Is Ensenada expensive to visit?
Ensenada is a popular city among visitors with a wide range of travel styles and spending habits. You'll find a wide array of accommodation options, such as luxury hotels, mid-range places, or budget-friendly hostels.
If you're not cautious, Ensenada can become costly, but you can save with strategies like eating at less expensive restaurants and exploring on foot.
On average, budget travelers spend $41 (MX$837) per day, mid-range travelers spend $105 (MX$2,111) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $262 (MX$5,292) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Ensenada.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Ensenada is a very affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 10% of cities in North America for its affordability. Very few cities in the region are as affordable as Ensenada.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Ensenada Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Ensenada?
The average Ensenada trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Ensenada travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Ensenada cost?
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to be realistic about your budget for Ensenada. Many assume they can visit on a shoestring, but most travelers find that to be very challenging. Think about what matters to you when traveling. Is it staying in a resort, visiting all the attractions, or dining out at nice restaurants? These factors will determine how much you spend on your trip.
Who Exactly is a Budget Traveler?
You might think that you're a budget traveler. But unless you're willing to eliminate a lot of comforts from your trip, prepare to spend a lot more than the daily average of $41 that backpackers often get by on.
Young backpackers often get away with this shoestring budget, but it usually involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest restaurants or fast food places, taking public transit or walking, and only visiting free attractions.
Food is also a highlight for all types of visitors to Ensenada, but budget travelers often dine on street food or cook meals in their hostel, so they may not always experience the delicious cuisine.
Is Your Travel Style Average?
Couples and families on a fun trip will likely choose a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at popular dining spots, and visit significant museums and attractions that have entry fees. Most guests in Ensenada will want to take in the essential attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. After all, most activities are not free. So, it's realistic to expect your actual daily budget to be about $105 per person, per day.
Ensenada offers a diverse selection of hotels and vacation rentals. If you're traveling with companions, you can share a hotel room with a partner, friend, or your kids, making it easier on your wallet. Families should look for hotels and restaurants that are family-friendly. Hotel Posada El Rey Sol is an excellent option for kids, and Best Western El Cid is another fantastic choice. For more family and couple-friendly accommodations, check out our hotel guide for Ensenada here.
Dreaming of a Stylish Getaway?
If you're used to premier amenities and elevated service, prepare to spend about $262 per day. Choosing comfortable hotels, dining at award-winning establishments, indulging in extravagant excursions, and relying on taxis or private drivers to explore the city will demand a higher price range. Also, higher-end tours are common with luxury travelers, such as Guadalupe Valley Private Driver Tour - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Ensenada
The hotel prices in Ensenada might surprise you. Some places charge much more for added luxury and amenities, especially during peak season. In the off-season, a room averages $126, but during peak spring season, expect to pay around $235. Prices vary from $61 to $522, but hostels are often cheaper. Booking in advance and traveling during the low season can help save you money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Ensenada for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $77 (MX$1,554). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $39 (MX$777) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Ensenada? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Ensenada include:
- Hotel Coral & Marina starting at $170
- Torre Lucerna Hotel Ensenada starting at $175
- La Villa de Adelina starting at $83
- Corona Hotel & Spa starting at $100
- Hotel Posada El Rey Sol starting at $87
By avoiding the peak spring season and traveling in the low or shoulder seasons, you will be rewarded with lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds.
Walking is a popular way to explore Ensenada, so staying in a prime area is recommended. Just be prepared for potentially higher prices.
Transportation Budget in Ensenada
In Ensenada, the public transit system is not very good. Public transit in the area is limited.
Visitors who like to explore on foot will enjoy their time here. The downtown area is walkable and easy to explore on foot.
Public Transit: 
(moderate)
Walkability: (great)
Calculated from travelers like you
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On average, past travelers have spent $17 (MX$343) per person, per day, on local transportation in Ensenada. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Ensenada is significantly more than public transportation.
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Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$17
MX$343
If you're taking a car, verify that your hotel offers convenient parking.
A few of the typical transportation options and hotel transfers include:
- Border and Tijuana Airport Transfers to Ensenada or Valle de Guadalupe for $120 details
- Transfer: From Tijuana to Valle de Guadalupe & Ensenada for $344 details
How much does it cost to go to Ensenada? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Ensenada will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Ensenada
You'll find that the food in Ensenada is wonderful. Be sure to spend time enjoying all the local flavors. The town is known for its seafood, and fish tacos is one of the most popular dishes. You'll find seafood markets and street cards selling fresh and local items. Sample your way through the city and enjoy all of the local specialties.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Ensenada can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Ensenada is $55 (MX$1,118) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
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Food2
Meals for one day
$55
MX$1,118
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Ensenada is around $55 (MX$1118) per person, with previous travelers spending from $21 to $151. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Ensenada are as follows:
- Breakfast: $6 to $17
- Lunch: $8 to $22
- Dinner: $17 to $39
- Coffee: $4
- Fast Food or Street Food: $8
Local specialties mostly include seafood dishes, which are usually fresh and excellent. It is said that the fish taco originated in Ensenada. The local version of the fish taco includes deep fried seafood, a white sauce, and shredded cabbage. It is usually served with several salsas. There are several great fish and shrimp taco eateries near the pier, and these are not to be missed.
There are some great restaurants around town but also be sure and check out the Open Air Fish Market. This is Baja's largest seafood market and a great place to sample a fish taco.
Many hotels include breakfast in their pricing structure, while some charge additional fees for it. The quality and cost can vary significantly by hotel. Knowing this in advance can help you decide whether to allocate more money. It might be worth paying for the delicious hotel buffet, or you could go to a local bakery or cafe that's less expensive.
Use a water bottle instead of splurging on drinks everywhere you go. It's a smart choice for the environment, too.
While planning your tour, it's essential to know which meals are included. You may find yourself paying for some meals, which can add to your travel budget.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Ensenada
It's clear why Ensenada attracts visitors, considering its food, museums and attractions, nightlife, and family-friendly activities.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Ensenada typically cost an average of $8.93 (MX$180) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$8.93
MX$180
Ensenada has many beautiful beaches, most of which are located to the north or south of town. There are both private and public beaches and several good surfing spots.
Another fun day trip is La Bufadora, or "blow-hole", which is a small town about twenty miles out of Ensenada. This area offers some wonderful views of the sea, but don't expect to actually see the blow hole. Instead you can see some dramatically rough water that crashes against the sides of the cliff. Also make sure you visit some of the nearby wineries as they offer a glimpse into a unique side of Mexico.
Ensenada has no shortage of water sports and outdoor activities. There are beautiful beaches where you can relax, surf, or swim. It's also possible to go whale watching during the gray whale migration season. Sightseeing tours are common during this time. Sport fishing is also popular in the area. There are day trips where you can fish for Bass, Bonita, Barracuda, Cod, and Yellowtail, and longer trips when you can fish Tuna, Albacore, and Dorado.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Ensenada. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- 8 Hour Private Tour in the Guadalupe Valley 1-4 Passengers for $111 details
- Mezcal, Tequila & BajaMed foodie Tasting Tour for $80 details
- Ensenada City Tour on Ford T Replica and Beach Horse Back Riding for $110 details
Nightlife Budget in Ensenada
While Ensenada features some nightlife activities, it doesn't reach the excitement levels of other, more renowned destinations. There are a number of bars and nightclubs around town. Head to Avenida López Mateos for many of the best restaurants and bars.
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $9.11 (MX$184) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Ensenada per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
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Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$9.11
MX$184
While nightlife is a key part of many trips, scaling back on drinks can help free up some extra cash in your budget.
While enjoying a night out, remember to stay alert. If you're drinking, you might become an easy target for thieves, so it's best to stay with friends you trust.
Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Ensenada. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:
- Wine tours and driver service through valle de guadalupe, Ensenada B.C. Mexico for $145 details
- Xecue Wine Tasting in the Guadalupe Valley for $39 details
- Wine tour valley of guadalupe for $60 details
Ensenada, Mexico
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.