a relaxing 60-minute massage. It’s designed for those wanting a mix of local food, drinks, and pampering, all within 5-6 hours. The tour includes visits to Don Tomas Vinedo and La Casa de Dona Lupe, sampling artisan cheeses and wines along the way.
The massage is a highlight, with options for hot stones or deep tissue, adding a soothing end to your day. Reviewers mention the scenic vineyards and friendly guides making the experience memorable. The cost is $149 per person, offering a good balance of indulgence and sightseeing.
Value: This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, relaxed day with a focus on local flavors and wellness.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking a personalized, leisurely experience that combines wine, food, and relaxation.
$149.00 per person
How to Choose
When choosing a shore excursion in Ensenada, consider your interests and how much time you want to spend ashore. If relaxation tops your list, the Couples Massage offers a peaceful escape. Adventure seekers might prefer the kayak trip, while wine enthusiasts will find the Valle de Guadalupe tours perfect for savoring Baja’s vineyards.
Budget travelers may opt for the shorter City & La Bufadora tour, while those wanting a more exclusive experience might choose the private horseback or wine-and-cheese tours. Keep in mind logistics—some tours include hotel pickup, others require you to meet at specific spots. Booking early is wise, especially for popular tours during peak cruise season.
To sum it up, Ensenada offers a rich mix of experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you’re after serenity, adventure, or gourmet delights, you’ll find options that fit your style. Consider your time, interests, and budget, and then book ahead to secure your perfect shore day. Whether you prefer a relaxing massage, a wild ATV ride, or tasting Baja’s finest wines, there’s plenty to explore in this lively port.