SAN FELIPE, BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
HOTELS *
RECREATION *
SHOPPING *
RESTAURANTS & BARS *
BEACHES *
FISHING *
TRANSPORTATION
CAMPING *
LOCAL INTEREST *
THE GRINGO FACTOR *
YOUR FIRST STOP
CARLOS FIESTA'S HOT TIP *
THE BEST OF SAN FELIPE *
REAL ESTATE *
MISCELLANEOUS *
SAN FELIPE (GPS coordinates 30'99 N ~ 114'83 W) gained much of its popularity with the invention of the three day weekend. This fun beach town is the first of several towns to be found as one travels south from the U.S. down the east side of the Baja Peninsula along the Sea of Cortez. It is just close enough to the U.S. border to make it a long weekend destination and it's just far enough from the big cities for tourists to feel like they really got away from it all.
San Felipe is an easy two and a half hour drive south of the border from Mexicali on a decent four lane paved road, and worlds away from any typical gringo environment. The town hosts thousands of tourists all year long and over 20,000 locals call San Felipe home. The 123 mile road from Mexicali to San Felipe is four lanes and runs through wide open spaces and tidal flats south of Mexicali.
The 4 block waterfront area in downtown San Felipe is very active and where most of the tourists spend time. One street west, Avenida Mar de Cortez, is perfect for shopping. The city has beautified the waterfront area and dozens palm trees have been planted on either side of the seaside drive. Palapas have been added to the main beach for shade a great place to take a nap. Both visitors and locals like to cruise the seaside drive near the center of town and vehicles of all kinds can be seen parading by. If you don't like the sound of 2-cycle motors you probably won't want to spend too much time in downtown San Felipe.
There are dozens of campgrounds located on sandy beaches both north and south of town and San Felipe offers a few nice hotels. Basic services such as gasoline, ice, beer and food are plentiful in the various markets located throughout San Felipe.
One of San Felipe's claims to fame is the extreme tidal changes. When the tide goes out here it goes w-a-y out! This makes for excellent beachcombing but makes launching a boat more of a planned event than a random act.
The weather in San Felipe is warm most of the year and very hot in summer. Fortunately the Sea of Cortez is never too far away for a refreshing dip. Strolling along the seafront walkway at night is a great way to enjoy the evenings all year long.
Speaking of food, if you haven't had a fish taco in San Felipe, put it up on top of your "to do" list when in town. The fish taco craze that has been catching the world by storm started right here on the waterfront in San Felipe. They are delicious!
The beaches south of San Felipe run uninterrupted for almost 50 miles to Puertecitos. There are hundreds of vacation homes located right on the beach, all the way south to PUERTECITOS. Most of these homes are located in 'Campos' which provide some sense of community in this otherwise desolate stretch of Baja.
There is one small "oasis" of sorts about 20 miles south of San Felipe at Km. 35. SOUTH CAMPO'S COMMUNITY CENTER is not much to look at when you are headed down the highway at 60 m.p.h., but upon closer inspection this little rest stop has plenty to offer.
The second area that has grown with homes is the coastal strip south of San Felipe towards Puertecitos. Beachfront paradise!
San Felipe weather is great all year long, if not a bit hot in summer (90-110 degrees). In the winter the temperature usually gets into the 70's almost every day and in summer it is not unusual to hit 100 degrees (or more). But it's a dry heat!
San Felipe was one of the final locations that Carlos Fiesta cruised by on his 2,200 mile BAJA CIRCUMNAVIGATION!
Thinking about moving south of the border? Visit the web site of BAJA RELOCATION for a head's up for what awaits you.
If you would like to see what San Felipe looks like FROM SPACE check it out!
Because of it's close proximity to the U.S. border (about 3 hours) San Felipe's gringo population grows on weekends and holidays. Most of these visitors head for either the beach campgrounds north of town, the hotels near the waterfront in downtown San Felipe or to privately owned vacation homes that run from south of San Felipe all the way to PUERTECITOS. San Felipe is also a main stop for gingos heading 100 miles further south to spectacular BAHIA DE GONZAGA.
THE GRINGO FACTOR
YOUR FIRST STOP IN TOWN
Where to go when you first get to San Felipe? First off ... head east towards the Sea of Cortez. Once you hit the Malecon (the road that runs along the ocean) find a place to park. Are you ready for a cool place to relax and grab a hot fish taco, a cold beer and set your bearings? Head for Baja Mar Seafood Restaurant, right across the street and a bit south. You can't miss it, it's a huge 2 story palapa-looking building with outdoor, indoor and upstairs dining. And the view of the Sea of Cortez is fantastic! From here it's just a short walk south to the famous Maristaco Plaza, in case you are still hungry.
THE BEST OF SAN FELIPE
San Felipe is somewhat of a casual and scruffy Baja town but it does have it's nicer elements. Visitors looking for the top end in lodging will appreciate the SAN FELIPE MARINA RESORT AND SPA just south of town. It's a first class resort on a very nice beach. The best downtown restaurant for food with a view is the BAJA MAR SEAFOOD RESTAURANT, right on the Malecon (indoor and outdoor patio dining). And for the best place in town to listen to great music and dance there is no better place in San Felipe than CLUB MIRAMAR across the street from San Felipe's main beach.
And if you want to avoid the usual beach crowds and have a quiet morning or afternoon on a spectacular empty beach, just have one of the pangeros on the main beach take you north about 10 minutes. There are several private and beautiful beaches below the bluffs (at low tide) that nobody knows about! Carlos Fiesta found these spectacular beaches while flying over San Felipe in the summer of 2010.
CARLOS FIESTA'S HOT TIP:Fish Taco stands used to be scattered along the entire waterfront, along the main drive in San Felipe. The sidewalk became so thick with taco stands that tourists were often forced to walk in the streets to travel the Malecon. In an effort to organize the city's pride and joy, San Felipe has set up a "Taco Central" of sorts, down on the south end of the waterfront drive, on the west side of the street. Called "Plaza Maristaco" this area boasts the same taco stands that have satisfied hungry hombres for years (18 at last count)! In addition, there are still various taco stands scattered around town. You haven't had a real fish taco until you've had one (or two, or three, etc.) in San Felipe! "Grazing" from stand to stand to find the best fish taco is not only acceptable, it is a tradition. These stands also offer shrimp tacos, beef tacos, seafood cocktails, and a host of other fine culinary delights!
A second choice for your "First Stop" is the ocean view deck at the front of Rockodile. The 4 tables on the deck are the perfect place to check it all out and have a cold one!
Many of the activities in and around San Felipe take place at the beach. The beaches start well north of town, where the once mighty Colorado River drained into the Sea of Cortez. Good beaches continue south, through San Felipe, and all the way down to Puertecitos.
For a fun day at the beach away from the crowds, head south of San Felipe to Km. 13. Punta Estrella Beach Club offers 2.5 miles of beautiful beaches and parking.
For a detailed list of San Felipe beaches, check out the SAN FELIPE CAMPING section below.
BEACHES NORTH
There are dozens of miles of open beaches north of San Felipe, accessible via dirt roads off of the blacktop. If you are looking for desolation, these definitely fit the bill! For more information on these beaches check out our extensive CAMPING section!
And if you want to avoid the usual beach crowds and have a quiet morning or afternoon on a spectacular empty beach, just have one of the pangeros on the main beach take you north about 10 minutes. There are several private and beautiful beaches below the bluffs that nobody knows about! Carlos Fiesta found these spectacular beaches while flying over San Felipe in the summer of 2005.
PLAYA BONITA
Just north of Punta San Felipe (the big hill at the north end of town) there are a few small beaches tucked away. It's a bit more laid back than the main beaches in town.
PLAYA SAN FELIPE
The main beach in town always seems to have something going on, either in the water, on the sand, or on the waterfront.
A good place to hang and watch the action. Bathrooms are located at both the north end and the south end.
Watch for the occassional dead fish on the sand at low tides.
BEACHES SOUTH
From the main beaches in town all the way south to Punta Estrella and beyond, Baja travelers will find over 50 miles of beaches, all the way to Puertecitos. Bring ice.
PLAYA HOTEL MARINA
Located just south of the large fishing marina at the south end of town.
Wide, beautiful, usually empty.
The palapas on the higher end of the beach are for hotel guests.
Go ahead...try to sneak into the pool at the Marina Hotel. I dare you!PLAYA PUNTA ESTRELLA
Telephone 011-52 (686) 565-2784.
U.S. telephone (760) 357-6933.
South of San Felipe to Km. 13.
Approximately 7 miles south of town.
Punta Estrella Beach Club offers 2.5 miles of beautiful beaches, parking.PLAYA CAMPO CHRISTINA
Approximately 9 miles south of town.
Beautiful beach with camping, a restaurant and bar.
THE "CAMPOS" AND BEACHES SOUTH
Starting approximately 18 miles south of San Felipe, a series of "Campos" (camps) line the Sea of Cortez for dozens of miles, south towards Puertecitos. These campos are basically clusters of homes on or near the coast, easily accessible off of the main Baja Highway headed south. Even if you don't own one of these hideaways, you can find value in their existence. The roads leading to these various campos usually provide easy access to the beaches along this coast, and are generally in good shape. The campos themselves are generally owned and operated by local Mexican families, who are usually happy to let you traverse their property to access the Sea of Cortez. Since all beaches in Mexico are open to the public, these campos are a great way to get down to the sand all along the coast south of San Felipe.
Looking for a deserted beach? Head south of town to the dirt turn offs at km. 17, 18 and 26. Now you are all alone!
CAMPO SANTA MARIA
Located just off the blacktop at Km. 30.5.
Once of San Felipe's closest campos also happens to hold the distinction of being one of the best. This first class collection of homes is located on two sides of a beautiful bay, and south as well.
Most of the homes are newer, very nice, and built with conforming materials to add to the aesthetics.
The beaches here are wide and beautiful, and the bay provides good claming at low tide.
Getting to the homes on the north end of the bay can be challenging at high tide, but access to the south end is usually pretty easy.
Keep in mind that this area is privately owned, and that registering at the entrance is sometimes required.CAMPO MAYMA
Located right past Bahia Santa Maria, at Km. 31 off the blacktop.
Located about one half mile east of the highway, Campo Mayma is a small collection of well-kept homes, connecting on the north end with Campo Santa Maria.
The beach is very nice, and it's just a short walk to the tidal flats of Santa Maria Bay to the north.NUEVO MAZATLAN
Just east of the highway at Km. 32.
This beach is located between Campo Mayma to the north, and La Jolla to the south.
It's a good beach, although at low tide there are rocks exposed in the surf area.CAMPO LA JOLLA
Off of the highway at Km. 32.5.
A very quiet beach with homes on the bluffs, very similar to Nuevo Mazatlan.
Food and drinks can be obtained a few miles to the south on the main road, on the west side of the street.
TOP OF PAGE
BAJA EXPO
Nowhere else on the Baja peninsula are so many campgrounds available to the traveler!
Most campgrounds north and south of San Felipe are very basic in nature, although there are a few that offer extra amenities, such as EL DORADO RANCH. El Dorado Ranch is, without question, the only first class campground in the San Felipe area. The fact that it is affordable makes it that much more enticing! A great place to pitch a tent or hook up the R.V!
Running from
NORTH TO SOUTH
...here's a sampling of what's available.
CAMPO SAN MARINO
Twelve miles north of town at Km. 172.5.
This is the first in a long list of campos located along the Sea of Cortez, all the way down to San Felipe.
There are about 20 more camps to choose from if you want to get closer to town!CAMPO DON ABEL
11 miles north of San Felipe at Km. 173.
A new campground trying to lure customers who want to avoid the crowds closer to town.
Basic beach, clean, usually empty except for big weekends.CAMPO LOS AMIGOS
10 miles north, at Km. 173.
Hot showers / flush toilets / palapas / tents welcome / inexpensive.CAMPO EL CALIFORNIO
Located 10.5 miles north of town, just up from Campground Playa Grande.
A simple place to pitch your tent.
Basic camping services, not much else. Quiet.PLAYA GRANDE
10 miles north, at Km. 174.
14 palapas / pit toilets / tents welcome / big beach / cheap.CAMPO JALISCO
Located 9 miles north of San Felipe, at km 174.5.
Basic camping on an empty beach.PETE'S EL PARAISO CAMP
Telephone (909) 676-4224.
8 miles north, at Km. 178.
Number of sites: 78.
Hot showers / flush toilets / laundry / restaurant / bar / dump station / beach front palapas / active.LA PLAYA ENCANTADA
8 miles north, at Km. 178.
Number of sites: 30 palapas.
Showers / flush toilets / tents welcome / adjoins Pete's El Paraiso.PLAYA JACARANDAS
7 miles north, at Km. 180.
Several palapas / pit toilets / tents welcome / wide beach both directions.SAN DIEGO BEACH
6 miles north, at Km. 182.
Palapas / hot showers / tents welcome / small beach.PLAYA BONITA
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1215.
U.S. (626) 967-8977.
Avenida de Golfo #784, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
Near town on the north side, next to Ruben's.
Number of spaces: 32.
On the beach / full hook-ups / concrete pads / palapas / flush toilets / hot showers / BBB's / on the beach!RUBEN'S RV PARK
Telephone / Fax 011-52 (686) 577-1442.
Avenida Golfo de California #703, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
Just north of Punta San Felipe.
Number of sites: 65.
Pull through sites / full hook-ups / terraces with ocean views / picnic tables / BBB's / flush toilets / hot showers / big restaurant / large bar / mini-market / boat launching / good beach / active.
This is a Baja favorite for many, and for a good reason! It is located on a very nice beach, the restaurant is large and very nice, and there is always a good group of Baja aficionados close by to strike up a conversation with!
Late sleepers beware! The fishermen get started pretty early on this beach!CAMPO SAN FELIPE
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1012.
Avenida Mar de Cortez #301, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
Located right next to Costa Azul Hotel.
Number of sites: 34.
If you are looking for a camping area within a very short walk to the shops, restaurants, and fish taco stands...this is a great choice. It is the closest to all the action, and it is located right on a wide beach!
Beach front sites / full hook-ups / ice / recreation room / restaurant "Banditos" right out front.
The perfect place to hang your hat in San Felipe!PLAYA DE LAURA CAMPING AND RV
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1128.
Near town at Avenida Mar de Cortez #333, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
Just south of Costa Azul Hotel.
Number of sites: 44.
Full hook-ups / palapas / toilets / showers / ice.
Next to Campo San Felipe this is the second closest location to all of the downtown action.CLUB DE PESCA TRAILER PARK
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1180.
Fax 011-52 (657) 7-1888.
Near town just off of Avenida Mar de Cortez.
Number of sites: 50.
Full hook-ups / toilets / showers / mini-market / boat ramp.LA JOLLA
TELEPHONE 011-52 (686) 577-1222.
Mid town near Avenida Manzanillo and Mar Bermejo.
Number of sites: 50.
Pull-through sites / full hook-ups / flush toilets / hot showers / pool / Jacuzzi.POSADA DEL MAR CAMPO
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1543.
Avenida Golfo de California #555, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
Located on the north end of town.
Number of sites: 65.
Full hook-ups / toilets / showers / picnic tables / BBB's / across the street from the beach.LA JOYA RV PARK
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1222.
Avenida Mar Bermejo, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
Located near Avenida Manzanillo.
Number of sites: 50.
Full hook-ups / toilets / showers / pool / Jacuzzi / laundry / palapas.VICTOR'S
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1055.
South part of town, off of Avenida Mar de Cortez.
Number of sites: 50.
Pull-thoughs / full hook-ups / concrete pads / flush toilets / hot showers.CLUB DE PESCA
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1180.
Fax 011-52 (686) 577-1888.
Avenida Mar de Cortez south, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
U.S. address: Post Office Box 3090, Calexico, California, 92232.
Located on the south end of town.
Number of sites: 40.
Palapas / concrete pads / flush toilets / hot showers / dump station / recreation room / store / launch ramp / wide beach / some permanents / walk to town.EL FARO BEACH AND RV PARK
Reservations: P.O. Box 107, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
9 miles south of town, at Km. 14.
Number of sites: 135.
Pull through spaces / full hook-ups / concrete pads / flush toilets / hot showers / pool / tennis / bar / remote / big beach!
Recent reports that this campground has been neglected...verify before checking in.PLAYA PUNTA ESTRELLA
Telephone 011-52 (686) 565-2784.
U.S. telephone (760) 357-6933.
U.S. fax (760) 768-8803.
South of San Felipe to Km. 13.
Approximately 7 miles south of town.
Punta Estrella Beach Club offers 2.5 miles of beautiful beaches, parking.VILLA MARINA RV BEACH RESORT
Telephone 011-52 (686) 545-7510.
Fax 011-52 (657) 7-1606.
Km. 8.5 Carretera Puertecitos, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
Post Office Box 172, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
U.S. address: Post Office Box 4948, Calexico, California.
Just south of El Faro Beach, 12 miles south of San Felipe.
Number of spaces: 27
Hook-ups / showers / toilets / community palapa / beach palapas / volleyball / fishing available.
Basic camping on a private stretch of beach.RANCHO PERCEBU
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1259.
Highway Km. 21.
Located about 12 miles south of town.
Camping on a private beach.
Restaurant / bar / bathrooms.
TOP OF PAGE
BAJA EXPO
The waters off of San Felipe offer fairly good fishing, although the quality does improve as one heads further south. Fishing also improves at the small island seen offshore, called Roca Consag.
Local fish include bass, sierra, triggerfish, and further offshore lucky fishermen might find yellowtail and corvina.
Because of it's close proximity to the border, many visitors to this area trailer in their own boats. For those who do not have the time or ability to BYOB, fishing charters are readily available in town.
BAJA DIRECTIONS has the best San Felipe fishing charts!
Wanna keep your fishing legal? MEXICO ADVISORY SERVICES.
LAUNCH RAMPS
There are at least 4 official places to launch a boat in San Felipe, and more than a few un-official places! Try the ramps at: EL CORTEZ MOTEL - CLUB DE PESCA - RUBENS AND EL JACALITO RV PARK.
Because of the extreme tides, planning your launches with a current tide chart is a must!
For more information on fishing in Baja drop by our extensive BAJA FISHING section!
SEA OF CORTEZ SPORTFISHING
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1778.
U.S. (626) 333-9012.
Fax (626) 336-1966.
Post Office Box 5303, Hacienda Heights, California, 91745.
Fishing adventures from San Felipe to the Midriff Islands!TONY REYES SPORTFISHING
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1120.
Avenida Mar Bermejo #130, San Felipe, Baja California.
Many year experience in tight lines in San Felipe!
TOP OF PAGE
BAJA EXPO
For a town so famous for tourists, San Felipe is a bit short on high quality accommodations. This is partially because most people visiting this part of Baja are not looking for anything too fancy. Where the Cabo crowd demands rooms with color TV and telephones in each room, most of the Felipe crowd seems content just to have running water and a pillow. Still, for those who must have a some luxury, San Felipe does offer a few nice hotels.
San Felipe hotels, listed as the nicest first and working down from there:
SAN FELIPE MARINA RESORT AND SPA
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1455.
Toll free (800) 262-4500 * (800) 291-5397.
Fax 011-52 (686) 577-1566.
Km. 4.5 Carretera, San Felipe Aeropuerto, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
South of town 3 miles, on the beach!
Number of rooms: 60.
Rooms and 8 private villas.
On the beach.
Hotel amenities: 2 pools / beach palapas / grass area / deck / lighted tennis / fitness center / sauna / club house / restaurant Las Dunas / bar El Sahuaro / market / private parking / separate RV Park.
Room amenities: Large rooms / private patios / air conditioning / kitchenettes / telephones / room service.
Rooms are either on the ground floor (beachfront) or on the second floor (ocean view).
The nicest place to stay in San Felipe...big rooms with huge views! Quiet atmosphere and a great beach.
For a special getaway try Villa #138. This private bungalow sits right on the beach with no adjoining rooms, and features it's own private patio and sunken Jacuzzi. A great place for a margarita party!COSTA AZUL HOTEL
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1702 * 011-52 (686) 577-1548.
Fax 011-52 (686) 577-1549 * 011-52 (686) 576-3991.
Avenida Mar de Cortez, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
Located on the south end of town on the main beach at Mar de Cortez.
Number of rooms: 140.
Rooms and suites.
On the beach.
Hotel amenities: Pool / swim up bar / bar / volleyball / shops / huge oceanfront party deck / ocean front restaurant / private parking / market across the street.
Room amenities: Air conditioning / satellite television / telephones.
If you are looking for an above average hotel in a super convenient location to downtown action, this is it!EL CORTEZ MOTEL
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1055 and 56.
Toll free (800) 800-9632.
Fax 011-52 (686) 577-1752.
Avenida Mar de Cortez S/N, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
Located a half mile south of town.
Reservations: Post Office Box 1227, Calexico, California, 92232.
Number of rooms: 102.
On the beach.
Hotel amenities: Pool / sports bar / barefoot bar / boat ramp / palapas / Terrace restaurant / beauty shop / boutique / laundry / water sports rentals / trailer park.
Room amenities: Air conditioning / televisions.
Dining at the Beach Terrace Restaurant, and cocktails at the upstairs Taberna Bar.
By San Felipe standards, this large hotel is on the upper end.
A San Felipe tradition since 1959!
Room rates start at between $80 to $100 per night.
Carlos Fiesta stayed here for the 2007 Baja 1000 and enjoyed the hotel (and the bar!)EL CAPITAN MOTEL
Telephone / Fax 011-52 (686) 577-1303.
Avenida Mar De Cortez #298, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
Post Office Box 298, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico, 21850.
U.S. address: Post Office Box 1916, Calexico, California, 92232.
Located near the corner of Mar de Cortez at Manzanillo.
Number of rooms: 40.
Short walk to beach.
Hotel amenities: Pool / Garcia's Restaurant / bar / private parking / walk to beach.
Room amenities: Air conditioning / satellite television / telephones.
Economy hotel in good condition, walking distance to the downtown action.CHAPALA MOTEL
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1240.
Avenida Mar de Cortez #142, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
Located in central San Felipe at the south end.
Number of rooms: 33.
Hotel amenities: Private parking / laundry service / walk to beach.
Room amenities: Air conditioning / satellite television / kitchenettes.
Upper economy class, central convenient location, secure parking.EL PESCADOR MOTEL
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1328 * 011-52 (686) 577-1183.
Calz. Chetumal and Avenida Mar de Cortez.
The perfect San Felipe location, if you want to be right in the middle of all the action!
Located in central San Felipe on Chetumal at Mar de Cortez, running right through to the waterfront at Paseo Malecon.
Number of rooms: 12.
Air conditioning / beach-view patio / parking / televisions / walk to beach-shopping-bars.
The rear patio of this sleepy motel faces all the action in San Felipe! The fact that the hotel adjoins the wonderful Baja Mar Seafood Restaurant is the icing on the cake! Economy rates. Carlos Fiesta loves this little motel!
Room number 5 is the largest, has 3 beds, an ocean view and a small kitchenette area for about $65.
Carlos Fiesta stayed here on his Baja Circumnavigation trip.
TOP OF PAGE
BAJA EXPO
If you ever wondered where the spectacular Colorado River in the U.S. finally meets the Sea of Cortez, the highway heading south from Mexicali runs within one mile of the Colorado River. At this southern location the once mighty Colorado is not much more than a slow moving pond, but it is indeed the same water that runs through Lake Powell, Lake Mead, Lake Mojave and Lake Havasu before it crosses the border into Baja east of Calexico. If you want to see the Colorado River in Baja, just turn left off of Baja Highway 5 at Km. 68 (Yurimuri exit). Go straight one half mile and then straight again on the smaller dirt road where the wider graded road forks to the right. The water you see traveled well over 1,000 miles to get here!
Like crowds? San Felipe gets plenty of them in April! The first half of April the gringo kids come down for Spring Break, and the second half of the month the Mexicans come down for Easter Vacation. Don't worry...there's room for everybody!
The Enchanted Islands south of San Felipe offer raw nature and beauty few visitors are able to experience.
LAGUNA DIABLO DRY LAKE BED
Do you ever think about what it would be like to drive a vehicle 100 miles per hour? How about letting your 9 year old drive the family car with you in the back seat? Or maybe being pulled behind a motorcycle with ski ropes while riding a skateboard? The long dry lake bed north west of San Felipe is just the place for such shenanigans. The lake bed surface is as hard as a rock most of the year, but watch out if there has been a recent rain.
Hot Tip! In 2009 Carlos Fiesta saw a Big Horn sheep in the mountains east of this dry lake bed!
GUADALUPE CANYON
A fun place to stop on the way to or from San Felipe! Natural hot springs combine with waterfalls and pools to create a very special hideaway in Baja!
TOP OF PAGE
BAJA EXPO
Seems like there is always some type of recreation on the calendar for San Felipe! Between the wide open spaces of the desert, and the seemingly never ending seas, there are lots of options for outdoor enthusiasts.
Two good web sites to review for RVer's who want to tour the Baja Peninsula in an escorted RV caravan include BAJA WINTERS and BAJA AND BACK RV TOURS.
The Enchanted Islands south of San Felipe offer raw nature and beauty few visitors are able to experience. Visit the web site of GONE TO BAJA ADVENTURES for more information!
DIVING
CHARTERS MAR DE CORTEZ
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1278.
Fax 011-52 (686) 577-1779.
Located at El Dorado Ranch, 5 miles north of town.
Contact Mike Sullivan in advance for reservations.JET SKIS
The calm waters of the Sea of Cortez are great for jet skis and Wave Runners! If the winds pick up...head for shore!
JET SKI RENTALS
Telephone 011-52 (686) 571-4472.
Located right off the main beach.
Call in advance for reservations!KAYAK
San Felipe is the starting point for serious kayakers headed south to Puertecitos, Gonzaga Bay, and for the truly brave, Bahia de los Angeles! On the lighter side, novice kayakers can enjoy the calm waters right in town, with a short jaunt around Punta San Felipe and back being an easy 2 hour adventure.
OFF ROAD
San Felipe is a magnet for anything with 2,3, or 4 wheels! Dirt bikes, ATV's, dune buggies, sand rails, and anything else with wheels fits in with the San Felipe action! The terrain outside town is perfect for cutting loose and letting the dirt fly.
In addition to the sand dunes at the south end of town and the endless miles of trails heading in all directions, a dry lake bed north east of town adds additional off-road options.
Closer to town, there are some very fun sand dunes at the south end of town, conveniently located just up from the hotel zone. These dunes are perfect for 4 wheel ATV's and motorcycles, but the area is not really large enough to accommodate dune buggies and sand rails.
Remember, even though most of the area around San Felipe is open land, the ecology is affected by reckless treks by vehicles. Staying on existing dirt roads and trails when possible is always a good idea.
The SCORE INTERNATIONAL Baja 500 really gets the town hopping once a year!
Four wheel ATV's can be rented in five places in town. One shop is on the waterfront, just north of the new Fish Taco Plaza, and the others are directly behind it on the main shopping street, Avenida Mar de Cortez (south end). The quads are all lined up on the street...you can't miss them! Rates start at about $25 per hour, with discounts for longer periods.
For a totally thrilling experience try the 2-seater motorized Ultralight Glider that lands at the south end of the beach!
SAILING
The waters just off shore are excellent sailing waters. The waters in the bay are usually pretty calm, while the prevailing winds from the north west are easily found not too far east. Catamarans have been enjoying the good sailing conditions here for years, and an annual sailing regatta always brings in a good crowd. Watch out for the 'big northern' winds that sometimes last for 3 or 4 days in Spring and Fall.
Looking for a good guide for cruising in the Sea of Cortez? MEXICO BOATING GUIDE by John and Pat Rains is Baja proven! Carlos Fiesta used this book as a bible for his solo BAJA CIRCUMNAVIGATION!
VOLLEYBALL
The main beach right in town is a good place to play volleyball, and is close to all the necessities such as hot tacos and cold beers. For even more convenience, Rocodile features a fun outdoor court right next to the bar, with music pumping away all day long.
True volleyball fans won't want to miss the annual volleyball games and fiestas in ENSENADA at the Estero Beach Hotel!
WATERCRAFT
San Felipe Bay is a great spot for watercraft of all types, including Wave Runners, Ski-Doos, Jet Skis, etc. Also, it is common to see tourists flying along the water just offshore on a huge rubber 'banana', barely hanging on when the tow boat hits a wake! You too can enjoy the thrill of re-aligning your back for just a few pesos.
WINDSURFING
The waters off the main beach are usually pretty calm, and perfect for board-head wannabe's. Around the point to the north, and further out to sea, the waters become more exposed to the prevailing winds, and wave hopping and lateral screaming can be fun. At low tide launching can be a chore, as the water goes w-a-y out.
TOP OF PAGE
BAJA EXPO
If you like seafood, your in luck in San Felipe! If you like fish tacos, you have died and gone to heaven. San Felipe offers dining options across the board, from small street-side taco stands, to full-on restaurants with air conditioning, bathrooms, and fake silverware. Eating around is half the fun of any good trip to San Felipe!
Got a few extra bucks? Do yourself a favor! If a Mariachi trio asks if you want to hear a song or two during your meal, give it strong consideration. The flavor of the food can be enhanced considerably by the music these folks share!
RESTAURANTS * BARS & CLUBS
BAJA MAR SEAFOOD RESTAURANT
Paseo Malecon, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
Located mid town, west side of the street.
You can't miss this huge 2 story restaurant...a great place for seafood plus a full bar!
Head upstairs for a great view of the beach and ocean!
The downstairs patio area now features a separate full bar at the north end!
New in town? Stop by here for your first cold drink and warm meal!CLUB MIRAMAR RESTAURANT AND BAR
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1192.
Avenida Mar de Cortez #315, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
Right in the midst of all the activity, accessible by the beach road or the main street.
Variety menu and a full bar, very popular.
Come back at night for more fun! The juke box cranks out everything from Clint Black to Mick Jagger, and the dance floor hops on weekends until the wee hours.
Drop by Sunday evenings after 8 p.m. and there's a good chance you'll experience the famous Club Miramar Kareoke!EL NIDO RESTAURANT AND BAR
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1028.
Avenida Mar de Cortez #348, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
Quarter mile south of town center, west side of the street.
Good old fashion steak house.
Plus a selection of seafood.
Full bar!GEORGE'S
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1057.
Avenida Mar de Cortez #336, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
West side of the street.
Seafood dinners, famous for their American breakfasts!
Also good for lunch and dinner. This place feels a little bit like a 1950's Denny's, but it's a good place to lick a plate.RICE AND BEANS
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1770.
262 Avenida Malecon, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
Seafood and original Mexican food. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Open air restaurant and sports bar overlooking the Malecon Beach on the Sea of Cortez!
Tell your host Ricardo Romo that Carlos Fiesta sent you. He'll say "Who?".ROCKODILE
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1219.
Paseo Malecon y Acapulco, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
Smack dab in the middle of it all on the main street.
Fish tacos, hamburgers, Mexican French fries, and the famous 'tacodile'.
Grab one of the few tables on the balcony facing the Sea of Cortez!ROSITAS RESTAURANT
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1770.
Malecon #262, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
Located on the main oceanfront street, at the north end past Club Miramar and just across from The Bearded Clam.
Also fronts San Felipe's main shopping street, north end.
Big Menu! Lots to choose from for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Outdoor patio dining, or pleasant indoor seating. Good food...great breakfasts!
Dinner options include fresh lobster, fish, clams, soups and a whole lot more.
Visa, MasterCard and Traveler's Checks accepted. Oh ya...cash too!LIGHT HOUSE RESTAURANT
Located at the north end of town on the bluffs.
Accessed by taking Avenida Mar de Cortez north, then the first right up the hill.
American food and Mexican food, plus a full bar.
Enjoy the view of the beach and Sea of Cortez!EL CAPITAN GARCIA'S RESTAURANT
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1303.
Avenida Mar De Cortez #298, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
Post Office Box 298, San Felipe, Mexico, 21850.
Located above the El Capital Hotel, near the corner of Mar de Cortez at Manzanillo.
Steaks, seafood, Mexican food. Variety menu, reasonable prices.EL PARIAN GERMAN / EL CAUGUE RESTAURANT
Located just south of Rockodile, on the west side of the Malecon.
You'd never know by the name, but this popular grazing ground is "taco court" of sorts, for those hungry souls who don't want to shag the two blocks to the south end of town for the larger Plaza Maristaco.
Good fish tacos, seafood cocktails, plenty of tables with a great view of the crowds and Sea of Cortez!
The large selection of baseball hats along the south wall are actually for sale!
BARS
The nightlife in San Felipe gets busy on weekends and holidays, but during the middle of the week things get a little slow.
A disco on the bluffs at the north end of the beach is sometimes open.
BEACH COMBER SPORTS BAR
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1383.
Malecon y Calz. Chetumal, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
Located on the main corner of San Felipe, right across the street from the beach!
Two big screen TVs, lots of small TVs, always something showing (surf videos, motocross, etc.).
Pool table, darts, big bar and plenty of seating. The upstairs patio has a great view of the ocean and all of the waterfront action!
A huge new stage venue was added to handle the large crowds at Spring Break and 3 day weekends.CLUB MIRAMAR
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1192.
Avenida Mar de Cortez, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
Just a couple of doors north of Rockodile.
Entrances on both the beach side and the main street.
Usually not as wild as Rockodile, except on busy weekends when anything goes!
Club Miramar's clients range from local Mexicans, to college kids, and can include everything in between!
The juke box and adjoining dance floor can get active on busy nights, featuring music by everyone from Mick Jaggar to Willie Nelson.
Even if you're not in the mood to dance, Club Miramar is a fun place to pull up a cold one, and people watch!
If you stop by on Sunday evening after 8 pm there's a good chance you'll be able to grab the microphone for the famous Club Miramar Kareoke! The more you drink, the better you sound.ROCKODILE
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1219.
Malecon y Acapulco, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
In the middle of town, accessible from the beach street or the shopping street.
Loud music, wild videos, two large dance floors, indoor-outdoor volleyball, everything is here to make your visit a fun one!EL NIDO RESTAURANT AND BAR
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1028.
Avenida Mar de Cortez #348, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
Quarter mile south of town center, west side of the street.
A full selection of tequila and a full bar selection.
Usually pretty slow...bring your own fiesta!
TOP OF PAGE
BAJA EXPO
For a small Mexican town located in the middle of nowhere, San Felipe offers a very good selection of shops and stores to get lost in. The main shopping street is Avenida Mar De Cortez, and runs parallel to and just behind the beach.
The other shopping street is Calzada Chetumal, and runs east and west, starting at the ocean, and heading out towards the main highway. A market on the south east corner of these two streets is a great place to load up on essentials.
CORONA CERVESA DISTRIBUTOR
Located near the very north end of Avenida Mar de Cortez, west side of the street.
Why pay retail when you need a decent supply of cervesa? If you are buying a case or more of Corona or Pacifico, this is a good place to load up.
Don't forget, the deposit on the bottles in Mexico is almost as much as the beer itself! If you can exchange a set of empties when you buy a new case, the cost of your cervesa run will be significantly reduced.DRUG STORE SAGRADO GRAZON
Located on the west side of Avenida Mar de Cortez, west side of the street.
Good selection, great location in the heart of town.FARMACY BOTICA
Telephone 011-52 (686) 57-1294.
Avenida Mar de Cortez, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico, 21850.
All the drugs you need, without the marijuana.
TOP OF PAGE
BAJA EXPO
San Felipe is located 123 miles south of the U.S. border at Mexicali on a good paved 4 lane road. It's about a 2 hour drive. If you cross the border with less than a full tank of gas...no worries. There is a Pemex gasoline station 25 miles south of the border as you head towards San Felipe on Highway 5 (right side), another one at Km. 106 (right side) and then another one at Km. 142. There are also 5 Pemex stations in San Felipe, so getting gas is not a problem.
There is not much through traffic in San Felipe, as the paved roads ends 60 miles further south, below Puertecitos.
Two good web sites to review for RVer's who want to tour the Baja Peninsula in an escorted RV caravan include BAJA WINTERS and BAJA AND BACK RV TOURS.
LOCAL AIRPORTS
Landing at San Felipe (MMSF) and need a ride into town? Francisco (Pancho) Padilla is your man. He can usually be at the airport within 20 minutes of the call. Have the airport staff give him a call before you do your Airport of Entry papers and he can usually be there at the front door of the airport when you are ready to head into town. He will also pick you up at a pre-determined time and place in town to take you back to the airport. His local number is 577-1293.
SAN FELIPE AIRPORT
LOCATION: 5 miles south of town.
SURFACE: Paved
ELEVATION: 148 FEET
RUNWAYS: 13 / 31
LENGTH: 4,900 FEET
TOWER: 118.5
FUEL: YES - 100LL.
AIRPORT OF ENTRY: YES
AIRPORT OPEN: 1500 to 0100 Zulu time daily.
COMMENTS: San Felipe is popular as an airport of entry into Baja, and for several good reasons. When Ensenada is fogged in, you can almost always count on CAVU weather in San Felipe. The airport is well maintained, has reliable fuel (usually), and the Airport of Entry two-step can usually be handled in short order. If you don't have the range to make it to Loreto (or even if you do) San Felipe is a good place to stop, stretch, and use the restroom facilities!
CALEXICO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Phone (760) 768-2175.
Fax (760) 357-0739.
801 West 2nd Street, Calexico, California, USA, 92231.
Mission Statement: The mission of the Calexico International Airport is to ensure a safe airport environment while providing fuel and other services to private and commercially operated aircraft.
GPS location: 32.40.10.212 North at 115.30.47.981 West.
City location: Airport is located one mile east of Calexico.
Runway: 26/08 - 4680' X 75' - paved.
Field elevation: 0.
Unicom: 122.8.
S.D. FSS: 122.5 / 122.6.
L.A. FSS: 128.6.
Yuma: 124.7.
Charts: LA and Phoenix Sectionals.
Hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Get there at 5:01 and you might be too late for fuel.
Fuel: 100LL and Jet A.
Pattern: 800' MSL.
Wind indicator: Lighted.
Lights: Dusk to dawn.
Beacon: White and green.
Tie Downs: $4.00 per night.
Restaurant: On field.
Weather (760) 352-3360.
Taxi: (760) 357-1119.
Bus: Greyhound (760) 357-1895.
Hotel: Holiday Inn (760) 768-6048.
Flight time to San Felipe: Appx 1 hour.
Drive time to San Felipe: 3 hours.
EL VERGEL AIRSTRIP
Located at Km. 35, south of San Felipe on the east side of the road.
One of the few Campo airstrips in northern Baja that is still operational.
Runway 21 is usually operational. This strip is not very long, and has more than it's share of sand.
There is a small restaurant and a doctors office a few hundred feet to the west on the other side of the paved road.
IMPORTANT! After landing, be sure to stop by and check in with Chuy or Jose at the main Campo house. Federales do not take lightly planes landing without checking in. Stopping at the Airport of Entry in San Felipe is a must before landing here.
Watch for a Cessna Skymaster on the ramp at the north east end of the landing strip.
BAJA BUSH PILOTS is a good web site for private pilots who want to fly the wide open spaces of Baja. Special Baja services are available for members!
BUSES
BUS DEPOT
Located on Avenida Mar Caribe, south of Calzada Chetumal and the main traffic circle. If you get to the Premix station, you've gone too far. Right (west) side of the street.
Buses north to Mexicali, and northwest to Ensenada and Tijuana.
CAR RENTAL
TAXI 93
Telephone 011-52 (686) 577-1293.
Avenida Mar Tirreno #412, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
Francisco (Pancho) Padilla will take you for a ride at a decent price.
Drinking beer in the cab is no problema!TOURISM OFFICE
Avenida Mar de Cortez, San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico.
Telephone / fax 011-52 (686) 577-1155.
Local information and brochures for San Felipe.BANAMEX
Corner of Calzada Chetumal at Mar Blanco.
ATM pays jackpots in pesos.
Closed on Sundays.BANCOMER
Located downtown, on the west side of Avenida Mar de Cortez, just south of Chetumal.
ATM available.
Closed at night.POST OFFICE
Mar Blanco, one block south of Calzada Chetumal.
TELEPHONE
Did you or an immediate family member just win the Lotto? If so, you'll have no problem paying the outrageous prices of the telephones scattered around town with the signs saying "Call Collect". These gangsters charge $25 U.S. for the first minute, then $4.50 for each additional minute. If you place any value on your hard earned money, head to the phones at the pharmacy on the main street "Botica Lety" at the south end of town. International calls can be paid with cash or pesos, or you can charge your call to your ATT calling card. Fax machines are also available. The rates here are very affordable.
E-MAIL
E-mail and Internet access can be found at CONEXSIONES at #138 Avenida Mar de Cortez (next to the Thrifty's Ice Cream shop) and the small Internet shop of THE NET further south past the Cortez Hotel on the east side of the street (telephone 011-52-657-7-1600).
CITY SERVICES
Police - 011-52 (686) 577-1390.
Fire - 011-52 (686) 577-1182.
Red Cross - 011-52 (686) 577-1544.
HARBOR
SAN FELIPE MARINA
The main marina is located a couple of miles south of town, and is used mainly for fishing and shrimp boats. Dropping the hook just off the main beach usually works well for the day, however sailors needing a place to hole up for an evening might do best to check with the port captain for a space in the marina.
GASOLINE
There are 5 PEMEX stations in San Felipe. One is on the road heading into town, on the right side at the circular intersection, the other is on the main road heading south from town, on the right side. Both offer fuel on a regular basis.
TAXIS
San Felipe is not a big town, and most people walk the majority of the time. Still, if you happen to be staying in a hotel just outside town, it can be fun to take a taxi into town. Prices are only a few dollars, and it's easy to find a taxi for the return trip when you're finished.
If you need to arrange a taxi ride in advance you can contact Francisco below.
TOURS
Not crazy about the idea of heading down to San Felipe in your own vehicle? No problem! There are companies that would enjoy the opportunity to put together the 'whole enchilada' for you, including the ride down.
TOP OF PAGE
BAJA EXPO
For information on obtaining travel documents for Mexico such as Tourist Cards, boat permits, fishing and hunting licenses check out the web site of MEXICO ADVISORY SERVICES.
TOP OF PAGE
BAJA EXPO
San Felipe real estate is slow but not dead, down the coast to Puertecitos. There are two distinct areas where vacation homes are popular here. The first area is right near town, mostly near the beaches just north and south of San Felipe's main beach.
Information about the oceanfront community being built north of San Felipe can be reviewed on the web site of EL DORADO RANCH.
The second area that has exploded with homes over the last few years is the coastal areas south of Punta Estrella, just below of San Felipe. From this point south, for about 50 miles, there are hundreds of homes built right on the beach, just above the high tide line on the Sea of Cortez. The close proximity to the U.S. border makes this a great location for a getaway casa!
Thinking about moving south of the border? Visit the web site of BAJA RELOCATION for a head's up for what awaits you.
REAL ESTATE BROKERS AND DEVELOPEMENTS
Organized real estate finally heating up in San Felipe. There are a few small real estate companies in town who seem to specialize in what's for sale, and another place to track down local properties for sale is in the local bars. Although any bar in town will do, your chances of obtaining good information increases considerably with the number of people who happen to be in the bar when at the time you walk in.
TOP OF PAGE
BAJA EXPO