Things to Do in Baja California

The Sea of Cortez (or Gulf of California) lies between the Baja California Peninsula and mainland Mexico. This stretch of the Pacific, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most diverse seas in the world and home to more than 3,000 marine species, including hammerhead sharks, sea lions, and sea turtles.

With its thunderous crash and sky-high jet of water, La Bufadora blowhole—a grey whale turned to stone, according to local legend—is one of the world’s largest marine geysers and an easy trip from nearby Ensenada. Prepare to get drenched as you watch from the surrounding viewpoints as the saltwater squirts up to 100 feet (30 meters) into the air.

Rosarito Beach is a Mexican resort town that’s about 30 minutes south of San Diego. Known for its beaches and nightlife, Rosarito’s close proximity to the border makes it a popular destination for US visitors and retirees. Hollywood is fond of the area, too. A number of films, includingTitanic andPearl Harbor, were filmed in Rosarito.