Shore Excursion Arturo Ensenada Tours Review

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If you’ve booked a cruise that stops in Ensenada, Mexico—need not fret. Especially if you’re a first-time cruiser like I was. My mom, sister and I booked the 4-day Catalina and Ensenada Carnival Cruise to ease our way in and figure out if we were “true cruisers.”

Beyond the curated cruise terminal, Ensenada shines brightest when explored with locals. I’ll share how Arturo Ensenada Tours transformed our stop into an authentic day of horseback riding, margaritas and cultural gems—proving the best shore excursions aren’t always booked through the ship.

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Disclosure: Arturo Ensenada Tours provided a discounted press rate for this experience. All opinions are my own.

What to Expect

The author, Hudson riding horseback on Playa Blanca with stunning beach views and crystal blue water. — Here’s me riding horseback right next to my sister’s horse, taking in the stunning blue water and beautiful clouds grazing the mountains. Photo credit: Hayden Serletic

Arturo’s team created a personalized itinerary that skipped tourist traps and delivered authentic moments. From peaceful beaches to bustling markets, we felt safe, welcomed and completely immersed. This is the kind of shore and city excursion where you don’t just visit Ensenada—you experience it.

Best for:

Multi-generational families wanting an easy, safe day off the ship
Women travelers looking for personalized, immersive experiences
Small groups or couples who prefer more private tours

The tour is available year-round. We went in August—despite the summer heat, the coastal breeze kept it very comfortable. La Bufadora, the marine blowhole, is active all day, though tide strength varies.

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All The Perks

The stunning blue-watered coast of Ensenada with beautiful rock and cliffs. — The stunning coastline of Ensenada, visible on the drive from the horseback riding to the Blowhole Flea Market. Photo credit: Hudson Serletic

Private experience: Small groups or private tour options, your pace.
Easy port access: Meeting point is a 5-minute walk from the cruise terminal.
Local insight: Guides share history, culture and personal stories.
Flexible itinerary: Stops can be swapped or adjusted based on interest if you book a private tour.

Best Stops on the Local Tour

The colorful Ensenada sign located at the edge of the Blowhole flea market right next to the infamous blowhole. — The colorful Ensenada sign is located where the edge of the flea market meets the blowhole. Photo credit: Hudson Serletic

Horseback Riding on Playa Hermosa

My mom, my sister, and I pictured riding horseback. — Picture taken right after we first got on horseback, before riding over to the beach. Photo credit: David (Arturo’s co-worker)

Why Go: Ride along a wide, peaceful beach with waves at your side.
Vibe: Relaxed and freeing—ideal for all ages and skill levels.
Must Do or Eat: Snap a family photo mid-ride. The guides will be happy to take it for you!
Who Best For: Multi-gen families and friend groups.
Important to Know: Wear closed-toe shoes for comfort.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Practice some Spanish so you can ask your horseback guide about Ensenada.

Original Margarita Museum

The gorgeous dark-wood bar that is the home of the original margarita. — The gorgeous brown-wood bar that created the original margarita. Photo credit: Hudson Serletic

Why Go: Taste history at the birthplace of the margarita.
Vibe: Lively, colorful and packed with local charm.
Must Do or Eat: Try the original recipe—tart, strong and perfectly balanced.
Who Best For: Adults seeking a little Baja flavor.
Important to Know: Drinking age is 18+.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Make friends with the bartenders! Also, check out the outdoor gardens of the property–they’re gorgeous!

Mirador Scenic Viewpoint

The mirador shows 360 views of Ensenada including the port, the mountains, and the city. — The incredible 360 degree views of Ensenada, including the port, the mountains and the city. Photo credit: Hudson Serletic

Why Go: Sweeping Pacific views perfect for photos.
Vibe: Breezy and serene.
Must Do or Eat: Take in the sunset if your timing aligns.
Who Best For: Photographers and nature lovers.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Bring a light layer, even in summer.

La Bufadora (Blowhole)

Why Go: One of North America’s largest marine geysers.
Vibe: Nature’s own show, with vendors lining the path.
Must Do or Eat: Sample churros or fresh fruit cups on the way down.
Who Best For: All ages—kids especially love the sight of the splash.
Important to Know: Path is downhill and takes you through the flea market.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Protect electronics from sea spray.

Flea Market Stroll

Local store owner making a heart with his hands to us because we spoke in Spanish to him! — They love a good-hearted American attempt at Spanish negotiation! Photo credit: Erin Serletic

Why Go: Colorful stalls of handmade crafts and Baja goods.
Vibe: Festive and sensory-rich.
Must Do or Eat: Pick up local food or gifts.
Who Best For: Souvenir hunters and foodies.
Important to Know: Bargaining is expected and they take credit cards—be polite. They’re aggressive salespeople. Enjoy the funny comments and take them lightly. I enjoyed being Mexico’s Barbie for the day!

SheBuysTravel Tip: Have small bills in pesos for best prices or speak Spanish.

Places to Eat

Hussong’s Cantina – Historic birthplace of the margarita.
La Guerrerense – Anthony Bourdain-approved seafood tostadas.

Where to Stay (For non-cruise travelers)

Hotel Coral & Marina – Waterfront with marina views and a pool.
Quintas Papagayo – Budget-friendly bungalows with charm.

What’s Nearby

Valle de Guadalupe – Mexico’s wine country (40 min drive). This was heavily recommended to me by a co-worker. We didn’t have time but will next time!
Rosarito Beach – Surf town vibes (1.5 hours).

Dress Code/Specialty Items to Pack

Closed-toe shoes for horseback riding
Light jacket for coastal breezes
Small bills in pesos for market shopping
Sun protection (hat, SPF, sunglasses)

Getting There/When to Go

Is it safe to get off the cruise ship in Ensenada? Yes—stick to trusted operators like Arturo Tours, and you’ll feel secure the whole time.

Can you walk to downtown Ensenada from the cruise port? Technically yes (about 15–20 min), but Arturo’s meeting point is just 5 minutes away, making it easier.

Why do cruise ships stop in Ensenada, Mexico? It’s a convenient, culturally rich port close to Southern California itineraries.

Is Ensenada a tender port? No—you dock directly at the pier.

What are the best shore excursions or things to do in Ensenada? Beach horseback riding, La Bufadora, the Original Margarita Museum, and local markets top the list.

We visited in August, and it was fantastic—warm weather, ocean breeze and plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed.

Arturo Tours prefers payment in cash so go to an ATM beforehand or they take Zelle!

Note of Thanks

A special thank you to Arturo Tours for such a rich and memorable experience—and for giving us a story we’ll be talking about for years. Arturo was under the weather the day of our tour, but he made sure we could still go, and David became our guide. He was absolutely incredible—knowledgeable, kind and the kind of person who turns a great trip into an unforgettable one!