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When your Navigator of the Seas cruise docks in Ensenada, Mexico, you’ll find yourself in a vibrant coastal city full of charm, culture, and incredible opportunities to shop and savor delicious food. Located just a short drive south of the U.S. border, Ensenada has become a favorite stop for travelers looking to explore a mix of local markets, boutique stores, and authentic Baja cuisine. If shopping and dining are on your agenda, here’s how to make the most of your day ashore!
Shopping in Ensenada: Discover Unique Finds and Local Treasures
One of the best parts of visiting Ensenada is browsing through its bustling shopping areas. Whether you’re looking for handcrafted souvenirs, jewelry, or authentic Mexican goods, you’re sure to find something special to take home.
1. Avenida Lopez Mateos
The heart of Ensenada’s shopping scene, Avenida Lopez Mateos (also known as “La Calle Primera” or First Street), is a lively hub filled with colorful shops, street vendors, and artisan stands. Here, you can:
Shop for souvenirs like handcrafted pottery, woven blankets, and leather goods.
Find beautiful silver jewelry, a Mexican specialty, at various boutiques offering unique and affordable pieces.
Pick up a bottle of tequila or Mexican wine to savor a taste of Baja back home.
Browse for fun and quirky items like sombreros, traditional dresses, and handmade accessories.
2. Ensenada Flea Markets
For a truly local experience, head to one of Ensenada’s flea markets where vendors sell everything from artisan crafts to locally made trinkets. These markets offer a great opportunity to interact with the locals and discover one-of-a-kind items.
3. Local Wineries & Wine Shops
Ensenada is known as the gateway to Mexico’s wine country, Valle de Guadalupe. While you might not have time for a full winery tour, you can pick up a bottle or two of Baja California’s best wines at one of the wine shops in town. Ask for recommendations and look out for boutique labels you won’t find elsewhere!
Dining in Ensenada: Tacos, Seafood, and More!
Ensenada’s dining scene is a foodie paradise, especially when it comes to fresh seafood and authentic Baja cuisine. From street food stands to charming cantinas, there’s no shortage of flavor waiting for you here.
1. Try Ensenada’s Famous Fish Tacos
No visit to Ensenada is complete without tasting their legendary fish tacos! Crispy battered fish, fresh cabbage, creamy sauces, and handmade tortillas come together to create a dish that is both simple and unforgettable. Head to Tacos Fenix or La Guerrerense, two local favorites that have gained international fame for serving up some of the best fish tacos in the world.
2. Savor Fresh Seafood at Mercado Negro
Mercado Negro, Ensenada’s fish market, is a must-visit for seafood lovers. Here, you’ll find an array of food stands and restaurants offering freshly caught fish, shrimp cocktails, oysters, ceviche, and more. Sit down with a plate of ceviche tostadas while enjoying views of the marina—you’ll taste the freshness in every bite!
3. Indulge in Local Street Food
In addition to fish tacos, Ensenada’s street food scene is full of delicious options. Look out for:
Carne asada tacos topped with salsa and guacamole.
Churros, freshly fried and coated in cinnamon sugar.
Elotes (Mexican street corn) served with cheese, mayonnaise, and chili powder.
Pair your food with a refreshing agua fresca or a local Mexican beer for the full experience.
4. Enjoy a Sit-Down Meal with Local Flair
If you’re looking for a relaxing meal in a sit-down setting, Ensenada offers plenty of great restaurants that highlight regional Baja cuisine. Try Manzanilla for a modern twist on traditional dishes or visit El Rey Sol, one of Ensenada’s oldest and most iconic restaurants known for its French-Mexican fusion menu.
Tips for Your Day in Ensenada
Bring cash: Many smaller vendors and markets prefer cash over credit cards, and U.S. dollars are widely accepted.
Stay hydrated: While shopping and dining, carry water to keep cool.
Enjoy responsibly: If you indulge in wine, tequila, or beer, make sure to drink responsibly and allow time to return to the ship!
A Perfect Mix of Shopping and Dining
Ensenada offers the perfect blend of shopping, culture, and culinary delights for Navigator of the Seas cruisers looking to explore the city. Whether you’re grabbing unique souvenirs, savoring fresh seafood, or simply soaking in the local atmosphere, a day in Ensenada is sure to leave you with wonderful memories (and maybe a few extra bags to carry home!).
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